My friend is headed to Paris in April and would like some fashion advice. She writes...
I'm kind of intimidated about going overseas for the first time, especially being that I am used to stay-at-home mom wardrobe now. :)
I know they don't wear jeans, and dress up a bit more.
This is so exciting for me because it was almost two years ago when EmilyStyle helped me prepare for my most recent trip to France!
A trip like this is the perfect excuse to update your wardrobe! The Parisian’s wardrobe is pretty much monochrome with few color accents. When traveling, I always recommend choosing a basic color palette so that all your pieces and accessories can mix and match together. In this case, black is perfect! This wardrobe features a base of black/white/grey with accents of purple and blues. I have also punched things up a bit with more bold accessories. Paris in April can vary from brisk and rainy to warm and sunny so pack thin layers that can be mixed and matched. This wardrobe contains three pairs of shoes, two pairs of pants, one dress and several tops to mix and match into at least 6 complete outfits.
Denim
While denim isn’t as common in France, don’t rule it out all together. It never hurts to have a classic pair of wide leg trouser jeans that are ultra slimming and can be dressed up or down. I recommend spending a little extra to get a pair of premium denim, with high quality material and an excellent fit. My current fav brand of denim is J Brand because the fit is amazing, they come in fits and styles for every body type, and they are minimally branded so they don’t stand out as being the “it” brand from last season, or any season for that matter. You definitely won’t look out of place in the city of lights wearing either of these fabulous pairs.
Trousers
A grey pair of seasonless wool trousers will serve you well. This pair is effortless chic and looks fabulous with the yellow flats! You could also go with a lighter grey pant or a refined cotton chino as well.
Tops
Pack lightweight silk tops like this and this with basic cardigans and pull over sweaters. Pick up a few pretty tees and tanks to layer underneath other tops. Those can also be washed easily in a hotel room sink, if necessary! Don't forget basic white! It goes with everything!
Shoes
Try not to pack more than three pairs of shoes: flats, heels, and sneakers. These yellow flats are just adorable, but you could also go with a more conservative grey pair of mary janes. Clarks makes some really cute pumps with a stacked heel and extra cushioning for lots of walking. For a sneaker, try to pick something that doesn't scream "athletic shoe" so that on the day when your feet are dog tired, you can throw on the sneakers and keep on going. These from Simple are a decent pair.
Accessories
A cute scarf or cashmere wrap will make any outfit feel more complete and a wrap will give you the option of added warmth in the evening.
Thin gold chains a nice delicate way to complete an outfit and this one from Forever21 is cute and a bargain price!
Get a durable bag with zipper closure that you can tuck under your arm (and away from prying hands) that is big enough to handle your daily essentials plus a water bottle, guidebook, camera, sweater, and a snack.
This trench coat is so chic that it will stop traffic!
Stay dry underneath this sunny umbrella.
