Introduction to French Style
The French style is subtle, and it’s essential to understand this when trying to emulate their fashion sense. As Lane, a travel journalist based in Paris, notes, "The French have the opportunity to effortlessly look and put together without ever flashing a label." This means avoiding exaggerated looks, such as those seen in Emily in Paris, and instead opting for a more understated approach.
The Key to French Fashion
True contemporary French fashion is subtle, so it’s best to avoid being a fashion victim. This means steering clear of bold logos and flashy clothing. Instead, the only logo you might see is something subtle from a high-end brand like Loewe or Celine on a Raffia beach bag. The coexistence of a Nouveau Riche American Fashionista in Gucci and Louis Vuitton Insignia with a French person in an inconspicuous cafan by Marie France van Damme would be a perfect example of contrasting styles.
Smoking in France
Smoking is often associated with French culture, but this stereotype is no longer accurate. In fact, less than a quarter of French adults smoke daily, and this number is decreasing due to larger bans on smoking in public places. As of July, beaches and public gardens have joined restaurants, bars, and nightclubs as smoke-free zones. Surprisingly, 80% of the French support this ban, showing that the country is moving away from its smoking habits.
The Rise of E-Cigarettes
However, e-cigarettes have filled the gap, with an estimated 3.6 million French people using them. This could lead to some comedic moments, such as an American character complaining about the vape cloud around the pool. The contrast between the French aversion to smoking and the rise of e-cigarettes is an interesting aspect of French culture that is worth exploring.
