There are trends, and then there are it girl trends—the kind that are a little more interesting and often possess a longevity that doesn't happen for all trends that crop up. It girls don't copy; they're the heart of these trends, which is what makes them stand out. With the start of the year, I often create a vision board and refresh my outfit inspiration collections, and the first place I always turn is to the French it girls who never fail to sit on the cutting edge of fashion. However, they always approach it in a way that's, yes, cool, but also accessible.
We've noted the French girl colour trends taking over (some of which feature here) as well as the staples they'll be wearing, but now it's time to dissect the very sleek trends we picked up on our radar that will no doubt last from these early months to the end of the year. These range from statement rings and trousers that will no doubt grab attention to chic leather bomber jackets and unexpected colour combinations that work exceedingly well together.
Scroll on for the French girl it trends you can take and put your own twist on from now until December (and beyond).
5 French It Girl Fashion Trends for 2026:
1. Statement Rings
Style Notes: If you're more of a minimalist at heart, you can always rely on French women to offer the best examples of how to wear statement pieces whilst keeping it classic and sophisticated. As is the case with statement rings. They're by no means gaudy or loud, but rather chic and eye-catching, as Anne-Laure is wearing.
Shop Statement Rings:
The wrap design and rounded edges makes this such an eye-catching choice.
I'm in awe of this ring that'll remain timeless for eternity but features a unique wave design.
The width of this ring is what makes it a statement.
If you like square edges, this ring from Lucy Williams' collection with Missoma is the one.
2. Ethereal Blouses
Style Notes: Set aside the clean, crisp button-downs for a second and instead embrace more ethereal tops. They infuse outfits with a kind of whimsy that you don't see every day. Amy's gorgeous pink blouse also embodies a colour trend that's no doubt going to make a comeback this spring too.
Shop Ethereal Blouses:
Frills are always a yes when you're going for this kind of otherworldly look.
You can always count on Doen to deliver when it comes to pretty blouses.
A bow and balloon sleeves make a great combination.
A built-in scarf is such a nice flourish.
3. Leather Bomber Jackets
Style Notes: I've noticed an uptick in the number of leather bomber jackets around, and I love that this shape adds more volume and texture to a standard leather jacket. Ellie's burgundy number adds just the right amount of colour to an outfit. I'll also be copying the wide-leg jeans and bag in a slightly different tone for my own looks this winter. I've personally been so besotted with the trend that I invested in my own leather bomber (à la Anine Bing) too as a birthday treat.
Shop Leather Bomber Jackets:
A forever timeless colour. This one has an '80s-inspired twist with the elastic gathered hem.
My current obsession. I love layering a hoodie or a cashmere jumper under it depending on the look I'm going for.
A chic faux option that's very sleek.
An investment piece you'll never regret. It's available in black and brown.
4. Updated Pleated Trousers
Style Notes: I'm of the opinion that the more interesting the trouser the better, and that's certainly been the case with the pleated trousers I've spotted across the Parisian fashion set. Whether it's voluminous pleats, an asymmetric belt (like Aude-Julie's), ankle ties or balloon silhouettes, pleats have received an upgrade this year and the French fashion set have happily adopted them.
Shop Pleated Trousers:
I tried these on in store recently, and they're now on my wish list. I love that with the button ankle you can wear these in two ways.
Perfect if you just love a classic pleat look.
Twill pleats are fit for warmer seasons. These come in four chic neutral shades.
A cool low-rise option in a breezy linen construction.
5. Brown Blue Colour Combination
Style Notes: French women are combining one of the most popular colour trends over the last year (chocolate brown) with one of this year's star colours, bold blue. The shades work beautifully together. Although it's a big contrast, the versatility of both colours makes it easy to wear this combo over and over. Claire's pick of chocolate brown and cornflower blue is an ideal elegant and grounded duo for spring.
Shop Brown and Blue:
A classic bag in a rich colour to last you many years.
A wardrobe staple everyone should have. Perfect for layering and wearing as is.
Something you'll wear for three seasons out of the year.
Wear around your neck, as a belt or as a headband. Silk scarves are reliably versatile. This one comes in a darker blue too.