The Secrets to Parisian Style

Parisian women undoubtedly live up to the fashion standards set by French designers such as Coco Chanel, Christian Dior and Jean-Paul Gautier. They radiate an air of confidence and poise as if it was what they were born to do, all while appearing effortless.

The French woman isn’t scared of breaking perceived rules of fashion, rather she lives for it. She nonchalantly mixes black with navy, dresses in menswear and maintains an air of mystery by hiding under a pair of oversized sunglasses (whether the sun is out or not). Here are some key guidelines essential to achieving the infallible French “oh I just threw this on” look:

Black and white stripes:

Styled right you will neither look like a pirate or a prisoner but simply chic.

Less is more:

Don’t overdo the accessories or the colours or anything for that matter.

Relaxed silhouette:

Always leave something a little undone. Only tuck in your top on one side since well you just quickly threw it on while running out the door.

Flats:

Cobblestones and heels are not the best of friends. A busy french woman has too much to do in a day to have to worry about twisting her ankle while running from one appointment to the next.

Oversized sunnies:

Why is she hiding? Is it the lack of eye makeup or the paparazzi waiting around the corner…

Menswear:

Go for cuts that are boxier and automatically you will appear edgier and classier.

White Button Down:

If this item isn’t already in your closet, go out and by it now. Nothing is as versatile as a plain white button down and nothing dresses you up as fast.

French Trench:

This is a french classic and can literally be thrown on over any outfit.

Bedhead:

You just rolled out of bed and threw something on remember?

The basic idea is for your outfit to be a reflection of the life you want people to perceive you have. In Paris, the goal is to appear busy, sophisticated and effortless, all elements that are reflected in the simplicity and casual nature of the street fashion. A French woman’s attitude and personality speak for itself, the outfit merely there to enhance what she already has: flare.

Á bientôt!