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This post is a mash-up between a 2015 French movie that could have been released in the Sixties and an article on French style that seems written today but is from 1982. What do they have in common? French style, a certain French style, that is timeless. Immortal. And chic. An often overused and misused word today, but that finds its perfect and worthy place here.

A few days ago I watched the movie “Un homme idéale” (A Perfect Man), a 2015 French thriller starring a guy who try to realize his dream of becoming a novelist and to achieve it by pushing himself further and further leaving aside moral and ethics. The rise to his new rich and intellectual status is highlighted in the movie by a new chic (indeed) look: well cut blue shirts, white polo shirts, a suede jacket, black Wayfarer sunglasses. And a new girlfriend from a good and wealthy family, with a beautiful villa on the French Riviera. Her Summer wardrobe is perfect, it would have been for the past forty years, and it probably will be for the next forty too: leather flat sandals, delicate geometric prints and florals, a striped bikini, a white sundress, a straw hat.

To me to achieve good French style you have to pass two stages: first you have to master the art of basics, that means knowing how to pair colours and clothes in the best basic combinations and then – only then – you can add your personal touch and turn it into your own French style. Unfortunately the French cool-factor is innate and cannot be learned easily, except by completely feeling at ease with oneself. To feel comfortable in all situations, in your own skin and in your own clothes makes you definitely look good. (I still have to work on it).

Beside the movie a few days ago I stumbled upon an old article reposted by the blog Dead Fleurette some years ago (RIP to one of the most interesting fashion blogs; I miss you!), a very inspirational  article that periodically someone – like me – feels the need to share with the world.

The Secrets Of French Girls by Ellen Wallace was written in 1982, but could have been published today. With the difference that this sort of articles are more difficult to be found today. I recommend you to read the complete version here. Yes, it is a long read and yes, it’s worth it. If only to remind us of times where the desire to write, publish and read articles that would not start with “The 10 Things you…” were still alive. Here is a summary of my favorite quotes on French Style.

“Elegance is different than chic; elegance has to do with money, with leisure time, with upbringing, and education. The chic woman looks natural, not dressed up. Chic is not a matter of money. Chic means that, from head to toe, there is a sense of proportion.”

“Chic is knowing how to buy something that will last,”[…] “My basics must last for at least five, and often ten or fifteen, years. By basics, I mean clothes that I can wear from morning through the night”.

“We are taught to be discreet, subtle in our choice of color. There is nothing wrong with bright color, but it has to be worn delicately — it shouldn’t shout at you. French women avoid clothes that are shocking. We have a strong sense of not wanting to appear ridiculous. Even in the craziest French fashions, there is always a classical base; clothes must be cut well.”

 

ELLEN WALLACE’s STYLING TIPS:

– If you need a basic addition to your wardrobe — such as a winter coat or suit — spend as much as you can afford on it and do without something else. Consider the new item an investment, just as you would a new car — you’ll probably spend as much time in it. If it’s still wearable in five years, you will have saved money in the long run.

– Basic, conservative colors are sensible and attractive; but don’t forget to add accessories. Brighten up a navy, tailored skirt and white blouse by draping a pretty wool plaid scarf around your shoulders.

– Don’t be afraid of a touch of frivolity — little pop elephant pins, plastic banana-shaped earrings, or hats (but no feathers or loud ribbons, please!) Wear very few other accessories with these in order not to clutter.

– The focal point of an outfit need not be one of the large pieces. If you’ve splurged on a gorgeous pair of shoes that flatter your legs, draw attention to your feet by downplaying the rest of your clothes. You have a nice waistline and a pretty gold belt? Wear it with black pants and a black sweater — forget the old rule that gold and silver are just for dressing up.

– When window shopping, try to envision clothing as more than what it was designed to be. One Parisian visiting New York for the first time saw a pair of boys’ black-and-white, ankle-high basketball shoes, and she decided that they would make great casual boots. She wears dark cotton pants tucked into them — très chic!

– If you’re a few pounds overweight, don’t try to hide under loose, shapeless clothes. Fitted pants and dresses that are well cut will be more flattering and make excess weight less noticeable.

– Avoid pastels, except as accessories. They flatter no one.

 

All photos via “Un homme idéal”, cover collage by me.

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