Faux Leather Croc Embossed Track shorts, Belmont trench, Leith Oversized V-Neck tee, French Connection Katrin sandal
If there is one piece of clothing I have been living in it would be this Belmont trench. I have worn it on all of my recent flights, trains, touring cities, and going out at night. It is extremely lightweight so it doesn’t get hot but it is the extra layer you sometimes need (especially in all of this AC). I had secretly wanted a long trench for years. I always noticed a lot of europeans wearing them and thought they looked so effortlessly cool. And if there is one thing I admire, it is the way europeans dress. Especially Parisiennes - with their all-black, laid-back, chic, air about them. I am more than proud to be an American but I think we can all use a lesson or two from the french dressing. There are a few things I have learned about their style (thanks Parisian Chic) that might be worth passing along and filing in the “good to know” part of your brain. Of course, I always recommend keeping true to your own style but these tips might be worth knowing.
The french are amazing at filling their closets with a few key pieces that stand the test of time. Here is what Parisian Ines de la Fressange, from her book, Parisian Chicrecommends every closet have:
1. The Blazer for the masculine/feminine look. Tip- belt it, push back the sleeves, or wear it with a white shirt casually unbuttoned at the top for subtle sexy
2. The Trench – adopt it as your second skin. Tip- never properly belt it, always tie it, never wear it with a long skirt, and never over emphasize any particular fashion statement with it
3. The Navy Sweater – Clean-cut but not too straight-laced. Tip- wear with white jeans and flats or wear it with black pants in honor of Yves Saint Laurent.
4. The Tank- “A classy supporting act.” Tip- pair it with a high quality necklace, under a tuxedo jacket, or with prints. Never wear a skin-tone shade or a patterned tank.
5. The Little Black Dress- The LBD “is not simply an item of clothing, it’s a concept. It’s abstract, it’s universal – which means there’s one that’s perfect for everyone. Tip- Have several, simplicity, simplicity, simplicity
6. The Perfect Jeans- Have many in many different colors in many different styles. Tip- sky-blue, dark, and washed (white and black are compulsory),
7. The Leather Jacket- Always saves an overly- conventional look. Tip= with chiffon dress, under a coat, the older the better. After you buy it put it under your mattress for several nights for a worn in look
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I always love to be reminded of her “Parisian Must Haves.” Even if you have read her book, I hope this helped you in some way! In the words of Countess Luann, “Chic C’est la vie, c’est bon c’est bon.”
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image taken with iPhone
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