Effortless French Elegance Is Shaping My 2026 Wardrobe—19 H&M, Zara and COS Pieces That Deliver
A shopping editor’s guide to building a timeless, French-inspired 2026 wardrobe using elevated high-street staples.
If I told you how many hours I’ve spent pondering what a French woman might buy from my favourite high-street brands, you probably wouldn’t believe me. French style is notoriously difficult to define, yet instantly recognisable: timeless, effortless and quietly elegant, with an emphasis on pieces that feel considered. It’s exactly that sensibility I’m keen to weave more of into my 2026 wardrobe.
The beauty of French style, of course, lies in how attainable it is. At its core, it’s built on elevated basics—well-cut tailoring, thoughtful knitwear and accessories chosen for longevity rather than trend appeal. And the good news? You don’t need to look far to find them. A generous scroll through the new-in sections at H&M, Zara and COS proved just how well the high street can deliver on that understated aesthetic.
Franny wearing COS's grey Merino Wool Set.
Double-breasted blazers, straight-leg jeans, leather loafers, timeless handbags and classic tailored trousers form the backbone of the edit, alongside softer touches like wool berets, cashmere knits and elegant cardigans. These are the kinds of pieces that work quietly but hard—easy to style, endlessly wearable and perfect for building a French-leaning wardrobe that feels modern. Scroll on to shop the best Zara, H&M and COS finds to channel effortless French style in 2026.
French-Inspired Zara, H&M and COS 2026 Buys
Double-breasted with gold buttons and a neat collar, this blazer has an inherently French feel. Style it with straight-leg denim and an elegant white blouse.
A flattering bootcut that feels a touch retro-refined, perfect with a Breton stripe or sleek blazer.
A "posh" cardigan is as French as it gets, and this cosy yet refined knit works as beautifully with tailored trousers as it does with relaxed denim.
A new COS silhouette, the black suede and architectural lines make this tote a refined everyday companion.
Simple, clean and versatile, a refined foundation piece that nods to classic European knitwear.
A chic beret in soft wool.
For 2026, I’m moving away from baggy denim in favour of straighter silhouettes. Case in point? This impeccably cut indigo pair from H&M.
A warm, soft fleece jacket with a chic collar.
The perfect classic ankle boot in a wearable tan.
This classic Breton jumper feels right at home with smart denim.
A clean, high-neck merino that layers beautifully under blazers or long coats with minimal fuss.
This jacket holds a preppy, elegant vibe I've seen all over Paris.
A grown-up take on a baggy jean, combine these barrel-leg jeans with heeled boots and a blazer.
Clean-lined and simple, this knit is the foundation upon which the best French wardrobes are built.
A cardigan with elegant detailing that feels like a Parisienne twist.
The Arch jeans are a modern yet understated wardrobe hero.
A classic silhouette you'll return to year after year.
A softly striped cardigan that leans into that timeless, effortless French attitude to knitwear.
These suede loafers add instant polish to your look.
Elegant and architectural, this coat brings a bit of modern Paris polish to winter outerwear.
I'm a big believer in winter whites, and these jeans are the perfect starting point.
Red, v-neck with a beautiful drape, this is a chic statement knit.
Proof that jeans can be elegant.
Subtle volume and a relaxed shape make this a quietly stylish knit for both city and weekend.
The kind of shoe that elevates everything from jeans to tailoring
An elegant take on a classic knit with built-in belted shaping to add structure.
An uncomplicated triangle scarf that feels Parisian in its simplicity and utility.
Houndstooth with delicate lace detailing; a subtly French combination of pattern and finesse.
Cape-sleeve drama meets minimal tailoring.
Subtle shaping at the shoulder lends a refined silhouette that elevates an everyday knit.
This belted knit dress is both easy and sophisticated.
Sharp tailoring and a clean line give this belted coat an air of Paris-ready polish.
