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If you want to look effortlessly chic without trying too hard, then a capsule wardrobe is for you. More specifically, a French capsule wardrobe because Parisian women have mastered this art! Don’t freak out and think that you need to toss out your whole wardrobe and start over. Because good news, you don’t need much! Here’s a minimalist approach to the items you would need for a French capsule wardrobe for fall and winter. Très chic!
Minimalist French Capsule Wardrobe for Fall/Winter
A question you may be thinking is, “So what makes these items French?” Because everyone can wear clothing pieces like jeans and sweaters…not just French women!
That’s true and the reason these pieces make it in this minimalist French capsule wardrobe for fall and winter is that these are pieces that the majority of French girls tend to wear over and over again.
Of course, I can’t speak for all American and French women, but generally, in America, the go-to outfit for women my age seems to be leggings, uggs, and oversized sweaters while in France, the go-to fall outfit seems to be cropped flared jeans, ankle boots, a simple sweater, and an oversized blazer.
People in different cultures and places adopt their unspoken type of style and French women generally take on a classy yet simple wardrobe approach. This is what makes up Parisian style!
Why your wardrobe needs these versatile pieces
When building your minimalist wardrobe, make sure you focus on shopping for neutral colors, as this is the key to a timeless and cohesive wardrobe! If you like prints and colors, then consider bringing them in through accessories. If your wardrobe is full of too many loud colors then it won’t be versatile. And if there’s no print or color whatsoever, then you may find that your outfits are lacking a little pizzaz.
When you think of French fashion you may think of skinny jeans, white stripes, and a little black dress, and though those are great items, below are the key pieces you need for a minimalist fall wardrobe!
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Sweater- Whether it’s a chunky sweater, turtleneck, or cashmere sweater, this clothing item is a wardrobe essential that’s extremely versatile.
Chunky cardigan (similar)- Cardigans can be worn by themselves or as an extra layer. A perfect go-to outfit is a cardigan with jeans and ankle boots.
Oversized blazer- Preferably in plaid or a similar print. These blazers are nice for adding a classic touch to your outfit and a great way to look casual chic.
Sweater dress- Style tip: Wear your sweater dress with knee-high boots for a perfect combo. Great for dressing up.
Straight leg jeans- Straight/slim leg jeans are classic that will pair well with everything else on this capsule list. A pair of jeans that fit right will be your best friend.
Cropped flared jeans (similar)- Cropped flares are the go-to with ankle boots and they look good with loafers as well.
Midi skirt (similar)- Mini skirts may not really work in the colder months but midi skirts do. Wear with knee-high boots for a classy look.
Floral dress (similar)- Dark florals still look good in colder seasons. Wear with boots and cardigans to make it look weather-appropriate.
Trench coat (similar)- One of the ultimate timeless pieces for fall and the perfect way to look Parisian chic. Wear with pretty much anything for a classic look.
Long coat- No wardrobe is complete without at least one elegant coat. In this case, elegant means something long in high-quality fabric, preferably a classic wool coat.
Faux fur coat- These coats are fun to wear because not only are they warm (great for the colder months), but they add texture to your look.
Ankle boots- If you don’t have ankle boots yet then these are a must-have. Get a pair with a walkable heel too so not only will they be versatile, but they’ll be outfit elevating as well.
Knee-high boots- Tall knee-high boots with a heel are a super chic way to stay warm and protect your legs from the winter elements. They can be worn under skirts or dresses and over jeans.
Loafers- Great for fall. You can even wear socks with them too. No, it’s not dorky when done right!
Though these items didn’t make the cut for a minimalist wardrobe, these extras are perfect for achieving French girl style.
Extras:
If you have all your outerwear covered then consider adding a leather jacket to the mix! This pick is an investment piece that will get even better the more you wear it.
Come winter, you may not find ballet flats to be all that handy, but they will certainly add the chic factor to all your fall looks. This pick will stand the test of time.
French women like to keep their accessories simple. A small and simple handbag seems to be the go-to in winter. Accessorize your outfit with gold jewelry and you are good to go! These pieces can take you into early spring as well and work perfectly for any french minimalist capsule wardrobe.
If you’re wondering how to pair these items together and make them work for your own wardrobe, then get inspired below by these several outfit ideas using the items on this list!
There you go. Now you have your very own capsule wardrobe! For even more classic pieces you need this season to round out your fall wardrobe, check out the post below!
Must Read: Classic Fall Capsule Guide (What to get, Where to shop, Why you need one, & More!)
