Must have pieces from spring like the oversized blazer and slouchy suede boots have returned to greet fall, paired differently this time around. The pallet of blue, grey and pale pink is sober, as the case nearly always is in Paris. A product of the weather? But purple remains as safe as black.

If there has to be one particular jean for the season then the skinny still reigns. The boyfriend look, straight-legged baggy jeans rolled to mid shin, appears in Comptoir de Cotonniers’ vitrine but I’ve yet to see it much on the street. While wide leg dark denim trousers are paired with fitted sweaters for the more classic.

Horizontal nautical stripes grace long-sleeved tunics at Maje and Sandro. Look to Audrey Tautou in the role of Coco Chanel for inspiration and wear a looser top cinched at the waist with a ribbon.


The floppy mouthed short suede boots that enveloped last spring’s skinny jeans remain current, this season worn with tights to lend a rugged look to dresses and skirts. Skirts are either short and ruffled in silk or knee-length and more tailored in sturdier fabrics.

As heavy coats haven’t come out of hibernation, a black blazer provides enough warmth for these first days of autumn. Worn with sleeves rolled up to three quarter, a peek of the contrasting silk lining is revealed. Its boxy shape lends a tailored look when worn atop airy dresses, but is just chic with jeans. Other choices when bundling up are a long cable knit sweater or a leather shell.

Everyone seems anxious to wear their boots and sweaters forgetting that the long haul of the winter will leave them no choice in the matter over the next six months. I’m trying to hold onto short sleeves and ballet flats but it is only a matter of time.

The shops below are the epitome of Paris chic but pieces are pricey and sometimes seem plain on their own. Have a look for inspiration.