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So you want to dress like a fashionable Parisian? Parisian chic is elegant and effortless, and much classier than the standard American getup of Uggs and a North Face. It's easy to pull off if you know what you are doing. With a few key pieces and the right attitude, you'll look you walked right off the Champs-Élysées!
Steps
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1Wear flattering basics. You might see a lot of people around Paris wearing black, navy or grey, and with good reason - those colors tend to be slimming and flattering on most people. Consider adding the following pieces to your wardrobe:
- Knee-length pencil or A-line skirts. Mini skirts or super-long skirts are more difficult to pull off, and might not look as Parisian. Wear dark colors in the winter, and consider light colors or delicate floral prints for summer.
- Slender or skinny-cut trousers in dark colors. They can be cropped or full-length.
- A dark-wash skinny jean with no visible rips or tears.
- Crisp blouses in neutral colors such as white, beige, cream, navy, grey, or black. Make sure they fit you well and don't sag around the waist.
- A "little black dress" for formal occasions. It doesn't necessarily have to be black (though it should be in a darker, more slimming color). The hemline should fall somewhere between mid-calf and mid-thigh.
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2Wear sensible but stylish shoes. Flats, riding boots,thin sandals, and pumps are all appropriate Parisian shoes. Avoid trainers, flip-flops, or heavy boots (such as Uggs).
- If you're going to do a lot of walking (or your balance in heels just isn't great), stick to flats or boots. They are cute and you can wear them anywhere
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3Wear fitted jackets and coats. Trench coats, pea coats, feminine leather jackets, and cropped or fitted blazers all look chic without being fussy. Avoid sweatshirts or anything with a loud label.
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4Wear cardigans. They go with skirts and pants, and they are light enough to wear in spring and summer.
- Tie-front cardigans are okay, just make sure you wear a white or differently-colored camisole beneath them.
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5Accessorize minimally. Don't wear too much jewelry. Remember: wear pearls during the day and diamonds at night (real or fake). You can also wear a scarf, a cute headband, large sunglasses, or a sophisticated handbag.
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6Wear minimal makeup. Parisian women aspire to look fresh-faced and healthy, but not overly made-up. Try sticking to powder foundation, a light dusting of blush, undereye concealer, and one coat of mascara on the upper lashes.
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7Wear the attitude. Dress with confidence, and carry yourself proudly. Try to greet the world with a sense of politeness and calm.Advertisement
Warnings
- Parisians never wear clothes that shows up their bellies. The French are mostly very conservative and traditional when it comes to clothing.Thanks!
Things You'll Need
- Button down shirts, pants (green, black, white, etc.)
- Cardigans, jackets, and other light sweaters
- Flats and other shoes with a minimum heel
- Mascara (optional)
- Blush (optional)
- Concealer and/or foundation (optional)
- A soft, feminine perfume (optional)
- A good-quality silk scarf (optional)
- High Boots with small heel (optional but stylish)
About This Article
To dress Parisian chic, wear basic, flattering pieces, like fitted trousers, pencil skirts, crisp button-ups, and simple dresses. Additionally, stick with neutral colors, like black, navy, and grey. For shoes, opt for flats, dress boots, or pumps, and avoid sneakers and flip-flops. You can also wear sophisticated accessories, like a scarf, a headband, or sunglasses, but try to keep it to a minimum since Parisians prefer a simple, effortless look. To learn how to do your makeup like a real Parisian, scroll down!
