Parisian-chic – can we Brits learn a thing or two?
‘Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.’ – Coco Chanel
As Paris Fashion Week draws to a close I thought what better time to look at what we can learn from that Parisian-chic style we’ve come to love. It’s well known that Paris street style is one of the best in the world so how can we translate the confidence, beauty and grace of Parisienne women and carry off their impeccable sense of style? I’m going to demonstrate a few different looks using French labels from our very own British high street and show you some tricks on how to mix timeless and trendy pieces in a way that is effortlessly chic.
Casual:
For a casual look try these faded denim-style Broderie anglaise trousers with gorgeous tie belt to show off your waist. This faded denim-style look is so on trend for SS15 and for a relaxed look why not try rolling up the ankles and show off these white perforated smooth calfskin leather high-tops. Team with neutrals such as a crisp white cotton shirt and a suede jacket and add a fringed bag for contemporary and timeless allure.
Trousers: Comptior des Cotonniers Indigo Broderie Anglaise Carrot £125, Shirt: Anne Fontaine Lizzie $350, Jacket: Gerard Darel Acerola £410, Shoes: Gerard Darel Amy £130, Bag: Zadig & Voltaire Bobo Gipsy £270
Smart Casual/Office
For something a little more dressy and classic try this knee-length skirt – the full skirt gives a luxurious elegant feel. Team with this white top in crepe georgette which drapes beautifully over the shoulder and ties on the left shoulder and then brighten the whole outfit up and modernise it with this retro style red coat – a tailored coat instantly adds polish to an outfit. French women love their accessories – it’s where they express their individuality and follow trends – the belt will help define your waist and adds interest to the outfit and the bag and shoes should never match so why not try some elegant black pumps with a modern twist and then mix it up with this fringed bag.
Shoes: Comptior des Cotonniers £170, Coat: Gerard Darel Aurelien £335, Top: Paule Ka £335, Skirt: Anne Fontaine $395, Belt: Paule Ka Grained Leather Belt £295, Bag Gerard Darel Le 24 Heures Boheme £650
Evening:
The LBD is an iconic French garment so it seems only right that I pay homage to it for my evening look! It is a style statement in it’s own right – effortlessly chic in its simplicity and a sign of impeccable taste. Why not experiment with fashion and try a LBD with a difference – choose something that gives it bit of an edge and modernises your look? The array of styles below have leather, mesh, organza, dramatic frills, ruching, gold chain trims and tie belts – all of which evoke that Parisian sex appeal associated with the LBD so take your pick!
From left: Paule Ka Organza Dress £635, Maje (from net-a-porter) Royaume mesh-panelled crepe mini dress £210, Paule Ka: Cotton Poplin Dress £330, Isabel Marant (at Matches): Geeny ruffled-shoulder dress £670
From left: A.P.C: Summer Dress €180, The Kooples: Straight Dress with lace and fringes £250, The Kooples: Bustier Dress in Leather with lace inserts £395, Sandro: Riley Dress £185
I hope you’ve enjoyed my round up of Parisian chic – if you want a take a few key style tips away with you then remember French women love to play with fashion without going over the top. Keep it simple remembering fit is imperative and embrace current trends through your accessories keeping your garments classic and timeless to allure to that effortless chic on the streets of Paris! French women have an eclectic mix of old and new, high street and designer – add some red lipstick, a flakey croissant and a latte and you’ll have it nailed! I’ve enjoyed writing my latest blog and hope you’ll continue to follow my fashion updates!
Happy shopping!
Lydia x
