As a fashion capital, all eyes are on Paris to see what trends the city’s style icons will be championing in the year ahead. After surveying 16 chic French women, we’ve uncovered the 2026 looks they’re eager to try – and the ones they’ll be leaving behind.
Trends French Women Are Embracing
When it comes to the styles French women are backing for 2026, the overarching theme is a focus on timeless elegance with a modern twist. Vogue reports that Parisian trendsetters are gravitating towards luxurious fabrics, sophisticated silhouettes, and subtle pops of color.
One standout trend is the return of pleated midi skirts. “They’re so effortlessly chic, yet comfortable enough for everyday wear,” says Parisienne Amélie Bourgeois. “I’ll be pairing mine with slim-fit knits and loafers for a polished, put-together look.”
Another favorite is oversized tailoring. “There’s something so alluring about menswear-inspired suiting that’s been thoughtfully oversized,” explains Chloé Harrouche. “It feels simultaneously powerful and relaxed.” Business of Fashion notes that this trend taps into the growing demand for comfortable, adaptable workwear.
Trends French Women Are Avoiding
While Parisian fashion plates are eagerly embracing certain 2026 looks, they’re also quick to identify trends they’ll be skipping. Chief among them is the continued popularity of athleisure. “Don’t get me wrong, I love a good pair of leggings,” says Joséphine Skriver. “But I’m ready to move beyond the whole ‘pajamas as daywear’ thing.”
Another trend Frenchwomen are cooling on is hyper-trendy micro-bags. “They’re just so impractical,” laments Chloé Harrouche. “I’d much rather invest in a timeless, roomy tote that can take me from the office to the bar.” Elle reports that minimalist, oversized handbags are poised to dominate in 2026.
The bigger picture here is that French women are homing in on a more elevated, streamlined aesthetic for the year ahead. As The Guardian notes, the focus is on quality over quantity, with an emphasis on investment pieces that can be styled in multiple ways.
Partner Network Links
As bilimofisi recently covered, Lululemon is dressing Team Canada in style for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. And baripu reports on the sartorial splendor captured in iconic street shots of Milan.