Bonjour, mademoiselles! It has been already four weeks since I became a Parisienne. A month was such a short period of time to improve my French skills, but it was actually enough time to observe and absorb fashion and lifestyle of Parisians. Since I am a collegiette who loves fashion and beauty, I am loving the French chic outlook and Parisian style this week.
(In front of a popular vintage shop in Paris, called “Free ‘P’ Star.”)
I believe many of you would be familiar with the concept of “French chic,” which is used to describe the chic fashion and style of French people. Here are some facts and tips that I found from “How Parisians Dress.”
1. Black, Black and Black!
Parisians love wearing black items. When you are in a metro, you will find 90 percent of Parisians wearing black coats and jackets. Back in Chapel Hill, I was a suburban girl who loved bright colors and floral patterns, even on my shoes. However, now I see myself looking for only black clothes in the mall. Of course, black is not an surefire way to be chic. However, if you want to be chic and stylish but are unsure of what to wear, black is always a good answer.
2. Don’t hide your face. Just be yourself.
Another way to explain French chic is being relaxed and natural. Women rarely wear heavy makeup in Paris. If you imagined Paris with full of women with glamorous makeup, you would be surprised to see how natural, but still beautiful, Parisiennes are without much makeup. For Parisiennes, mascara is just enough. Before I came to Paris, I used to spend so much time in front of the mirror, doing makeup to look like someone else. However, now I realize mascara is enough. There is nothing wrong with being yourself! Don’t be shy. If you want to be chic and edgy like Parisiennes, the first step is treating yourself like the beautiful and attractive woman you are.
3. Be warm and cool at the same time.
The scarf is definitely a must-have item in Paris. Why? Because it is so cold! It not only keeps you warm, but it also makes you look cool. Especially in the winter/spring season, people put warmth before style. However, Parisians know how to finish off any French chic outfit with a scarf. Because Parisians usually wear black coats of jackets, it is easy to wear a scarf of any color or pattern and make it the focal point of the outfit. If you want to add more interest to your look, you can wear a bag or shoes in a coordinating color.
(With my favorite scarf from another well-known vintage shop called “Kiliwatch”)
All photos provided by Sojung Hong.