A black, oversized coat is always the essence of refined style. See noted French actresses Isabelle Huppert, Catherine Deneuve, Carla Bruni and Emily in Paris star Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu  who have been spotted at recent fashion weeks wearing chic coats in shades of noir. 

The kind of coats French women go for? Dark hues, naturally (mainly black, but graphite grey or a deep navy will also suffice), a double-breasted silhouette is always flattering and if you are between sizes always go up – there’s nothing worse than a cuff that’s too short on the wrist. If you’re feeling the cold (or just a bit extra) upgrade to a bouclé fabric or a coat with high-shine panelling.

Main image: Soeur. 

Johnson double-breasted coat, €295; www.sezane.com. 

Wool blend tweed coat, Each X Other, €354; www.theoutnet.com.

Serbie jacket, €365; www.souer.fr.