In some ways, all our bids to ‘make winter happen’ so that we could finally wear our new wool coat/jumper/scarf fell on deaf ears. Until the last few days. Now that temperatures have dropped well below zero we’re finally ready to go all-out winter, here’s a little inspiration from our French counterparts on how to master cold weather dressing.

Main image, above: Paris street style, Jason Lloyd Evans. 

A little bit rock and roll, a lot warm and toasty the shearling jacket is a go-to for French women who want to wrap up but still want you to note how cute their jeans/boots/underlayers look. Add a classic bag – like this Chanel  crossbody – into the mix for that trademark Parisian twist.

Forget the idea that whites (or, indeed, brights) are just for summer. The French know nothing gives your oufit gravitas like a shot of winter white. We love this oatmeal and cream combination worn by journalist and influencer Monica de La Villardière while shooting a Mango campaign in Barcelona.

The French don’t combine a puffer coat with leggings, rather they go full utilitarian. Let this chinos and functional footwear combination be your inspiration.

Unimpressed with having to do so much layering? Embrace one colour from head-to-toe. It streamlines your figure – plus, it just looks damn cool.

Layer a fine-knit turtleneck under your favourite knitted jumper for maximum warmth. Bonus points for looking neatly 1970s, too!

Much like the classic gavroche hat, the neckerchief is another accessory French women have mastered with aplomb. The upside? As well as being an alternative to a traditional scarf, it’s a great way to inject a bolt of pattern or colour into your look.