This Is the Outerwear Styling Trick French Women Are Turning to This Winter
French women know a thing or two about styling tricks. The latest we're loving? Belting their winter coats. Discover more below.
If there is one thing you can always count on every Who What Wear UK editor doing, it's looking to the French for style intel. From the red-cardigan moment that quietly took over our wardrobes to the classic combo of straight-leg jeans worn with ballet flats, Parisians have a way of making even the simplest ideas feel newly relevant.
The latest French-coded styling habit I'm taking note of? Belting coats. Not in a try-hard way, not styled to perfection, but just casually cinched. I started noticing it first on Instagram, then IRL on a recent trip to the French capital, where nearly every second woman had her coat tied, wrapped or buckled at the waist. Not only is this a super-easy outerwear upgrade, but it costs nothing if you already own a belt and a coat.
What makes this trend so good is how unfussy it is. A belt instantly changes the proportions of a coat, giving shape without making it look overly styled. Parisians are doing it with everything: rope belts looped through oversized wool coats, slim leather belts over boxy jackets, wrap ties pulled tight over longline trench coats… I have even spotted belts over cropped jackets and slouchy blazers, which feels very now. It works because it looks lived-in and practical, like something you did on your way out the door to stop your coat from blowing open, rather than a look you planned.
Below, I've rounded up my pick of the best belts and coats I have already bookmarked to re-create the look. Have some fun with your styling and mix and match depending on your mood and the weather. Some are obvious pairings, others less so, but that is half the appeal. Think of this as permission to experiment with pieces you already love and a few new ones worth adding to your rotation.
Shop Belts:
A classic leather belt with just enough width to sit comfortably over coats. I have owned Arket belts for years, and they hold their shape brilliantly. This black one looks especially good over camel or navy wool.
I have seen so many Toteme belts on editors during fashion week. This one has that clean, unfussy finish that works over tailored coats and even blazers.
Soft and flexible, this feels like it was made for belting outerwear. I would style it over a long wrap coat with jeans and loafers.
The understated horsebit makes this one looks more expensive than it is.
A splurge, but one that will instantly elevate even the simplest coat.
Khatie's Benny belt is one of the most coveted designer belts around.
Shop Coats:
An editor favourite for a reason. The clean lines make it ideal for adding your own belt.
The generous cut of this poncho gives you room to cinch without feeling restricted. It'll look great with both leather and fabric belts.
Boxy and modern, this one looks especially good belted low on the waist.
Yes, short jackets work too. Adding a belt gives shape and a point of difference.
In soft wool with a slightly relaxed feel, I'd love this with a wrap belt and ankle boots.
The single-breasted jacket will look especially good with a belt between the buttons.
