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Colorful afternoons at the park now catch a hint of crisp autumnal breezes, reminding us to break out our soft, cozy essentials for the mid season changes.
Parisians are trading sun dresses and sun hats, tank tops and light jeans for warmer favorites. Baseball caps, the occasional scarf, and light jackets are returning to closets — soon to be styled effortlessly on every patron along bustling café terraces.
Easing into the cool temperatures is best done with layers — something the French have very nearly perfected. As we make the transition, we’re starting with maille (knitwear).
Classic motifs, eye catching texture, playful cuts, and pops of color are returning to our seasonal rotation. Here’s what we’re loving and wearing this year:
The Marinière – Breton Stripes
Some say the Marinière began its tenure in the French wardrobe with Chanel.
In the early 20th century, just a stone’s throw from the beach, Coco set up shop in Deauville. French soldiers dotted the coastline in blue and white Breton striped tops, now lovingly referred to as the “Marinière.”
This style is credited as the first step away from corsets and onward toward modern womenswear. Today, the marinière takes many forms, and one of our favorites is the classic striped sweater, often worn around France as the seasons transition from summer to fall.
Playing with Layers
When the weather becomes less predictable, as it does in the early bouts of fall, we follow the trusted French formula for layering.
The uniform is as follows: cotton top close to the skin, a slouchy button down or T-shirt, and a cosy knit on top.
An oversized sweater which drapes just off the shoulder or an oversized henley can become an elegant contrast to a striped men’s button down or casual boxy T-shirt.
A Textured Silhouette
Sometimes all it takes to dress up a cozy outfit is a bit of texture. Thick cable knits, knit ruffles, and unique patterns make for interesting conversation starters and elevate a simple ensemble with jeans and ballet flats.
Season for Sleeveless
Whether open or worn as a pullover, vests are the ideal compromise for days which begin brisk and chilly, and finish in balmy sunshine.
Fuzzy alpaca knits layered against a cotton top, harkens back to French know-how when considering the ever changing weather.
In contrast, luxe cashmere close to the skin is perfect all on its own. We love a roomy neckline which blends nicely at the office, on date night, and while out and about running errands.
Something to Throw over the Shoulders
Draping a sweater over the shoulders should feel as effortless as it looks — like we really did just leave the house without much thought, while giving off an air of cool, understated elegance.
For this, we love a cotton knit or blend, since it mixes seamlessly with cashmere and wool, making it versatile and easy to throw on, while being breathable on warmer afternoons.
We prefer to gently drape the sweater over our shoulders without fastening the sleeves to keep the style slightly undone.
The Go-to Cardigan
Chunky and soft or slim and structured – the cardigan is perfectly paired with dresses, jeans, and trousers. As temperatures descend, the cardigan is an indisputable go-to. We love to style them with a foulard (neck scarf) and loafers for something easy and elevated.
Two Parisian favorites are Sézane’s Gaspard and Emile cuts. The Gaspard silhouette balances between a purposeful shape while being an easy-going and comfortable piece.
The Emile is the thick knit juxtaposition to the Gaspard, featuring chunky buttons and a bit of extra texture.
Written by Jessy Brewer
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