I remember my first fall in Europe, it was October in Florence, sweating through a wool coat because I didn’t realize Italian autumns could still feel like summer. I thought I was being stylish enough… but turns out I was just overdressed and mildly grumpy.
Since then, I’ve realized fall dressing in Europe isn’t about stacking on layers. It’s more about how things feel: soft knits, sharp trousers, clothes that move with you. The kind of outfit that makes you look like you’ve got a plan… even if you’re just aimlessly wandering the Marais looking for a decent croissant.
Every year, when the air starts to shift, I go back to the same pieces that remind me of that trip. The way everyone looked pulled together but never overdone. There’s something quietly elegant about European fall outfits. Paris, Copenhagen, some tiny town in Portugal, it doesn’t really matter. There’s this quiet, easy feel to how people dress. Nothing fussy, just simple pieces that look good without trying too hard.
Here’s what that actually looks like in real life.
Tailored trousers and a sweater that actually fits
Not slouchy. Not oversized. Just… fitted. I brought back a camel merino knit from Lisbon that skims just right, and I wear it with high-waisted trousers and loafers. It’s simple, but somehow people assume you’ve read poetry and know how to drink espresso without burning your tongue.
Not a trousers person? Well, go for a flowy midi skirt and boots instead. Maybe throw on a scarf if there’s a chill in the air. But skip the bulky layers, European style tends to be more “sleek” than “stuffed.”
Trench coats, always
There’s something about walking across a damp cobblestone street in a good trench. It moves with you. It gives a bit of structure without being stiff. I love mine slightly oversized, so it still works over sweaters, but not so big that it feels like cosplay.
Color-wise? Neutrals are your friend: beige, navy, olive… the kind of shades that go with everything. A great trench works for both sightseeing and dinner, and honestly, it never feels out of place anywhere in Europe.
Dark denim that doesn’t feel too “weekend”
You can totally wear jeans, though, just maybe skip the shredded, weekend ones. I go for dark denim, clean lines, something that feels a little more grown-up. I wore mine in Vienna one chilly morning with a tucked-in turtleneck and ankle boots and actually felt kind of elegant… croissant crumbs in my bag and all.
Ankle boots > sneakers
I know, sneakers are easy. I wear them too. But if you’re chasing that Paris mode feeling? Try ankle boots or loafers instead, something with a little structure. It shifts the whole look, but still keeps things low-effort.
I wore square-toe boots through Prague, and they somehow pulled together every outfit like jeans, wool skirt, trousers, without looking fussy. Plus, they’re better for cobblestones. (Your ankles will thank you.)
Long-sleeve dresses that don’t try too hard
You’ll still see dresses in European fall, just not the floaty summer ones. It’s more the long-sleeve kind, a little structured, in colors like navy or that really good brown that somehow makes everything feel more pulled together. Throw on some tights and boots, maybe a belt if you’re feeling fancy.
I have one from COS that I wore in Amsterdam with a trench, scarf, and low heels. It looked effortless, but felt warm and cozy, like wearing a blanket that’s also chic.
Don’t forget the scarf
A scarf in Europe is not just an accessory, it’s practically a lifestyle. It adds texture, a pop of color, and a sense that you maybe know your wine regions.
I usually bring a silk one (tied neatly) and a bigger wool one (to wrap or drape or even use as a blanket on a chilly train ride). Either way, it makes you look like you belong.
Color palette: warm neutrals, soft depth
If you’ve read our old money color palette guide, you already know the drill. Fall colors in Europe aren’t loud or overly seasonal. Think ivory, navy, olive green, oxblood, rich browns. I once saw a woman in Bordeaux wearing head-to-toe chocolate with gold earrings and I swear I’ve been chasing that look ever since.
Makeup and hair? Understated
Okay, I know we’re talking clothes, but hair and makeup matter too. Over there, it’s all pretty low key, fresh skin, maybe a little blush, maybe a red lip if you’re in the mood. Hair’s usually a bit undone, like you ran your fingers through it and called it good. Nothing too styled, nothing too serious.
And seriously, no one’s out here contouring their face into a new shape. Dab on some concealer, brush your brows, and you’re good.
A note on bags
Please leave the giant tote behind. A simple crossbody or structured leather bag in a classic shape is the way to go. It makes you walk differently. You stand a little taller. And you’re less tempted to carry your entire life with you, which feels… freeing, honestly.
What I wore on my last trip
- A wool wrap coat from Max Mara (yes, it was a splurge, yes, I’ll wear it forever)
- Tapered trousers in grey with loafers from Santoni
- A navy knit dress with knee-high boots and a trench
- A cream turtleneck and wide-leg jeans, topped with a wool blazer
- A black silk scarf I tied around my neck one day, my hair the next
Every piece felt like me, but slightly more polished. Slightly more aware. Like I was stepping into a version of myself who drinks espresso without needing sugar.
Quick styling tips if you’re packing for Europe this fall
- Skip the logos. You’ll feel more local.
- Bring one great coat instead of five average ones.
- Pack pieces that layer well but don’t bulk up.
- Shoes matter more than you think, wear something polished but practical.
- Plan for warm afternoons and crisp evenings. (A light base layer never hurts.)
If you’re after that european fall outfits, just reach for what you’ll actually wear, things that feel good, are made well (good texture, timeless shapes), and don’t try too hard to be noticed. It’s not about dressing up, just feeling pulled together without trying too hard. Even if your day just involves reading in a café and trying three different pastries (been there).
And truly, if you’re ever unsure what to wear… pretend you’re in paris mode. Works every time.
