8 Tips on How to Look Parisian and Not a Tourist
Ever wondered how to emulate the style French women seem to effortlessly portray and feel like a local when you are in Paris? Well, after visiting Paris a number of times and watching both locals and tourists go about their daily wanderings we have picked up a thing or two on how to appear more like a local and less like a tourist.
Our Tips To Help You Feel More Parisian
We think these tips will help you feel just a little more like a Parisian and help you blend in a little with the locals.
Comfy but Stylish Shoes
Comfy but stylish shoes are a must. Ballet slippers with a rubber sole will provide cushioning on Paris’ cobbled stone streets while making sure you also look elegant. Nothing screams tourist more than bulky white joggers I am afraid.
A Slightly More Formal Approach
French men and woman dress well and definitely have a more formal approach to their appearance than Australians. I’m not sure where you live, but I think the hotter weather in Australia is the main reason we dress more casually, however a little extra effort in presentation will go a long way when in Paris.
A Cross Over Handbag
A cross over body handbag is favoured by French woman. So, as well as looking chic, you can have your hands free for photo taking, choosing fresh fruit and smelling the flowers at the local market.
Scarves Are A Must
Scarfs are a French woman’s best friend. They can change the look of your outfit from night to day, add needed warmth in winter or protect your skin from the sun in summer. Scarfs also give your outfit a touch of glamour and interest without taking too much space in your suitcase.
Take a couple of scarves to expand your wardrobe options. Below are two clips on how to wear both a square scarf and long thin rectangular scarf.
Take A Simple Tote Bag
An interesting small carry bag is essential. No cardigans or jackets wrapped around your waist – definitely not a French look! A small attractive carry or tote bag will hold your new market treasures or fresh croissants as well as your cardigan or jacket.
Linen totes are popular with French women and they’re lightweight and foldable. They can be handy for the little extras that don’t fit in your suitcase on your way home too.
Dictionary or Language App
Either a lightweight small dictionary or an App on your phone is a discreet option for checking out unknown French words or phrases. Every attempt at French will be appreciated and, who knows, you might even get to eat what you thought you ordered. Raw mince and pigs trotters are not everyone’s favourite, so sometimes it is best not to be too surprised. From experience I can say that children take these surprises less favourably than adults.
Directions & Maps
Getting lost can work well in discovering ‘secret’ gardens and shops however, if getting lost scares you then a crushable map in your handbag is a good idea. Check out your map and plan routes the previous night or morning before you head out. Nothing spells ‘tourist’ like a huge map or super thick guide book being examined on the street corner.
Apps that give you directions are great to use while at your hotel with WIFI and you can save your directions before you leave for the day to make sure you don’t use international data while walking around following your map.
No Drinking While you Walk
French men and woman do not eat food or drink coffee while they walk. It is bad for your digestion, looks unattractive and limits the enjoyment of your food or drink. Take the time to savour your dining experiences in the country revered for its haute cuisine. Talking about coffee then… “espresso is the chosen drink for Parisians. Drinking your espresso on a terrace while enjoying the buzzing scenery of Paris is a much enjoyed local pastime”.
So there’s our 8 Tips On How To Look Parisian And Not A Tourist.
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