As we move swiftly into winter (I’m currently typing this with a hot water bottle strapped to me), there’s a real temptation to prioritise function above all else. The bulky jumper that’s guaranteed to keep you toasty. The coat that might not be the most directional, but covers every inch of your body. You know the drill. After years of working in fashion, I’ve always been hunting for pieces that allow me to balance style and warmth. It’s not as easy as it sounds. One subset of dressers who have somehow mastered this? French women.
Marilyn NK wearing the COS Cashmere Jumper.
French women don’t let plummeting temperatures interrupt elegance. Instead, through clever layering, beautifully cut wool coats and those just-right cashmere knits, French style is a masterclass in looking chic, no matter the weather. With that in mind, I’ve been on a mission to find those pieces on the British high street that feel properly chic while genuinely delivering on warmth. And there were three stops I immediately thought of: Zara, COS and M&S.
Each comes into its own in winter: Zara’s wool coats, sleek knitwear and elevated accessories; COS’ 100% cashmere and designer-adjacent tailoring; and M&S’ outerwear that feels observably expensive yet is impressively cost-efficient. Below, I’ve highlighted buys from Zara, COS and M&S that a chic French woman would approve of, and that will instant elevate your wardrobe.
Shop The Best French-Approved Zara, COS and M&S Winter Buys
Believe it or not, this double-breasted wool coat is as warm as it is chic.
Straight-leg jeans are the cornerstone of a great French wardrobe, and Zara's dark wash pair is my favourite at the moment.
Waisted cardigans are the perfect alt to a chunky knit, helping you instantly look put-together. Style with trousers and ballet flats for the ultimate French twist.
No wardrobe is complete without a simple pair of black leather flats. As it gets cooler, layer tights or socks underneath.
The best-selling COS cashmere jumper is back in a new chocolate brown shade. Style over a white shirt and straight-leg jeans for a tres chic look.
It's all about the v-neck jumper this season, and I especially love layering lightweight wool turtlenecks underneath on cooler days.
A perennial best-seller, and for good reason.
The white and navy contrast combined with the polo collar feels very nautical and French.
Another great pair of wide-leg jeans.
Brushed cashmere is suddenly everywhere, and paired with this fair isle pattern? So festive chic.
Whether you team these with a cable-knit jumper and long wool coat, or use as a layering piece under trousers on cooler days, COS's merino wool leggings are a winter essential.
There's something automatically chic about a high neck jumper.
A great work top.
Yes, trainers can fit in to a chic winter wardrobe, and I'm very interested in this green suede style from Zara.
I can confirm, this COS coat is as elegant as it looks.
The silhouette of these trousers is very French, and I adore the cord for cooler days.
An elegant take on a once nostalgic trend.
The kind of jumper you'll reach for constantly.
The shawl collar adds an elevated twist to an otherwise basic white blouse.
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