French style. Parisian chic for all of us

The world has always been fascinated by French women. Do you envy their style? The Parisian chic can be easily recreated and the capsule wardrobe loves it. 

The French style, although it seems effortless, is based on very strict rules. The way French women dress is light, as if natural, although in fact it is the result of diligence and consistency as well as defining their own style and being faithful to it.

Quality over quantity – the French style motto

Introducing the French style to your wardrobe means, first of all, focusing on the quality of garments. According to French women, it is better to buy one thing from a decent brand than 5 mass market cloths. Good quality materials, impeccable cut, items tailored to the body shape, a love for classics with a touch of nonchalance – that’s what we need. The devil’s in the detail, so we also have to focus on matching clothes and choosing the right accessories. At the same time, the appearance must be balanced, because the French woman does not want to be considered dressed up, but only casually elegant like only by chance.

Minimalism and knowing the limits

Parisian chic is directly related to minimalism, as the wardrobe items are characterized by simplicity of style. Minimalism in clothing, delicate makeup, a small amount of jewelry make the look not exaggerated. This goes hand in hand with style. After all, as fashion icon Coco Chanel used to say, „Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”

In addition to above, wear no more than 3 colors at a time. In case of elegant evening dress make it no more than 2 colors. And when in doubt … wear black!

And when in doubt… wear black!

French women also like to give the impression that their look is unfinished, so don’t go overboard with your outfits. On the contrary, cherish the small imperfections like tousled hair or a shirt that is not perfectly pressed.

Comfort is also important. There is nothing chic about unfitted things that make you feel uncomfortable. There is a reason why French women are referred to as self-confident and good-looking people.

cherish the small imperfections like tousled hair or a shirt that is not perfectly pressed.

Parisian chic is based on… a good base!

As the French style is largely based on simplicity, you need to provide a decent clothing base in neutral colors. Basic clothes, e.g. T-shirts, are usually bought by French women in mass market stores, but for more tasteful things they go to better-quality producers.

Leave the athleisure in the gym

The so-called Athleisure style, with which Americans and half of Europe have fallen in love, is unacceptable in Parisian flair. Apparently, French women go to the gym, but they don’t let anyone know about it :). Regardless of whether or not this is true, they do not include gym sporty style clothing in their wardrobe, considering it to be in bad taste. So running shoes or tracksuit outside the gym is a no-no! Athlesiure should not be confused with sporty elegance – for a better understanding of the difference, I will add that the Tommy Hilfiger brand is in the style of sporty elegance, but definitely not Nike or Adidas. The trench coat is also derived from the classic sports style.

Statement piece and the French style

French women love statement pieces. However, there is one most important rule: one strong element for the entire outfit. Something that catches the eye, such as expressive sunglasses, a hat, a fashionable handbag, an elegant colorful scarf, beautiful shoes. The point is that this thing should not compete to gain your attention – other elements of the outfit are the background for it. However, forget about eye-catching logos or bright colors. The ostentatious appearance and branding has nothing to do with Parisian chic. Typical French elegance should be discreet!

one strong element for the entire outfit

Oversize

Oversize clothes will work well in a French wardrobe. A slightly oversized trench coat, a shirt borrowed from a men’s wardrobe, a jacket – that’s it!

What should you have in a French wardrobe?

If you dream about Parisian chic you should have:

– beige trench coat (or other neutral color)
– classic basic plain T-shirts
– LBD or woman suit
– classic white sneakers (not close to running shoes!)
– straight blue jeans
– woolen sweater (cashmere is the best here)
– white shirt (especially from men’s closet)
– breton T-shirt or jumper
– classic black blazer
– leather jacket
– woolen coat in neutral
– scarf (make it a silk one)
– ballet flats or loafers

…and of course, don’t forget your baguette!

Au revoir!

P.S. If you love Parisian chic, come next week to see the post about the capsule wardrobe French style example

For now, be inspired by Parisian chic of Jane Birkin. And there you have the two of most popular French Instagramer: Jeanne Damas i Garance Doré.