There’s a common myth that French women’s wardrobes are devoid of colour. Stereotypes would have us believe that French women are exclusively clad in Breton and monochrome ensembles and the neutral aspect does ring true on occasion, it certainly doesn’t count for the majority. Since moving to Paris, I’ve noticed the opposite. French women adore and adorn themselves in colour and I’ve slowly been coaxed out of my neutral colour pallet. I’ve been inspired by women swathed in colour at every turn—from rouge lips to accessories from hosiery to handbags, awash with bold colour.
Now winter is on the horizon, bringing with it deepened lacquers, a span of saturated colourways and tones has entered the chat. Upon hearing this, you may wonder which exact colours French women favour and in short, it’s many. If there’s one rule, it’s the refined and polished type—whether that’s rich khaki colourways, burgundy or ecru. All the above isn’t to say there isn’t a place for neutrals. The French fashion ethos embraces a host of colours you mightn’t expect. Continue reading to discover the colour wheel you’re likely to spot on the feeds of your favourite French influencers this winter.
8 Winter Colour Trends You’ll Find French Women Wearing On the Streets of Paris:
1. Grey
Style Notes: Cool toned grey boasts a formality that we’re most familiar with for suiting, which makes it particularly special when paired with nonchalant off-duty tops and trainers.
Shop the Colour:
Reformation
Alyssa Low Waist Skirt
COS
The Oversized Double-Faced Coat
COS
Boiled-Wool Midi Skirt
2. Brown
Style Notes: French women in particular are singing the praises of the cocoa-hued colourway which poses (somewhat) as a neutral, timeless hue. They’ve called it and I’m certain it’s going to become an integral part of the French uniform.
Shop the Colour:
M&S Collection
Leather Look Pleated Midaxi A-Line Skirt
Jigsaw
Leather Valerie Ankle Boot
3. Green
Style Notes: Forest, khaki and mellow greens with yellowish undertones, are dominating the streets of Paris. All that’s left to do is for you to pick your favourite tone!
Shop the Colour:
Jigsaw
Merino Blend Batwing Dress
Reformation
Elio Knit Top Es
Really Wild Clothing
Suede Flippy Skirt
4. Black
Style Notes: Black may appear lacklustre on occasion, however it can make an outfit feel considerably sharper—case in point with Franny’s sleek suiting.
Shop the Colour:
Ninety Percent
Romy Dress in Black
Finery
Theresa Black Leather High Waisted Wide Leg Trouser
L.Cuppini
Furless Camila Cashmere Black Coat
5. Burgundy
Style Notes: If ever in doubt as to whether French women are favouring trends, simply head to street style and in the case of burgundy, there’s a resounding yes. From handbags to footwear and leather skirts, I forsee burgundy becoming a repeat winter trend.
Shop the Colour:
Arket
Cap-Sleeve Maxi Dress
hush
Agatha Leather Midi Skirt
6. Ecru
Style Notes: Muted, off-white tones feel typically Parisian. Neither white, nor cream, this shade sits on the periphery between white and stone, or beige. Granted French women love the exploration of colour but neutrals are beneficial in every person’s wardrobe.
Shop the Colour:
Hush
Katlynn Leather Kitten Heel Knee Boots
Moss + Cable
The Turtleneck Lambswool Aran
DISSH
Sylvia Cream Knit Midi Dress
7. Stoney Beige
Style Notes: Stone, beige and taupe are three shades that fall under this colour wheel and it’s a particularly popular on outerwear due to its versatility.
Shop the Colour:
COS
The Funnel-Neck Brushed-Cashmere Vest
Mint Velvet
Leather Ballet Pumps
Ninety Percent
Calix Top in Taupe
COS
Leather Trimmed Wool Scarf Coat
8. Navy
Style Notes: Synonymous with outerwear and Breton, a deep blue hue is popular amongst the fashion set in France. This season, it’s disrupting the usual black offerings, bringing something equally moody and sharp. It looks particularly great when paired with black and 2024’s burgundy.
Shop the Colour:
Albaray
Navy Funnel Neck Jersey Dress
ALIGNE
Daphne Waisted Knit