I Want a Parisian-Chic Winter Wardrobe—30 J.Crew, Madewell, and Sézane Buys I'm Eyeing
Did someone say effortless elegance?
While I love trying new trends and taking fashion risks, I never stray too far from my roots: streamlined tailoring, versatile hues, and chic silhouettes. In other words, my style falls somewhere between Meghan Markle and Charlotte York, with sprinkles of Blair Waldorf (you get the picture). So, as soon as the temperatures began to plummet, I dove straight into curating my dream French girl winter wardrobe.
My process started with some necessary scrolling (ahem, research), stumbling upon It girls who live and breathe Paris—a.k.a., their geolocation is actually set to France. And their elegant wardrobe must-haves? Luxe faux fur hats, wool lady jackets, and refined trench coats that made me swoon. But comfort still has a seat at the table, appearing in the form of crewneck sweaters, roomy trousers, genius layering staples, and button-front cardigans. When it comes to color, the French are keeping it simple, gravitating towards neutrals that fit perfectly into a capsule wardrobe, with pops of red and mossy green for a striking moment.
Eager to recreate that polished je ne sais quoi, I beelined for J.Crew, Madewell, and Sézane, where I found treasure troves of elevated knit dresses, refined leather footwear, suede handbags, and upscale accessories. Better yet? Curated favorites start at just $15.
Ahead, discover the essential pieces needed to complete a foolproof Parisian-chic winter wardrobe. Whether your cold-weather plans include curling up with a good book or turning the sidewalk into your runway, there’s something here to suit your style. The only thing that’ll be left to do is sip on a cappuccino at a sidewalk café and enjoy a pain au chocolat.
J.Crew
Madewell
Sézane
Ruby Ford-Dunker (formerly Ruby McAuliffe) is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle journalist featured in InStyle, the New York Post, Brides, Teen Vogue, Page Six, Shape, and more. When she’s not reporting on her latest fashion obsession or spotlighting beauty finds, she can be found listening to Taylor Swift, hunting for the best matcha latte, playing with her cats, or smiling her way through a dance workout. Email Ruby at therubybrand@gmail.com and keep up with her on Instagram @rubyymcauliffe.