It's fall in NYC, but for some reason, I can't stop dressing like I'm in Paris. French style has taken over my feed, from Parisian color trends to the flat-shoe trends French women are wearing. I'll admit I've never received more compliments. So I decided to look inward to analyze what makes my style feel so European. And I found it's in the basics.

The anti-trend pieces French women rely on year after year—that's the key. I don't want to give too many spoilers, because ahead you'll find the six anti-trend Parisian items I'm talking about, but think timeless, classic items like a crewneck cardigan or leather skirt. These pieces are workhorses, meaning styling them comes easy. And so do the compliments. Scroll on to see which French-woman essentials made my list.

6 Anti-Trend Parisian Items for Fall 2026

1. Suede Blazer

(Image credit: @juliesfi)

This humble jacket carries the weight of most chic Parisian wardrobes. It's simple, low-effort, and sharp.

H&M Jacket

Reformation Veda Remi Leather Jacket

ZARA Faux Suede Jacket

ZARA Zw Collection 100% Suede Leather Oversized Jacket

MANGO Straight Blazer With Front Stitching

2. Leather Column Skirt

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

If there's one thing to take away from this list, it's this: a leather column skirt. Particularly, ALC's Marta Skirt. Even our cofounder Hillary Kerr swears by it.

ALC Marta Leather Midi Skirt

Favorite Daughter The Meyer Faux Leather Midi Skirt

Modern Citizen Briony Back-Slit Vegan Leather Skirt

Vince Leather Midi Skirt

Nordstrom Leather Pencil Skirt

3. Crewneck Cardigan

(Image credit: @salome.mory)

During my first visit to Paris, I noticed French women love a crewneck cardigan. And now so do I.

J.Crew Jackie Cardigan in Premium Ultrafine Cotton

Shopping_NonBrand

Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

COS Jersey Cardigan Top

Vuori Halo Cardigan 2.0

Nordstrom Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan

4. Pop of Red

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

I'd be hard-pressed to find a Parisian who doesn't believe in a pop of red. Whether it's in the form of a red lip or knit, this addition of color is always welcome.

Madewell Arden Rollneck Cotton Pullover - Pomegranate Seed

COS Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Sweater

MANGO Limoni V-Neck Sweater

Reformation Dove Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck - Lipstick

Alex Mill Nottinghill Wool Sweater

5. Plaque Belt

(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Arguably the "trendiest" on the list, this statement belt was popular long before the urban cowgirls of Paris started styling it. It adds a chic, Western flair to just about any outfit.

maje Leather Belt With Oval Buckle

B-Low the Belt Leighton Croc Embossed Leather Belt

Madewell Oval Buckle Suede Belt

L'AGENCE Machado Ribbed Dome Belt - Chocolate Suede

rag & bone Wyatt Belt - Olive

6. Straight-Leg Jeans

(Image credit: @sabinasocol)

It will be years before straight-leg jeans to go out of style (if they ever do). The relaxed fit makes them wildly easy to style. Go for a shawl or an oversize knit, and thank me later.

ZARA Zw Collection High-Rise Straight Fit Jeans

AG Brinley Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans

Vuori Vintage Straight Leg Jean 30"

ZARA Trf Mid-Rise Straight Fit Jeans

AGOLDE '90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Leg Jeans