I Desire a Stylish French Winter Wardrobe—9 Items from Zara, M&S, and COS That I've Been Subtly Gathering
As we quickly approach winter (I’m currently typing this with a hot water bottle attached to me), it’s tempting to prioritize practicality above all else. The thick sweater that promises to keep you warm. The coat that may not be the trendiest but covers every part of you. You know the routine. After years in the fashion industry, I’ve consistently searched for pieces that let me find the right balance between style and warmth. It’s not as straightforward as it may seem. One group of individuals who have somehow cracked this code? French women.
Marilyn NK in the COS Cashmere Jumper. French women don’t allow falling temperatures to interfere with their elegance. Instead, they demonstrate that with clever layering, well-tailored wool coats, and perfectly fitted cashmere knits, French style exemplifies how to maintain chicness, regardless of the weather. With that in mind, I’ve been on a quest to discover items on the British high street that are genuinely stylish while also providing warmth. My immediate thoughts fell to three brands: Zara, COS, and M&S. Each shines in winter: Zara for its wool coats, sleek knitwear, and refined accessories; COS for its 100% cashmere and designer-inspired tailoring; and M&S for outerwear that looks notably high-end yet is remarkably affordable. Below, I’ve outlined picks from Zara, COS, and M&S that would earn a nod of approval from a stylish French woman and that will instantly enhance your wardrobe.
Shop the Best French-Approved Winter Selections from Zara, COS, and M&S
ZARA
Zw Collection Limited Edition Wool Blend Coat
Believe it or not, this double-breasted wool coat is both warm and stylish.
ZARA
Zw Collection High-Waist Straight Jeans
A staple in a great French wardrobe, I currently love Zara's dark wash straight-leg jeans.
M&S
Cosy Crew Neck Slim Fit Cardigan
Waisted cardigans are a perfect alternative to chunky knits, providing an effortlessly put-together appearance. Pair with trousers and ballet flats for a quintessentially French vibe.
ZARA
Leather Ballet Flats 50th Anniversary
A basic pair of black leather flats is essential in any wardrobe. As the temperature drops, layer tights or socks underneath.
COS
Chunky Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper
The popular COS cashmere jumper returns in a new chocolate brown hue. Style it over a white shirt and straight-leg jeans for a very chic look.
ZARA
Plain Knit V-Neck Jumper
This season, v-neck jumpers are a must-have, and I particularly enjoy layering lightweight wool turtlenecks underneath on chillier days.
COS
Relaxed Twill Wide-Leg Trousers
A classic best-seller, and for good reason.
ZARA
Knit Polo Shirt With Contrast Trims
The white and navy contrast alongside the polo collar gives a distinctly nautical and French feel.
Another excellent pair of wide-leg jeans.
COS
Fair Isle Brushed-Cashmere Jumper
Brushed cashmere is suddenly everywhere, and combined with this fair isle pattern? Incredibly festive and chic.
Whether paired with a cable-knit jumper and long wool coat, or used as a layering piece beneath trousers on cooler days, COS's merino wool leggings are a winter necessity.
ZARA
Soft Knit High Neck Jumper
There’s an inherent chicness to a high neck jumper.
ZARA
Contrast Split Suede Sports Shoes
Indeed, trainers can complement a chic winter wardrobe, and I am particularly fond of this green suede pair from Zara.
COS
Sculpted Wool-Blend Coat
I can assure you, this COS coat is as sophisticated as it appears.
M&S
Cotton Rich Cord Straight Leg Trousers With Modal
The shape of these trousers is quintessentially French, and I love the cord fabric for the colder months.
COS
Fair Isle Wool-Cashmere Cardigan
An elegant twist on a previously nostalgic trend.
ZARA
Jumper With Wool and Alpaca
The kind of jumper you’ll find yourself reaching for repeatedly.
COS
Shawl-Collar Cotton Blouse
The shawl collar provides an elevated touch to an otherwise basic white blouse.
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I Desire a Stylish French Winter Wardrobe—9 Items from Zara, M&S, and COS That I've Been Subtly Gathering
It turns out that the top French-inspired winter purchases can be found on the high street.
