The fashion world is obsessed with Parisian fashion and beauty, has been for centuries. I remember reading Jennifer Alfano’s post on Keepitchic.com about her visit to Paris and what she noticed, I literally printed it out and saved it. I even wrote about it. Jennifer’s post was called: “What French Women Get Right.”
I admire stylish women, especially those that are not afraid of red lipstick. What did Jennifer notice about their makeup? That either they wore red lipstick and mascara or a kohl-rimmed eye with bare lips. She did not see a pink or nude lip, she made other observations but unfortunately the link to the original post isn’t working anymore so I can’t share it with you.
However I came across Los Angelina in Paris, an Instagram account that features real-life Parisian Street Fashion. Recently, Cindy and I have been texting and she agreed to give her opinion on why the world has always been fascinated with everything French.
Fashion icon: Lauren Bacall, her straight slacks inspired me as a teenager, she was just cool.
Favorite designers: Karl Lagerfeld was an inspiration, classic with an edge, he knew how to make a woman strong in tweed & pink. I think Oliver R from Balmain is the next Paris genius.
Describe French Fashion/Your Style: My style is Cool Chic, with a bit of Rock/Punk. I still wear Dr. Martens. French fashion is being dressed clean and chic, always on trend. Parisians dress well with sneakers, amazing how it’s a trend that has become normal in Paris. Sneakers are worn with blazers, trench coats, they are worn with everything.
In your opinion, why is the world fascinated with French Fashion & Beauty: Because Paris is beautiful, our only competition is the city itself, we are in competition with Paris, we have to dress appropriately, you can’t run around in sweats and out-dress the city. Plus the love of art in Paris is inspirational, designers are inspired.
Shopping recommendations while in Paris: A one stop shop is the Galeries Lafayette, they carry Chanel and other designers, and their own eponymous name brand which is very attainable in price. If you’re on a budget, come during the “Soldes”, it’s the best time to shop, everything is 70% off. Soldes are sales and they only happen twice a year, and worth it.
Favorite Restaurant, where can one find the best Ham & Butter baguette? My favorite restaurant before the pandemic was Cafe Ineko in the 3eme, good and healthy. For sandwiches, my favorite is @don_lucas_paris. The best Parisian sandwiches use bellotta ham, or I buy Erik Kayser bauguettes and make my own, I prefer to make my own with salted butter, bakeries are good but I would rather make my own jambon/buerre.
There too many photos to choose from, I sadly had to leave some out.
Thank you Cindy, here’s to running around chic, in Paris!
All photos are courtesy of Cindy Lucas @losangellinainparis
Run Around Chic 