These are the 8 style trends everyone in Paris will be wearing this fall

When the first hint of a chill hits, suddenly I’m ready to make “light layering” my entire personality. Cozy knits, great shoes, a jacket that makes even a coffee run feel like a fashion moment — I want them all. But before I actually hit “add to cart” on anything, I like to see what’s trending in my favorite city, Paris, to help narrow down my shopping list. Parisians have a knack for making even the simplest outfits look chic, so I like to use what they’re wearing to guide what I add to my own closet.

Would I rather be strolling along the Seine, admiring everyone’s outfits with a croissant in hand? Évidemment. But this fall, I’ll be getting my fashion fix with a little Instagram scrolling. Lately, my go-to French influencers have me eyeing dark-wash denim, buttery suede pieces and loafers paired with just-right socks. And the women aren’t the only ones delivering outfit inspiration. The French men on my feed are making a strong case for a closet refresh too! Below, you’ll find stylish men and women putting their spin on fall trends, plus the pieces to help you pull it all together. Consider it a little Parisian inspiration, no passport required.

Sleeveless turtlenecks

Turtlenecks are an obvious go-to for cold-weather dressing, but while the weather is still making up its mind, the French are skipping the sleeves. Honestly, très clever: You get the cozy feel and sleek neckline of your favorite sweater without committing to quite so much warmth.

Plus, it’s a layering dream. Wear one on its own during a warm afternoon and then, when the temperature dips, slip a blazer, cardigan or trench over the top — the sleeveless silhouette keeps everything smooth underneath. No bunched-up sleeves, no wrestling with layers. Just an easy outfit with a little effortless French polish.

Suede outerwear 

Suede for fall isn’t the most shocking trend, but there’s a good reason this luxurious fabric (and its faux counterpart) comes back into style as soon as the temperatures start to cool down. The soft texture and rich, earthy shades bring a little Parisian panache to everyday outfits.

Toss a bomber over a lightweight knit for an easy weekend look, or reach for a suede blazer when you want to dress things up without getting too formal. Add ballet flats or ankle boots, grab your everyday bag and voilà. Not only are you ready for a crisp afternoon of café hopping, but your usual coffee order suddenly feels a little more chic.

Dark-wash denim

Finding the perfect pair of dark-wash jeans? Now that’s a good reason to say ooh là là. That deep indigo hue makes even a casual outfit feel pulled together, so it’s easy to see why they’re a Parisian favorite. And with straight-leg, wide-leg and flared options in the mix, you can find your own denim du jour.

Try a higher rise for a leg-lengthening effect, a relaxed cut for a little room to move or a cropped hem to give your favorite shoes their moment. The best part? This classic wash works with everything, so once you find a pair you love, you’ll be reaching for them long after your other fall fashion crushes have faded.

Loafers with socks

This season, French women are giving their socks a starring role, and loafers make the perfect supporting act. It’s an easy way to get a little more wear out of your favorite shoes as the warm weather bids us au revoir, and you likely already have everything you need in your closet; the fun is all in mixing and matching.

Try crisp white socks with penny loafers if you like a preppy look, or burgundy ribbed socks with brown suede loafers for something that feels especially right for fall. Just make sure your hemline leaves a little room to show them off. Cropped jeans, ankle-grazing trousers or a midi skirt all give the combo room to shine.

Animal print accessories

Even the most understated fall outfit deserves a wild card, and an animal-print accessory is an easy way to deal one in. A little cheeky and a little unexpected, these exotic accessories make clothes you’ve worn a hundred times feel fresh again, especially if you usually stick to neutrals.

Think a leopard belt cinched around a coat, a snakeskin-effect bag tucked under your arm or cheetah-print shoes that put a little strut in your step. Just remember that these small touches bring plenty of personality on their own, so there’s no need to build an elaborate outfit around them — let one accessory take the lead and call it your pièce de résistance.

Chore coats

Messieurs, if you’re looking for an easy jacket to throw on this fall, try a chore coat. It’s a French wardrobe staple for good reason. You get roomy pockets, a comfortable fit and just enough structure to make a simple tee and jeans feel pulled together. Wear it to run a few errands, enjoy a wine bar or accomplish whatever else is on your weekend list.

Navy is a classic choice, olive goes with just about everything and corduroy details add the right amount of texture. Just make sure there’s enough room for a sweater underneath — you don’t want it pulling across your shoulders. Then leave it unbuttoned or unzipped for a more relaxed look.

Plaid button-downs

A plaid button-down is one of those shirts that makes getting dressed for fall a breeze. We love shades like rust, burgundy and forest green, especially in a relaxed fit with room for layering — and an extra helping of frites. Smaller checks feel a little dressier, while a bold plaid gives you that rugged look. And if you’re after something cozy for chilly mornings, you can’t go wrong with flannel.

Wear it with tailored trousers for dinner, or roll up the sleeves and leave it untucked with jeans for a lazy Sunday. If the afternoon warms up, just unbutton it over a plain tee. Feeling chilly again? Pull on a sweater and let the checks peek out at the collar.

Cargo pants

Jeans have earned their place in men’s wardrobes, but consider cargo pants their French-speaking understudy this fall. They offer the same everyday versatility with a little extra pocket space, and they come in soft fabrics you’ll be happy to spend the day in. Try them with a simple crewneck sweater or one of the plaid button-downs above, and you might find yourself giving your denim a few days off.

The trick is finding a pair you’d wear for a Parisian stroll, rather than a trek through the wilderness. Opt for a straight or relaxed leg with pockets that lie fairly flat, so things don’t get too bulky. Just add clean sneakers or leather boots, and you’re ready to head out.