I’ve recently noticed a few articles popping up on my Facebook newsfeed about how to look Parisienne in X number of steps. I thought it might be fun to give it a try and make my own seasonal guide to fitting in in Paris.
Disclaimer: I don’t believe it’s necessary to dress how the cool kids are dressing, but as an American in Paris it’s kinda fun to take note of the fashion trends. Plus, for a lot of people what you wear can affect your confidence, and everyone is happier with a little bit of day-to-day confidence. My shopping theory is “if it’s an investment in your happiness, buy it” …but try not to go into debt 😉
1. After September 1st, toss on your black leather jacket! It’s the most chic outer layer to keep you appropriately warm and goes with just about everything!
2. Invest in a good pair of black ankle boots. Good, meaning: comfortable, durable, cute, potential to ‘dress up’ or ‘dress down’.
3. Opaque black tights! No see-through tights in Paris! Toss on a pair of opaque black tights under your skirt or dress and pop on those black ankle boots or some clean black flats, you’re ready for a day at the office or a girls night out.
4. A tan trench coat: for every outfit that doesn’t match your black leather jacket. Other acceptable colors: black, gray, navy (but tan is by far the top choice).
5. Dark jeggings. They can be black, dark gray, navy, just be sure they’re dark. Regular jeans are fine too but they should be tight and clean cut.
6. Scarves. Realistically you only need two: a silk scarf and a heavier cotton or wool scarf. But really, the more scarves the better!
7. SWEATERS! ALL the neutral colors: white, black, navy, gray. Get them all. September weather is chilly, but not cold. It’s perfect sweater weather!
8. Black or white sneakers! Sorry Nike, your neon patterned sneakers won’t do. Feel free to wear those when you exercise, but for street clothes it’s important to have a pair of comfortable black or white simple sneakers to wear out and about. I found myself a nice pair of black sneakers with a subtle white pattern and they do the trick perfectly!
9. Feeling lazy? Need a “comfy” outfit? In the states I’d throw on my lululemon sweatsuit and call it a day, but in Paris that won’t fly. Through lots of observation I finally discovered what Parisiens wear for a lazy day outfit in the fall: a simple, solid colored crewneck sweatshirt and their favorite jeans. The sweatshirt should fit properly, not oversized, and it should be dark in color. Navy, plum, and olive green are all acceptable colors. A subtle same-colored pattern is encouraged to make it a little bit more chic and not so plain Jane. Just pair it with some comfy jeans and those sneakers I previously mentioned and you’re good to go!
Lastly, hair and makeup! This is my favorite part, because it’s so simple in Paris! Natural, natural, natural. The most Parisienne look of all: short, un-styled hair and extremely subtle makeup. A little bit of mascara and maybe a touch of lip color, then you’re all set to go!
Ellen's Travels Abroad 