Posts Tagged ‘chic’

Experienced Travellers watch the whirl of life around them. Though I’m not a fashionista, here are a few observations about what people are wearing – and buying in Paris.

Everyone carefully orchestrates their clothing, shoes and makeup, even to run the shortest errand. It is a matter of national pride that the ensemble is right – whether it’s understated elegance or chic grunge.

Count the coats in this picture. It was in the high 60s and yet the coat is paramount.

Jackets and coats – preferably leather – come out immediately following the rentree in September. And wool scarves by early October. No matter that the sun is blazing and it’s 75 degrees, the coat and scarf make a statement to the world, and they are mandatory attire.

The legs matter!

Stockings and tights were a prominent accoutrement. Ladies of every age and build made the most of them. They were often the only splash of color or design. And I saw lots of black tights under knee-length jersey tops finished off with a sporting pair of boots. Lots and lots of boots on the streets…

They are all made for walkin' - and showing off those hose

What amazes me is the number of small, independent clothing shops featuring one or two designers, particularly in the Marais and around the Place St. Germain. Each shop has a unique style and the clothing is paired with jewelry, handbags and accessories. It’s a “one stop outfit” in an artisinal style. ETs like this strategy because it gets you to the cafe faster.

That certain "je ne sais quois"

I loved this twirling shoe diplay in the Marais. Gentlemen if you’re in the market for a red shoe with a chunky heel, there are plenty in stock.

Red shoes at morning / sailors take warning

Any style works, as long as it’s well-executed. In this case, if you’re got it; flaunt it. Jacket. Boots. Handbag. It’s all there.

Retro works!

So how do ETs decide what to pack for Paris? They are resigned to the truth. They’ll never look like French ladies, so comfort is paramount, and black is best. But that doesn’t mean a girl can’t shop for a dishy new jacket and top while she’s in Paris. Besides, it’s research for the blog.

If Foucault were alive today, he would be studying the physics of platform stillettos on cobbled streets. And he’d be a happier man for it!

No matter what they wear, or what they're doing, Parisienne women are chic