If there’s one thing that consistently sparks inspiration, it’s Parisian style. Year after year, the allure of the French Girl aesthetic never seems to fade—timeless, chic, and always a little mysterious. What makes it so irresistible? Perhaps it’s the way Parisian women manage to look elegant without ever appearing to try too hard. It’s that balance between polish and nonchalance that gives their style an edge we can’t help but admire.
This winter, I’ve been channeling that same energy into my wardrobe, especially when it comes to getting dressed up. Instead of leaning into high-octane glam—the kind filled with sequins, stilettos, and full-on smokey eyes—I’ve been experimenting with a softer, more effortless version. Think understated elegance with a hint of drama, the Parisian way. Here are a few guiding principles to help you capture French-inspired glamour all season long.
1. Swap Heels for Elevated Boots
When we think of glam, heels often feel like a non-negotiable. But take a stroll through Paris and you’ll notice very few women teetering around in stilettos. Instead, they embrace footwear that’s both chic and wearable. Over-the-knee boots, for example, are a fantastic alternative. They elongate the legs, add a subtle hint of seduction, and provide warmth during cold months. Bonus: they’re far more practical than skyscraper heels. A sleek pair of leather or suede OTK boots instantly dresses up any look without sacrificing comfort.
2. Let One Statement Piece Do the Talking
The French approach to dressing revolves around restraint. Rather than piling on trends, they carefully select one standout item and let it shine. This could be a perfectly tailored trench, a bold wrap dress, or—in my case this winter—a timeless faux fur coat. There’s something about a faux fur piece that feels instantly glamorous, yet still classic. Stick to versatile, elegant colors like cream, black, deep green, or navy, and pair it with understated basics. By allowing one focal point to carry the outfit, you’ll achieve that effortless “I just threw this on” effect that Parisians have mastered.
3. Keep Beauty Minimal
Across the Atlantic, “glam” often means a full face of makeup: smokey lids, bold lips, and cascading curls. But in Paris? The mantra is less is more. French-inspired beauty is about enhancing, not masking. When dressing up, opt for one feature to highlight—maybe a sharp cat-eye, fluttery lashes, or a chic swipe of red lipstick. The key is never doing all three at once. Hair should feel slightly undone, makeup should remain soft, and the overall look should whisper elegance rather than shout it.
4. Embrace Imperfection
This is perhaps the most crucial step to capturing Parisian glamour: don’t overdo it. In fact, being a little undone is the whole point. Loosely tuck in a silk blouse instead of fussing over the perfect fold. Let your hair fall in natural waves rather than achieving a flawless blowout. Perfection is not the goal—effortless charm is. The French Girl aesthetic thrives on these tiny imperfections that make an outfit feel lived-in and authentic.
5. Play With Hemlines and Tights
One of my go-to Parisian-inspired combinations in the colder months is a shorter hemline paired with sheer tights. It’s a mix of flirtation and functionality, which feels quintessentially French. A tailored mini skirt with monochrome tights strikes the perfect balance between playful and practical. It’s a way to showcase personal style while still staying cozy and weather-appropriate—a true win for winter dressing.
Final Thoughts
Parisian glamour isn’t about chasing trends or striving for flawlessness. It’s about cultivating a sense of ease in everything you wear. The French have mastered the art of pairing timeless staples with a hint of allure, and their version of glam feels all the more special because it never tries too hard.
So this winter, instead of reaching for head-to-toe sparkle or the tallest pair of heels, consider stepping into your own version of French-inspired elegance. A faux fur coat, a pair of over-the-knee boots, soft makeup, and an undone finish might be all you need to feel effortlessly glamorous.
After all, true style isn’t about perfection—it’s about confidence, individuality, and a touch of je ne sais quoi.
