Six Ways to Dress Like a Parisian

Note: This post was written together with friend and fellow blogger, Adrienne Breeze. Read about her Parisian adventures on her blog, Breeze In Paris.

Yes, French women, and Parisian women in particular, have that certain "Je ne c'est quoi".  When I visited Paris I think I spent more time people and fashion-watching on the streets than I did inside museums and art galleries. Adrienne lives in Paris now, so was happy to pass along her observations on the key elements of the Parisian girl's style formula.

1. Wear chic AND comfortable shoes.  Paris is a walking city - the majority commute on foot or by public transportation, which is also why you don't see too many out-of -shape Parisian women. In summer, ballet flats rule the streets, while in winter, a stylish pair of long or short boots is a wardrobe must.  Parisians dress for what they do.  If they are not running or doing some type of sports, they will not wear running shoes.  Stilletos are for elegant evenings, and flip-flops are for days at the beach.
2. Stick to a subtle palette with pops of colour. The sartorial colour palette in  Paris tends toward neutral and earthy shades - black, brown, and grey are de rigeur.  Too limiting?  Add rich purples and blues to cut the sombre tone.  Alternatively, add colour through scarves, shoes and jewelry.  Or, keep your wardrobe neutral but add a pop of colour with a bold red coat (as above).
3. Always make the effort. Despite the need to be comfortable, you will never see a poorly dressed Parisian, male or female!  Even walking the dog or picking up milk at the store is an occasion to put on a cute coat, swipe on some lipstick and wrap on a lovely scarf.  For an easy weekend look, try a tunic paired with simple tights or leggings with leather boots, a well tailored coat, and a hat.
4. Wear denim. Ok, I know this is not exclusive to Paris.  But this is an affirmation that denim is truly a universal fashion DO. Nothing beats a pair of well-fitted jeans no matter where you live.  Go for a slim or skinny leg that are chic whether worn with flats or tucked into boots.
5. Cute rainboots cheer up a gloomy day. Paris is a lot like Vancouver when it comes to weather, and we know what that means - rain and lots of it!  A cute pair of rainboots liven up a drab day. Remember when you were a kid and actually looked forward to rain so you could slosh around in puddles?  Rainboots are your chance to bring that sense of playfulness into your wardrobe once again.
6. Wear a hat. Hat fashion is a whole separate science here in Europe.  I see hats that cost hundreds of euros placed behind the counter, accessible by "assistance only".  Explore the world of hats to find out what suits you most - an elegant cloche, a bohemian slouchy bonnet as below, or the quintessential french chapeau - the beret.

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