In this post: Want to dress like a Parisian woman? Then you should know some fashion mistakes Parisian women never make. From common style mistakes that make you older to outfits to avoid. Learn from French women how to always look elegant and chic.
This post may contain affiliates links. This means that if you make a purchase through my links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, kindly read our privacy policy here.
Coucou les filles, ça va aujourd’hui ?
(translating : Hi girls, how are you today?)
When it comes to fashion, the French girls seem to master every aspect of it. French women’s sense of beauty and style are admired all over the globe. After all, they do live in one of the biggest capitals of fashion known to men.
However, as Carrie Bradshaw would state ‘’I cannot help but wonder how can they look so perfect all the time?’’
Surely, they must have their own secrets.
After some initial research (and asking my most elegant French friends) I did find out there are a few fashion faux-pas that French women pay attention to (and some of these fashion mistakes are more common than you’d think).
If you want to know more about what fashion mistakes Parisian women don’t make, then definitely read on!
RELATED: How to dress Like a Parisian Woman
RELATED: Fashion Advice From French Style Gurus
Table of Contents
What are the fashion mistakes that French women would never do?
Style Mistake #1 Wearing Sweatpants
As a girl with a classic style, I really don’t get fashion nowadays. People are seemingly spending big money to dress up like a hobo. Honestly, as a girl who lived in the 90s, I can state that it was considered the ugliest period of fashion, and now all those dreadful plastic handbags and neon fanny packs are back full force.
Sweatpants being a ‘’thang’’ is definitely not on my list (and I blame Kim Kardashian for making this a trend, altogether with questionable biker shorts……. ).
The new trend “athleisure” has started to make people wear sports clothes in their everyday lives, whether inside or outside the gym. They’re definitely comfortable, but not elegant.
Wearing sweatpants (especially outdoors) is a huge no-no for Parisians and for sophisticated women in general.
Still not convinced?
Maybe Karl Lagerfeld can persuade you then, as he once stated ‘’Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life and you bought some sweatpants.”
Related Topics
RELATED: How to Dress Like a Parisian Woman
RELATED: How to Always Look Expensive
RELATED: How to Be a Classy Woman
RELATED: Smart Habits of Women Who Always Look Polished
Style Mistake #2 Extravagance
That is a word you should avoid.
In fact, when it comes to Parisian fashion rules, the simpler, the better. Parisian women believe that less is more (and it is true). They know that being stylish doesn’t mean being extreme, as this only serves to make your outfit eye-straining.
After all, “simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” -Coco Chanel
Tip: Before leaving the house, be sure to check yourself over in the mirror one last time and aim to remove one more thing.
Style Mistake #3 Wearing Flashy Logos
Adding on to my top point, given that Parisian women don’t like an extravagant fashion statement, you might guess they also don’t appreciate wearing clothes with the name of the brand shown explicitly.
Burberry is a great example of a high fashion brand that had huge issues with the so-called Burberry Chavs.
I absolutely love this quote by Carla Bruni who said, “The total head-to-toe designer look is ridiculous. It’s the opposite of fashion. A matching bag and shoe and hat make you look like a Christmas tree.”
I couldn’t agree more, honestly.
The idea behind it is because it gives the message that you are trying too hard.
RELATED: How to Dress Like an Italian Woman In Summer
Style Mistake #4 Following Trends
Forget Fila sneakers and neon outfits, Parisian women don’t really care about having the latest things; they believe that developing a signature look is the most important part of being stylish, rather than conforming to the mass’s preferences.
They choose their clothes based on the feel if these make them feel pretty and gorgeous instead of sticking to some trends that are easily forgotten (further on, this goes very well with your wallet. Not feeling pressured to comply with trends is honestly liberating).
However, French fashion is not boring and there are always exceptions to every rule.
Don’t be fooled: French women will still look over the trends each season and pick one or two items that speak to them to add a new twist to their wardrobe.
Style Mistake #5 Buying Clothes that Don’t Fit Their Body
Speaking of trends, nowadays, wearing extra-sized clothes has become a big hit (I am looking at you, VSCO girls, and Rhianna). However, as French designer Sophie Theallet says, ‘’wearing clothes that fit your body well is the first step to looking elegant’’. She suggests women wear body-fit clothes regardless of trends.
It probably won’t come as a shocker that designer clothes (usually) seemingly fit your body perfectly. Once you put on a Dior black dress you understand exactly what the fuss is all about.
However, there is really no need to go broke to look good.
The golden tip here is to bring your clothes to a local tailor to improve their overall fitness. Even Zara clothes can look as expensive as Chanel if you know how to prep it accordingly (of course, avoid cheap-looking fabrics and clothing that gets easily damaged).
RELATED: Fashion Advice From French Fashion Gurus
Style Mistake #6 Wearing Heels That Are Too High
This is an elegance tip that I learned in my hospitality university in Switzerland and certainly a fashion mistakes Parisian women will never make.
Heels have always been associated with elegance and self-awareness. However, be careful not to wear heels that are too tall, as they give the opposite impression.
Parisian women certainly know and appreciate this rule. They love to look pretty and feel comfortable at the same time, French ladies don’t really enjoy sky-high heels.
Most importantly, they don’t believe it looks natural which is the most important part of their style.
Instead, Parisian women would probably opt for a simple kitten heel, sleek pump, or sensible slide/loafer (my new addiction are mules).
Do you want to look as pretty and elegant as Parisian women? Well, the secret is to keep things simple, easy, and natural, and make sure to stay away from fleeting trends!
Fashion Mistakes Parisian Women Avoid | CONCLUSION
The base of the French style is minimalism, classic pieces, and confidence to say no to trends and stick to who you really are. Forget flashy colors and extravagant pieces. Less is more when we think of French chic style.
Are there any fashion mistakes Parisian women don’t make that you don’t agree with?
Other Fashion & Elegance Posts That Might Interest You:
- How to Dress Like an Italian Woman for Summer
- How to Dress Like a Chic Parisian Woman During Summer
- Brilliant Style Tips from French Fashionistas
- How to Be A Classy Woman – 20 Traits of Chic Women
- 5 Simple Ways to Look More Elegant on a Daily Basis
- 5 Habits of Women Who Always Look Expensive
- How to Find Your Personal Style and Look Better
- How to be a More Minimal Woman in 10 Easy Steps
Leave a Reply