Paris Fashion Week heralds in the unofficial start of spring. While fashion editors and influencers have traded heavy winter coats for breezy blazers and sexy sheer skirts, the weather hasn’t quite gotten that balmy yet in France. That’s where layers come in: Parisians have a skill for delicately draping sumptuous silk and lace over tougher textiles like leather and suede. The result? An effortlessly polished look that’s ready for any temperature. 

The looks strutting the runway and Paris’s beautifully styled streets are the foundation for my mood board this spring; it’s all about mixing classics like Hermès-inspired patterned scarves and thigh-length trench coats with must-have staples like tailored trousers, pretty pencil skirts, and cozy cardigans that show enough skin while still providing a much-needed shell of warmth so you won’t freeze on chilly mornings when the temperatures are stubbornly stuck in the 40s.

As an American travel journalist who has called France home for more than a decade, I’ve become a pro at snagging the French look for less. I’ve studied the latest designer collections and admired the city’s street-style scene to narrow down the ultimate spring capsule collection that’ll have you looking like a Parisian wherever you are.

Paige Wells Sleeveless Button Front Sheath Dress

The LBD (little black dress) is a scene-stealer, but a little white dress is a staple in spring and summer in France — if you find the right fit. Flouncy numbers are great by the beach when temps are high, but if you’re in a city like Paris, structure is key. The French are masters of tailoring, so you’ll want a dress that looks like it’s been custom-crafted to fall perfectly on your frame — much like this piece from Paige. 

The California-cool brand is known for giving basics a more sophisticated spin, and this sleeveless dress with its elegant V-neck and front flap pockets is no exception. Dress it up with a pair of wedges or block heels and an oversized boyfriend blazer, or wear it with strappy sandals or sneakers for a day of gallery hopping and shopping around town.

Madewell x Kaihara Denim Jacket

Cowgirl core isn’t showing any signs of slowing down, but in Paris, the trend is tweaked so it’s slightly more, well, French. Think: less rodeo, more Rive Gauche. In spring, I’m a huge fan of denim jackets that can double as shirts because of their versatility; I’ll wear them draped over a midi dress, buttoned up with a pair of white straight-leg jeans, or with a pair of structured linen shorts on warmer days.

This intentionally faded style in partnership with iconic Japanese mill Kaihara is bound to be my go-to this season. Subtle details like the rounded hem and button cuffs give it a sophisticated, timeless look; wear it traveling anywhere in the world, and you’ll look perfectly at home. 

Awaytr Satin Square Scarves

In France, leaving the house without a scarf feels as naked as not spritzing perfume. It’s the finishing touch to any ensemble — and it serves the practical purpose of acting as a lightweight cover for your neck on a chilly day. This four-piece set at Amazon is on sale for more than half off and is a fan favorite, with over 7,000 shoppers giving it five stars. “[It’s the] perfect size for style versatility,” says one reviewer, while another calls it “soft and silky.” Even if you haven’t mastered the art of styling a scarf à la française, these patterned beauties can be worn a few other ways, such as tied around a purse strap or a belt loop — or even worn as a belt itself. 

Lillusory Wide Leg High-waisted Trousers

The French manage to make most things look chic, but one style that designers have more than mastered is the trouser suit, which Yves Saint Laurent popularized for women back in the 1960s. The look today is far less formal than the designer’s tuxedo-inspired version, but it’s every bit as pulled together. You don’t need to spend a fortune to capture a similar look. These wide-leg, high-waisted trousers at Amazon are breezy and comfortable but look polished, pairing perfectly with a white button-down and mules or something more casual like a cropped tank and sneakers.

Open Edit Ribbed Cardigan

While the ‘90s look only resurfaced stateside a few years ago, it has long been a cornerstone of the ‘French girl cool’ wardrobe. Think baggy, low-slung jeans and ribbed cardigans like this one that show a hint of navel without being too revealing. I wasn’t immediately on board with the idea, but when I tried one on with a pair of straight-leg, higher-waisted light denim pants, I was sold. What I like about this version from Open Edit is that it’s slightly stretchy so it embraces, but doesn’t accentuate, your curves. Shoppers also rave that it’s “great quality” and the “fit was perfect.”

Farvalue Double-breasted Belted Trench Coat

Trench coats are as intrinsically French as berets or striped shirts, but — in full disclosure — I didn’t acquire my first one until recently. It’s not that I didn’t see the appeal or practicality — during shoulder season, this shell is the ideal outer layer. I just couldn’t find a style that fit (and didn’t drown) my petite frame until I stumbled upon this slim-fit, mid-length version at Amazon.

The double-breasted design and front storm flap are flattering but also keep the wind out. Plus, the trend is waterproof, so it can double as a chic raincoat for those unexpected spring showers in Paris. I’m not the only one raving about it. “Great for travel. Fit well and folded into [a] suitcase easily and basically [didn’t wrinkle],” says one shopper who wore it in Paris. Another adds: “This trench is fantastic! A great fit and so well made!” 

Clecibor Wide Brim Crushable Fedora Hat

The fastest way to make an outfit look pulled together is by adding a wide-brimmed hat. Parisians are known for their array of headwear, from scarves to pageboy caps, but one timeless staple that transcends seasons is this soft, woolen felt fedora-style hat with its structured, teardrop-shaped crown. While the minimalist look is certainly chic, you can always give it a playful touch by adding pins or a ribbon, making it appear as expensive as designer styles from Nick Fouquet, whose celeb following includes the likes of David Beckham and Madonna.

Everlane Mid-Way Jean

I’ve recently been on the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans that can transition from day to night, go from effortlessly chic to business casual, and, most importantly, won’t lose their structure after the first or second wear. These wide-leg Everlane pants exude ‘70s vibes but are timeless enough that they won’t be out of style by next season. I love that the length grazes the ankle, so you can wear sneakers and flats or dress up the look with leather wedges or ankle boots. The dark shade also matches practically anything, whether a classic white tee or patterned button-down. “The wide leg is so chic without being too dramatic,” raves one shopper. Another adds: “They age nicely (like me) and are professional or casual. Don’t pass these by.”   

Chigant Satin Silk Button-down Shirt

I try to pack as light as possible (carry-on only!), so every piece in my luggage has to be versatile. Sure, this may sound easy with jeans or sneakers, but tops are a whole other story. It’s not as simple for a tee to transition from day to night, be airport chic yet city casual. This is where lightweight, silky button-downs shine. This basic blouse works with jeans or shorts, tucked into a midi skirt, or worn loose over leather pants. I’ll even throw it over a bikini for a beach day. As one shopper raves: “I bought several of these, they’re perfect: beautiful sheen and vibrant colors, soft fabric pleasant to wear (no latex), well-tailored, and a good fit.”

Nine West Daved Pointed Toe Slingback Flat

Leave your fancy footwear at home. If you’re visiting Paris, stick to kitten or block heels that won’t break the moment you step out on the cobblestones. I like a bit of height while still being comfortable, so I have my eye on these Free People mules with their thin block heel, pointed toe, and skinny ankle strap that create an elegant silhouette; the metal toe cap makes them look similar to the designer styles you’ll find strutting down the runway. Until they come back in stock, check out similar styles like this Nine West slingback with a pointed toe and flat sole that might be a little easier to get around in, or the sleek Everlane slingbacks that will elevate any look.

Zeagoo Women’s Bomber Jacket

Just as I stored my winter coats, the temperature dipped back down to the 30s here in Paris. While it’s chilly, a heavy wool jacket looks out of place in spring. Layering is perhaps the most French approach to styling, and one piece that’s perfect for shoulder season weather is a lightweight bomber jacket like this one on sale at Amazon for just $28. Wear it over a cotton tee or hoodie or with a pair of wide-leg jeans and a thin cashmere sweater when it’s on the cooler side; this wardrobe staple is one that you’ll want to throw in your tote and throw on while sitting on the plane to sightseeing in Paris.

J.Crew Collection Feather Pencil Skirt

Pencil skirts were back in full force during fashion week, but the office look has long been outdated. Instead, celebrities and models sported sexier spins adorned with lace, sequins, or feathers. This version from the J.Crew Collection embraces the classic, tulip-shaped silhouette with an unexpected texture through a sprinkling of ostrich feathers. 

The subtle jade shade (which is more of a mint) adds a playful pop to an ensemble and can be paired with everything from a chunky grey cashmere sweater to a silky white shirt or a strapless top in summer. “It is a stunning piece and goes so well with my navy shirts and cardigans,” raved one shopper. “I bought this before [it was] final sale, and it was a no-brainer keeper.” Grab it now for an impressive 72 percent off when you use the code SHOPNOW at checkout.

Madewell Essential Medium Bucket Tote

The challenge in a city like Paris is balancing fashion and function, especially when it comes to something as necessary as a purse. Since my days often involve tons of walking and running on and off the metro, I need a bag that’s sturdy and structured yet not too bulky. The Essential Medium Bucket Tote from Madewell checks all of those boxes (it even has an adjustable shoulder strap) and is large enough for sunglasses, a water bottle, and an iPad. The stud-embellished straps and side also give some edge, infusing an instant cool factor to your outfit. Right now, get it for 50 percent off when you use the code SALEONSALE.

Everlane Tread-Bare Sneaker

Before moving to France, my sneaker collection was strictly reserved for the gym. But as soon as I arrived in Paris and saw how Parisians effortlessly paired neutral-shaded sneakers with practically everything, I began my mission to find a pair that I could add to my daily rotation. I’m short, so I always worried that sneakers would make me look even shorter (I love a good pair of heels!), but I couldn’t have been more wrong. With a round toe and sleek design like these Everlane shoes, my legs actually look longer. Shoppers seem to be just as much of a fan: “Been looking for a pair of fashionable sneakers! Love these, as they have some flavor as opposed to just white.”

WearMe Pro Round Sunglasses

Sunglasses are as integral to an ensemble in Paris as a purse or scarf, yet it’s one item you can snag without having to splurge. I’ve been eyeing styles similar to vintage-inspired pairs from Celine and Saint Laurent, which cost hundreds more. This pair at Amazon is a near dupe, and at just $13, you won’t be digging too deep into this season’s shopping budget (or get upset if you lose them while traveling). 

Despite the low cost, they’re still a quality pair of polarized sunglasses, with solid metal hinges and UV protection. “These are the shades I’ve been wearing for years now! They’re so affordable that it’s not a big deal when they inevitably get lost or scratched up too badly,” says one shopper, who says they purchased a third pair. “They are comfortable, match all of my casual outfits, and provide good protection for my eyes from the sun.” 

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