Paris Street Style: Demure and Practical
Parisian fashion is iconic, both inspiration and muse. Considered the fashion capitol of the world, Paris is famous for its haute couture and classic designers such as Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior and Jean-Paul Gautier.
However, Paris fashion goes beyond the chic images on billboards and in glossy magazines. Paris fashion has evolved over time. Although man might imagine Paris fashion as the ultimate in glamour, Paris street style is actually remarkably reserved and demure. In the streets of Paris you rarely see high heels or trendy colors and patterns that you might encounter in other fashionable cities. Subdued palettes and classic silhouettes dominate the fashion landscape of the City of Lights.
Parisian women themselves have also been the subject of much fascination. From impossibly fit physiques to effortlessly chic attire, the “Parisienne” has become an icon and muse. However, a Parisian woman's wardrobe is in fact much more strategic and practical than one might think. Anyone who has been in a Paris apartment knows that closets in Paris are very small. Much of this has to do with the fact that when most apartments in Paris were built, people stored their clothes in armoires or other furniture pieces. Nowadays, small closets have typically been added, but their small size is indicative of the fact that they are indeed an afterthought. Consequently, Parisian women must be incredibly strategic when adding to their wardrobe. If loads of clothing are not possible, then the clothing one has must at least be versatile.
(Photo. kirrby.com)
This means that Parisian women typically choose to stick to classic silhouettes and pieces that can easily transition from day to evening. In addition, this “small closet” factor influences wardrobe color palettes. A mix of black and neutrals will add tremendous versatility to one’s clothing, thus making it important to think about each piece and how much use one can get out of it. In this sense, Parisian women are more deliberate in clothing selections than one might think. But what they may lack in quantity, they definitely make up for in quality. Parisian women believe in making quality investments with their wardrobe. If they are going to buy a basic black sweater, then cashmere would be the best way to go. This means that not only are they getting a beautiful piece, but it is more likely to last into next year's collection. The same goes for other items such as accessories; ideally incorporating basic, quality accessories such as name brand watches and simple, understated jewelry.
Another practical aspect of Paris fashion is footwear. You can always spot a tourist due to their impossibly high heels, as Parisian women typically wear flats or heeled boots. Although classically elegant and effortless, I would argue that this trend comes more so from practicality than anything else. The fact is that many Paris streets are paved with cobblestone, thus making high heels a bit precarious (especially after a glass or three of wine).
Finally, the last covert influence on Paris fashion is the incalculable weather from day to day. Although the forecast might predict sun, a true Parisian knows that this could change on a dime and often comes prepared. This is why Parisian women have mastered the art of layering, whether it be blazers, sweaters or scarves; you never know if you’ll be sitting inside or out so you might as well come prepared.
Although the classically effortless “Parisienne” may seem like a nonchalant fashionista, the truth is that much of her wardrobe is based on practicality. However, it must be noted that the French are typically incredibly aesthetically inclined, which is evident throughout their fashion, art, architecture, and design. As such, perhaps Parisian women do have an upper hand when it comes to recognizing quality and line. In any case, the way that Parisian women re-invent the classics seems to make simple -- simply stunning.
