Parisians certainly have a knack for essential winter style. The perfect coat, the coolest heeled boots, chic leather gloves, and luxe cashmere—these are a few essentials that leave them looking effortless yet polished, and also warm! These pieces on their own aren’t particularly French, per se, just generally a bit preppy, but, the magical “je ne sais quoi” materializes with how these items are worn.

Before we get to the clothes, a few beauty tips to transform your look: firstly, don’t brush your hair, maybe even rough it up a bit. Secondly, leave your face bare, no makeup, just pat on some facial cream for a balmy glow. They key is to look like you’re not trying that hard, but you have taste.

And that’s when the clothes come in. Transform such timeless garments with little rolls and tucks on the sleeves and hems, and adjust your collar upward for some attitude. All the better if the pieces themselves have subtle, yet unique details—intelligent design that prompts a double-take. Perhaps an interesting shoulder shape or seam placement, or socks that glimmer between your skinny jeans (still a thing here!) and heeled ankle boots. If you’re in doubt, think to former Vogue Paris editor, Emmanuelle Alt’s legendary style. Alt would agree that it’s about looking cool, not sexy. So with that in mind, check out our picks below and happy travels!