Packing for a fall Europe trip can feel like solving a puzzle: your travel outfits need to stand up to unpredictable weather, days filled with walking, and the pressure to look polished in some of the world’s most stylish cities (where the all-day-every-day casual aesthetic of my hometown of Los Angeles doesn’t apply). As someone who travels regularly for both work and pleasure, I thought I had my European fall fashion formula down—until I connected with Anne-Laure Schaupp, private client manager at The Village Valleya Paris-adjacent outpost of The Bicester Collectionmy favorite luxury shopping destination to hit when I’m across the pond.
Schaupp works with clients from all over the world who come to Europe looking to refine their style, and she immediately identified the gaps in my travel wardrobe. Her advice in a nutshell: Fall fashion should be timeless, versatile, and touched with just the right amount of Parisian flair. From sleek ankle boots to silk scarvesthese are the 15 fashion tips she shared with me that will upgrade any suitcase—and ensure you blend right in with the ultra-chic locals.
Best European Fall Fashion Picks
A tailored trench
Comfort Stretch Long Trench Coat
Quince
Schaupp says outerwear is the anchor of any fall European wardrobe. A trench coat in neutral tones not only looks chic but also works with trousers, denim, or dresses. “A tailored coat or trench is essential,” she explains. It’s the kind of piece you’ll wear on the plane and every day abroad. This one has a bit of stretch, an adjustable belt, and a water-resistant finish perfect for unpredictable weather days.
High-waisted trousers
Evaless Wide-leg High-waisted Trousers
Amazon
Schaupp points to trousers as a fall staple: “A mix of tailored trousers, dark denim, and a midi skirt” should anchor your wardrobe. Wide-leg, high-waist silhouettes flatter while feeling effortless. This budget-friendly pick comes in 21 colors and is made from an easy-to-wear polyester and spandex blend that is also machine washable.
Sleek ankle boots
Rothy’s The Western Bootie
Rothy’s
Schaupp insists that travelers often miss weather-appropriate shoes: “Europe in fall can be rainy, so leather boots with a rubber sole are both chic and practical.” A sleek pair goes with everything while surviving cobblestones. Instead of leather, you may also want to opt for these machine-washable Rothy’s boots made from recycled water bottles; they’re made to be super comfortable with a soft, plush footbed.
A sleeveless sweater
Lueluoye Sweater Vest
Amazon
Lean into Paris’s love of layering with a sleeveless knit worn over a button-down. Schaupp notes, “Layered knitwear—such as a sleeveless sweater over a shirt—is everywhere.” It’s a modern twist on classic prep that looks chic while traveling. This affordable and machine-washable version comes in a range of 21 colors.
A packable silk-blend blouse
Quince Washable Stretch Silk Tie Neck Blouse
Quince
Silk blends add polish while resisting deep wrinkles. Schaupp suggests packing them because they’re also “elegant and easy to layer.” They’re ideal for dressing up jeans or tucking into trousers for dinners abroad. This polished blouse comes in six neutral colors and has a feminine tie at the neckline; tie it in a bow or leave the ribbons loose.
A structured wool coat
Aritzia The Heirloom Coat Soft Wool Cashmere
Aritzia
For chillier days, a structured wool coat pulls your look together. Schaupp emphasizes tailored silhouettes with movement that layer easily: “Silhouettes are fluid but structured: think long coats, midi skirts, and high-waisted trousers.” Rated to keep you warm in temps down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, this quality soft wool cashmere Aritzia coat has a slim silhouette, princess seams for shaping, and an ultra-thin vegan suede interlining for added warmth and wind protection.
A well-cut blazer
Madewell Cardigan Blazer in Plaid
Madewell
Schaupp calls a well-cut blazer a non-negotiable. “It instantly sharpens any outfit, whether layered over a tee or paired with a dress,” she says. Travelers will appreciate how versatile this Madewell blazer is, going from sightseeing to dinner without an outfit change. With notched lapels and easy fit, this plaid cardigan gives relaxed yet polished vibes.
Cashmere layering sweater
Quince Featherweight Cashmere Ribbed Crewneck Sweater
Quince
Lightweight cashmere is wrinkle-resistant and endlessly useful. Schaupp suggests packing transitional knits: “Travelers often forget transitional layers like lightweight knits or vests.” A cashmere crewneck or turtleneck keeps you warm on chilly flights and layers under coats seamlessly. This Quince crewneck sweater is featherweight without sacrificing warmth, and it has a delicate ribbed texture and seamless construction.
Dark denim with structure
Frame le Slim Palazzo in Celebrity
Frame
Sleek dark denim dresses up easily with boots and a blazer. Schaupp highlights dark washes as fall-ready, balancing casual comfort with Parisian polish. I have this pair of Frame’s best-selling Palazzo silhouette with a flattering rise — they’re so soft, comfortable, versatile, and polished-looking, so they’re a staple in my wardrobe when I travel to Europe.
A versatile midi skirt
Basoteeuo High-waisted Midi Skirt
Amazon
Midi skirts add movement and look stylish with ankle boots. Schaupp includes them among her five capsule staples for Europe. Neutral tones or subtle patterns can carry you from day to evening. This machine-washable version is pleated and polished, with an elastic waistband for maximum comfort.
Almond-toe flats
Birdies The Starling
Birdies
The almond toe is trending across Paris, says Schaupp, who finds them “delightful.” They balance timeless elegance with a little playfulness, perfect for day-to-night wear. This popular Birdies shoe comes in tons of colors and fabrications; Meghan Markle is a fan of the style, having worn them in black on a Disneyland outing with her family.
Sleek sneakers
Beek Sandpiper Leather Sneaker
Beek
A pair of polished sneakers is key for long walks. Schaupp recommends sneakers that blend with tonal outfits instead of sporty, logo-heavy styles. I have these buttery soft leather shoesand I’ve worn them around Europe for a look that’s so chic and goes with absolutely everything.
A signature silk scarf
Anthropologie Large Satin Polka Dot Scarf
Anthropologie
“A silk scarf is timeless, packs flat, and instantly elevates any outfit,” says Schaupp. Tie it around your neck, drape it over your shoulders, or knot it on your bag for a pop of color and style to any outfit. This pretty polka dot version is simultaneously statement-making and perfectly neutral.
Structured crossbody bag
Madewell The Medium Crossbody Bag
Madewell
Schaupp suggests choosing structured bags over slouchy ones for travel: “They instantly elevate any look while remaining practical.” A crossbody keeps essentials secure without sacrificing polish. Fans of this popular Madewell bag appreciate the high-quality suede—and note it holds a lot more cargo than it looks like it could.
Minimalist jewelry for maximum impact
Mejuri Dôme Hoops
Mejuri
“Parisian women don’t over-accessorize,” says Schaupp. Simple gold hoops or a chain necklace make outfits feel finished without overpacking. These gold vermeil hoops are classic but still make a bold statement, and they go with absolutely everything.
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