On my first visit to Paris, I packed a bag full of colorful pieces of clothes and trendy outfits only to fit into what I perceived was a French look. The image I had of a Parisian was a woman decked in the most fashionable trends on every street, corner, and cafe. Surprisingly, upon arriving in Paris, I realized that my vision of a Parisian style was wrong and had nothing to do with Hollywood actresses or famous models wearing the latest fashion. Parisian women have a sense of style in a way that is hard to describe, a “je ne sais quoi” attitude.
What strikes anyone about Parisian women is their minimalist, harmonized and modern style. When you observe them, you’ll notice that most of what they have on are classic and basic but they have an extraordinary ability to delight us with a twist of personal style that always looks sharp and up to date.
Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.
Coco Chanel
Discovering the Parisian style
One of the best style lessons I learned when visiting Paris was how they wear color. Parisian women prefer neutral colors and black. I didn’t understand the neutrality in Parisian style at first. In fact, I was disappointed and thought the Parisian style was dull, mainly because it didn’t comply with North American’s vision of French fashion.
On our way back home from Paris, we stopped at a book store inside Paris Charles De Gaulle airport. And while browsing through the shelves for a magazine to read and a snack to eat at the airport gate, I spotted a book which spiked my interest: All you need to be impossibly French. The book spells out the secrets of the Parisian lifestyle and embodies the essential ingredients for looking and feeling beautiful. That’s when you will discover the minimalistic attitude of Parisian style.
What defines a Parisian style?
A Parisian style is always about elegant lines, flattering neutral colors, and charming little details. It is an effortless, minimalist, and practical look that creates harmony and flare.
What are the 7 rules to Parisian style?
Classic and basic
The first rule of a Parisian style guide is sticking to classic and basic pieces in neutral tones and black. You can style and re-style a classic piece with a trendy accessory for that up-to-date look. A Parisian woman will always have basic denim pants, crispy shirts, structured blazers, Breton tops, leather jacket, trenchcoat, tweed jacket, strappy sandals, and ankle boots.
Classic Blazers & Denim Sets
Quality over quantity
The Parisian style places emphasis on the quality of the fabric, the cut, and seaming. You should always invest in clothes that can last long, fit right, feel comfortable, and look timeless. Ask yourself these questions when you are shopping for classic and quality pieces:
Does it fit with my wardrobe?
Can I wear it every day?
Is it comfortable to wear?
Will I wear it next year or is it a one time trend?
Crispy shirts
Less is more
What struck me most about Parisian style is simplicity! If you want to dress like a Parisian woman, remember to keep it clean and simple. To look chic, wear the basic quality pieces and accessorize with a one statement piece, such as a Chanel broach, an elegant scarf or a great pair of shoes. One of the basic rules Parisian women follow is to stick to 3 delicate pieces of accessories.
Classic pants and tweed jackets
Defined Personal style
A Parisian style is more about timeless elegance and does not follow the latest fashion trends. Parisian women seek the right style and clothes that flatter their body type. And stick to classic styles that you like and look good on you. You can still add trendy pieces to update the overall look. For example, as shoulder pads are a big trend in 2020, a Parisian woman would wear a neutral Tee with padded shoulders.
Trench coats
Sensuality “je ne sais quoi”
Parisian women love their lingerie and are particular about selecting the best quality underwear in lace, silk, and luxury quality fabrics. The Parisian style embraces the “je ne said quoi” spirit of sensuality and qualities that make someone attractive and distinctive. It’s about embracing and showcasing your femininity in a classic and chic way without looking over the top.
Lingerie and hosiery
Accessorize
The secret to looking chic in Paris is in the way you accessorize your look. Parisian women do not wear big shiny accessories but rather prefer dainty jewelry to complement their classic look. In addition to jewelry, consider wearing these Parisian staple pieces:
- A Ladylike bag
- Ballet flats or loafers
- Strappy heels – Note that Parisian women don’t wear high heels for a good reason. They walk a lot, and that’s how they stay in shape.
- Statement sunglasses
Scarves & Jewellery
Discrete brands
Parisian women do not wear clothes with logos and brand names shown distinctly. To have style, women should know how you wear clothes, and Parisians do not consider it stylish or tasteful to display brand names on your clothes.
Shoes & Bags
Fashion Faux Pas Parisian women Avoid
- Super flashy logos
- Clothes that don’t fit right
- Flip-flop and UGG boots
- A lot of bright colors together
- Wearing very high heels
- All type of legging pants
- Putting too much effort in your clothes
- Low rise pants
- Too much animal prints
- Visible bra straps
- Sheer tights
Summary
Minimalism and elegance are the essences of Parisian style. Although you could be dishing more on classical pieces, consider it an investment into a wardrobe that can last a long time and still appear contemporary. As we age, we begin to realize the significance of a timeless and personal style and appreciate the value of investing in the proper apparel. Could Parisian style be your signature look? It’s a yes for me.
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2 comments
Outstanding post that you’ve written. hoping to see more posts like this.
Loved this post. Very informative. Parisian style is simple but elegant. Thank you for the tips!