What I Learned About Being French

I am definitely one of those Americans who are obsessed with the idea of French women. I imagine myself walking around Paris with a bouquet of flowers or baguette, and stopping by a cafe for a coffee. Unfortunately, that’s not my life here in California. But as any obsessed lunatic, I have collected a few tips on how to be French from following Parisian icons and reading books. Of course, I can never be truly French, but hey a girl can dream!

Books:

Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange

How to Be Parisian Wherever You by  Caroline De Mairgret

 

French Icons: 

Jeanne Damas – The current “It” girl, is a model and full-time fashion icons. Her quirky yet Parisian look is to obsess over.

Ines De la Fressange – She helped define the Parisian women, and she is best known for being Karl Lagerfeld muse.

Emmanuelle Alt –  If you search Parisian style on Pinterest, I guarantee she will pop-up, but of course, she is the editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris.  Her staple skinny pants and blazers look is timeless.

Garance Dore – This French blogger, illustrator, and photographer always provides a dose of inspiration to the day.

Clemence Poesy – Most known for her Harry Potter roles, Clemence knows how to do the French un-done look.

Jane Birkin & Daughters – Although born in England, she is an icon of French style. Her look stands the test of time. Her love affair with Serge Gainsbourg define French love and her daughters also embody the idea of a Parisian woman.

Caroline De Mairgret – Her careless yet sophisticated attitude is one I desire. She is known for being a French model and music producer.

Carla Bruni – She is globally known for marrying the President of France, but was singer-songwriter and model before that. Her music just puts you in the French mood.

 

French Style Rules:

1. The number one rule…stick to classic pieces!
2. Black has to be the dominant color in your wardrobe.
3. Monochrome your outfits as much as possible
4. 90% of my shoe collection should be flats and a few quality high heels.
5. Focus on interesting shapes and textures, preferably in muted colors. Embellishments, like sequins, are not needed.
6. No matter the occasion dress in classics & simple silhouette.
7. Look as if it took you 5 minutes to get ready, but still look put-together.
8. Have a signature scent, so people remember you even when you leave the room.
9. Find vintage clothing or accessories, like jewelry or scarves, to mix into your wardrobe.
10. Spend on quality beauty products. French women believe in taking care of what your mother gave you.

 

French Way of Life: 

1. Always be fashionably late like you, just came from an another important place
2. Talk passionately politics and art.
3. When at a restaurant talk more than you eat. It’s okay to take hours at the dinner table, just drink more wine and order dessert to extend the conversation.
4. Side kisses when you enter a room.
5. When possible order a glass of wine or espresso
6. Don’t worry about aging, women are beautiful at any age.
7. For your home mix antique with modern pieces for a bohemian-french look.
8. Never seem like you take life too seriously.
9. Everything you own should be about quality (the French never compromise on quality).
10. Having a temper is okay. French women aren’t Stepford Wives

-Denise