France has long been considered one of the trendsetters of world fashion, and French women are a model of elegance. Perhaps that is why the French style of clothing is so popular not only in Europe but also around the world.
French clothing style: calm and confident beauty
The "father" of this trend in fashion is called King Louis XIV. The Sun King banned the import of imported fabrics into the country, which was the impetus for the development of its own textile industry. In a short time, the country's textile workers learned to make products not only no worse, but even much better than their colleagues from other countries.
Local fashion designers who learned how to create real masterpieces did not lag behind fabric manufacturers. Since then, France has for many centuries secured the status of the manufacturer of the best fabrics and trendsetters.
But the French style gained wide popularity and love already in the XX century, which was facilitated by the work of talented fashion designers from France: Paul Poiret, Christian Dior, Pierre Cardin, Yves Saint Laurent and others.
The greatest contribution to the popularization of this trend in clothing was made by Coco Chanel, who made a real revolution in the fashion world.
Much of what she brought into the female image does not lose its relevance to this day. And not only in France.
Characteristics
The main feature of the fashion direction, born in the country of Cezanne and Camembert, is the priority of quality over quantity, implying that it is better to have several expensive and high-quality items in the arsenal than a full cabinet of base cheap stuff.
Among other features:
- Refined femininity, which denies the use of unisex clothing, including jeans (the exception is denim pants in a classic style and colors), bright flashy things.
- Simplicity - there are practically no decorations in it, and all accessories are the most functional.
- Soft restrained colors that can be easily combined with each other, creating all new compositions.
The followers of the style relate to clothing in a special way, carefully selecting what will fit perfectly, emphasizing the figure. The direction suggests that a woman always, in any situation, should look delightful and stylish, be perfect.
The main elements of the wardrobe
To create a unique look the following wardrobe details are necessary:
- Dresses. A straight or fitted style to the knees (a slight retreat in both directions is allowed. Maxi and mini are prohibited!). The shape of the collar and sleeve is any, but the neckline is not very frank. The most suitable in this category are sheath dresses, a dressing gown or fitted, with a flared skirt.
- Skirts. Their distinctive features are impeccable cut and strict elegance. The main styles include a pencil - slightly tapering down; Tulip - with a voluminous upper part, direct smelling. All are of medium length. In addition, in the wardrobe you can include maxi skirts with cuts, but the obligatory straight cut. For informal events, the use of fluffy flared skirts is also allowed.
- Pants. Not a very popular item in this direction of clothing. However, "just in case" is to get straight or slightly flared models. It is possible to use shortened models. The main rule is the lack of decorative jewelry on trousers.
- Blouses Classic options with turn-down collars and small buttons as a fastener are preferable. It is possible to wear strict models with a V-neck or with frill.
- Jackets This part is assigned one of the central places. His cut is classic with a fitted or straight silhouette, straight shoulders and moderately wide lapels.
- A real tux is considered a female tuxedo, which, despite its apparent rudeness, perfectly emphasizes the femininity of its owner. But it is not suitable for everyone - a tuxedo will look beautiful and stylish only on slender ladies of high stature.
You want to look stylish at any time of the year. For this, the wardrobe should be replenished:
- a cloak of medium length with a classic cut with a straight silhouette;
- trench coat;
- coat - with a trapeze.
Favorite French brands
Things that will allow you to create a truly French chic, French women prefer to purchase from La Redoute - a brand with almost a century and a half history. His online store is one of the most visited by millions of women who value beauty and elegance combined with an affordable price.
Unlimited cash women favor Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot.
Valued are Isabel Marant and Karen Millen brands.
Color palette and fabrics
All the components of the image are sewn mainly from natural materials. Preference is given to cashmere, silk, linen, suede, velveteen and leather products.
Tweed enjoys special respect. Therefore, the wardrobe should have at least one jacket of this material.
The presence of synthetics in things is allowed only in the very minimum amount.
As for color diversity, stop the choice is on neutral shades. Basic colors: beige, black, brown, white and gray. It will be appropriate to use pastel shades of any color. Bright accents are placed with cosmetics or accessories.
Important additions
A significant role in creating a bow is played by shoes and accessories.
Shoes are simple, comfortable and elegant. The favorite everyday shoes of French women are not stilettos, but ballet shoes. Sandals and light sandals are popular.
If, by design, an heel is required, then you should turn to the classics - elegant stilettos with a round or pointed toe.
Important! Shoes, like other details, should not be bright and colorful. Only plain models are allowed. Under the ban platform and sports shoes.
One of the most important style accessories is a bag that combines with an outfit and shoes.
Among other additions:
- Scarf and beret. The first should be long and wide. They are worn around the neck. And they are used not only in cold weather, but also in summer, replacing woolen products with light silk. Berets should be picked up small, and wear them by moving a little back or to the side.
- Bijouterie. It is optional, but in some cases discreet earrings or beads can complement and diversify the image.
- Glasses. Unlike jewelry, this item is almost a must. It is noteworthy that French women wear dark glasses not only to protect their eyes from the sun, but also simply as a decoration.
Hairstyle and makeup
Minimalism. This criterion applies to both the hairstyle and the cosmetics used. To look stylish, French women do not have to make fancy hair styles. A short haircut, a carelessly twisted bun or loose curls with a length just below the shoulders are the most popular hairstyles.
In makeup, preference is given to natural shades.
Examples of spectacular images
To create an image in the French style, you can learn to compose individual elements of the wardrobe, or you can use the "tips" of fashion designers.
- Evening outfit. It may consist of a classic dress with an emphasis on the back. Moreover, the length can be almost any - from minimum to maxi. Instead of a dress, evening overalls are allowed to be worn. The color depends on the preferences of the woman and her external data, however, it is best to choose from black, beige, dark red or dark blue. As accessories, a handbag and matching shoes are used. As additional details, you can use a shawl or scarf and a modest thread of natural pearls.
- Casual wear. On a cloudy autumn day, you can cheer yourself up and those around you by wearing a woolen fitted dress of medium length and slightly flared down; light cloak or beret. As an option for warmer weather, a chiffon outfit with a thin knitted scarf as an accessory is suitable.
- Business outfit. It is based on various two-piece suits or three-piece suits in combination with white blouses.
A bright image will help to create a men's jacket (not too wide and without huge shoulders), which is allowed to be worn with a belt. Depending on the width of the latter, it is either tied in a knot (thin) or fastened with a buckle. The rolled up sleeves will look great. In the afternoon, a jacket is worn with trousers that contrast with it in color or jeans. In the evening - both elements should be in the same color scheme. But wearing this wardrobe item with a miniskirt is not recommended.
A blouse or shirt of a light color is worn under the jacket, on which it is recommended not to fasten the upper buttons. It is also allowed to use lace or silk top on straps.
Another trendy look: a dark blue cashmere sweater in combination with white jeans, heeled sandals and a leather jacket.
The French style, in spite of its brevity, is very diverse, therefore, having experimented a little, each woman will find something different in him that will give her appearance a unique charm.