The Simple 2-Piece Outfit Every Stylish French Woman Relies on in Winter

If there's one outfit formula I think French women have mastered better than anyone, it's knitwear and denim. On paper, it couldn't be simpler, but in practice, French women always seem to make this combination look polished, considered, and of course, unmistakably French.

As someone who studies fashion for a living, I've learnt exactly how they get it so right. The magic lies in the details; the right knit, the perfect cut and wash of denim, a considered colour palette and accessories that are timeless.

This season, as the temperatures drop, the streets of Paris are lined with chic jumper and jeans outfits, from thick cable knits and indigo denim to cashmere and wide-legs. What's notable is how versatile it all feels. This look can be weekend casual, office-appropriate or even chic enough for an evening out.

So if you're looking to refresh your winter wardrobe without overhauling it completely, consider this your inspiration. Ahead, I've rounded up the best jumper and jeans looks the French have to offer. Take note.

5 Ways the French Elevate the Jumper and Jeans Look:

1. Roll Neck Jumper + Wide-Leg Jeans + Knitted Hood

STYLE NOTES: A thin knit such as a cashmere roll neck means you can pile on the layers without loosing your silhouette, and that's exactly what Lena Farl has done here. By adding another jumper wrapped around her shoulders, and a knitted hood in a contrasting neutral tone, she has created texture and dimension. Balance the look with a pair of wide-leg jeans, to prevent the outfit from looking top heavy.

Shop the Look:

COS

Cashmere Funnel-Neck Jumper

ME+EM

Tapered Puddle Jean

Protects you from the wind, and looks good doing it.

Topshop

Narla Premium Real Leather High Pin Heeled Ankle Boots

The square toe is very on-trend.

Elleme

Mini Boomerang Leather Black

A top-handle with a twist.

2. Red Jumper + Straight Jeans + Heeled Loafers

STYLE NOTES: The French know their way around the colour red, and Julie Sergent Ferreri shows how impactful it can be, even in the simplest of looks. By keeping the jeans simple in a straight cut and contrasting light wash, and pairing with pared-back black accessories, the red jumper really is the centre piece.

Shop the Look:

With Nothing Underneath

Cornwall Jumper

Pale washes aren't just for summer.

Gucci

Loafer Pump With Horsebit

Liffner

Pillow Buckled Suede Shoulder Bag

Missoma

Lucy Williams Triple Stone Chunky Ring

3. Hooded Jumper + Barrel Jeans + Fringed Jacket

STYLE NOTES: Fran Fynne gives us a textural masterclass with this look, by pairing a hooded jumper with a suede fringed jacket and finishing it off with barrel leg jeans. The silhouette is fresh and modern and the layering is a feast for the eyes. It just proves that you can mix style genres when you keep the tones neutral.