5 TIPS ON HOW TO DRESS LIKE A FRENCH GIRL

It’s no secret that I (and many others) admire French style – these women know how to look effortless and sexy without thinking twice (I also think the European lifestyle doesn’t hurt). Ever since my recent trip to Paris, I’ve been looking for slightly more feminine, romantic pieces, which in turn got me thinking about that je ne sais quoi that the French do so well. I’ve done my best to break it down for you:

1. THINK NEUTRAL

Having a neutral palette makes getting dressed much easier and much quicker (and usually gives me my favourite effortless outfits). It also makes it easy to add colorful accessories (like a bag or scarf) without looking overdone.

2. PERFECT EFFORTLESS HAIR + MAKEUP

The French do lived-in hair and easy makeup SO well – it’s something I’m always trying to emulate. They tend to go for a small number of quality products that take care of their hair + skin first and foremost. I also love that while they always look good, it’s not something that takes an hour – they have much better things to do (and so do you!)

3. DON’T THINK TOO MUCH ABOUT TRENDS

This quote from Julia Restoin Roitfeld (daughter of French fashion royalty and former editor-in-chief of French Vogue, Carine Roitfeld) pretty much sums it up: “Please don’t ask me about trends. I’m into buying clothes that make me feel pretty, that flatter me, but I have never cared about having the latest thing.”

It’s more important to choose pieces that flatter your body and that make you feel amazing. Only wear trends if you like them!

4. ADD A LEATHER JACKET OR BLAZER

Every woman (or man) should have the perfect blazer and/or leather jacket. These pieces are always chic and in season and are the first thing I tell people to buy when they ask about closet staples.

5. DON’T FLASH LABELS

The French are the opposite of ostentatious when it comes to labels – look for a well made, timeless piece that doesn’t have a large logo letting everyone know how expensive it was. The exception is, of course, the classic Chanel CC.

Ever New dress (similar), leather jacket | Isabel Marant Dicker boots | JW Anderson Pierce bag | Acne Studios scarf | Ray-Ban round sunglasses

Photos by Andrew Cameron