Whether myth, truth, or somewhere in between, the French reputation for style is undeniable. What isn’t in question is our fascination with their fashion and how they dress (myself included).
As a New Yorker, I take great pride in my street style, but I know when to leave certain trends stateside,*cough* sorry, cottage cowgirl.
France is where I fell in love with style, art, and a few charming gents.
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This month, I’m heading back to Paris to embrace the world through rose-colored glasses — la vie en rose. Instead of channeling Emily in Paris, I’ll be going for the Sylvie approach: understated elegance with a focus on radiant skin and a touch of sultriness.
If you’re looking for a guide to French culture for all the do’s and don’ts of the bourgeoisie, I highly suggest reading “Ze French Do It Better” by authors Frédérique Veysset and Valérie de Saint-Pierre. The French felt this book highlighted their culture so closely that they brought it to sell at the World Expo in Dubai from 2020 to 2022, where I picked up a copy. It explores styles, neighborhoods, food, and more.
If you can’t jet set to Paris, I highly recommend listening to Shannon Able’s podcast, “The Simple Sophisticate. ” In it, she discusses ways to bring a petit plaisir (a simple indulgence) with French ideals into your everyday life.
However you decide to experience the fashionable, carefree life, I suggest bringing a few of these quintessentially French favorites with you for a bit of elevated style; whether in Paris, France, or Paris, Kentucky, there is something for vous.
Clothing
Sézane Lindsey Dress
Pros:
- Sizing available in extra small to extra, extra large…(size down if you’re between two sizes).
- Beautiful packaging, complete with a scented postcard
- High quality that holds up over several years
Cons:
- Nothing bad can be said about Sézane
Sézane is a cross between function and French sophistication. Regarding carefree yet stylish dresses, Sézane is the only brand I turn to for such occasions because the quality holds up over several seasons and never goes out of style.
I am packing my favorite ribbed noir dress, paired with my favorite Barry Cardigan by day and Mélanie Mary Jane’s by night. And because there’s room in my bag, I’m also adding a pop of color with a silky purple halter — the Renata dress.
Sézane Max Shirt
Pros:
- Complimentary embroidery is provided for up to 10 characters
- Versatile and timeless with mother-of-pearl buttons and organic cotton
- Available in multiple colors
- Beautiful packaging, complete with a scented postcard
There’s nothing quite like a crisp, white button-down shirt to exude that “je ne sais quoi” aesthetic. It can be effortlessly sexy when paired with a black bra, worn untucked, half-tucked, or styled any way you like. It’s also perfect for layering over a dress and tying the front to stay warm at night. It’s simply versatile and timeless.
J. Crew Cropped boatneck T-shirt
Pros:
- Classic shirt for all year-round
- Machine washable
You might think it’s a cliché, but the French truly do embrace boatneck striped shirts. This J.Crew version, with its slightly cropped fit, comes in two timeless striped colors. Blend in with the locals and buy one (or two) and wear to a street cafe while swirling your wine like a Parisian.
Fleur Du Mal Hampton’s Bustier
Pros:
- Available in four shades
- High-quality silk that feels like a second skin
- Versatile llingerie that can also be ready-to-wear pieces
- Comes with removable straps
I love lingerie that’s versatile enough to be worn both in and out of the boudoir, especially when you’re tight on packing space. Fleur du Mal combines luxury with bold designs, offering high-end lingerie that blends sensuality with indulgence. When I slip into my Hampton’s Bustier, it’s as if I can embody any persona I choose, embracing a feeling that’s as real as it is empowering.
The material is buttery soft, made of 98% silk with just the right amount of stretch from 2% spandex, making it incredibly comfortable as it wraps around my body.
The soft boning and structure cups give shape to even the smallest of busts (myself included) and allow room for silicone bra inserts if the girls need a boost. Plus, the zipper in the back features a hook and eye closure to ensure a secure fit, so it stays perfectly in place.
Available in four gorgeous shades: black, ivory, denim blue, and willow.
A.P.C. Standard Jeans
Pros:
- Extremely durable, well-made denim
- High-rise fit with five pockets and a straight, loose cut
Cons:
- Prices are a little steep but the quality will stand the test of time and may end up saving you money
Today, denim is often linked with American icons like John Wayne and Marlon Brando, but its origins are rooted in French heritage. The fabric, originally made from wool and silk, was developed in Nîmes, France. The denim style we recognize today was popularized by Levi Strauss, whose classic selvedge 501 jeans were crafted with such high-quality, tightly woven fabric that in the 1980s, the French would smuggle them from New York to embrace American street style, according to the book, “Ze French Do It Better.” Since then, Jean Touitou, founder of A.P.C., has refined the selvedge jean, making it a staple among the French in a simplified straight cut.
Madewell The Greta Ballet Flat
Pros:
- Easy to walk in for long distances
- Well made
- Available in 4 shades from sizes 5 to 11
If you were thinking of wearing open-toed shoes, you might want to reconsider and opt for the most elegant walking shoe you can find: the ballet flat. I always bring a pair when I travel because they’re incredibly versatile and practical.
Bags & Beauty
Nex. Travel Voyager Crossbody
Pros:
- Durable microfiber leather that resists water and dirt
- Eco-conscious, sustainably-friendly brand
- Available in three colors: Amber, Obsidian, Travertine
Cons:
- Warning: you may get asked constantly where you found this bag
Of course, this is a guilty pleasure that a New Yorker would bring on a trip to France: the Voyager Crossbody.
While women in France typically lean into their inner Jane Birkin with picnic baskets or reusable totes, when you’re traveling between countries and need your hands free for luggage, there’s only one choice for me: Nex Travel. This luxury belt bag, crafted from durable microfiber leather, features sleek lines and organized pockets, making it the perfect blend of style and practicality.
No need to fight this trend when you can look like a posh adult with style and sense. It has made my life so much easier: walking the dog, holding bags, and walking carefree down the street with all my necessities attached.
Switch Accessories and Bags
Pros:
- Service offers handbags and jewelry from luxury designers such as Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu, Chanel, and Valentino
- Offers an affordable way to spice up your wardrobe without adding more clothing to your closet
- Ability to filter options by what’s available and what’s rented out
- Switch covers wear and tears
- Easy way to ‘feel like a queen’ on a regular basis
Cons:
- The renter is financially responsible for pieces that are stolen. This is standard practice for rental companies. However, considering that Switch specializes in luxury pieces, this could be a pricey bill if something bad occurs
Every woman should own a designer bag at least once in her life. If you can’t purchase a divinely gorgeous bag from vintage stores, where I personally find the quality much better than some brands.
Sometimes it only takes a new designer bag or piece of fine jewelry to perk up a look. Switch offers luxury purses and accessories that can be enjoyed for a month, and then sent back for the next trendy piece. Switch provides access to everything from luxury handbags to designer jewelry — think Chanel, Dior, YSL, and so much more. It’s like the dream closet I’ve never had but daydreamed about.
The jewelry rental service works by Core memberships, starting at $55 monthly. There are four different plans in total, and whatever you choose is delivered within two days. I will say once you’ve held a true looker in your hands, the need to own gets pretty strong, and I ended up purchasing my beloved vintage Chanel from What Comes Around Goes Around in SoHo. Whatever you decide to do, rent or own, I highly suggest visiting Paris with a French bag (a.k.a. Chanel).
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Typology. T31 – Glow Drops with 5% Vitamin C + Aloe Vera
Pros:
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Formulated without silicones
- Vegan-friendly and made in France
Every woman deserves radiant skin, and the French approach to skincare blends a touch of makeup for that effortless glow. That’s why I chose Typeology’s T31 Glow Drops, featuring 5% Vitamin C and Aloe Vera. This silky moisturizer is infused with golden flecks and is made without silicones, boasting 98% natural ingredients and crafted in France. What’s not to love?
Diptyque Benjoin Bohême Eau De Parfum
Pros:
- Made in France
- Gorgeous packaging with a long-lasting scent
One does not step into France without a signature scent. It’s like a calling card and your first impression.
What will your scent say about you, not to mention the memories it will evoke when you look back on your trip with fondness? Created in 1960 in the heart of Paris, Diptyque was founded on creativity, beauty, and love of nature. As an artist myself, I fell in love with the story, scent, and pure extravagance of it all.
After adding Diptyque to my repertoire of experiences, I’ve never received so many compliments or felt so empowered. Plus, the scent will remain on your skin throughout the day. My scent of choice is Benjoin Bohême eau de parfum. It provides a more masculine and exotic scent that reminds me of leather, cardamom, and fresh rain. A bit of a splurge but lasts a long time.
Chanel ROUGE COCO Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour
Pros:
- Very hydrating
- Multiple shades to choose from
- Silky smooth
Dress up any look with a swipe of rouge lipstick. As we enter fall, I highly suggest selecting a darker shade such as the 446 Etienne. Chanel’s COCO ROUGE offers rich color and deep hydration, keeping your lips soft and smooth. If you can only purchase one item from this list, I suggest this pop of red rouge.
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