This is the outerwear styling technique that French women are embracing this winter.

      If there's one thing you can rely on every Who What Wear UK editor for, it's turning to the French for style inspiration. From the red cardigan trend that subtly infiltrated our closets to the timeless pairing of straight-leg jeans and ballet flats, Parisians have a knack for transforming even the simplest concepts into something fresh and relevant. The newest French-inspired styling trend I've been observing? Belting coats. This isn't about trying too hard or achieving flawless styling but rather a casual cinching of the waist. I first noticed it on Instagram and then experienced it in real life during a recent visit to Paris, where nearly every other woman had her coat tied, wrapped, or buckled at the waist. This is not only a simple upgrade for outerwear, but it requires no additional spending if you already have a belt and a coat.

      What makes this trend appealing is its effortless nature. A belt can quickly alter the silhouette of a coat, providing shape without making it seem overly styled. Parisians are employing this technique with various styles: rope belts threaded through oversized wool coats, slim leather belts cinched over boxy jackets, wrap ties tightened over long trench coats… I have even seen belts used over cropped jackets and relaxed blazers, which feels very current. The key is that it appears casual and practical, as if you simply cinched your coat to keep it from blowing open on your way out the door, rather than carefully orchestrating a look.

      Below, I've compiled some of the best belts and coats I've bookmarked to recreate this style. Have fun experimenting with your styling and mix and match based on your mood and the weather. Some combinations are obvious, while others are less so, and that's part of the charm. Consider this your invitation to play with pieces you already love, as well as a few new additions worth incorporating into your wardrobe.

      **Shop Belts:**

      **ARKET**

      Leather Belt in Black

      A timeless leather belt with just the right width to sit comfortably over coats. I've had Arket belts for years, and they maintain their shape beautifully. This black option looks particularly good over camel or navy wool.

      **Toteme**

      Swirl Suede Belt Pepper

      I've spotted many Toteme belts on editors during fashion week. This one has a sleek, minimal finish that works well over tailored coats and even blazers. Soft and flexible, it seems made for belting outerwear. I would pair it with a long wrap coat, jeans, and loafers.

      **Massimo Dutti**

      Equestrian Split Suede Leather Belt

      The subtle horsebit design gives this belt a more expensive look than its price tag suggests.

      **Gucci**

      GG Marmont Thin Belt

      It's a splurge, but this belt will instantly elevate even the simplest coat.

      **Khaite**

      The Benny Studded Leather Belt

      **Shop Coats:**

      **Toteme**

      Signature Wool Cashmere Coat in Oak

      An editor favorite for good reason. The sleek lines make it perfect for belting.

      **ASOS DESIGN**

      Knitted Longline Poncho in Chocolate Brown

      The generous cut of this poncho allows for cinching without restrictions. It pairs well with both leather and fabric belts.

      **The Frankie Shop**

      Gaia Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Coat

      Boxy and contemporary, this coat looks particularly stylish when belted low at the waist.

      **Róhe**

      Mandarin Double-Faced Wool Jacket in Camel

      Yes, shorter jackets look great too. Adding a belt gives it shape and a touch of distinction.

      **COS**

      Double-Faced Wool Scarf Short Jacket

      Crafted from soft wool with a slightly relaxed fit, I'd love to style this with a wrap belt and ankle boots.

      **ARKET**

      Pile Jacket in Black

      This single-breasted jacket will look especially good with a belt cinched between the buttons.