In Paris, Every French Girl's Transitional Wardrobe Includes These 8 Pieces

At Who What Wear, Parisian style is our blueprint. French women are always one step ahead, with an innate ability to transform even the simplest formula, like jeans with a sweater, into something that feels undeniably cool. Even editors like me, considered "experts," look to them for inspiration.

With the transitional season on the horizon, it's only natural that we're turning to French fashion people to uncover the key pieces that will help us merge winter and spring seamlessly and keep us looking rich and polished no matter the occasion. These aren't items that nail micro trends, but closet staples that transcend fads and form a strong foundation for any wardrobe. They're the kind of essentials that, no matter how often you wear them, never feel tired or overdone. In fact, you want to wear them over and over again and be an outfit repeater—they're that good.

From a classic trench coat to elegant kitten heels, keep scrolling to discover the eight winter-to-spring items every chic French girl owns—and will be wearing on repeat in the next few months. Then, shop the pieces for yourself.

Trench Coats

The quintessential transitional piece for bridging winter and spring is undoubtedly the trench coat. This lightweight, utilitarian item is a must-have for every Parisian, and its appeal is clear. It offers practicality by providing warmth and protection from rain or wind, and its versatility allows it to be effortlessly styled over everything from jeans and skirts to dresses. And, when buttoned and belted, it doesn't matter if you're wearing sweatpants underneath—the coat becomes the outfit. For 2026, the options are endless. Parisians, of course, love classic khaki designs but are also leaning into off-white styles and funnel-neck details.

Shop trench coats:

Nordstrom

Stretch Cotton Trench Coat

MANGO

Funnel Neck Trench With Belt

THE FRANKIE SHOP

Dursey Double-Breasted Belted Woven Trench Coat

Slim-Straight Jeans

Slim-straight jeans, the polished and sleek denim trend that's having a moment right now, aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Every day, a new Parisian It girl steps out in the silhouette, and it never looks dated. Since the hem hits right at the ankle, this style is ideal for pairing with ballet flats or loafers on warm days. The cut also layers perfectly over sleek sock ankle boots.

Shop slim-straight jeans:

Gap

High Rise '90s Slim Straight Jeans

Madewell

The Jules Slim-Straight Jeans

DL1961

Kristy Cigarette High Rise 29" Jeans

Levi

724 High Rise Straight Jeans

"Glove" Ballet Flats

The ballet flat is more than just a trend for French women. It's a timeless shoe style that has become a staple of their everyday wardrobe thanks to its blend of elegance and comfort. While they love the classic, traditional bow-adorned styles, in 2026, they're leaning toward foot-hugging designs called "glove" ballet flats. These offer more coverage than a traditional ballet flat, making them a great winter-to-spring option, yet they're breathable enough to wear on an unexpectedly warm day.

Shop "glove" ballet flats:

Nordstrom

Maddox Ballet Flats

COS

Minimal Leather Ballet Flats

KHAITE

Jane Calf Hair Flats

Colored Sweaters

The vibrant color palettes seen on the recent spring/summer 2026 runways are proving to be a major influence. Even I, as someone who typically favors an all-black, minimalist aesthetic, am feeling the urge to introduce more color—and I'm not alone. Parisian style icons are already embracing this trend, integrating colorful knitwear into their looks. They're ahead of the curve, sporting various sweater styles, such as crewnecks, high-V-necks, and turtlenecks, and pairing them with their go-to jeans and flats. We anticipate seeing more of these looks finished with raffia bags and open-toe shoes in the coming months.

Shop colored sweaters:

Quince

Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

Intimissimi

Modal Cashmere Ultralight High-Neck Top

J.Crew

Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater

ZARA

100% Extra Soft Wool Jumper

Baggy Black Trousers

Ever wondered how Parisians achieve that effortlessly cool style? The key is baggy black trousers. Featuring a fitted waist, pleats, and a relaxed leg, these pants exude an inherently casual vibe. They hang perfectly without appearing stuffy or try-hard.

Shop baggy black trousers:

Open Edit

The Icon Trousers

Everlane

The Draper Pleated Pant

EAVES

Mai Sculptural Compact Suiting Pant

Aritzia

The Effortless Pants

Kitten-Heel Pumps

On days when you want to look sophisticated and rich, grab a pair of kitten-heel pumps. With just a few inches, these shoes will lift you slightly off the ground, roll your shoulders back and down, and help you walk with confidence. For styling ideas, think less is more. Opt for a simple leather or suede pair and style it with sheer tights, a skirt and tank top, or a silk blouse and stovepipe jeans.

Shop kitten-heel pumps:

ZARA

Leather Kitten Heel Shoes

The Row

Liisa Two Kitten Pump

Jeffrey Campbell

Miss Maam Pointed Toe Pump

Mansur Gavriel

Ballerina Heels

Button-Down Shirt

French women know that building a capsule wardrobe comes down to dependable, repeatable staples that look good together in any combination. The button-down shirt is one such piece. While classic white or black shirts are foundational, this year, French style is embracing colored button-downs—in materials such as satin or cotton—to add interest and a fresh feel to outfits. For silhouettes, the preference is for relaxed rather than fitted styles.

Shop button-down shirts:

Banana Republic

The Everyday Shirt in Cotton Poplin

Reformation

Raya Fitted Silk Shirt

Pencil Skirts

If French women with good style aren't wearing jeans or trousers, they likely choose pencil skirts—those that fall just below the knee or mid-calf. For the winter-to-spring season, opt for fabrics like cotton, leather, denim, or elastane blends instead of wool.

Shop pencil skirts:

ALL THE WAYS

Jane Midi Skirt

A.L.C.

Marta Straight Leather Midi-Skirt

Nordstrom

Croc Embossed Leather Pencil Midi Skirt