How to Dress Like the French: Debunking French Fashion Myths
France is a world-renowned authority on what’s en vogue. French fashion is effortless, unique, chic, and iconic. Who wouldn’t want to frenchify their wardrobe? Read on to learn about French fashion – minus the stereotypes!
Berets
Berets are the round, flat hats irrevocably associated with French fashion. While they might be the most classic French fashion cliché, berets aren’t exactly as popular as you might think. Occasionally you’ll cross an artsy woman or an older man sporting a beret, but other types of headwear have taken a foothold in French style.
Notably, chapeaux marin, or brimless sailor caps, and bucket hats are all the rage in France. They exist in a multitude of colors, and people of all ages include them in their daily garb. Pick one of these hats over the traditional beret and you’ll fit in seamlessly in France!
Marinières
Marinières, or breton stripe shirts, are classically blue and white in color. Typically associated with the French Navy, the shirts made their way into French fashion and eventually became a French stereotype. The blue-and-white striped shirts are still popular in seaside towns, but you’re more likely to see the average French person wearing spin-offs of the original shirts in colors like red, green, and brown.
More commonly worn by French people are simple blouses and button-down shirts. Dressed up or down, these tops exemplify the uncomplicated, yet sophisticated French style. Keep a marinière in your closet for trips to the coast, but wearing classy basics is the best way to emulate French style.
Basket Bags
Basket bags are the quintessential, summery straw bags often depicted brimming with fresh flowers, fruit, wine, and baguettes on French people’s arms. While some French people do carry basket bags, other styles are much more ubiquitous.
Possibly due to the single-use plastic ban in France, the French love to carry canvas tote bags! Simple, efficient, and chic, French people take their totes to school, the grocery store, work, and restaurants. For a less bulky look, the French sport sacoches, or crossbody bags just large enough to hold the basics. Skip the uncomfortable basket bag and opt for a tote or sacoche to carry your stuff in style!
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are the minimalist, versatile shoes that are portrayed as an integral part of the effortlessly chic French fashion. Though they can still be spotted from time to time, ballet flats have largely been replaced by other casual footwear.
French people are obsessed with sneakers! White sneakers, like Adidas Stan Smiths, are omnipresent in France. When they’re not wearing sporty shoes, however, the French opt for ankle boots, worn with formal and casual outfits alike. Instead of wearing notoriously unsupportive ballet flats, throw on some sneakers or ankle boots for maximum comfort and frenchness!
We hope you enjoyed debunking these French fashion myths with us! What French item will you add to your closet? Let us know in a comment!
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