July 18, 2024
The Secret Behind French Women's Timeless Style: Why They Are Always Well-Dressed
You arrive in Paris and you see them everywhere, not just in glamorous places but also on the streets, in the public transports, at the supermarkets, whether they wear designer brands or clothes from Monoprix (the French equivalent to Kmart but so much more), French women have this “je-ne-sais-quoi” that makes their look so chic and interesting.
Is it a well put together outfit? The added costume jewellery? The hair? The very subtle make up? Or all the above? No matter what it is, it works and French women's effortless elegance and innate sense of style are admired worldwide.
What is it about French fashion that makes these women stand out so consistently? Let's delve into the principles and cultural influences that contribute to the timeless style of French women.
Effortless Elegance
A key aspect of French style is its effortlessness. French women master the art of looking chic without appearing to try too hard. This is often achieved through a focus on simplicity and minimalism. They avoid overly complicated outfits and instead opt for clean lines, neutral colours, and understated accessories. The result is a look that is both polished and relaxed, embodying the quintessential French "je ne sais quoi."
Source: midlifechic.com, lovefashionandfriends.com, getty images
Attention to Fit and Tailoring, not so much short lived fashion trends
Fit is paramount in French fashion. French women understand the importance of clothing that fits well and flatters their body shape. They often rely on tailoring to ensure that their clothes fit perfectly. Whether it's altering a jacket to fit just right or hemming a pair of pants to the ideal length, attention to fit is a crucial element of their impeccable style.
Timeless Style Icons
French women have a rich history of style icons to draw inspiration from. Figures like Coco Chanel, Brigitte Bardot, and Françoise Hardy have left an indelible mark on fashion, offering timeless style cues that continue to influence modern wardrobes. Contemporary icons like Inès de la Fressange and Caroline de Maigret carry on this legacy, embodying the principles of French chic and inspiring new generations with their effortless elegance.
Source: getty images
A Sense of Individuality
While French fashion is often characterised by its adherence to classic styles, French women also value individuality. They have a knack for adding personal touches to their outfits, whether it's a unique accessory, a vintage find, or a bold lipstick. This blend of classic and personal style elements ensures that their look is always unique and true to themselves.
Source: farawayplaces.com, fashion.sohu.com, getty images
Cultural Attitudes Towards Fashion
In France and for centuries, fashion is more than just clothing; it's a way of life. The French culture places a high value on aesthetics and presentation, encouraging both men and women to take pride in their appearance. This cultural attitude fosters an environment where dressing well is a daily practice and a form of self-expression. From a young age, French women are taught to appreciate the art of dressing and to develop their own sense of style.
We have inherited it from our ancestors, generation after generation we have seen our grand-mothers, mothers, sisters, cousins have a certain standard on what to wear.
Source: whowhattowear.com
Embracing Imperfection
Interestingly, part of the allure of French style is its embrace of imperfection. French women understand that true style is not about looking flawless but about feeling confident and comfortable in what they wear. This might mean embracing a slightly tousled hairstyle, a bare face with just a touch of red lipstick, or a mix of high and low fashion pieces. This relaxed approach to fashion creates an air of authenticity and charm that is inherently French.
The Essence of French Fashion
At Volange, we bring this very essence of French fashion to Sydney, curating collections that embody effortless elegance, impeccable fit, and timeless style inspired by the iconic women of France.
The timeless style of French women is the result of a combination of cultural influences, a focus on quality and fit, and an effortless approach to fashion. By prioritizing classic pieces, embracing individuality, and maintaining a relaxed yet polished aesthetic, French women have mastered the art of dressing well in all circumstances. Their ability to blend simplicity with elegance continues to inspire and captivate the fashion world, proving that true style transcends trends and time.
Prune x