5 Accessories French Women Are Relying On Right Now to Make Their Basic Autumn Outfits Look Chic

September 7, 2025 / Swedan Margen /

As I slowly begin transitioning my wardrobe from linens and dresses to knits and jeans, I’m trying to stay one step ahead and identify what’s actually missing. This year, I’m taking my time to really fine-tune my wardrobe, so I can pinpoint the gaps rather than buying yet another version of something I already own five of.

One area I always seem to overlook is accessories. I spend so much time focusing on knitwear and coats—pieces I love and can never resist—when, truthfully, I have more than enough. What I don’t invest in nearly enough is accessorising. In fact, the right accessories can truly make or break an outfit, elevating even the most basic of looks into something effortlessly polished. So this autumn, I’m turning to French women for inspiration.

French women have truly mastered the art of blending current trends with a timeless sense of style. It can be as simple as Franny shows us, who styles a silk scarf perfectly, or like Adenorah, who chooses bold silver jewellery to take centre stage instead of something more subtle.

As I’ve found myself falling down an accessories rabbit hole, I’ve rounded up five key pieces that French women are opting for to instantly elevate a basic outfit this season. If it’s good enough for French women, it’s a no-brainer for me!

5 Accessory Trends French Women Are Wearing in Autumn 2025:

1. Oversized Suede Bags

Style Notes: Suede has really dominated recently and shows no signs of stopping any time soon. I was enticed by suede sandals and suede loafers, and it seems the suede bag has got me, too. It’s such a classic, timeless style that you can wear for years to come, and what better than an oversized bag that fits your laptop and everyday essentials? The French, like Melodie above, are using their suede totes as a way to add texture, interest and polish to an otherwise simple autumn ‘fit.

Shop the Look:

YSL

Le 5 À 7 Supple Large in Suede

2. Statement Silver Jewellery

Chic French women with autumnal accessories

Style Notes: Whilst I am a gold jewellery girl through and through, there is just something about a statement piece of silver jewellery that ticks every box for me. It gives such a polished look and elevates an outfit in an instant, taking centre stage without being too overbearing.

Shop the Look:

Massimo Dutti

Irregular Wide Bracelet

HEAVEN MAYHEM

Julia Glass and Cord Pendant Necklace

Missoma

Ripple Oversized Stud Earrings

Monica Vinader

Sterling Silver Siren Muse Bold Ring

3. Burgundy Trainers

Style Notes: While I am a minimalist and have always favoured neutral tones, as soon as the burgundy trainer trend appeared, I jumped on it. The key thing to styling burgundy is to treat it like a neutral, and thanks to its rich hue, it’s a colour that arguably goes with any outfit. I’ve got a pair of burgundy Adidas Samba’s and they’re one of my most-worn pairs of trainers that I own.