December 05, 2024

Celebrating Christmas in Paris: A Chic Holiday Experience

Paris transforms into a magical wonderland during Christmas, its iconic streets adorned with twinkling lights, stunning decorations, and a festive charm unlike anywhere else in the world. Known as the City of Light, Paris takes this title to new heights during the holiday season, offering not just breathtaking sights but also a masterclass in effortless, chic dressing.

For end-of-year celebrations in Paris, women embrace a mix of chic elegance and understated glamour, especially for indoor gatherings where the temperature is always warm thanks to central heating. The Parisian approach to festive dressing indoors is all about looking effortlessly polished while staying comfortable and warm. 

Let’s celebrate the end of year festivities the French way! 

December 6th: Saint Nicholas Day
What It Is:
A celebration primarily observed in northeastern France, particularly in Alsace and Lorraine.
Traditions:
Saint Nicholas visits children, leaving small gifts, chocolates, and treats in their shoes. Some towns host parades, markets, and festive events.
What to wear over there:
Casual yet cozy style, this is a family-focused day, so the look is relaxed and practical. A chic sweater, straight-leg jeans or tailored trousers paired with ankle boots.
What to wear over here:
A relaxed yet elegant summer dress with flat sandals and subtle accessories.
December 24th: Christmas Eve (Le Réveillon de Noël)
What It Is:
The most important part of Christmas celebrations in France.
Traditions:
Families gather for Le Réveillon, a festive meal that often includes:
Starters: Foie gras, oysters, smoked salmon, and escargots.
Main dish: Roast turkey, goose, or duck with chestnuts.
Dessert: The iconic Bûche de Noël (Yule log).
After the meal, many attend Midnight Mass at their local church.
    What to wear over there:

    Elegant and festive style, A velvet or satin dress, often in jewel tones like emerald or deep red. For a modern twist, a sleek blouse with a midi skirt or tailored trousers. Heeled boots or pumps and delicate jewellery, such as a pendant necklace or understated earrings.

    What to wear over here:

    A gold skirt with a feminine top or a maxi dress with touches of gold and wedges espadrilles and a gold clutch. To elevate the look, use statement jewellery such as bangles and pendant earrings. Christmas Eve calls for dressing up, as it’s the highlight of the season.

    December 25th: Christmas Day (Noël)
    What It Is:
    A quieter day for family time and gift-giving.
    Traditions:
    Children wake up to find presents left by Père Noël (Father Christmas). The day is spent enjoying leftovers from Le Réveillon and relaxing with loved ones.
    What to wear:
    Relaxed chic style with soft knit top or cardigan paired with a pleated skirt or high-waisted jeans. Comfortable flats or low-heeled boots. Minimal makeup and accessories, focusing on comfort while still looking polished.
    What to wear over here:
    A flowy dress with gold shoes, a feminine top with a maxi skirt and feminine accessories.

    Christmas Day is about spending time with family, so outfits are more casual than the night before.

    December 31st: New Year's Eve (Saint-Sylvestre)
    What It Is:
    A festive evening to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new.
    Traditions:
    Friends and family gather for Le Réveillon de Saint-Sylvestre, a celebratory meal.
    Champagne and party favours are a must, and the toast at midnight is accompanied by fireworks in some areas.
    What to wear:
    Glamorous and sparkly style with a sequinned dress or a sleek black jumpsuit. Metallic accessories like gold heels, clutch bags, or statement earrings. Bold red lipstick and a smoky eye for a touch of drama.
    This is the time to go all out with glam, as the French love to ring in the new year in style.
    What to wear over here:

    A leopard print top with tailored pants, a sleeveless top with a long skirt, a slim dress, all with gold and sparkles to celebrate the glamorous night ahead.

    A Celebration of Light and Style

    Christmas in Paris isn’t just about the breathtaking decorations; it’s a celebration of light, elegance, and timeless style. The city inspires you to embrace the season with sophistication, whether you’re sipping hot chocolate at a café or enjoying a festive soirée. So, dress up, soak in the magic, and let Paris remind you why it’s the ultimate destination for a chic Christmas celebration.

    Joyeuses fêtes! 🎄✨

    Prune x