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If you’ve traveled to Paris before, you probably noticed the elegant and yet effortless style of Parisian women. According to Morgane Sezalory, founder of the Parisian brand Sézane, “Parisian women have a uniform, and they rarely steer away from that.” The Parisian style has become very popular on social media in recent years, and many women are inspired by it. Since this style influences my wardrobe to a large degree, I wanted to explore the style secrets of Parisian women (apart from the fact that they live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world).
Parisian Style Guidelines
Parisian style is mainly about classic and timeless pieces rather than passing trends. It makes extensive use of basic items and a neutral color palette. One of its main characteristics is how Parisian women balance between looking put together and yet laid back, even if it takes them hours to create their look. Usually, they won’t use more than one statement piece in an outfit. This can include a silk scarf, a hat, or shoes. The use of accessories is minimalist, and the overall look is clean and simple.
Here are my best tips on how to build a Parisian style inspired wardrobe:
Make Your Outfits Look ‘Tailor-Made’
One of the reasons that the Parisian style looks so elegant is because Parisian women know how to fit a garment to their body shape. Therefore, it is of great importance to customize your outfits. If you have an item that is not the right size or shape for you, consider taking it to a sewist.
Similarly, when you buy a new item, size up if you’re unsure about the sizing. This way, you can adjust the item while wearing it. For example, if you bought an oversized shirt, tuck it in or fold the sleeves. Alternatively, you can fix it at the sewist. Parisian women usually wear oversized cuts and play with proportions. They will often mix an oversized item with a more fitted one. It is also worth considering that items that sit tightly on the body convey a less polished and luxurious look.
Mix Between Masculine and Feminine Elements
Yves Saint Laurent was the first to bring women’s trouser suits into fashion in the mid-1960s. In doing so, he greatly influenced the attire of Western women (Wikipedia). The combination of masculine and feminine styles has become very popular among Parisian women. They will often mix masculine elements like an oversized blazer or tailored trousers and more feminine garments such as a silk skirt or a lace camisole.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
The Parisian style is mainly based on a small wardrobe that contains mostly quality items. Quality items can be more expensive but will usually last longer in your closet. They will also elevate your outfit, even if it consists primarily of basics. Therefore, carefully examine the fabric composition, the cut, and the sewing quality when buying a garment. Clothes made of natural fibers such as cotton, silk, or wool are also part of the garment’s quality. These fabrics are also considered more sustainable for the environment. In order to take good care of your clothes, pay attention to the way you store them in your closet and to their washing instructions.
Go for Classic and Versatile Pieces
High-quality basic items allow you to use your wardrobe throughout the year. They will also help you create the put-together yet effortless look Parisian women specialize in. The color palette will usually be neutral, with a pop of color in the accessories. Most items won’t have a print or will have a classic print like stripes, polka dots, or plaids. Items in neutral colors are easier to mix and match together. They will also make you look polished even if they don’t have a designer label. Classic items you can usually find in almost every Parisian wardrobe include button-down shirts, straight-cut jeans, a striped shirt with long sleeves (what is called marinière in French), an oversized masculine blazer, and more.
Add a Vintage Touch
Parisian women pay close attention to details. Adding a vintage item that you found in a thrift store or inherited will add a personal touch and sophistication to your outfit. The trick is to mix these with casual and modern items. This way, you can balance your look and keep the classic and elegant Parisian style. For tips on buying secondhand and vintage items, you can read here.
Mix Elevated Pieces in a Casual Outfit
Parisian women never look too dressed up or underdressed, only with casual pieces. Instead, they mix between basic and elevated items. For example, you can style your jeans with a button-down shirt or a blazer. Alternatively, if you are wearing a t-shirt, you can style it with tailored trousers. Usually, one elevated item in a casual outfit will create this effortless Parisian chic. You can also dress up your outfit with accessories such as a silk scarf, elegant shoes, or a luxury bag.
How to Have a Parisian Style on a Budget ?
Although the Parisian style looks luxurious and elegant, it doesn’t have to be pricey. Here are some tips for building a Parisian inspired wardrobe on a budget –
Patience. When building a wardrobe, you don’t need to start from scratch and buy a completely new wardrobe. Having a plan and being patient are essential components of the process. Set yourself a monthly budget and avoid impulsive shopping. Add an item or two to your closet each time.
Search in advance for the items you are interested in. You can find many online stores that sell basic quality items at a relatively affordable price with worldwide shipping, such as Everlane, Arket, and Organic Basics.
Search for secondhand alternatives. There are many pre-loved items you can find in thrift and vintage stores. Most of the time, these items will cost less and also have better quality. They will also add a personal touch and sophistication to the overall look.
Want some more Parisian-style inspiration? I highly recommend watching the Vogue Paris YouTube series for Parisian women and their stylish apartments. Enjoy 🙂
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