Welcome to a new series where we delve into French Style and what makes the iconic French look. I have conducted a series of interviews with women whom I respect and admire who have each mastered a different element of French Style.
From the classic French wardrobe to French entertaining tips , decor and lifestyle, here are some tips from experts on how to incorporate French style into your life. In this blog post we explore the iconic French Girl (or French Woman!) Style and talk about how to build a French inspired wardrobe.
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This week I spoke with Fashion Stylist, digital content creator and longtime friend, Sylvia Colella. Having lived and worked in Paris for many years (she is also the mother of two French boys), Sylvia has a unique perspective on what makes the iconic "French Woman" Style. Sylvia has been a great resource to me as I developed my own style, especially while navigating transitions in career and motherhood.
Questions by Le Chef's Wife, Anina Belle Giannini, answers by Sylvia Colella.
How would you describe "French Girl Style" or "French Woman Style"?
These are the four words I would use to describe French women's style: simple, sophisticated, spontaneous, and sexy.
French women keep it simple.
You won't see a French woman in everyday outfits that are overly curated or just don't make sense. No stilettos on cobblestone streets, for example, or berets anywhere other than on a fishing boat. They generally avoid outfit combinations that draw the eye in too many directions, and prefer timeless over trending palettes, patterns, and silhouettes.
French women make sophisticated wardrobe choices.
French women have trained eyes and discerning taste. They can recognize quality materials, designs, and tailoring, and they know what silhouettes and colors work best for them. You won't find unused or outdated items in their closets - they have neither the space nor the patience for them.
French women are spontaneous.
Although they make deliberate, strategic choices when building their wardrobes, French women dress according to their moods. The idea of outfit planning and/or overthinking what they are going to wear is not really a thing. A French woman would rather there be something "off" about her outfit than it be perfect, because perfect is boring.
French women are sexy.
There is nothing sexier than confidence, and this, French women have in spades. They are not afraid to show a little (emphasis on "a little") skin, forget to freshen up their lipstick, leave their hair undone, wear their men's clothes, ignore fashion rules and stir up a little mischief.
Why do you think that French Girl/Woman Style is so appealing to many?
Social media and the entertainment industry have certainly contributed to the modern obsession with this idealized female archetype. In fairness, however, the style of French women has always been "a thing." France, and Paris in particular, is generally considered to be the center of fashion, so it makes sense that people look to its citizens for sartorial inspiration and guidance. Case in point: the "robe à la française" worn by members of the French court in the 18th century. That voluminous, extravagantly expensive and highly impractical gown became de rigeur for fashionable women in the upper classes all over Europe at the time!
Today, the style of French women still has its appeal, but for very different reasons. Many of the women I work with are struggling to make sense of trend cycles, decipher mixed messages about body image, resist the constant temptation to purchase the next "must have" item, and generally find and develop their personal style, Therefore, it makes sense that they aspire to be like a French woman, with her impeccable sense of style and unwavering self-possession. They want to know her secrets, and I do my best to translate them (wink).
How do you create a French Capsule wardrobe?
The main thing to keep in mind when it comes to how French women build their wardrobes is that they do so with deliberation and coherence. This means that the items in their closets can be easily mixed and matched, and there are none (ok, maybe a few) of those impulse purchases that take up space but are never actually worn.
When I am working with clients to build capsule wardrobes, I consider their lifestyle and the colors, patterns, and styles that they prefer. That makes it easier for them to put together outfits they enjoy wearing, and make good shopping decisions down the line.
As for specific wardrobe pieces that I think every French woman probably has in her closet, I would say a good pair of jeans and des baskets (sneakers). The rest depends on the woman.
Do you have a few tips that you can share with readers so that they can incorporate French Girl Style into their lives?
Be Balanced. Remember what Coco Chanel said: "The key to true elegance is simplicity."
Be Practical. French women dress comfortably for urban life. You will never look or feel chic if your pants are too tight or your heels are too high.
Be Unexpected. Don't be afraid to wear wardrobe pieces in unique ways, like a cardigan worn backwards or over the knee boots with a cocktail dress.
Be Yourself. Don't be afraid to incorporate vintage, whimsical or ultra feminine outfit details. If color or a bold pattern is your jam, add that. Remember, perfection is not the goal - perfection is boring.
Anything else you would like to share?
Sophisticated women know exactly what story about themselves they want their clothes to tell. To me, that kind of self-awareness, mixed with killer confidence and a little flirtation is the essence of French women's style.
If you need help with your story you can find me at Sylviacolella.com
About Sylvia Colella
Sylvia is a fashion stylist and digital content creator who divides her time between Washington D.C. and Paris. She has over ten years of experience in image management, including six building a successful personal brand as an online style expert. Before deciding to turn her lifelong love of fashion and photography into a full-time career, Sylvia practiced corporate law at leading firms in Los Angeles, New York, D.C., and Paris.
Sylvia brings a unique skill set to men and women looking for elevated, effortless wardrobe solutions. She combines pragmatism, attention to detail, Parisian flair, and her knowledge of corporate culture and personal branding to help clients elevate their personal style and make wardrobe decisions with ease and confidence. Learn more about her services here.
How do you incorporate French flair into your style?
I hope you have enjoyed part 2 of the French Stlye Series - diving into the iconic "French Woman" Style. Let me know your thoughts in comments below, I love to hear from you.
Part One - The art of setting the table, can be read here.
Au plaisir,
Le Chef's Wife
ABOUT LE CHEF'S WIFE
Bonjour! I am Anina Belle. I translate the fancy cooking of my Michelin-star trained French Chef Husband, Le Chef, into easy to make dishes that busy people with no culinary training (like me!) can make at home. We have two young kids (6 and 3) and I work full time in addition to this blog. I strongly believe that even busy people deserve to eat well at home.
Look inside our Kitchen with this recent Washington Post Article. We were recently featured on the TODAY SHOW for our recipes of French Onion Soup Gratinée and Moelleux au Chocolat. You can watch our full segment here:
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Suzanne says
This is a lovely idea for a series. I am curious as to who you will interview next!