What I saw – Fashion in Paris

 

Our family recently returned from a vacation in Europe and the last few days were spent in Paris.  I was in Paris about 21 years ago with my sister (who shares this blog) with me.   It was 1995, September and the weather was quite cool.  Here’s what we wore:

 

 

You may want to know why we were wearing XXL sweatshirts?  Umm…we have no clue!!  We both laugh and shudder to believe we actually dressed like this in Paris!

Fast forward to this year and I think I have improved my travelling wardrobe.  I’ll do another post about what I packed, but I’m pretty sure I didn’t stand out as an obvious tourist.  But I also didn’t look like a Parisian.  These women have an effortless style about them that is hard to describe, but I’ll try.  Chic, classic, simple, confident, basic, put together.   Just a few words that come to mind.

Before I tell you my favourite Parisian looks, I’ll tell you what I didn’t see:

• really distressed denim
• boyfriend jeans
• off the shoulders tops (only worn by tourists)
• too many patterns

I’m not saying these items are not being worn in Paris, but I just didn’t see them.

What did I see?

• tailored pants/jeans – cigarette style in dark denim or black
• cropped and flared pants – in linen
• white tops – blouses and tees
• simple dresses in solid colours
• scarves
• classic and simple purse or bag
• ballet flats (yes, they really do wear them)
• stylish sunglasses
• dark blazer or fitted cardigan
• solid colours or colour blocking

 

During our travels around the city, there were two Parisian women that stood out to me.

The first  wore a white tee, dark jeans, black and tan ballet flats and a dark blazer and carried a simple cross body purse.

The second had on a sleeveless dress, more of a tank style with a full skirt.  It was in a bright coral colour, and accessorized with a necklace and carried a classic tote style purse. The sandals were flat but with that slightly thicker sole that seems to be on trend right now.

Both women looked fantastic and although I couldn’t see myself wearing the bright coral dress, I could see myself recreating the look being with a more subtle colour.  I wasn’t able to take a picture of either of these ladies, but I found a few images on Pinterest that will show you how they looked:

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Shannon from Gamine & Stripes

 

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There are lots and lots of images and ideas on Pinterest (of course) if you need more inspiration.  I thought this this article summed it all up quite nicely.  I’m going to try and add a little more Paris to my wardrobe and since it’s actually quite simple, I should be able to find everything in my closet 🙂

 

linking up with: More Pieces of Me, Sincerely Jenna Marie, Elegantly Fashionable, High Latitude Style, Garay Treasures, Style Nudge, Two Peas in a Blog, Fine Whatever Blog, A Good Hue, Walking In Memphis in High Heels, The Mummy Chronicles, Posh Classy Mom, The Pleated Poppy, The Blended Blog, Get Your Pretty On, Sydney Fashion Hunter, Classy Yet Trendy, Elegance and Mommyhood, The Fab Journey, Happiness at Mid-life,Curly Crafty Mom, Fashion Should Be Fun,Jo-Lynne Shane, Nancy’s Fashion Style, Posh Classy Mom, Shelbee on the Edge, Ms. Toody Goo Shoes