So much has been said and written about the understated chic of French women; countless articles have tried to shed light on the almost unattainable: to look like them.
During my literally dozens of visits to Paris, I have admired and even envied their classic, effortless ways of dressing. The look of a Parisian girl emphasizes classic style over passing trends; a simple dress, jeans, t-shirt, tailored blazer, cashmere sweater, and a scarf, are key elements of her wardrobe. Parisian women believe in investing in long-term fashion rather than buying hot trends which turn obsolete shortly after they are seen on a runway.
I come from a long line of very fancy women; my paternal grandmother never left the house without wearing a hat, and my maternal grandmother had an old Hollywood aura about her and was always very well put together. Both women, in spite of modest means, were able to look beautifully even with the very limited choices offered in communist Poland during the 50'-80's. None of their fashion sense rubbed off on me. I try, I really do, but somehow my efforts fall short of what I would be satisfied with. There is something lacking in my effortless chic. Achieving that perfect balance is a gift that French women possess. Don't get me wrong, there are beautifully put together women walking around NYC, and other cities all over the world, but there is just something special about that quintessential Parisian look.
Here are just a few observations from the streets of Paris:
A few years ago, I saw this woman as she stood in the middle of Blvd. St Germain. She appeared to be in her 60's, was dressed in a lovely black dress, heels, and her accessories were a watch, earrings and sunglasses. She looked absolutely stunning, and timeless.
This chic Parisian girl was strolling near Saint Sulpice on a nice July morning. The hair seemed air dried, but it worked great with the large hat. My air dried hair makes me look like a crazy cat lady:(
I saw this elegant lady who was heading to do some shopping on rue Cler. Her hair, dress, and shoes were lovely, stylish, and feminine.
A Parisian girl shopping. I need to get one of those snazzy carts for myself. I saw one with pictures of macaron, that would be perfect for me.
This Parisian mom and her equally stylish mini Parisian daughter were leaving a produce market. Somehow she made a simple sweater and pants look fab.
Baguette in hand; it doesn't get more French.
This woman was on a bike, in heels, a skirts, and writing in a notebook; multitasking at its best!
Just a few years ago, sneakers were only seen on American tourists. These days they are worn paired with skirts and dresses by some of the very chic women around Paris. I think it all started a few years ago with the popularity of New Balance sneakers, and moved onto Stan Smith, now the streets of Paris are a sneaker heaven. I thought that this Parisian looked superb. I have copied this look all summer:)
Not all Parisiennes wear muted colors, aparently.
A Parisian lady is stylish holding a Kelly
or a pooch.
Joanna
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