If there’s one thing I know, it’s that European have great taste. Okay, so I know this is a sweeping statement, but genuinely, in all my years of charting fashion, it’s looks from Europe that radiate class and a sophistication that’s hard to pin down. And I’m not just talking about French women either (though, admittedly, they do contribute a lot to this sentiment). All across the continent—from Paris to Rome, Madrid to Stockholm—you’ll find that fashion people who reside in these places seem to share an affinity for classic, timeless pieces. Items that equate to a very classic aesthetic.
1. Knitted Maxi Dress + Draped Cardigan
Style Notes: A cozy knitted maxi dress layered with a draped cardigan offers a chic yet effortless silhouette. Opt for earthy tones or soft neutrals for a sophisticated feel. Finish the look with ankle boots and simple gold jewellery for a polished, minimalist aesthetic.
2. Cropped Coat + Scarf + Baggy Jeans
Style Notes: The scarf coat paired with baggy jeans delivers a relaxed yet on-trend vibe. To balance the loose fit, style it with a fitted turtleneck and sleek loafers. Add a suede tote bag for an elevated street-style look.
3. Blue Striped Shirt + White Trousers + Gold Accents
Style Notes: A blue striped shirt is an excellent place to start when assembling a classic-looking outfit. Pair with white trousers for an expensive-looking pairing, then up the ante with gold jewellery and leather accessories.
4. OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP + PENCIL SKIRT
Style Notes: Draped and off-the-shoulder tops are a common theme across Europe, and have the ability to elevate skirt, short and trouser looks in ways no vest top could. Pair with heels and a clutch bag for an extra-polished finish.
5. Bright Cardigan + Jeans + Burgundy Heels
Style Notes: Jeans are the cornerstone of casual classic outfits, and I always look to the French for elegant ways to style them. This outfit, featuring a bright cardigan and elevated burgundy slingbacks is as close to perfect as you can get.
6. CARDIGAN + WHITE TROUSERS + LOAFERS
Style Notes: If you’re counting along, that’s twice that a pair of white, wide-leg trousers has appeared in this round-up of classic European outfits. Incredibly versatile, this look feels very different to the first but no less refined. A cardigan in camel or grey always looks sophisticated, and a more formal shoe choice will further enhance the combo.
7. Scarf Coat + Straight-Leg Jeans + Crossbody Bag
Style Notes: A scarf coat will work so hard that you needn’t think about the other style elements. Saying that, I think the longer iterations always look the most charming when worn with a low-key top and straight-leg jeans.
8. Suit + Black Accessories
Style Notes: Is there anything more classic than a two-piece suit. European women have a knack for making tailoring look stylish over being stuffy, and it comes down to simple yet slick accessory choices.
9: Black Slip Skirt + Leather Coat + Knee High Boots
Style Notes: For a sleek, monochromatic look, pair a black maxi dress with a black leather coat. The flowing silhouette of the dress contrasts beautifully with the coat’s slight structure elegance. Minimal accessories complete this easy and versatile ensemble.
10. Black Jumper + Sheer Overlay Miniskirt
Style Notes: If you want to look pulled together in a flash, an all-black look is always the solution. This season, sheer overlay skirts are taking over and French women are wearing them with such ease. I’d suggest adding a modest crew neck jumper with the daring skirt. Easy.
https://www.whowhatwear.com/fashion/outfit-ideas/classic-european-outfits