Another French styling tip is to bring attention to your greatest asset (without being vulgar of course). If you have shapely legs, wear skirts or shorts. If you have a shapely derrière, then a crop top, ruffle detail, or peplum might show the curve if your back. A pretty face, wear a scarf, or flower or hat to draw attention upward. The French focus on finding their best qualities to emphasize them, rather than seeking imperfections to hide their flaws. This gives them confidence and good self esteem. Americans have been trained to look for flaws and imperfections, whereas French women ignore them, or even embrace them as something that makes them appear unique or exotic. Confidence is sexy. Overt sexiness is simply vulgar and makes a woman look desperate for attention, or shows that she’s trying too hard.
Americans prefer comfort first and don't care what people say, they are simple. They live working and do not stop at a cafe for hours, at least in this area. The houses are gray and most of the year it is winter. The French dress in those basic colors because that is what they see around them, in the environment. I have seen fashion designers from France (unknown) trying to tell the rest of the world that they dress badly, because in France they have the patent of good taste. She is an artist but her clothes don't reflect that, her clothes are boring, not creative. They’re boring of themselves that why they have to find creative directors from other countries. If you go to a tropical place with vibrant nature and happy, friendly personalities; You won't see them dressing up for a funeral with layers or thicker fabric they wearing colors to reflect the lights and heat. Every culture is different, no one has a patent on anything.
@@susanma4899 Clothes were better made and the fabrics were nicer, too. I buy vintage but only certain designers because I know how they'll fit me (important since I buy much of my stuff on eBay or Poshmark). I volunteer in a thrift store so we get first crack at the good stuff that comes in. My town is wealthy so we're talking Pucci, Frette, Sonia Rykiel, etc. But thrifting isn't for everyone -
RIGHT?! Especially in Paris!! 🤩💯 have you ever experienced it? I recommend checking out the thrift stores in every neighborhood. However, pay close attention to the area to determine the style you're wanting to look for. Don't thrift shop near the Eiffel Tower. It's overpriced, overcrowded and overrated. Instead go up to the area where Moulin Rouge is located. The poorer neighborhoods of Paris not only have cheaper prices you'll be able to find really rare finds from old donations.
Thank you! 😃 I really love to hear from real French women because I'm trying to convey the respect and love I have for this style and I want to make sure that I get it as right as I can from this side of the pond. ❤
You nailed it ! I'm a (standard-not-parisian) french woman and it was so accurate ! Even the jean shorts : it IS a must have peace in the spring/summer seasons ;-) Bravo !
I'm glad I wasn't too far off-base! I've had other French women tell me how intense the pressure is to maintain a thin figure and how much they actually do for their skin, but I think they really don't overthink most other things and they definitely don't over-do.
I'm a French girl, and I validate this video's message: do not wear a barret. You really nailed the principles and basics of the typical French girl look. Très bien!
😂😂😂 this was so funny. Coming originally from Germany I lived a few years in France and in Paris. And now I am quite often in France. Some points of the cliché are correct. But NEVER wear a marinière nor a berret in Paris. People will think you mock about them. Tourists will be recognised as tourists, everywhere in the world. We should stop imitating some styles which are en vogue at one moment. We should wear what we like and what is comfortable for us and looks good. 😊
Not true. I just came back from Paris and one night at pretty famous restaurant there was a couple sitting right next to us. And the woman was wearing a marinier shirt, and they were French !
Here in the US there is such a focus on luxe, new-looking bags. When I visited France, it was such a relief to see every other woman carrying a well-loved Longchamp tote 😂 I now do the same (I even buy them second-hand). I can’t do a red lip but I do everything else in this video - the great part is these principles work as well at 55 as they do at 25.
Im 68 and I've always been into boho or punk looks. But 2 years ago I finally decided I was getting too close to mutton dressed as lamb, so i made the switch to coastal grandmother/French chic style. And i am loving the more elegant look! I am plus size, but I still look great. (I've learned tricks to wear clothes in a way to make me appear slimmer.) I can add a couple of my old pieces, a black moto jacket, a flowy skirt, eyelet, without looking like I'm in a costume.
This sounds like my style, lol. I love the soft flowy, relaxed look of coastal grandmother….and I also have several moto jackets to go with my dozens of jeans!
I'm in my 60s as well, and I'm kind of doing the same thing. I'm developing a mix of classic/coastal grandma pieces with some boho flare. It's like a thousand degrees in summer where I live, and layering for interest isn't possible, so I just ordered three lightweight Mediterranean/Moroccan-style long caftans that I can dress up or down as needed with jewelry and footwear. Very sort of 1970s Slim Aarons Palm Springs or Capri by the pool. If I like them, I'll order more. I'm done with trying to look hot, young, and thin. It's more important to look like me while being comfortable and reasonably put together at the same time. I want to look nice, but I'm tired of the pressure to always look thinner or more dressed up. It doesn't work for my lifestyle living and working at home in the desert.
I look for punk, but not stereotypical. I thrift shop, and you won’t find any safety pins or studs in my wardrobe. Baggy clothes and plaid skirts or a vintage 60s style. A French New Wave look. Which was how I dressed in the punk era. A lot of us wore the pointy toed shoes and sheath skirts sometimes with Monkey boots or docs. A lot is said for the shoes and hair. Docs just make a punk flair, especially those outside the usual 1460s
You’ve been in my closet. Not living in France but next door to it. Thing is, I’ve had my vintage pieces since they were new. I no longer have money, but I guess I was my own rich aunt.
Cute video! I don’t feel competitive with chic French style! I always add my touch! We women should stick together, no matter what country of origin! Clothes are fun! Yes, I already try too hard! American way! Hehe! Love to see your great outfits! Thanks for that!
Thanks so much, Blane! I've been very sick this week and I'm just getting back to everyone but this comment really makes my day. Stick around because we have a lot of fun here! 😘 And thanks for subscribing! ❤❤❤
@@kath6720and une petite laine is so handy to have. It’s so easy to carry if you get too warm, hides under other garments without altering your look! A definite must have!
I have always felt, as I have often traveled between France and Italy, that Italian style combines French fit, fabric and cut with the American love of color.
@@MexicobeanpoleEveryone cares about Italian fashion people eat it! Go to Milan nobody dresses like the Italians! I was laughing at everything she showed! Of course I’m Italian!!!🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
Being from a French family, and mostly French area, you forgot one thing…superior attitude, lol. After living 10 years in the southern US, I returned home to my French Canadian town. The rude behaviour felt like a slap in the face after the manners of North Carolina. And French Canadians are just a milder version of Parisian French. Just stating the truth.
I was born and raised in France and my entire family is there, except for me because I married an American. You are quite right. They are so arrogant!!! Americans (or tourists of other nations) think that the French are arrogant and rude only to them. Bien sur que non! They are the same to their own compatriots. I love to drive them crazy when I'm home by saying good morning or good afternoon and smiling. LOL
I was born and raised in France ; I have lived 20 years in Paris and 10 years in North Carolina. Paris is full of very nice people and some rude people ; North Carolina? The same!!!
I love the “add something bizarre” philosophy. That applies to home decor for me, as well…ya know, the kind of thing that when Mom comes for a visit she just stares at it in dumbfounded silence, utterly confused as to why her otherwise normal daughter would have such a thing
My daughter is going to France in September or the next 8 months. I found fabulous clothes at Goodwill, like a fine wool blend trench coat that fits perfectly. Following your recommendations, I found classic conservative brands that fit her body type. Including shoes, we spent a total of $150. For a really amazing wardrobe. She has three custom made pieces from vintage Vogue patterns. The patterns were a quarter each and the top quality fabrics were in my stash, waiting for a purpose. She found two lined wool pencil skirts at a vintage clothing store for $7 each. She already has a fab wool coat for winter. Now we need to finish with a few of those bags! I did choose two bright blouses in tailored styles for a splash of color. Her statement piece ( from the rich aunt) is a paisley blazer made from French brocade that was on sale for ten dollars a yard. Perfectly fitted, and I used the paisley so that it lands in swirls that enhance her rather straight figure. Totally unique and six grand at Neiman Marcus!
Your daughter will enjoy her sojourn in Paris and is perfectly prepared, thanks to you and crafty shopping and sewing! In the 1940s and 1950s, my grandmother would take my mother to a fancy shop or tea room to study the fashions. My grandmother would come home, cut a pattern (from memory) from newspaper, and sew such delightful treasures. I'm so glad you're continuing that great tradition!
Thank you for saying what I was thinking as I watched all of the other French style videos. Those clothes are BORING and even though they are classic, they lack excitement for me. I want to have fun with my clothes, wearing all oatmeal colored clothes with a trench coat over it is not it. Life is too short for. 🎉
I knew I couldn't be the only one! Haha! Oatmeal! Yes! Life is too short for Blah. I watch a lot of style videos and sometimes I'm like, "Don't these chicks want to have any FUN??" 🤣
So agree. Tired of the must have list, all beige or black. Let's decorate ourselves with items we have fun and interesting. Please yourself. Way to go Diana. Love your content.
Just wanted to add: thank you for all the time it took to change into so many outfits and all the editing that had be done afterwards. I love the visuals of everything you explain being actually shown. So helpful. So yes, really really appreciate it. Huge thank you!
Bwa hahaha Diana! You're quickly becoming my favourite style youtuber! Love your sense of humour and joie de vivre! I'm Canadian but I've been living in Belgium for some 24 years now, and I can tell you, you are spot on! Well done! That adorable tulip cardigan would be "un gilet". A jumper (aka "un pull") usually doesn't have any front opening or buttons. Basically what we North Americans would call a knit sweater.
Sylvie! Thanks so much! And thanks for the French lesson. As much as I love French lifestyle and Parisian street style, I should learn more French. I'm just terrible at learning languages! I admire anyone who speaks more than one. I hope you're enjoying Belgium. I hope to see it someday!
Not that you care (😉), you cilantro-buying chic lady, but this is absolutely one of the best videos I have seen on how to dress like the French. Great tips, no matter where you live, delivered with good humor.
Ok. “To not care”!?!? Well, I think Americans have nailed this one! I see people walking around in their house slippers and pajama bottoms all the time!!! Hmmm….guess we have “out-Frenched” the French🤣🤣🤣
Nope because there is no quality at all to turning up in an old tee shirt, frequently grubby, out of shape. And pj bottoms again. Out of shape and grubby.
I was thinking about this one- I don’t think it’s about not caring- I think it’s about lifestyle- walking, cycling, having small bathrooms, I don’t really know but I would guess it comes off as not trying too hard but you just can’t wear showy shoes, fussy clothing, hair or makeup bc it will be mussed up during your daily commute
Another title for this could be “how to actually wear all the boring and the weird items from your closet”. This video ought to bring my cost per wear down 🎉
I was born in California, but I have always been far more French in my style/look than ever was I American. I cannot get down with all the maintenance that it takes to fit the standards here, even 20yr olds are paying to keep up with...at a time in their life when beauty should be far more effortless. French women know real beauty.
I am a light-skinned Italian with some grey hair who never goes for cleavage but likes a bizarre item here and there. Now I get why so many Britons take me for French.
Thanks for being here! I'm glad you enjoyed this one. I feel like that's why I started making these videos. I was SO BORED with the vibe, you know? Can we just be a little silly and have fun? Yes!
Marie-Anne le Coeur is a serious and funny/silly French Chic stylist I love. I wonder what she'd think of this video. I bet she'd get a kick out of it. (She does love her marinieres, btw, but never a beret.)
I love how you articulated the elements of French girl fashion. I moved to France not long ago, and I'm having fun pointing out these different elements to my husband as we're people-watching at a cafe ("Look! There's the shopping bag, undone hair, and one weird thing!") It's a fun game 🤣
@@unblahyourself Yaay!!! 🥳 I’ve been getting back into fashion and clothes for fun and self-expression lately (I’m 65 and post-menopausally plump), and I enjoy what you’re saying in this video SO much! I love to add something bizarre to what I’m wearing, or put it in my house! I’m subscribing! 👍 Clothes should be fun! P.S. so at this point, I guess *I’m* the rich aunt… and I LOVE that silk embroidered jacket! 😍
American here with some experience abroad. When I asked my French friends why they wear scarves they said temperature control. Keeps you warmer in colder temps and cools you off when it’s hot (if the right fabric). Same reason for the “petit laine” sweater. Can help keep you warmer in a pinch or keep the sun off your arms if it’s hot. Love the video and your sense of humor. I think you nailed a lot of what I’ve experienced as French style in my time living there. Anyone looking to tweak their personal style in this direction has some great jumping off points thanks to your hilarious synopsis!
Perfect video - love it! I think the term you keep describing would be “je ne sais quoi” in French. I’m an American living in London who just visited Paris last weekend, and feel these outfits are all perfect. I felt my biggest compliment to what I was wearing was when locals would immediately speak French to me (& I’d have to apologise that I only speak English 😢).
I was in Paris in April of 2008, but it was still cold. People wore their winter scarves, not silk, because they were still wearing their winter coats. I wish I could have seen people wearing their warm-weather outfits, but it was not to be.
A Parisienne would tie that vintage cowboy silk scarf to the strap of the handbag. It coordinates well with the red patch on the bag and totally ties your outfit together. Without trying to hard.
I loved every one of your outfits and how you reveal the “je ne sais quoi” quality behind each one. Oh, and did you say you are 46? You look amazing! I'm a bit older and bustier than you and have been wearing unpadded sport bras for a couple of years now because they give that natural silhouette you talk about.
I'm glad you liked the video! Thank you! Once I started to realize that the unpadded bra was a key French look and started wearing it, I started to wonder why we ever tolerated being so padded up!
I do love the Breton stripe shirt, and I wear mostly classic style (and natural bras), so I am halfway there already, but I appreciate your outfits as inspiration for making things more interesting.
In every Diana-video, there’s a moment where I just burst out laughing- ‘trapped with my arms stuck in a dress afraid I’ll die there’ was that moment! Bluntly relatable!! 😅🤣 And of course, such beautiful clothing pieces and outfits!✨ Another fun style experience to try- confident simplicity.
I am commenting on this though it is a year old! Glad I came to this party albeit late. As a Canadian with a lot of a French and American influences, a lot of what you say makes sense. French Canadian women have a French style but it is more rustic because of our cooler climate. However, they dress so much more noticeably feminine in the larger cities like Montreal and Quebec. I love their summer dresses … and they keep it simple with the white camis and jeans with a remarkable shoe! Often red! Love this channel! Thank you!❤
Iabsolutly love your style. I would wear almost everything. I am a thrifter and would pick up every piece you demonstrate. It is so refreshing that you are not trying to get us to buy new items but thrift amazing pieces and find pieces in our closet that we may have that are similar. Thank you!😊 ❤
American sarcasm is one of the most unique and beloved traits of the American woman.😅 I've lived in Europe and I always felt like I had something to offer in my style. Let's not forget that European women admire and strive for the style of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy.... All American Icons of style. 😊
I'm very, very fortunate to spend time in France every year. The first time I went I realized most of the people wearing what we call "French girl style" are tourists cosplaying "french girl style"
Your Bob really translates well to the French style of “I’m beautiful and polished, but I don’t care” 😂 you look great! Also this video was really fun and silly. Subbed.
Your take on French style was a breath of fresh air. I love the French esthetic (simple and neutral) but the endless stream of “French girl style” and what you should own to get that look videos were becoming mind numbingly boring. Yours made me laugh out loud (cilantro!) and as an American woman, gave me some good tips to use my own wardrobe in new ways. Kudos.
French style has always felt to me like you have taken your whole wardrobe, dropped it on the floor and had to find an outfit in 30 seconds. It works because of the quality of the pieces and the neutral colours, so it's never sloppy looking.
Non one in France nor in Paris wears a beret unless they are very old people or tourists 🤣 Also, it is not that the French want to appear not to care, it is just a different perspective on style. I think it can be fun to find inspiration in other countries, but no matter where you are from and where you are living, if it is just a "copy and paste" outfit, it will be booooorrrrring and cliché ! I love your video, and the big fluffy sweater with the shorts, you nailed it ! This is very French indeed !
I just found your channel and I absolutely love your sense of humour! 😅 You're not taking it too serously, but still giving very good tips. I also adore French girl style, but sometimes I feel like giving up on it because of my very limited budget and also because it IS a little bit boring as such. But this gives me new inspiration! French girl style + creativity, I love it! 😍
Great video! After observing what Stephanie from The Château Diaries wears in her YT videos, I agree with 99% of everything you said. I only disagree about a French woman buying cilantro. She would actually but coriander. 😂 Seriously though what you said about wearing your good clothes is spot on. Stephanie lives in a very rural area of France and yet she wears the most beautiful dresses just to putter (or faff) around the house and do chores. Very inspiring.
This is probably the best video about French style I've ever seen, even compared to the videos from actual French girls. The problem is, because they're always working hard to look effortless and want everyone to believe it's all effortless, they seem to contradict themselves a lot. 😅 "Oh French women NEVER eat unhealthy food." "When I need some sugar I eat small treats and only have 1 cup of coffee." There's a lot of saying they don't do things and then later telling you they DO do those things, but there are rules and it's all quite strict to maintain the image that they want to present. You just gave it to us straight with plenty of examples. You nailed it!
I laughed the whole entire video. Your presentation is just so fun and funny( in a good way). I love it. Thanks for bringing humour when talking about fashion👏
The beaded bolero is authentic vintage likely 1988-93. It's called a trophy bolero. It would have had a matching dress or pants. Trophy style. Because its meant to look like you're a trophy wife
😂😂😂😂 I LOVED all of the outfits 👏👏👏👏. I must just say that I was in Paris 3 weeks ago and french women were not wearing white sneakers, the tourist yes, but not the locals, probably because they get dirty to easily. And the only people wearing berets are the tourist.
I ended up loving these outfits too! I'm especially excited to wear more strapless tops this summer and use that basket bag A LOT. I was advised by my teen Parisienne friend about the sneakers but she says it's possible they are moving on to different types of sneakers now, not just white. As an older lady, I find it hard to style them without looking older. I prefer flats with most outfits so I don't usually choose the sneakers.
I absolutely loved people watching while living in Paris. However, I learned the most by observing my French boyfriend as well as his friends and family. There's something truly magical about the French's ability to not stress about the little things. The way they look clearly reflects that. It's an effortless effort. They have mastered the roll out of bed look. I'm all for it. French girls don't care if their hair is messy. They'll wear sneakers with a dress. However, hygiene is a huge thing. Their clothes are fresh. Their skin is clean and clear. They smell pleasant. I have seen a business man wear leather loafers that looked like fuzzy house slippers in the back. That was a whole new level of business casual. I feel it's so much easier for me to find my style by using the French mentality. Thanks for the video pretty lady 🌻
Well done!!!! I just wonder about "headlights" when wearing a barely-there bra. With my very much larger sized bra size, I gotta say, the padding gives me that extra confidence that I'm not advertising as much as I might otherwise. But it would explain why, in spite of living in France for 2 years, I never fully achieved the French Girl look.
I loved this! I agree, appearing like "I didn't try & don't care at all" is the most French. I'm German and we are generally known for having awful style sense, most of us really don't care - and it shows. ;-) I'm a little different, so most of the time I stick out here (maybe not so much when I'm in Berlin, but that doesn't count...). As my favourite hat style is berets - they just suit me best - I've got them in any color and have worn them constantly from autumn to spring for over 20 years. I'm going to spend some time in France so I'm a little worried now, I really do not want to appear like I'm mocking anybody or that I dressed up for the occasion. But the French aren't entitled to that hat style, many Europeans wear beret/Barret/basque. Also: stripes have always been my favourite shirt pattern, about a third of my shirts could be considered a "marinière". I live near the Baltic sea, it is quite common here. So, well. What can I do? I genuinely like to wear the berets and the marinières. I don't care that much. The moment I open my mouth in France people will notice my abysmal school French and kinda know that I'm not from there anyway...
I think that if that style is authentically 'you' it will show through and help you to be more relaxed and yourself while you are there. Would a French woman be having these concerns? No she would not (if we believe the don't care attitude) so neither should you 😊
It's been only a couple of days I've discovered your channel and I like it so much! I love your sense of humour, which points out that getting dress is not a job, but pure fun. I also love your original, cute indeed styling suggestions, totally meeting my taste. Thank you for your time and spirit, you are adorable!!
Very cool video! Love this thrift shop you visited - real gems!! Am heading over to Paris at end of May and will do my best to just not care! 😂 Brilliant tips - thanks heaps!!
I really really enjoyed all the looks. I’m envious of that sweet cardigan with the tulips 🌷! I find that I naturally gravitate towards clothes such as you mentioned. I used to cycle quite a bit (it tended to ruin my nice shoes so I wouldn’t have worn any of those cute pairs on the bike) and I still walk a lot. So comfy shoes are a must have. Trousers and jeans that are slim, skinny (best for bikes) or straight are a go to. I prefer maxi dresses or skirts as they are more comfortable in an air conditioned office in summer. But I don’t buy anything that is cute but polyester. I don’t mind ironing for 20-30 minutes now and again. Also French people put best things away after one wear unless sweaty, so less laundry. Less ironing.
I was living in Japan last year and wore a LOT of longish pleated skirts. I realized that this style is perfect for cycling--whereas the long silk column dress with slits down the sides that I brought from the US would unfortunately be constantly blowing up WAY past my knees whenever I was on my bike. I ended up saving that dress for rainy days, lol.
You're wonderful and captivating! I haven't been to France, but I've been living in Italy for five years and throughout the video I was thinking, This is what I see everyday. I didn't realise that Italian and French styles are similar.
@@unblahyourself I'd say Italian (and Spanish style also) is more feminine than current popular French style. Which to me is an improvement. Also: I just went back to Paris last month and noticed that people dressed kind of sloppy. Like a little too much of the "I don't care what I look like" 🤔
@@unblahyourself I'd love to see you do a similar video on Italian style. You'll have to make one or more "research" tips in Italy to do it well, but I think you're up to the challenge! If you do, please cover the south as well as the north. Milanese dress in too many dark colors. Romans, Sicilians, Sardinians, etc. have much more fun and life in their ensembles.
Classic looks are always preferable. It doesn’t have to be expensive (old money🙄) just fewer items but really good quality and affordable. And a simple makeup. And it’s even quicker on a daily basis ❤
my romanian grandpa used to wear a beret when he'd take the cows grazing, on the top of the mountain. I feel entitled to wear a beret if i style it with romanian folk wear😂 (even though he'd be wearing office style pants, cotton off white shirts and office style vests and leather office shoes... to walk cows through mud)
@@SewardWriter, yes! My great-uncle would wear a shirt, smart trousers, brogues, tie and tweed jacket out working on the farm. There might be mystery stains on the tie (lunch? cow poo?) but he was no scruff! It was just how it was done.
Your sense of humour and droll commentary are hilarious. I also like the choppy slightly jaded tone of voice. I like it, Ms. French Girl (But Not Ms. French Girl)
Loved this. I’ve learned that if you feel like you’re wearing a costume, it’s not the right style for you. I LOVE that silk beaded jacket…on you. I would feel ridiculous. Boring is my favorite. Always has been. I’ve been wearing navy and white striped shirts since o was a little girl. My daughter says stripes are my favorite color 😂. I love neutrals. Not all Americans are into such colorful clothes. But we do express the more here. Minimal classic style is the foundation of French style, with the details you mentioned sprinkled in. And minimal classic is me. I remember when I got my first pencil skirt ❤. I was 11. My first black turtleneck in 8th grade when I borrowed my mom’s ❤. Button up blouses in middle school ❤. And I’ve never been without since. It’s just my personal style. In college my roommate asked me why all my clothes were black, white, navy, or gray with some blue sprinkled in. I had never noticed. So, I dutifully went out and bought 1 shirt in each color and put them in my closet. And left them there. 😂 I do wear some color now. But I also wear a lot of neutrals.
I really wish I could be that minimal! It looks great and is easier to mix and match. I just like things a bit wilder. It's a wonderful thing when people really know what they like and just go for it. You're lucky to know yourself! ❤
@@unblahyourself and I wish I could be a little quirky like you! But I learned to know the difference between admiring it on others and liking it for myself. I still have to stop myself sometimes, like when I saw your jacket and I was ready to find something like it! It’s so pretty!! I went through what I call the lost years after I had kids. I lost my identity as a corporate woman when I became a SAHM. I didn’t know what I liked anymore! It took years to figure it out. I wanted to be cool! Trendy! Hip! I didn’t want to look like a MOM! 😂 But I eventually circled back around to what I truly love. And I know my style very well now. Anyway, this is the best explanation I have ever seen, and your dry humor is my favorite. I’m a new viewer and already subscribed. I’d love if you did a hair and makeup tutorial from the way you styled it in this video. The first two things I thought were “I love her hair and makeup! Ooohhh! I love her outfit! I wore it last week!” 😂😂😂
The key for the French girl style is to be slim. The fact is that all these things will not look good on slightly bigger sizes. The key word is « silhouette» right? I think someone of a fuller size needs more trendy or sophisticated style than the French quite basic style. So, it’s not for everyone! Thank you for this very interesting and funny video!
My mom (who's very short and very curvy, and French as well) would highly disagree with you. Slim isn't equal to silhouette. A good silhouette is all about a perfect fit and finding clothes that fits you perfectly. The thing is to accept your size, and not try to fit into clothes that are too tight just because of a number (when I say ''you'' I don't mean you in particular but people in general). So nicely cut, good quality clothes with a perfect fit, AND choosing the form that suits your morphology is key I find ^^
I disagree I think it's about ratios and proportions, not directly slimness It's about shoulders to waist to hips to ankles You can match your own dimensions with colours and shapes that sit properly on your own dimensions, regardless of how slim or curvy you are. Also, notice she is matching textures by using opposites like smooth and knitted together, or patterned and plain together.. these add interest instead of having to go expensive or over colourful. People can use texture and plain/pattern at any size. Don't dismiss design tips from feeling dispirited, look again for what does apply, and remember her motto, the key, dont care what anyone else thinks about how you look
Or keep the "heaglights" from lightning up the floor😏. Not everyone is a B cup. Some of us are bigger than a C or even a D cup and need a LOT of structure...
I came to say the same things. Can't help the size of my breasts, and the padding is necessary for structures. 36G here. I could have had surgery years ago but opted not to (fear). Am feeling this means I must be dreadfully un-chic. Oh well.
I REALLY wanted to hate this video TH-cam fed me this morning, Diana, and switch it off after the first minute or so, because I have sooooo much work to do. But, I watched the entire bleeping thing, and I'm totally hooked, LOVED it, and subscribed! Hahahaha.
I love your videos. You have lots of style and great humour! Your recommendation about foundation garments is spot on, especially for those of us of seriously mature years 🤫Your thrift stores must be fashion heaven! In the UK it often seems they're mostly what people have bought cheap, worn once and thrown out! We call them charity stores here because they are all dedicated to raising money for charitable organisations caring/doing research for people and animals with health crises or disabilities. That's how I experience them, anyway. I don't live in London, so maybe that's half the problem!! Haha! Also, the UK weather/architecture is mostly grey (a bit like Paris, as already described by other comments). I think it is possible to have style on a budget, it just takes a lot of time, patience and rummaging through rails and rails of clothes to find those classic items that you can accent with something a little quirky but discrete. I'm not a model, I've worn some kind of school/work uniform for more than half my life (I'm 74) and I don't have a big budget. I make my clothes last, even the cheap ones, by careful laundering and hanging. Yes, life changes all the time but classic lines don't and they almost always look 'finished' and, (dare I say it?), elegant.
You've got plenty of "I don't know what"! I just love saying that in English. Depending on how you say it, it could be mysterious or could be something communicable. Lol!
Let’s start a drawer for the eccentric pieces and find a way to wear them so they see the light of day!
Yes! The Eccentric Drawer! I love it! 🤩
lol 😂
Another French styling tip is to bring attention to your greatest asset (without being vulgar of course). If you have shapely legs, wear skirts or shorts. If you have a shapely derrière, then a crop top, ruffle detail, or peplum might show the curve if your back. A pretty face, wear a scarf, or flower or hat to draw attention upward.
The French focus on finding their best qualities to emphasize them, rather than seeking imperfections to hide their flaws. This gives them confidence and good self esteem. Americans have been trained to look for flaws and imperfections, whereas French women ignore them, or even embrace them as something that makes them appear unique or exotic. Confidence is sexy. Overt sexiness is simply vulgar and makes a woman look desperate for attention, or shows that she’s trying too hard.
Perfectly said!! 😘
Americans prefer comfort first and don't care what people say, they are simple. They live working and do not stop at a cafe for hours, at least in this area. The houses are gray and most of the year it is winter. The French dress in those basic colors because that is what they see around them, in the environment. I have seen fashion designers from France (unknown) trying to tell the rest of the world that they dress badly, because in France they have the patent of good taste. She is an artist but her clothes don't reflect that, her clothes are boring, not creative. They’re boring of themselves that why they have to find creative directors from other countries. If you go to a tropical place with vibrant nature and happy, friendly personalities; You won't see them dressing up for a funeral with layers or thicker fabric they wearing colors to reflect the lights and heat. Every culture is different, no one has a patent on anything.
I love this!
We can't wear cardigans in summer.
A lovely thought and way to encourage confidence! Thank you! Look for the positive aspects! We all have them. 💖
The thrift store IS our mythical rich aunt, and I refuse to be convinced otherwise!
Yes!
Yes! Many a quirky 80s jacket to be found there.
agreed!😂❤
@@susanma4899 Clothes were better made and the fabrics were nicer, too. I buy vintage but only certain designers because I know how they'll fit me (important since I buy much of my stuff on eBay or Poshmark). I volunteer in a thrift store so we get first crack at the good stuff that comes in. My town is wealthy so we're talking Pucci, Frette, Sonia Rykiel, etc. But thrifting isn't for everyone -
RIGHT?! Especially in Paris!! 🤩💯 have you ever experienced it? I recommend checking out the thrift stores in every neighborhood. However, pay close attention to the area to determine the style you're wanting to look for. Don't thrift shop near the Eiffel Tower. It's overpriced, overcrowded and overrated. Instead go up to the area where Moulin Rouge is located. The poorer neighborhoods of Paris not only have cheaper prices you'll be able to find really rare finds from old donations.
I'm French, born n raised etc and I think you did a pretty good job at unpacking the "je ne sais quoi style". Well done 👏🏻
Thank you! 😃 I really love to hear from real French women because I'm trying to convey the respect and love I have for this style and I want to make sure that I get it as right as I can from this side of the pond. ❤
You nailed it ! I'm a (standard-not-parisian) french woman and it was so accurate ! Even the jean shorts : it IS a must have peace in the spring/summer seasons ;-) Bravo !
But, we are NOT trying too hard. We really do not care as much as foreigners seem to think 😉
I'm glad I wasn't too far off-base! I've had other French women tell me how intense the pressure is to maintain a thin figure and how much they actually do for their skin, but I think they really don't overthink most other things and they definitely don't over-do.
I always appreciate input from real French women so thank you!
So refreshing to see a smart TH-camr using interesting, varied vocabulary. Nice personality too.
Thank you!
Yes! I totally agree.
I'm a French girl, and I validate this video's message: do not wear a barret.
You really nailed the principles and basics of the typical French girl look. Très bien!
I genuinely like berets, but I associate them more with the Basque culture than with France.
I wore them…in Prague
Nothing wrong with a beret. If you feel cliche in one, of course don’t wear one.
They were worn for centuries in other countries as well.
I have French ancestry, and I love wearing berets. I don’t care what anyone says! 😂 I’m not trying to look French in them, I just like them.
I will die in my beret. I bought my first one when I was 12 in toronto, and I feel most me in a beret... Except in summer, no summer beret.
😂😂😂 this was so funny. Coming originally from Germany I lived a few years in France and in Paris. And now I am quite often in France. Some points of the cliché are correct. But NEVER wear a marinière nor a berret in Paris. People will think you mock about them. Tourists will be recognised as tourists, everywhere in the world. We should stop imitating some styles which are en vogue at one moment. We should wear what we like and what is comfortable for us and looks good. 😊
Not true. I just came back from Paris and one night at pretty famous restaurant there was a couple sitting right next to us. And the woman was wearing a marinier shirt, and they were French !
I'm American but I own about 5 or six marinieres all in slightly different styles. I just love the look!
I'm a French who live in the USA and I always and I find French fashion so boring while americans have no sense of taste.
I agree we should wear what we want. That’s what I did. Had a great time and didn’t bother anyone. I’m not trying to dress like the locals.
I watch a French fashion influencer called the French Chic Lady and she has about a dozen different marinieres in her wardrobe.
Here in the US there is such a focus on luxe, new-looking bags. When I visited France, it was such a relief to see every other woman carrying a well-loved Longchamp tote 😂 I now do the same (I even buy them second-hand). I can’t do a red lip but I do everything else in this video - the great part is these principles work as well at 55 as they do at 25.
“We’ve got this tiny, little bag that’s completely inconvenient.” 😂
Your sense of humor is so refreshing and entertaining.
Wonderful video!
Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Best French girl style video I’ve seen!! Thank you for making it practical and fun!
Yay! Thank you! I'm glad you liked it! ☺
Im 68 and I've always been into boho or punk looks. But 2 years ago I finally decided I was getting too close to mutton dressed as lamb, so i made the switch to coastal grandmother/French chic style. And i am loving the more elegant look! I am plus size, but I still look great. (I've learned tricks to wear clothes in a way to make me appear slimmer.) I can add a couple of my old pieces, a black moto jacket, a flowy skirt, eyelet, without looking like I'm in a costume.
This sounds like my style, lol. I love the soft flowy, relaxed look of coastal grandmother….and I also have several moto jackets to go with my dozens of jeans!
@magdlynstrouble2036 mutton dressed as lamb 😂😂😂
Oui, oui! Muttonized Lamb! 😂
Glad you clunked out of the English countryside of King Arthur and bicycled on down to the south of France. Tres bien!
I'm in my 60s as well, and I'm kind of doing the same thing. I'm developing a mix of classic/coastal grandma pieces with some boho flare. It's like a thousand degrees in summer where I live, and layering for interest isn't possible, so I just ordered three lightweight Mediterranean/Moroccan-style long caftans that I can dress up or down as needed with jewelry and footwear. Very sort of 1970s Slim Aarons Palm Springs or Capri by the pool. If I like them, I'll order more. I'm done with trying to look hot, young, and thin. It's more important to look like me while being comfortable and reasonably put together at the same time. I want to look nice, but I'm tired of the pressure to always look thinner or more dressed up. It doesn't work for my lifestyle living and working at home in the desert.
I look for punk, but not stereotypical. I thrift shop, and you won’t find any safety pins or studs in my wardrobe. Baggy clothes and plaid skirts or a vintage 60s style. A French New Wave look. Which was how I dressed in the punk era. A lot of us wore the pointy toed shoes and sheath skirts sometimes with Monkey boots or docs. A lot is said for the shoes and hair. Docs just make a punk flair, especially those outside the usual 1460s
You’ve been in my closet. Not living in France but next door to it. Thing is, I’ve had my vintage pieces since they were new. I no longer have money, but I guess I was my own rich aunt.
This was the most entertaining YT video I’ve seen all yr. You are a breath of fresh air. Finally someone w/a personality and sense of humor.
Thank you so much! 😘
I was thinking the same thing. Top 👑
I agree with you wholeheartedly!
Great video! Clever, fun, humous, and entertaining! Loved it! And you've got style!
❤❤🥰❤❤
Cute video! I don’t feel competitive with chic French style! I always add my touch! We women should stick together, no matter what country of origin! Clothes are fun! Yes, I already try too hard! American way! Hehe! Love to see your great outfits! Thanks for that!
Thanks Bella! I'm glad you're here! Yes, the more women stick together, the better it gets!
I'm French and I want to know the secrets of the French girl style as well
Moi aussi ! 😂
@@ainselart moi aussi 😊
Love it! I laughed the entire video. Subscribed.
Thanks so much, Blane! I've been very sick this week and I'm just getting back to everyone but this comment really makes my day. Stick around because we have a lot of fun here! 😘 And thanks for subscribing! ❤❤❤
Love it!😍"I didn´t even notice how muh I dont care»!😂
😂
😂
All great tips. The part that socked me was 46?!!!! I was sitting here thinking we were both 36!
my French mom used to call the sweet knitted jumper her "petite laine" = "little wool". It is indeed a staple in any french woman's wardrobe.
Cute!
Mais oui !! My grandma always says to me: Mets-toi une petite laine. Il fait frais 😅
@@kath6720and une petite laine is so handy to have. It’s so easy to carry if you get too warm, hides under other garments without altering your look! A definite must have!
I have always felt, as I have often traveled between France and Italy, that Italian style combines French fit, fabric and cut with the American love of color.
Well put, and I like it!
But Italian ladies seem to love high heels no matter what. Italian American ladies do too!
@@magdlynstrouble2036 but who cares what Italian American women like? No one is trying to emulate them.
@@MexicobeanpoleEveryone cares about Italian fashion people eat it! Go to Milan nobody dresses like the Italians! I was laughing at everything she showed! Of course I’m Italian!!!🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
@@RightisRight-jl3ho
I love Italian style.
Your style is refreshing unlike other french style channels. You are so unblah and I am loving it.
Wow, thank you! Glad you're here!
Being from a French family, and mostly French area, you forgot one thing…superior attitude, lol. After living 10 years in the southern US, I returned home to my French Canadian town. The rude behaviour felt like a slap in the face after the manners of North Carolina. And French Canadians are just a milder version of Parisian French. Just stating the truth.
I was born and raised in France and my entire family is there, except for me because I married an American. You are quite right. They are so arrogant!!! Americans (or tourists of other nations) think that the French are arrogant and rude only to them. Bien sur que non! They are the same to their own compatriots. I love to drive them crazy when I'm home by saying good morning or good afternoon and smiling. LOL
Same and you are correct! 😆
The French have an unearned superiority complex stemming from insecurity.
I was born and raised in France ; I have lived 20 years in Paris and 10 years in North Carolina. Paris is full of very nice people and some rude people ; North Carolina? The same!!!
I found the French very polite, even after they heard me struggle with French.
Love it, you look like Marion Cotillard! :)
You're right!!!!!
Wow, thank you! That is a big compliment!
She DOES! I was trying to figure out who she reminded me of.
1000%! I couldn't put my finger on who she looked but it's definitely her
This was very entertaining and informative 👏 👍
Thank you Tracie! 🥰
I love the “add something bizarre” philosophy. That applies to home decor for me, as well…ya know, the kind of thing that when Mom comes for a visit she just stares at it in dumbfounded silence, utterly confused as to why her otherwise normal daughter would have such a thing
Oh I LOVE the bizarre!
That’s hilarious. We live to dumbfound our mothers 😂
My daughter is going to France in September or the next 8 months. I found fabulous clothes at Goodwill, like a fine wool blend trench coat that fits perfectly. Following your recommendations, I found classic conservative brands that fit her body type. Including shoes, we spent a total of $150. For a really amazing wardrobe. She has three custom made pieces from vintage Vogue patterns. The patterns were a quarter each and the top quality fabrics were in my stash, waiting for a purpose. She found two lined wool pencil skirts at a vintage clothing store for $7 each. She already has a fab wool coat for winter. Now we need to finish with a few of those bags! I did choose two bright blouses in tailored styles for a splash of color. Her statement piece ( from the rich aunt) is a paisley blazer made from French brocade that was on sale for ten dollars a yard. Perfectly fitted, and I used the paisley so that it lands in swirls that enhance her rather straight figure. Totally unique and six grand at Neiman Marcus!
Amazing! ❤❤❤❤
Your daughter will enjoy her sojourn in Paris and is perfectly prepared, thanks to you and crafty shopping and sewing! In the 1940s and 1950s, my grandmother would take my mother to a fancy shop or tea room to study the fashions. My grandmother would come home, cut a pattern (from memory) from newspaper, and sew such delightful treasures. I'm so glad you're continuing that great tradition!
2 mins in and I am totally digging this
Thanks for being here!
Thank you for saying what I was thinking as I watched all of the other French style videos. Those clothes are BORING and even though they are classic, they lack excitement for me. I want to have fun with my clothes, wearing all oatmeal colored clothes with a trench coat over it is not it. Life is too short for. 🎉
I knew I couldn't be the only one! Haha! Oatmeal! Yes! Life is too short for Blah. I watch a lot of style videos and sometimes I'm like, "Don't these chicks want to have any FUN??" 🤣
Same with the scandinavian style.
That is totally un french too!
So agree. Tired of the must have list, all beige or black. Let's decorate ourselves with items we have fun and interesting. Please yourself. Way to go Diana. Love your content.
The sparkly jacket came to life when it was balanced immediately with the black shoes. No drama with the first shoes. Nice tip.
"We want to look bored with ourselves" "You care, not me!" "I didn't even notice how much I don't care!" So funny!
So glad I randomly clicked on this youtube suggestion. Totally entertaining, informative and HILARIOUS...TOTALLY!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for hanging with us! ❤❤❤
Ditto!!! I wanted it to go on and on!
Really informative and entertaining, you made 36 minutes fly by.
Thanks Kathy! I appreciate you being here! ❤
I’ve never been so entertained and informed at the same time.
Glad you liked this! 😘
Just wanted to add: thank you for all the time it took to change into so many outfits and all the editing that had be done afterwards. I love the visuals of everything you explain being actually shown. So helpful. So yes, really really appreciate it. Huge thank you!
Wow thank you! It is a LOT of work but I enjoy sharing!
Bwa hahaha Diana! You're quickly becoming my favourite style youtuber! Love your sense of humour and joie de vivre!
I'm Canadian but I've been living in Belgium for some 24 years now, and I can tell you, you are spot on! Well done!
That adorable tulip cardigan would be "un gilet". A jumper (aka "un pull") usually doesn't have any front opening or buttons. Basically what we North Americans would call a knit sweater.
Sylvie! Thanks so much! And thanks for the French lesson. As much as I love French lifestyle and Parisian street style, I should learn more French. I'm just terrible at learning languages! I admire anyone who speaks more than one. I hope you're enjoying Belgium. I hope to see it someday!
I need to go through my closet and choose a bag with which to go to the market to buy cilantro...but I don't care.
😂
😂
😂
Hysterical!
😂
Not that you care (😉), you cilantro-buying chic lady, but this is absolutely one of the best videos I have seen on how to dress like the French. Great tips, no matter where you live, delivered with good humor.
Thank you so much! ❤😊❤
Ok. “To not care”!?!? Well, I think Americans have nailed this one! I see people walking around in their house slippers and pajama bottoms all the time!!! Hmmm….guess we have “out-Frenched” the French🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂
Walmart run!!! 🤣
Nope because there is no quality at all to turning up in an old tee shirt, frequently grubby, out of shape. And pj bottoms again. Out of shape and grubby.
And onesies! Don’t forget the onesies!
I was thinking about this one- I don’t think it’s about not caring- I think it’s about lifestyle- walking, cycling, having small bathrooms, I don’t really know but I would guess it comes off as not trying too hard but you just can’t wear showy shoes, fussy clothing, hair or makeup bc it will be mussed up during your daily commute
Another title for this could be “how to actually wear all the boring and the weird items from your closet”. This video ought to bring my cost per wear down 🎉
I was born in California, but I have always been far more French in my style/look than ever was I American. I cannot get down with all the maintenance that it takes to fit the standards here, even 20yr olds are paying to keep up with...at a time in their life when beauty should be far more effortless. French women know real beauty.
I am a light-skinned Italian with some grey hair who never goes for cleavage but likes a bizarre item here and there. Now I get why so many Britons take me for French.
I am really glad that I found your channel. 👌🏽
Most of the French Chic Fashion Channels
are soo serious about everything, uff
Thanks for being here! I'm glad you enjoyed this one. I feel like that's why I started making these videos. I was SO BORED with the vibe, you know? Can we just be a little silly and have fun? Yes!
Marie-Anne le Coeur is a serious and funny/silly French Chic stylist I love. I wonder what she'd think of this video. I bet she'd get a kick out of it. (She does love her marinieres, btw, but never a beret.)
I love how you articulated the elements of French girl fashion. I moved to France not long ago, and I'm having fun pointing out these different elements to my husband as we're people-watching at a cafe ("Look! There's the shopping bag, undone hair, and one weird thing!") It's a fun game 🤣
I wish I could be there to play it too! 😍
The most important feature is a healthy body size/weight. You nailed👏👏👏
Brit here. A jumper is what you call a sweater. A cardigan is still a cardigan :)
That first rich aunt jacket (bejeweled black one) is something I would totally wear.
I'm French and I loved this video :D
Aah! I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you 😊
Wonder if French girls make how to look like a normal American woman - question also what is a normal American woman look 😊
This video randomly entered by feed. This is the most therapeutic laugh I’ve had in a LOOOOOONG time. She is so hilarious. Instant follower.
Thank you! Glad you're here! Lots of fun to come!
@@unblahyourself Yaay!!! 🥳 I’ve been getting back into fashion and clothes for fun and self-expression lately (I’m 65 and post-menopausally plump), and I enjoy what you’re saying in this video SO much! I love to add something bizarre to what I’m wearing, or put it in my house! I’m subscribing! 👍 Clothes should be fun! P.S. so at this point, I guess *I’m* the rich aunt… and I LOVE that silk embroidered jacket! 😍
American here with some experience abroad. When I asked my French friends why they wear scarves they said temperature control. Keeps you warmer in colder temps and cools you off when it’s hot (if the right fabric). Same reason for the “petit laine” sweater. Can help keep you warmer in a pinch or keep the sun off your arms if it’s hot.
Love the video and your sense of humor. I think you nailed a lot of what I’ve experienced as French style in my time living there. Anyone looking to tweak their personal style in this direction has some great jumping off points thanks to your hilarious synopsis!
Thank you! ❤❤❤❤❤
Perfect video - love it! I think the term you keep describing would be “je ne sais quoi” in French. I’m an American living in London who just visited Paris last weekend, and feel these outfits are all perfect. I felt my biggest compliment to what I was wearing was when locals would immediately speak French to me (& I’d have to apologise that I only speak English 😢).
When I was in Paris 7 years ago, 3/4 of all people wore scarfs. Men, women and children. Also sometimes dogs. It was late April
I was in Paris in April of 2008, but it was still cold. People wore their winter scarves, not silk, because they were still wearing their winter coats. I wish I could have seen people wearing their warm-weather outfits, but it was not to be.
A Parisienne would tie that vintage cowboy silk scarf to the strap of the handbag. It coordinates well with the red patch on the bag and totally ties your outfit together. Without trying to hard.
I loved every one of your outfits and how you reveal the “je ne sais quoi” quality behind each one. Oh, and did you say you are 46? You look amazing! I'm a bit older and bustier than you and have been wearing unpadded sport bras for a couple of years now because they give that natural silhouette you talk about.
I'm glad you liked the video! Thank you! Once I started to realize that the unpadded bra was a key French look and started wearing it, I started to wonder why we ever tolerated being so padded up!
Been binging your videos. Love your humour and effortless approach. So very french, in fact!
I do love the Breton stripe shirt, and I wear mostly classic style (and natural bras), so I am halfway there already, but I appreciate your outfits as inspiration for making things more interesting.
Thank you so much, Karen!
In every Diana-video, there’s a moment where I just burst out laughing- ‘trapped with my arms stuck in a dress afraid I’ll die there’ was that moment! Bluntly relatable!! 😅🤣
And of course, such beautiful clothing pieces and outfits!✨
Another fun style experience to try- confident simplicity.
Nearly every trip to try things on, I get my arms stuck in a dress like that. I never ever learn! 😅
Been stuck in a leather skirt before. Good times
I am commenting on this though it is a year old! Glad I came to this party albeit late. As a Canadian with a lot of a French and American influences, a lot of what you say makes sense. French Canadian women have a French style but it is more rustic because of our cooler climate. However, they dress so much more noticeably feminine in the larger cities like Montreal and Quebec. I love their summer dresses … and they keep it simple with the white camis and jeans with a remarkable shoe! Often red! Love this channel! Thank you!❤
I like that! Thanks for sharing!
Iabsolutly love your style. I would wear almost everything. I am a thrifter and would pick up every piece you demonstrate. It is so refreshing that you are not trying to get us to buy new items but thrift amazing pieces and find pieces in our closet that we may have that are similar. Thank you!😊 ❤
I'm so glad you liked it!❤
American sarcasm is one of the most unique and beloved traits of the American woman.😅
I've lived in Europe and I always felt like I had something to offer in my style. Let's not forget that European women admire and strive for the style of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy.... All American Icons of style. 😊
Audrey Hepburn was British and born in Belgium. Not much of America in her.
Yeah, no.
Some but far from all & Audrey wasnt american.
Audrey?😂😂😂
Jacqueline has french roots and Audrey was belgian🤪
@@tbasset Nope! She was half Dutch half britisch her britisch father was a banker her Dutch mother a Baroness born in Belgium
I'm very, very fortunate to spend time in France every year. The first time I went I realized most of the people wearing what we call "French girl style" are tourists cosplaying "french girl style"
Your Bob really translates well to the French style of “I’m beautiful and polished, but I don’t care” 😂 you look great! Also this video was really fun and silly. Subbed.
😁 thank you! Slightly silly is always what I am for!
Your take on French style was a breath of fresh air. I love the French esthetic (simple and neutral) but the endless stream of “French girl style” and what you should own to get that look videos were becoming mind numbingly boring. Yours made me laugh out loud (cilantro!) and as an American woman, gave me some good tips to use my own wardrobe in new ways. Kudos.
Thank you so much Suzanne! I'm really glad you liked it! 😘
A great video about the French essence and the style. On point:-) Thank you.
I'm glad you liked it! Thank you for being here! 😘
French style has always felt to me like you have taken your whole wardrobe, dropped it on the floor and had to find an outfit in 30 seconds. It works because of the quality of the pieces and the neutral colours, so it's never sloppy looking.
Haha yes! That.
I think that about how the Brits dress (in real life, not in old movies), except nothing is neutral and none of it goes together.
Non one in France nor in Paris wears a beret unless they are very old people or tourists 🤣 Also, it is not that the French want to appear not to care, it is just a different perspective on style. I think it can be fun to find inspiration in other countries, but no matter where you are from and where you are living, if it is just a "copy and paste" outfit, it will be booooorrrrring and cliché ! I love your video, and the big fluffy sweater with the shorts, you nailed it ! This is very French indeed !
Yay! Glad you think so!
I just found your channel and I absolutely love your sense of humour! 😅 You're not taking it too serously, but still giving very good tips. I also adore French girl style, but sometimes I feel like giving up on it because of my very limited budget and also because it IS a little bit boring as such. But this gives me new inspiration! French girl style + creativity, I love it! 😍
Thrifting is the way to go! There's no way I'd be able to dress this way without thrift stores!
Great video! After observing what Stephanie from The Château Diaries wears in her YT videos, I agree with 99% of everything you said. I only disagree about a French woman buying cilantro. She would actually but coriander. 😂 Seriously though what you said about wearing your good clothes is spot on. Stephanie lives in a very rural area of France and yet she wears the most beautiful dresses just to putter (or faff) around the house and do chores. Very inspiring.
Thanks for sharing!! I love that!
I need to start wearing more scarves and finding cool clothes at the thrift shops. Thanks for inspiring me. ❤
This is probably the best video about French style I've ever seen, even compared to the videos from actual French girls. The problem is, because they're always working hard to look effortless and want everyone to believe it's all effortless, they seem to contradict themselves a lot. 😅 "Oh French women NEVER eat unhealthy food." "When I need some sugar I eat small treats and only have 1 cup of coffee." There's a lot of saying they don't do things and then later telling you they DO do those things, but there are rules and it's all quite strict to maintain the image that they want to present. You just gave it to us straight with plenty of examples. You nailed it!
Glad you liked this! 😘
I laughed the whole entire video. Your presentation is just so fun and funny( in a good way). I love it. Thanks for bringing humour when talking about fashion👏
😊
The beaded bolero is authentic vintage likely 1988-93. It's called a trophy bolero. It would have had a matching dress or pants. Trophy style. Because its meant to look like you're a trophy wife
Thank you Diana! I laughed out LOUD at, “I’m picking up my cilantro at the Farmer’s Market.”😂❤😂❤😂
Me too! I just watched this, and had tears from laughing so hard at that. 🤣. I love her dry sense of humor.
I died at the 'I don't need to get cilantro, I already got that.'
@marylopez3777 I'm always picking up cilantro at a Parisian farmer's market in my dreams!!
You truly captured French style and with such humor. Love it!
😂😂😂😂 I LOVED all of the outfits 👏👏👏👏. I must just say that I was in Paris 3 weeks ago and french women were not wearing white sneakers, the tourist yes, but not the locals, probably because they get dirty to easily. And the only people wearing berets are the tourist.
I ended up loving these outfits too! I'm especially excited to wear more strapless tops this summer and use that basket bag A LOT. I was advised by my teen Parisienne friend about the sneakers but she says it's possible they are moving on to different types of sneakers now, not just white. As an older lady, I find it hard to style them without looking older. I prefer flats with most outfits so I don't usually choose the sneakers.
I absolutely loved people watching while living in Paris. However, I learned the most by observing my French boyfriend as well as his friends and family. There's something truly magical about the French's ability to not stress about the little things. The way they look clearly reflects that. It's an effortless effort. They have mastered the roll out of bed look. I'm all for it. French girls don't care if their hair is messy. They'll wear sneakers with a dress. However, hygiene is a huge thing. Their clothes are fresh. Their skin is clean and clear. They smell pleasant. I have seen a business man wear leather loafers that looked like fuzzy house slippers in the back. That was a whole new level of business casual. I feel it's so much easier for me to find my style by using the French mentality. Thanks for the video pretty lady 🌻
Thanks for sharing! I really do appreciate a clean yet effortless vibe. But definitely clean!
Also a very french formula - wearing bottoms shorter than knee - length, wear flats! When wearing bottoms longer than knee - wear heels.
Yes yes yes, you have said what I came here to say!
Well done!!!! I just wonder about "headlights" when wearing a barely-there bra. With my very much larger sized bra size, I gotta say, the padding gives me that extra confidence that I'm not advertising as much as I might otherwise. But it would explain why, in spite of living in France for 2 years, I never fully achieved the French Girl look.
I loved this! I agree, appearing like "I didn't try & don't care at all" is the most French. I'm German and we are generally known for having awful style sense, most of us really don't care - and it shows. ;-) I'm a little different, so most of the time I stick out here (maybe not so much when I'm in Berlin, but that doesn't count...).
As my favourite hat style is berets - they just suit me best - I've got them in any color and have worn them constantly from autumn to spring for over 20 years. I'm going to spend some time in France so I'm a little worried now, I really do not want to appear like I'm mocking anybody or that I dressed up for the occasion. But the French aren't entitled to that hat style, many Europeans wear beret/Barret/basque. Also: stripes have always been my favourite shirt pattern, about a third of my shirts could be considered a "marinière". I live near the Baltic sea, it is quite common here.
So, well. What can I do? I genuinely like to wear the berets and the marinières. I don't care that much. The moment I open my mouth in France people will notice my abysmal school French and kinda know that I'm not from there anyway...
I think you can wear what you want as long as you're not the dreaded American. 😂
I love the mariniere, and I'm gonna keep wearing it. I have it in black and a couple shades of blue.
I think that if that style is authentically 'you' it will show through and help you to be more relaxed and yourself while you are there. Would a French woman be having these concerns? No she would not (if we believe the don't care attitude) so neither should you 😊
We call the button up 'jumpers' cardigans, in Uk. It's generally considered quite classy but cosy.
It's been only a couple of days I've discovered your channel and I like it so much! I love your sense of humour, which points out that getting dress is not a job, but pure fun. I also love your original, cute indeed styling suggestions, totally meeting my taste. Thank you for your time and spirit, you are adorable!!
Thank you Vicky! Glad you're here!
lol I love the rich aunt tip
Now, if only owning those pieces produced a real rich aunt!
Please note that woven basket bag is carried only in summer months, and is a big no-no in other seasons.
I love your white lace top with jeans and neutral flats ❤
Very cool video! Love this thrift shop you visited - real gems!! Am heading over to Paris at end of May and will do my best to just not care! 😂 Brilliant tips - thanks heaps!!
I'm glad you enjoyed this! Remember to actually care but pretend that you don't! 😄
I really really enjoyed all the looks. I’m envious of that sweet cardigan with the tulips 🌷!
I find that I naturally gravitate towards clothes such as you mentioned. I used to cycle quite a bit (it tended to ruin my nice shoes so I wouldn’t have worn any of those cute pairs on the bike) and I still walk a lot. So comfy shoes are a must have. Trousers and jeans that are slim, skinny (best for bikes) or straight are a go to. I prefer maxi dresses or skirts as they are more comfortable in an air conditioned office in summer. But I don’t buy anything that is cute but polyester. I don’t mind ironing for 20-30 minutes now and again. Also French people put best things away after one wear unless sweaty, so less laundry. Less ironing.
You make sense. I'll subscribe. I'm old and from Australia. X
Welcome!!
Ditto. Old. Just subscribed. Brit but living in Poland
Ditto, old and also from Australia. Just found you, very amusing and useful!
Aloha from old and a clothes lover in Hawaii
I was living in Japan last year and wore a LOT of longish pleated skirts. I realized that this style is perfect for cycling--whereas the long silk column dress with slits down the sides that I brought from the US would unfortunately be constantly blowing up WAY past my knees whenever I was on my bike. I ended up saving that dress for rainy days, lol.
You're wonderful and captivating! I haven't been to France, but I've been living in Italy for five years and throughout the video I was thinking, This is what I see everyday. I didn't realise that Italian and French styles are similar.
Interesting! A lot of people have been mentioning Italian style to me!
@@unblahyourself I'd say Italian (and Spanish style also) is more feminine than current popular French style. Which to me is an improvement.
Also: I just went back to Paris last month and noticed that people dressed kind of sloppy. Like a little too much of the "I don't care what I look like" 🤔
@@unblahyourself I'd love to see you do a similar video on Italian style. You'll have to make one or more "research" tips in Italy to do it well, but I think you're up to the challenge! If you do, please cover the south as well as the north. Milanese dress in too many dark colors. Romans, Sicilians, Sardinians, etc. have much more fun and life in their ensembles.
I am so glad that I found your channel. Love, love, love! Your style and sense of humor is fun and refreshing.
Classic looks are always preferable. It doesn’t have to be expensive (old money🙄) just fewer items but really good quality and affordable. And a simple makeup. And it’s even quicker on a daily basis ❤
my romanian grandpa used to wear a beret when he'd take the cows grazing, on the top of the mountain. I feel entitled to wear a beret if i style it with romanian folk wear😂 (even though he'd be wearing office style pants, cotton off white shirts and office style vests and leather office shoes... to walk cows through mud)
Love that!
❤
Sounds like an old school farmer to me. What we call "dressy" or "office" often stems from everyday clothing of prior eras.
My Argentine uncle gave me an old wool beret that I treasure but I can’t wear it because I don’t want to look like an idiot or a mime.
@@SewardWriter, yes! My great-uncle would wear a shirt, smart trousers, brogues, tie and tweed jacket out working on the farm. There might be mystery stains on the tie (lunch? cow poo?) but he was no scruff! It was just how it was done.
Your sense of humour and droll commentary are hilarious. I also like the choppy slightly jaded tone of voice. I like it, Ms. French Girl (But Not Ms. French Girl)
Loved this. I’ve learned that if you feel like you’re wearing a costume, it’s not the right style for you. I LOVE that silk beaded jacket…on you. I would feel ridiculous.
Boring is my favorite. Always has been. I’ve been wearing navy and white striped shirts since o was a little girl. My daughter says stripes are my favorite color 😂. I love neutrals. Not all Americans are into such colorful clothes. But we do express the more here.
Minimal classic style is the foundation of French style, with the details you mentioned sprinkled in. And minimal classic is me. I remember when I got my first pencil skirt ❤. I was 11. My first black turtleneck in 8th grade when I borrowed my mom’s ❤. Button up blouses in middle school ❤. And I’ve never been without since. It’s just my personal style.
In college my roommate asked me why all my clothes were black, white, navy, or gray with some blue sprinkled in. I had never noticed. So, I dutifully went out and bought 1 shirt in each color and put them in my closet. And left them there. 😂
I do wear some color now. But I also wear a lot of neutrals.
I really wish I could be that minimal! It looks great and is easier to mix and match. I just like things a bit wilder. It's a wonderful thing when people really know what they like and just go for it. You're lucky to know yourself! ❤
@@unblahyourself and I wish I could be a little quirky like you! But I learned to know the difference between admiring it on others and liking it for myself. I still have to stop myself sometimes, like when I saw your jacket and I was ready to find something like it! It’s so pretty!!
I went through what I call the lost years after I had kids. I lost my identity as a corporate woman when I became a SAHM. I didn’t know what I liked anymore! It took years to figure it out. I wanted to be cool! Trendy! Hip! I didn’t want to look like a MOM! 😂
But I eventually circled back around to what I truly love. And I know my style very well now.
Anyway, this is the best explanation I have ever seen, and your dry humor is my favorite. I’m a new viewer and already subscribed.
I’d love if you did a hair and makeup tutorial from the way you styled it in this video. The first two things I thought were “I love her hair and makeup! Ooohhh! I love her outfit! I wore it last week!” 😂😂😂
@@Mistersgoodgirl wow thank you so much! ACTUALLY I am posting a makeup video tomorrow! ❤
@@unblahyourself I’ll be waiting! Is it the one from this video?
It's here: th-cam.com/video/coAut2WeTQc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=4ffpPWhk7kPNyN74
The key for the French girl style is to be slim. The fact is that all these things will not look good on slightly bigger sizes. The key word is « silhouette» right? I think someone of a fuller size needs more trendy or sophisticated style than the French quite basic style. So, it’s not for everyone!
Thank you for this very interesting and funny video!
My mom (who's very short and very curvy, and French as well) would highly disagree with you. Slim isn't equal to silhouette. A good silhouette is all about a perfect fit and finding clothes that fits you perfectly. The thing is to accept your size, and not try to fit into clothes that are too tight just because of a number (when I say ''you'' I don't mean you in particular but people in general).
So nicely cut, good quality clothes with a perfect fit, AND choosing the form that suits your morphology is key I find ^^
I disagree
I think it's about ratios and proportions, not directly slimness
It's about shoulders to waist to hips to ankles
You can match your own dimensions with colours and shapes that sit properly on your own dimensions, regardless of how slim or curvy you are.
Also, notice she is matching textures by using opposites like smooth and knitted together, or patterned and plain together.. these add interest instead of having to go expensive or over colourful. People can use texture and plain/pattern at any size.
Don't dismiss design tips from feeling dispirited, look again for what does apply, and remember her motto, the key, dont care what anyone else thinks about how you look
B.S
And just like I'm sad. Ce le fuckin v
It’s true. I live in Singapore and the girls there all dress this way and they look so fabulous in simple basics but they are all slim.
Spot ON! The outfits are right 👏👏👏
😘
The only reason I wear padded bras is to disguise my "headlights".
Same!
Or keep the "heaglights" from lightning up the floor😏. Not everyone is a B cup. Some of us are bigger than a C or even a D cup and need a LOT of structure...
@@kitsygirl Yes, I'm petite, 116 lbs., but a 32G! I wear a "minimalist" bra, so no cleavage, but you know the girls are there! 😁
I got silicone covers for the headlight issue. I got mine on Amazon. Comfortable
and no one would know you are wearing them.
I came to say the same things. Can't help the size of my breasts, and the padding is necessary for structures. 36G here. I could have had surgery years ago but opted not to (fear). Am feeling this means I must be dreadfully un-chic. Oh well.
I REALLY wanted to hate this video TH-cam fed me this morning, Diana, and switch it off after the first minute or so, because I have sooooo much work to do. But, I watched the entire bleeping thing, and I'm totally hooked, LOVED it, and subscribed! Hahahaha.
Yay! Glad you're here! I'm very intrigued by your username. Sounds like something everyone could use.
@@unblahyourself YES, haha, it is, exactly!! Thanks so much Diana! Love your channel.
😘
Great sense of humor
I love your videos. You have lots of style and great humour! Your recommendation about foundation garments is spot on, especially for those of us of seriously mature years 🤫Your thrift stores must be fashion heaven! In the UK it often seems they're mostly what people have bought cheap, worn once and thrown out! We call them charity stores here because they are all dedicated to raising money for charitable organisations caring/doing research for people and animals with health crises or disabilities. That's how I experience them, anyway. I don't live in London, so maybe that's half the problem!! Haha! Also, the UK weather/architecture is mostly grey (a bit like Paris, as already described by other comments). I think it is possible to have style on a budget, it just takes a lot of time, patience and rummaging through rails and rails of clothes to find those classic items that you can accent with something a little quirky but discrete. I'm not a model, I've worn some kind of school/work uniform for more than half my life (I'm 74) and I don't have a big budget. I make my clothes last, even the cheap ones, by careful laundering and hanging. Yes, life changes all the time but classic lines don't and they almost always look 'finished' and, (dare I say it?), elegant.
It does take time and patience! 😘
If only the "I don't know what" on my shoulders and arms looked like yours! 😍😄
You've got plenty of "I don't know what"!
I just love saying that in English. Depending on how you say it, it could be mysterious or could be something communicable. Lol!