As we all know the Paris Fashion Week has just ended. But talking about Paris, what comes to your mind when you hear “Parisian style”? I should admit, in the past I used to think of the beret, a striped tee, and ballet flats. Nothing wrong with them, of course (boy how I still love wearing berets!) but if you ever visit Paris, small chance that you’ll see the local Parisian girls wearing this combination, head to toe. Instead, they always manage to look so put together and classy without even looking like they are trying at all. I believe I am not the only one here who admires every single photo that Jeanne Damas and Anne Laure Mais post on their Instagram pages, right? So how to achieve that level of effortless chic, or “je ne sais quoi”, like the French say? Let’s break down the secret for achieving this Parisian chic look, starting with these basic rules.
Stay with the classic
Everything starts with good, quality basics. If you see your wardrobe as a body, then these are the bones. The French would invest in good quality shirts that are made of natural fiber like silk and cotton. Then comes the denim, especially the straight cut. And if they are vintage, it’s even better.
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As for the jacket that would be the most appropriate for this upcoming spring season, is nothing less than the classic beige trench coat. It will go well with anything you wear, and still so practical.
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Accessorize smartly
Since the French girls like to appear low-maintenance, it’s important not to accessorize too much. Remember what Coco Chanel said?
“Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take at least one thing off.”
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Go for small bags. You don’t want to look like you’re carrying your whole house with you. Small bags keep your movement easy. Oh, and one more secret, French girls love their vintage designer bags.
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Wear chic, yet comfortable shoes. In Paris, the majority of people walk. For that you’d need comfort, right? Nothing is effortlessly chic, no matter what you wear, if you’re not comfortable walking in your shoes. Short, wedges, or block heels are your best friends. We know that the barely-there sandals are going to be huge this spring-summer, and they make the perfect mix of style and comfort all together. I mean, how cute are these?
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The attitude
The last one is actually the most important thing of all, that laid-back confidence. Feel comfortable in your own skin and keep it natural. Embrace your individual uniqueness. This attitude is like the cherry on top, without it no Parisian look will ever be complete.
