French fashion has always been a leader and trendsetter in the industry. From the venerated Paris Fashion Week to one of the most famous style icons in history, Coco Chanel, France oozes fashion. I have had the opportunity to study abroad in France this semester and while there I tried to pull inspiration for my daily outfits from the students surrounding me. Through my travels from the largest cities in France to some of the smallest Provencal villages I have determined that if French fashion was summed up in one word it would be: simple.
Simple, yet effortlessly chic.
During the holidays, I traveled to Lyon where I spotted trends of long woolen coats with a simple blouse and white sneakers. The mix of athletic leisure apparel with the contrast of modern simple lines and dark colors seems to be uniquely French. Even their makeup and hair is rarely overdone; mascara, a pinkish lipstick and hair in a messy bun. To transform from day to night the French way is to exchange the sneakers for black strappy pumps, add some thin black eyeliner on your lids and let your hair down!
As I would walk along the Seine in Paris, or through the winding streets of Lyon, I would encounter young French women sipping an espresso or talking with friends. They always seemed so modern, so confident, so classic, and their style reflects that. They made me realize that it’s not always what you wear, but how you wear it.
My advice is, travel, travel, travel and even if you are in a country that is not your own, it is all about being yourself.
