5 Spring 2026 French Fashion Trends, Per an American in Paris

No matter what Mother Nature has in store for Paris, French girls are ready for it—sartorially speaking.

Just one month ago, the city was covered in snow, and French girls slipped on their sleek, weather-appropriate footwear and woolly layers so stylishly that it seemed as if a downpour of flurries was not, in fact, a rarity in the city. Since then, we’ve had a few sunny days where temperatures have hovered above 50, and French it girls stepped out of their Haussmann apartments with the coolest pieces for spring. I, for one, have even begun to consider how I’ll be updating my wardrobe for the upcoming season.

So, what are they wearing? Well, they aren’t succumbing to specific trend pieces. Instead, they’re reaching for separates that help them stand out and exude their personal style. They’re wearing novelty denim—not your standard wide-leg styles, but ones with patchwork, embroidery, or an exaggerated silhouette. Their jackets have volume and color and come in luxurious textures. Their bags aren’t flashy or bulky but slim and practical. For the evening? French girls are baring their shoulders. And for everyday footwear, they’re partial to loafers teamed with a decidedly unboring sock.

Below are the five trends French girls are wearing this spring.

Novelty Denim

With so many fun denim styles on store shelves (and vintage racks) now, why be boring with a basic pair of jeans? That’s a sentiment French girls seem to have, as they slip on loud and dramatic styles for spring. They wear jeans in an interesting shape, like the Banana Republic High-Rise Wide-Leg Lightweight Palazzo Jean. For a more trendy look, they opt for the Pilcro Pleated Culotte High-Rise Culotte Jeans with knee-high boots. For those who prefer a style that’s a little sweeter, consider jeans with embroidery like the Sézane The Wide Leg Trousers Ecru with Ivy Embroidery.

Statement Jackets

Of course, the quintessential trench coat is still everywhere in Paris. But this season, French girls don’t want to blend in on the streets in a sea of beige. They’ll either add a loud accessory to offset their sameness, or they’ll lean toward alternative toppers in different shapes and colours. A boho, Chloé-esque pick with something like the By Anthropologie Funnel-Neck Nylon Jacket, pairs perfectly with silks, lace, and chunky gold jewelry. For a warmer, more classic option, they’d pick the Banana Republic Italian Melton Wool-Blend Peacoat in canary yellow to brighten up their looks.

Little Shoulder Bags

For years, Fendi Baguette-inspired shoulder bags have reigned supreme, but this season, French girls are choosing more subtle handbags that are a little bigger and sit a little lower. The perfect example? The Sézane Lou Bag Multi, which makes a light and fuss-free pick. For a leather option, there’s the Anthropologie Slouchy Faux Leather Shoulder Bag, and the Tory Burch Small Romy Leather Shoulder Bag for a sleeker look.

Shoulder-Baring Tops

In Paris, the new “going out top” boasts shoulder-baring cuts. Whether asymmetrical or strapless, it feels both elegant and sophisticated when paired with trousers, a great pair of earrings, and subtle hair and makeup—as the Parisians have illustrated this season. For a classic long-sleeve pick, just right for early spring days, try the Reformation Elio Off-The-Shoulder Asymmetric Knit Top. When temperatures start to warm, go for the Kenneth Cole Pleated Strapless Top and pair it with Bermuda shorts.  

Colored Socks + Loafers

There hasn’t been a more popular Parisian fashion duo than, perhaps, a foulard and a trench, until now: This year, loafers and colored socks can be spotted at the buzziest places around the city. Not sure which sock color to try? Scoop up Dzals Cotton Crew Colorful Socks for a good range. Pair them with a classic style, like the Sézane Vicky Loafers, or opt for an unexpected pair like the Sam Edelman Loraine Mesh Horsebit Hardware Loafers.