Dressing in France

There’s something unique about the way the French dress. Walking the streets—especially in Paris, but also in other cities—you can feel an innate sense of style. It’s unlike anywhere else, even though casual trends like sweatpants, trainers, and hoodies are more common these days.

Among the older generation, however, there’s an elegance I adore. I often imagine myself one day strolling through the streets of France in small-heeled shoes, tailored trousers, a trench coat, and perfectly styled hair, exuding the scent of a delicate floral perfume.

While you can read fashion books and replicate elements of French style elsewhere, something about experiencing it in France seeps into your being. And you become one of them. 

From what I’ve observed and read, the key to French dressing is that it’s not about dressing to impress others. It’s about dressing for yourself—to feel comfortable, confident, and sexy.

French wardrobes tend to have a few staples, with other pieces changing over time. People rarely go on shopping sprees, and high-end brands or unique items are often purchased during sales. In fact, it’s pretty normal in France to take a day off work when the sales start!

One indispensable wardrobe item? Lingerie. Sexy lingerie is a must—not necessarily for others to see, but for the confidence it brings you, knowing it’s there.

In Paris, black reigns supreme. Parisians love black and use it as the foundation of their outfits, occasionally adding a splash of colour. It’s slightly different in other cities across France, where people embrace more variety, but no matter what, black remains a choice. The exception is the south of France, where white takes the crown, reflecting the sun-soaked Mediterranean vibe and those lightly tanned bodies.

Paris. Style often precedes warmth, with people opting for fashionable layers even in cooler weather.

North and Mountains. Dressing prioritises warmth, with practical choices suited to the gusty winds of the northern coast or the snow in the mountains.