How to Dress Like a French Woman

This is an article I found online and wanted to share on my blog!  I was amused with the article, and will most likely get the book it came from,  for a good read!  With this posting, however, I must also preface the article with my own opinion and style, to say that I need to throw some Bohemian into this mix! "Boho" is very chic in Paris, as well as right here in the U.S.  I love the concept of balance in this article and that "less is more".  Balance accompanied with bringing out your best features, IS Fashion and sophistication in action!  I also think that  "rules" or the basics of fashion, should be considered as a foundation, more so in more professional arenas, but minimized, and certainly NOT over emphasized, in most cases!  (Having a sense for fashion certainly helps, but there's nothing wrong with getting a little help now and then!) Overall, You make it your own, and you have fun with it!  It all works together to help define you, looking YOUR best, and feeling good about yourself!  
This works for any confident, sophisticated, fun and timeless woman, regardless of where you're from!  Oui!
Check back soon for my next blog, featuring some of my french apparel, accessories and textiles!  

Dressing like a French woman involves everyday elegance.

"The ability to stay chic even when dressing down is one of the first rules of French style," writes Helena Firth Powell, author of "All You Need to Be Impossibly French." French women consider a jogging outfit something only too be worn while doing the sport. The idea of style is to always be dressed for the occasion.

1. • 1
     Make an effort at all times. Pay attention to your hair, nails, makeup and overall look. It's not about being perfect as much as being aware of the occasion and how you want to be perceived. It's not about wearing a lot of makeup, it's about accentuating your best features. Most French women wear little makeup.
   • 2
     Follow trends cautiously. The French woman's style is a classic and elegant look that transcends time. Involve a trendy piece only if it is one article or accessory, not an entire outfit.
   • 3
     Invest in pretty lingerie that matches and fits precisely. Wearing a matching bra and panty set that fits well under your clothes will boost your confidence. French women wear their lingerie for themselves, not for a lover and would never dream of wearing pieces that don't match. Bras and panties can be practical, neutral colors -- beige, white and black -- and still be sexy.
   • 4
     Stock your wardrobe with core fashion staples. A foundational list includes a tailored white button-up shirt, an A-line skirt, a pair of dark jeans, a well-fitted blazer, plain loosely-fitted feminine cut T-shirts, a trench coat and a little black dress. These are all items that can be the foundation of an outfit that can go from day to night and be accessorized.
   • 5
     Wear good shoes. Loafers, boots, sandals, ballet flats, and heels all fit the bill.

     Learn how to walk in shoes with heels.
   • 6
     Practice your posture. Walk around Paris and the only people you will see slumping over are tourists. Standing up straight and walking with good posture is slimming and healthy.
   • 7
     Accessorize with scarves, handbags, jewelry and belts, but not all at once. Add an over-sized ring to your outfit, but lay off the necklace. Wear a scarf with a T-shirt and jeans and a pair of trendy earrings and leave the belt at home. The key to accessorizing the French way is balance.