The style secrets chic French women don’t want to share
Like all clichés, the concept of the ‘Cool French Girl’ is ubiquitous because it’s true. But there is far more to Parisian chic than Breton stripes or tousled tresses.
Stroll beside the Seine or loiter near London’s French Lycée as the mums flock for pick up and it’s clear the Gallic edge isn’t in an outfit; it’s a shrug of insouciance, an unassuming ‘I woke up like this’ confidence.
Whether rolling up the sleeves of a trench coat or slinging a cape over one shoulder, the cool French woman is in command of her style.
Chanel, Chloé and their countless copycats are global phenomena thanks to just this French allure – but the discerning Parisian prefers something less obvious.
From the new perfumer to an online fashion favourite that's popping up in Soho, the emphasis is on cool new brands, most of us likely haven't heard of. We've done some snooping to find the freshest French fashion, beauty and lifestyle secrets.
We all know Chanel is a staple of French girl style, but it’s not just in the wardrobe that you’ll find those interlocking Cs. While the glamazons around the globe are quick to flock to the newest beauty brand, French women are typically conservative when it comes to le maquillage.
Since Coco Chanel created her first richly-pigmented red lipstick in 1924, the brand has been a bastion for quality make-up. Sheer finishes and refined colour palettes leave the wearer looking put together but never too done up. Even the scruffiest among us achieve elegance with a few coats of moodily crimson Rouge Noir nail varnish.
The Chanel beauty-only store in Covent Garden is a testament to such elegance, with two floors dedicated to cosmetics.
