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:
ARKET
Leather Belt in Black
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.
Toteme
Swirl Suede Belt Pepper
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.
COS
Leather Rope Belt
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.
Massimo Dutti
Equestrian Split Suede Leather Belt
The understated horsebit makes this one looks more expensive than it is.
Gucci
GG Marmont Thin Belt
A splurge, but one that will instantly elevate even the simplest coat.
Khaite
The Benny Studded Leather Belt
Shop Coats:
Toteme
Signature Wool Cashmere Coat in Oak
An editor favourite for a reason. The clean lines make it ideal for adding your own belt.
ASOS DESIGN
Knitted Longline Poncho in Chocolate Brown
The generous cut of this poncho gives you room to cinch without feeling restricted. It’ll look great with both leather and fabric belts.
The Frankie Shop
Gaia Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Coat
Boxy and modern, this one looks especially good belted low on the waist.
Róhe
Mandarin Double-Faced Wool Jacket in Camel
Yes, short jackets work too. Adding a belt gives shape and a point of difference.
COS
Double-Faced Wool Scarf Short Jacket
In soft wool with a slightly relaxed feel, I’d love this with a wrap belt and ankle boots.
ARKET
Pile Jacket in Black
The single-breasted jacket will look especially good with a belt between the buttons.
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