Summertime is the perfect time to travel around the fashion capitals and if you find it hard to choose, my two favorite cities are Paris and New York. These cities have completely different vibes, but still have some similarities in the way people like to dress and the lifestyle they aim to reach. Personally, as a New Yorker that loves Parisian style, I try to create a wardrobe that draws inspiration from both cities.
Scroll down and take a look at what I chose to create the perfect look for both cities:
Loose Fit Denim Jeans
A pair of jeans that hug your curves just right (usually from Rouje, Toteme, or a favorite vintage store) are an everyday essential whether you’re buying a baguette in the 18th arrondissement (Boulangerie Boris has delicious ones) at 7:00 a.m. or taking an afternoon stroll in Soho. Especially when paired with a simple white t-shirt and black ballet flats or heels. Voila! Instant chic without all the effort.
Vintage Bags
Whether it’s Dior, Burberry, or simply just an adorably chic bag you found thrift shopping, a vintage bag often serves as both a Parisienne and New Yorker’s signature item. To put it frankly, it’s a gun to our holster. When searching for such an elusive item, whether it’s on Vestiaire, ThredUp, or at Tokio 7 in the East Village, make sure it’s timeless and discreet so you can pair it with anything from jeans and a t-shirt, your favorite dress, or a trench coat. (expert tip: the only acceptable logos are small interlocking Cs, the letters Y, S, and L, a large D, etc… nothing too flashy).
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Oversized Sunglasses
To wear everyday, because there is always a reason to wear them. Whether it’s to cover your tears (he didn’t call back), under-eye bags, or just because you’re too lazy to put on any makeup (just pair with a simple red lip), keep these in your bag no matter what.
A Basket Bag
The perfect accessory to bring to the farmer’s market on Sunday afternoon to buy fresh fruit and flowers that will die the very next day. Or if you just want to feel like Jane Birkin for the day (in this case pair with a simple white t-shirt, jeans, and Serge Gainsbourg).
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Red Lips
Perhaps the most chic makeup look of all time is a simple red lip. There’s something about looking as if your lips have been stained with red wine that is incredibly elegant yet sexy all at the same time. It’s the highly-guarded secret to the French girl je ne sais quoi, and the act of applying it in the reflection of a nearby cafe is quite seductive. Try shades such as Rouge Coco Carmen by Chanel, Rouge Velvet 08 by Bourjois (it-girl Jeanne Damas’ go-to shade), or Le Coquelicot by Rouge Baiser for lips that will drive both French men and American men fous.
A Little Black Blazer
To jazz up your everyday uniform and to look chic when there’s a draft in the restaurant. And to make you look smart when you’re talking about sex and politics over dinner. As Yves Saint Laurent once said, “There is not one black, but many blacks.”
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Author: Lisa Villemaire
