It has been confirmed (in my opinion anyway). No one does effortlessly chic like the French. With an impeccable ability to draw intrigue and insert glamour into any outfit, the simplicity of French design sees them paralleled by none when it comes to minimalist style.
 |
| Céline boots |
Walking the streets of Paris instantly left me feeling underdressed. In a Kathmandu Parker, thermals and jeans it was clear to anyone with eyes that I was not a local, and from the looks of it not interested in being fashionably conscious. The chill had well and truly got the better of me, with comfort overriding fashion on this occasion (sorry guys this sometimes happens to even those with styleyes! ;)). The French on the other hand were not phased by the cold with most opting for simple black woollen coats and black boots cut strictly just above the ankle. Other styles trending in Paris included that of the heavy knit stocking in all types of colours. This trend is an old favourite of ours at stcksandstnes. This leg wear option perfectly combines comfort and fashion by keeping proportions in check! With a heavy top layer being a given in the winter months, the balance of the skinny leg tights instantly completes the outfit! Another favourite on the Parisian streets was the beanie. The beanie is back in more ways than one, with Fluro colours, bedazzling and monograms featuring most heavily this fall.
 |
| ba&sh suede jacket |
I didn't get a chance to catch the beanie trend in action myself, but here are a few examples of the head-warmer roaming the streets of Paris!
Fashion spotting can take place on every street corner in the city of Paris. But for a guaranteed fashion street parade head down to Le Marais shopping district and get ready to exercise your styleyes! In my mind this area is the French version of Soho in New York. This means style saturated fashionistas, beautiful people and stores being present in every corner. Shop standouts in this district included Zadig and Voltaire, Sandro and the nifty second hand shops which always play host to the most unique, valuable and more often than not, best finds!
After four days in Paris I must say my understanding of the 'less is more' saying has never been so strong. Jess and I can typically be found screaming "what else can I add to this arm party?! Or "why choose one when you can wear both?" (cue El Paso moment.) However in such cases we are often referring to necklaces, or in terms of clothing, puffy vests, which admittedly are our weakness when it comes to layering. This being said, I can appreciate the level of sophistication and flair such French minimalism can hold. Because when it comes down to it, the foundation of fashion lies in desirable designs, terrific tailoring and careful colouring. (Obviously the real fun begins when accessories, labels and beauty products are added to the fashion arena!)
All in all Paris style can be described in one word: Simplicity.
Stay tuned to here about how the fashion in Milan compares to the Parisian chic!
Love Bella
xoxo
