This post is overdue as I’ve been writing it in my head since my most recent trip to Paris back in May. I always love people watching to see what French women are wearing and taking a bit of that back stateside with me. The best news this time around is that what Parisians are wearing is pretty much a Fall Essentials laundry list. Each of the below items you’ll wear + re-wear through the next two seasons.

Read on to get the French scoop…

How to Dress Like a Parisian

Leather Jacket

Nothing says cool girl like having the right leather jacket. Thrown over flirty & feminine jackets or paired with distressed denim, a tee shirt and great flats, leather jackets were everywhere. Two years ago I invested in my first real leather jacket and it was the best money I ever spent for my wardrobe. I wear it constantly as soon as summer temperatures start to drop. It’s also a great layering piece under your favorite winter jacket for when it gets really cold. (I linked some faux leather options below as well.)

Stan Smiths

If I had a dollar for every pair of Stan Smiths I saw while in France, I’d have left the country a very rich woman. Just like New York, Paris was swarming with these throwback Adidas sneakers.

Loafers

I was so glad I brought my favorite, walk-10-miles-in-a-day loafers on my trip as they were more prevalent than the iconic ballet flat on the streets of Paris. (My other favorite pair are these.) I always style mine with a more cropped jean so that you have a bit of exposed ankle between your pants and the loafers.

Distressed Denim

This one surprised me! I wear a lot of distressed denim (much to my parents’ distaste) but I generally leave it at home when I go to France as you never really see it. Boy was that wrong this time around. It was everywhere. 

Trench Coat

Next to the leather jacket, the second most prevalent jacket was a trench coat! I was so glad I brought my new one with me because women everywhere were sporting theirs.

p.s. 5 things not to miss in Paris and the best places to shop in Paris.