Tips for Dressing in Paris this Fall with the Perfect Parisian Fall Fashion Wardrobe
Dressing for Paris. No one wants to be dressed poorly when visiting Paris. It’s the fashion capital of the world after all…
Trying to determine the best outfit to wear in Paris, while keeping warm and comfortable, and still blending in and looking your best in no easy feat. Especially as a tourist. If you are unsure of how to dress for your Fall visit, rest assured you are among many others. Even what type of shoes to wear is a topic of discussion – do Parisians really wear athletic shoes or not?
Follow along, and you will see for yourself how easy it will be to strut the boulevards with the classy confidence of a Parisian!
Paris Fall Fashion Trends
So, just for you my virtual friends, and straight off the streets of Paris – I did a stake out. Yes, that’s right. Just like a private detective. Right out in the front of the metro station at the Gare Saint Lazare. Me and my smart phone discreetly (or maybe not so discreetly) snapping shots of your average Parisian as they go about their every day business. I may have creeped-out a few passersby (actually pretty sure that I did), but it’s all in the name of bringing YOU my fabulous readers, the answer to that burning question of how to properly dressing for Paris in the Fall.
Now please keep in mind, these snapshots represent your everyday Parisian, nothing fancy. This was not the “haute couture” crowd on the Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré or the Avenue Montaigne. Nor was it Fashion Week.
What you will notice is that from the oldest members to the youngest, all pay attention to what they wear. It’s all about the fit and the quality of the fabrics. Invest in your wardrobe,and you will feel and look better. Leave the inexpensive trendy fashion to the teens who are still experimenting with their personal style. Some Parisians are better dressed than others, but all are wearing accessible outfits that any of us could wear any day on any budget.
“French women wear clothes that flatter their bodies, regardless of trends.”
Fashion Straight off the Streets of Paris
Look out for these trends that I noticed and let me know if you see something that I missed!
- Generally subdued colors with a pop of color somewhere
- Skinny jeans with ankle boots for the young crowd
- Colored jeans are popular for both men and women
- Women still wear skirts and dresses for everyday
- Scarves are everywhere for men, women, and children
- Large purses, both on the shoulder or hand-held (perfect for your local thief to grab)
- No sweatshirts or athletic shoes or baseball caps
- No ballerina flats (super horrible when it rains anyways)
- Minimal makeup. Try a bold lip with just a touch of mascara. If you wear foundation, make sure it is perfectly blended into the skin (you shouldn’t be able to notice it). The key is be so meticulous in the application of your makeup that no one is quite sure whether you are wearing any or not.
Below are my photos of your everyday Parisian, taken all on the same day, in late October.
Any favorites? If that’s not enough to give you some ideas on how to dress for Paris, then check out the various Pinterest Boards or search Google Images for a few more ideas. And if you missed it, you can find non-seasonal tips, in my post “Tourist Beware – What Not to Wear in Paris“.
And for all the fashionable men out there, I didn’t forget you! You might also like this great article on “How to dress like a Parisian Man” by Goutaste.com. What I noticed is a whole lot of colored pants and scarves. And maybe a man purse or two…
Do the French Wear Athletic Shoes?
The Parisian does not wear sneakers unless they’re vintage Chuck Taylors or designer, but even then, buyer beware – although it may seem more comfortable to Americans, in Paris designer sneakers are statement shoes.
One last thought…
Don’t forget your manners. No matter how well dressed and gorgeous you might be, rude people are just ugly. Manners are an intrical part of looking your best. Why not start off on the right foot by greeting people with a pleasant “bonjour”, and in the evening a “bonsoir” or “bonne soirée”. Just avoid saying “bonne nuit” as that just means good night as in the sleep tight let me tuck you in tight version.
Happy (well dressed) Travels,
-Girl Gone Gallic
For all my Pinterest friends…
