It was mid-August when I arrived in Paris to do a six month internship. I was prepared for the language differences (thanks to my college French studies and my trusty pocket dictionary) as well as the food (bread, cheese and other key food groups were already important for me). What was the surprise? The 90-degree heat. I wanted to look like the chic French girls, so I packed three (!!). I packed three suitcases full of classic trench coats, cozy sweaters, well-fitting jeans, stylish booties, and comfortable jeans. Alas, I didn’t plan for sunny afternoons and brutal humidity.
I was forced to wear sandals and cut-off shorts my first few days in Paris.trop américain!), I quickly learned how Parisians look stylish and fashion-magazine-worthy, even when the weather gets hot. Parisians are famous for their boots and outerwear. But their style shines in the summer. Read on for the best tips I learned to dress for warmer weather like a French girl, whether you’re starting to style for spring or are prepping for 90-degree weather.
Layers are the best option
French women are proud of their outerwear and wouldn’t consider storing their blazers or trenches until September. Especially since mornings can still be cool and summer weather in Paris can be temperamental, a trench is the obvious choice to pair with shorts and a button-up to not only upgrade the outfit but also to stay comfortable throughout the changing temperatures during the day (and the freezing air conditioning at cafés). You can layer with a duster or a blazer or a leather jacket. can It’s still a great option for warmer weather. Pair it with a short or mini skirt and drape it over your shoulders and forearms when it becomes too warm. Even French women don’t wear outerwear when it is hot.).
Wear basic tees to go with everything
In France, classic workwear is not reserved for the office (or Zoom meetings). Parisians love their button-ups, blazers, and trousers all year. A neutral tee makes their favorite basics more bearable in warmer weather. EverythingFrom April to September Whether it’s your favorite work trousers, a stylish slip skirt, or a trusty pair of oversized jeans, a high-quality T-shirt is the Parisian’s most understated essential.
Wear elegant shoes with your denim shorts
With a pair of denim cut offs, sneakers or sandals might seem the obvious choice. However, French women know the secret to staying put. très chicElegant footwear such as ballet flats and chunky kitten heels is a good option when it’s too hot to wear pants. Pair with a sweater or a tee and blazer during warm days or just throw on your favorite tank or T-shirt when it’s too hot—the shoes make any pairing more stylish, timeless, and elegant.
Channel retro vibes
Retro is Paris’ summer trend that will never die: There’s something quintessentially française You can channel the 1940s and 1950s by wearing bathing suits, dresses or sunglasses, as well as makeup (no one does a red lipstick and cat eye like the French). Think slip dresses with sweetheart necklines, cat-eye sunglasses, gingham prints, and slip dresses. Channel your inner Brigitte Bardot on the French Riviera, but make it more modern with trendy accessories and just-woke-up-like-this hair.
Don’t be afraid of color
Parisians are well-known for their timeless style and neutral colors. But the warmer weather is the perfect time to show your creativity with bold prints or accessories that pop of color. Keep the outfit simple and focus on the statement piece. You can channel your inner Parisian by choosing one statement piece or keeping the outfit neutral (a tank with denim) to add color.
…But black can also be summery too
Yes, Parisians play with color in the summertime and white or beige are go-to colors year-round, but French women aren’t afraid to rock their signature black through summer months either. If you’re thinking black is only for fall or winter, you’re missing out on some seriously stylish OOTDs. To make it work for the season, wear your favorite LBD, black button-up or two-piece set that you usually save for fall. Pair it with summery accessories such as a straw bag, sandals, and light-colored sandals.
Peasant blouses look great with everything
Peasant blouses seriously had their moment in the U.S. the last few years, but they’ve been a staple in the warm-weather wardrobes of Parisians for decades. They’re lightweight, super pretty, and go with almost anything. Look for white blouses with intricate details like lace, puffy sleeves, or ruching, and pair with everything from denim to midi skirts to work trousers for a weather-appropriate outfit that’s as pretty as it is practical.
Have a few go-to midi dresses
I’m a fan of the minidress as much as the next girl, but if there’s one Parisian staple item from the beginning of spring until the end of summer, it’s the midi dress. Whether it’s a flowy A-line style or fitted through the ankles, French women love their midi dresses for any occasion or weather. The best thing? It’s worth the investment because you can wear it through most seasons—it’s breezy enough to keep you cool paired with sneakers for the hottest weather but can also be worn over a turtleneck or under a jacket with boots to keep you warm in cooler months. The midi dress is a classic French style.
Source: The Every Girl
