5 Best Ways to Style Black Pants, According to Parisians

Planning for next year’s trip is something I always look forward to. So far, I have Trinidad in the diary to brighten up January, a long weekend in Italy in February and Paris rounding off for spring time. However, the thing is, when it comes to a trip to the most stylish capital, a lot of thought should go into what to pack. Because, as we all know, the most beautiful women live there, and they will all be walking around in useless clothes. There’s something about Parisians in particular who know how to pull together wardrobe basics in a way that looks timeless, yet interesting. You know, the off-trend pieces that you can wear on the big rotation no matter the season. And when it comes to pants, they often go back to the classic black pair.

I know what you’re thinking: how can black pants be cute? But the thing is, if they are written correctly, they can be. If you need some persuasion, you only have to look at how Sylvie wears her pair of gray V-neck satin and pointed pumps. Or Julie’s black jeans which, when paired with a bold trench and suede loafers, will dress you to impress at any upcoming spring events. And don’t even get me started on Sabina’s flared black pants worn with a leopard print and faux fur coat. Whatever your choice of pants, going with all black will never fail, and these French women are here to prove to you, and me, that they are the stuff of 2026 heroes. And yes, of course I will copy this look on my next trip to Paris where I intend to drink wine and people watch at the newly opened Mischief restaurant.

5 Black Dress Ideas for 2026, As Inspired by Chic Parisians:

1. Black Satin Pants + IV-Neck Jumper + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Giving the humble black pants a new look and feel (of course) satin styles have taken over in recent seasons. A different alternative to wool or linen, it’s a mid-range pair you can count on and Sylvie shows how hard they work with wardrobe staples: V-neck knit and pointed-toe pumps.

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2. Light Black Pants + Animal Print Top + Faux Fur Coat

Style Notes: French women have the power to make anything look 1000x better, and Sabina proves this by elevating her plain black pants with an animal print top and faux fur embellished coat (known as the season’s style). Such a fun way to make a fiery pair in a very fun way.

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3. Black Flared Pants + High Neck Top + Blazer

Style Notes: Someone once told me that black and brown should not be worn together, and I always remember this every time I wear it. Because it’s actually one of my favorite color combinations, so this person was wrong. Need more evidence? Just look at Franny in black pants with a baggy brown blazer—a pairing made in sad heaven if you ask me.

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4. Black Straight Leg Pants + Leather Jacket + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: The best part about this dress is that you probably already own all the pieces to copy it seamlessly from your wardrobe. Black straight leg pants? Check it out. A leather jacket? Check it out. A white t-shirt? That’s right. So add it all together with some Parisian-approved ballet flats and you’ve got an effortless off-duty look.

5. Black Jeans + Checked Shirt + Loafers

Style Notes: Even if I didn’t know Julie was French, I would have been able to tell from this simple, yet perfectly put together combination. Dressing basics—a no-fuss trench coat, plaid shirt and suede loafers—give life to the timeless black jean. Très bon.