I lived in Paris for 10 years and I can tell you the mistakes that Emily makes in the French style of clothing
2024-09-18 10:53:00
TiranaPost
By Lane Nieset/ After the series' fourth season premiere, Emily's look is as boring as her romantic choices (neighbor chef Gabriel and British banker Alfie). For the French, Emily's style couldn't be further from the truth. As a travel journalist who has lived in France for more than a decade, my style has adapted to what I've seen in Paris – which is the opposite of Emily's screaming prints and metallic details. If you want to look like a true Parisian, below are 12 picks very close to the French ladies, and they start at $16, on Amazon.
Don't wear a beret
Here's what you need
The beret was stylish for Brigitte Bardot and Coco Chanel, but these days they are the opposite of what the French consider fashionable. Instead, you need such a hat. The French combine them with a scarf or skillfully placed brooch.
Don't take a mini bag
Here's what you need instead
In a city like Paris, this bag is a much better option, as you can throw it over your shoulder and easily carry it when you're cycling or on the subway. This Madewell bestseller has an adjustable strap that you can style in several ways and is big enough to hold a water bottle, wallet and other essentials needed for a day out on the town.
Don't wear: Platform heels
Wear these instead
The beauty of television is that fashion doesn't have to be practical - it's simply meant to please the viewers. Similar to how Carrie in Sex and the City wore only stilettos (specifically Manolo Blahniks) while running through the streets of New York City. Emily graces the cobblestones of Paris in these platform heels. The city is not designed for heels and you can break your leg easily.
Don't wear: A leather jacket
Wear this instead: A white blazer
Just when you think that was all Emily's mistakes, you see her in a leather jacket and Chanel bag. Skip the glitz and opt for a classic blazer.
Do not wear an exaggerated waist belt
Put this instead: A thin leather belt
Ah that oversized Valentino belt emblazoned with the signature 'V' of Emily. In Paris, less is always more. Instead of flashy designer logos, opt for something timeless and elegant like this stylish belt. For just $22 on Amazon.
Don't wear: A floral coat
Wear this jacket instead
A look you can only wear on TV nowhere else. Emily attended the Cadeau show in a floral print coat and skirt from Off-White. Paris in the winter can be cold, so this choice from J.Cre is a more pleasant alternative that is ideal for the autumn weather. The pale yellow hue is a nice departure from traditional neutrals like white or gray, and the velvet collar and gold buttons are little design touches that go a long way for a simple jacket like this.
Don't wear: Rain boots
Wear this instead: waterproof Chelsea boots
It rains a lot in Paris, so an umbrella is just as important to bring along as your wallet. But it's no surprise that Parisians have found stylish ways to dress for the rain. While visiting Paris, wear a pair of waterproof boots. One of the best deals is just $33.
Don't wear: A short-sleeved zip-up jacket
Wear this instead: A vest
Emily's striped, short-sleeved jackets and sweaters give off a fuzzy vibe, and while '90s fashion is back, these looks don't show it. What you will see in Paris are vests. This vintage-inspired version is the perfect shade of cream that pairs with practically everything from leather pants to wide-leg navy jeans or a silk skirt. You can even make it a year-round staple with denim shorts.
Don't wear: A mini dress
Wear this instead: A maxi dress
On my first study abroad trip to Paris in 2008, my suitcase contained a pile of mini dresses that I imagined wearing to dinner parties and discos in the city. I quickly realized that I had packed the wrong suitcase and didn't wear anything I had brought with me. This flattering dress is much more interesting.
Don't wear: A coat with bold prints
Wear this instead: A knit jacket and lightweight feather
I'm not totally against busy prints, but not on dresses and jackets. Prints can go to accessories, a scarf, a blouse, but not a coat.
Don't bring: big sunglasses
Wear retro glasses instead
When Emily visits Saint-Tropez, her favorite accessory is a pair of oversized glasses. As someone who spends summers in the South of France, I can say with confidence that 1960s style is out of style.
Don't wear: knee high boots
Wear these instead: suede boots
I will always remember that scene in The Devil Wears Prada when Anne Hathaway's character walks into Runway's office with Chanel boots over her knees. This was one of costume designer Patricia Field's great moments, and while it's a look that's still stylish today if you're working at a Vogue magazine, you won't actually see anyone in Paris wearing a pair of these.
