La Style en France

Hello all you lovely Deko & Posh readers, 'tis Nicole, for my first official Style Injections column! Unfortunately I wasn't able to post last week because of some unexpected turbulence ... including having a French sister for nine days! I remember, when I lived in France last March, how much I envied their style and just how much consideration they put into dressing. Men and women are undeniably chic. I conducted an interview with my French pen pal, Julie, to answer the question:
What are the essentials of French fashion?

The basics: timeless advice.

-- No more than 3 colors worn at once.

This is difficult for some us (like myself) because there are just so many beautiful colors. he aim is to not overwhelm yourself.

-- Slim pants or a wide flare/trouser cut.

Always in a dark wash, it lengthens the legs.

Shoes: comfort is necessary since the French walk everywhere.

-- Low boots

With or without heels, these shoes are comfortable and perfect for any occasion.

-- Converse

These sneakers just work with any look.

-- Ballerina flats

Ever present, and probably always will be.

Accessories: important, but don't overdo it.
-- One long necklace

Chains and charms are lovely.

-- the Scarf

Ethnic print, wool, or knit, it should be long enough to wrap around the neck and actually add warmth.
-- Purses

As opposed to backpacks.

Current Trends: who knows how long they'll last!

-- Vintage anything

-- Androgynous (for the hipsters)

-- Skirts with leggings (a teen staple in the US)

-- above-the-knee sweater dresses

-- Sheer or ribbed tights

-- Purple and fake rabbit fur-lined vests for winter

-- Tye-dye for summer

For the most part, I think I have decoded French Fashion in a way that we can make it our own (I never asked about beauty, haha). Many of these tips you may have read in magazines or elsewhere, but I swear the pieces were straight from Julie's lips! I hope this helped, and maybe someday our American selves can have our own distinctive style. Au revoir! :)