A lot of Europeans have smaller closets, so they must be more discerning about what they buy. I think the Italians are the best dressed out of all the Europeans. They exude quality!
As an American from Boston where Academia and Preppy/ Quiet Luxury was born....I never felt growing up the need for fast fashion. My mother and grandmother both had Jackie Kennedy as fashion icons. Furs (save your nasty comments) and jewelry were passed down. Rich natural fabrics, solid or print, were valued. A seamstress was a must. I grew to luv as these tips from the women in my family and passed it on to my own. The family with the oldest most beat-up Volvo station wagon was the pride of the neighborhood. It depends on what part of the States you were brought up in. From what I see, not all Americans wear polyester fast fashion.
i love american preppy as much as anyone else but quiet luxury was not born in the US. If anything is quintessential european aversion to logos (and general decrease of buying power) when other geographies like asia, america and africa wanted more and bigger logos (and had more money to pay for them).
Jackie Kennedy Onassis is my style icon, and I love wearing furs during the winter. And I get all of my professional clothing tailored. I bought myself a sewing machine so that I can learn to do some alterations myself.
My family is from New England also. My sisters and I, who all live in different states now, recently had a mini reunion . The packing list was easy: navy sweater, jeans, sneakers, no make-up. Where I grew up "fast fashion" was a Fair Isle sweater that was new and not passed down. The wealthiest wore dirty Keds and taped up Topsiders around town. Stealth Wealth was way under the radar.
@@lvt2050 And that 1% apparently are fur lovers 😂😂 I mean, I do get Russians in Ural and Siberia but really? Anyways a lot of EU states have banned the fur ,France and Italy included. Others have strict laws that there are no farms there. In general, we don't wear furs. It is so pasé. Like something that nonna would wear.
"It's so much more important to be chic than 'hot'"....This is so true in Europe! I love how women put their own personality imprints on their look, instead of copy-catting whatever the Kardashians and other "sexy" Hollywood or music celebrities are wearing to show off their bodies. In America, I've noticed with girls/women that there's a ramping up every spring & summer on how to out-sexy each other; every year they're wearing less clothes and showing more skin, as if that is the entire goal instead of being stylish and unique. I totally think this is behind the ubiquitous athleisure wear look, too. In NYC either half the women are actually on their way to yoga class (not!) OR they're wearing those yoga clothes all day to show off every contour of their bodies. Nothing left to the imagination at all. I also notice that most halfway classy men seem almost inured from seeing the va-va-voom look on women that seems almost like a uniform here in the USA. In Europe, there's so much more intrigue in the way the women dress....so much more mystery about who the woman is, is invoked. In the USA, sadly, I feel like so many women don't care about that as much as they want to make sure they're broadcasting SEXY first and foremost, from the long "bedroom hair" to the pumped up lips, the very high heels to the clingy outfits showing lots of skin. Another place the difference is obvious: In Europe I see so much more short to medium length hair in very stylish and cool haircuts that actually flatter the face and add a lot of personality to the overall look, and definitely more practical yet still stylish shoes, especially in the Nordic countries. Cobblestone streets and stilettos are a dangerous combo 😆 so maybe that has something to do with it, too. Europe rules for classy, unique and inspiring style! Great video, Mariana....so well thought out and presented! Thank you
Well, we are not crazy to watch and copy those Kardashians 😂😂 They literally ruined whole generation one generation or more, those poor women. We are allowed to grow old. We just enjoy and appreciate our free time, I would say.
@@elbee1290 There is a musical contest on TV where the two women judges seem to want only to show off their boobs. It’s a boob fight between the two. It’s cringe worthy.
As a 72 year old, gamine, soft summer from Fargo, ND, USA I absolutely love your videos. You are amazing! We are never to old to learn from you. I personally purchase second hand most of the time and love when I find anything made in the USA or Italy. We have never been to Milan but Florence five times, Naples, and Rome. If I get to Milan, I hope to have lunch or dinner with you..
I’m a 72 year old, gamine, true summer, from California USA! Hello fellow Gamine! When I’m shopping in Italy, the sales person always mentions “ better fabrics “, and can usually see what size I am, even though my clothes! Their eyes tell me that they know what they are doing. Very few sales people here in California have fashion skills. Unfortunately, they just want to sell to you., so sad.
I adore Italian fashion! I moved from Australia to Greece and had to donate half of my wardrobe as it was full of synthetic/ nylon item which CANNOT be worn in a Greek summer. Now I check the composition of fabrics very carefully…..and of course, I follow the Italian style/ fashion. Love love love it.
My husband is Italian and for over a decade, while she was still living, his Nonna would go back to Italy, and bring us Italian leather baby and children's shoes for our children. Every single pair that she brought, including the first pair is still in EXCELLENT condition, even though they have been worn by SO many children (we have 10!). We cherish those shoes, and one day, my own grandchildren may wear them.
Ashley, this is one of my favorite comments ever! Not only because there’s a Nonna involved (😌), but because you took the time out of raising ten children to write it. Thank you!
Europeans are raised to always care about how they present themselves to others. They tend to buy the highest quality they can afford and in doing so, they have tremendous self confidence. They are not lazy and sloppy. t
Well , thanks for the high regard, but when I walk through my small southern German town I weep hot fashion-tears. I‘m afraid we‘re talking loads of clichés here. One thing I will say after a holiday in the States: the obsession with convenience is doing nothing for peoples bodies,souls and overall style.
@@katinsu7700 Yes, I've just been to Germany as my Grandmother was German, great culture but not stylish like Italy, same in Australia where I live, I think consumerism by American style has hit our shores x
I'm a Brit, worked in retail for years on the High Street. here many women seem to want a huge wardrobe with lots of choices, each item at a bargain price, rather than a small wardrobe of say 10 items per season in mix and match styles and quality fabrics. They won't pay the price for excellent quality. Handbags yes, as they are status symbols, clothes no. Really wierd.
"oben hui, unten pfui" (meaning something like fancy above, gross below) is a German idiom my mum would say to communicate that no amount of make up and nice clothing can make up for lacking basic hygiene. To being cultured I would add basic etiquette and manners as well.
Most women and girls living in contemporary times in the northern American continent have points of reference as visuals from what my University Professor called low culture or I guess edge culture, what happens at the moment and it is reflected in manners, behaviors, expressions, ways of relating and of course, clothing. It is just a statement of fact. You become what you see and hear daily.
Buying clothes from a thrift shop and getting them tailored to my body shape is a great way shop. Italians are also hugely aware of colour and rarely wear more than two colours in any outfit - although they may wear several shades in the same colour.
Having second hand garments tailored is fine if you don’t mind paying more for the tailoring than you paid for the garment. Buy something that fits you, end of it.
@@solangelauthier2381 It does not matter to me if tailoring is needed if the second hand garment is exceptional. I would never buy a garment that was cheap in quality or style
As someone who had lived in several European countries and USA. I think I agree that these days due to social media and generally a lot of people moving between countries cultures are more uniform than ever, and you have people who dress casually or with more classical fashion sense everywhere. But only in US, I experienced people shaming me for overdressing. It almost seems that they have an anti-classism thing going on, especially with woke culture among the youths. I was once shamed as "raised up privileged" when I mentioned to my co-workers that I was going to an opera that evening, and because I was well dressed (don't have time to go home to change), I felt like standing out with a lot of weird looks. I couldn't really understand why going to the opera has anything to do with being privileged, my family is pretty working class and we would still buy the cheapest tickets to go to the opera once in a while. When I went to the opera, to my surprise, I noticed it was mostly old people in the audience, while in European countries generally you have quite a mixed crowd. Meanwhile in most European cities, you can dress up or down as you wish; people can express themselves in the way they like, or choose whatever is practical for them, and nobody would make any disrespectful comment.
Oh, Celeste, I hate when people connect culture to class! It's basically a way of saying: "if you don't have money, you're not good enough. You don't have the sophistication or ability to appreciate beautiful and interesting things". Such a damaging fallacy that keeps people from fully enjoying truly edifying experiences. Nowadays, with the internet giving us access to everything, from lectures to full-length operas, money should play an even smaller part in someone's search for culture.
Celeste, is so true what you said about America. WE hate intellectuals or anyone who is articulate and can actually express an idea is looked down on. In like sense, if anyone dresses in a classical way, they r looked down on asbeibg uppity or arrogant. IT is so disgusting that America has become that way. I think it was when Pop culture became so POPULAR. Pop culture came out of America. ACTUALLY I don't care for pop culture. I do love Opera and I always think it's so funny that Americans don't realize that in Italy, Opera is for the lower classes as well as all the classes and they treat Opera like we do football: they scream at the singer if they don't like them and they throw things and they have a great time. I don't see how we can change America back to how it was because all the pop singers make so much money and they're so looked up to. Yet, they're often people who came out of the gutter and then they lucked out because there's thousands just like them who didn't. . I did travel to Europe when I was younger and I always wished I had stayed because I hate that aspect of America and you've made it so clear to me that I made a mistake by returning to America and not trying to make it happen in Europe.
I live in the UK and last year went to the Welsh Opera House to enjoy "Opera Favourites", ie a taster. Perfect for a first timer and I loved it. Got chatting to an usher who said the day before 1000 school children had visited for a special introductory day for children. I thought it was a great idea and something they would remember all their lives, even if they never went again. Maybe it would have inspired some of them to be the Opera singers of the future.
Hey Mariana, in your description of European styles you omitted the Baltic states and Central and Eastern Europe - quite a lot of styles, cultures and esthetics there! I am sure this omission was not on purpose, but due to lack of easily available stereotypes about these countries (especially for someone coming outside of Europe). I am from Poland and I can tell you that the styles I see on the streets and at work are a mix of current trends - feminine - classic/intelectual minimal chic. Due to the specific look (apparently 80% of our population fits the Soft Summer colour theory type), many people dress in cool/muted colours (and Polish brands cater for such preferences, check out Reserved, Tatuum or Deni Cler, or Taranko), which I guess could be our "stereotype". Thank you for a fun video as always!
I'm a Brit - Cool / Soft Summer - thanks for the Polish brand tips. I will take a look. I find here in the UK there is too much black and dark or jewel colours. Perfect if you are a Winter, which I am not.
I think knowing your body type and wearing clothing that flatters it made out of mostly natural high quality fibers is the key to looking effortlessly chic. I think it’s easier to find more stylish pieces in Europe than the States. Personally, I think Europeans in general look better than Americans because they walk everywhere and are more fit. In the US there’s a lot of people trying too hard…trying to look hot, trying to look expensive, old money, trying to look like a kardashian, etc…also plastic surgery is becoming more common. Europeans are better at embracing their natural beauty and don’t need to be so done up all of the time!
"don't need" I agree. However, I see many European ladies, particualry the over 60's, who love to dress up, clearly enjoy fashion, being creative and looking and feeling great.
It’s really the first time I see someone getting it right, understanding the differences between different European countries, and going deeper that the usual cliché of French girls in breton tops etc. Great video!
I have to laugh when people take the comment to mean they are all the same. No one thinks it is the same just as different parts of the US are different. Texas, New York, California, Chicago, Boston are all very different. Yet Europeans think it's all the same. So funny!
This was exactly what I’ve been thinking about and looking for. Thank you for making this post. It was very informative and interesting… good examples to illustrate your info. You are so good at observing and explaining…. Excellent video.❤
I noticed in Europe the women use scarves always, all kinds of Scarves! That's very interesting, like it's a type of layering, in case you suddenly feel Cold?
It depends...Europe is a continent, so the climate up north is not the same as , let's say, south. I'm Greek, but living in a west-European country, for now. I started carrying a scarve with me (even in summer, with 35 degrees), just because the weather is very unpredictable, not so much out of a stylish concern.
The reason is rather monocrome clothing. The look can be easily altered with scarves in different colours. I also need to wear them under the turtleneck of my sweater.
Great video. Spot on! Just got back from Italy and I noticed all of your discussion points in just a week! For the last year I’ve been obsessed with French style and have used that to guide my buying choices while still incorporating what works for the state I live in. I’ve gotten more compliments on my dressing then ever before!
Bravo, Mariana! You have presented the idea in such a thoughtful and well-edited way. I love that you include 'cultured' as an element of dressing well. I am a new subscriber. I love that you didn't, as so many style gurus do, simply present a formula of wearing specific things. Here where I live in the British countryside, I am often more inspired by the colours of the landscape around me for my cloth than necessarily what is the colour of the season.
I have been to Europe many times over the years. I have diplomatic magic family in Paris. My latest voyage was interesting, and to make a point. There was not a single difference from the average American style on the street. The hair, the jeans, the oversized, figure hiding tops were the rigor diem. From the UK, Paris, to Milan, and Florence… very much the same. I do recognize a sense of beauty that is more classic, however. It can be seen in their carriage more than their dressing. Your street shots did not garner anyone better dressed, than in the USA. However, I did notice what started in the USA, that is, the dressing down, had flowed into Europe. Europe was no longer setting style, but following what it saw on American TV, and movies. You are a lovely woman, just in your manner, but not typical….you may be picking up, what many do when new to Europe….it’s a romance with the older culture, but peel away this, and they really do not have an overly outstanding presence.
I agree, there is not a big difference on the street. We can see the same trends walking everywhere. I hardly can notice elegant person in Paris (except some mature wealthy women).
I agree. I live in Germany and never see anything extraordinary in Europe that I wouldn’t see at home on the east coast. The chic European woman is beginning to feel more like myth now.
Needed to be said for balance. There is however a seam of European style that is resistant to Americanisation and that is to be found in the older demographic and of course wealthier and they really do have the style of which Mariana is referencing and it is beautiful to behold but rare. They will not be wearing sneakers.
@@sararichardson737 The older ladies are likely retired or working part-time. They have TIME to go clothes shopping and creatively put outfits together and good grooming. Younger women, 20's, 30's, 40's, likely juggle working full-time and bringing up children and looking after their home. They may have the same amount of time, but it is spent on different priorities. Then women in their 50's get involved in caring for elderly parents. It is not until women hit their 60's and 70's that they have less family responsibility.
I am Greek and for the most part people are not very stylish in general but 1. I am raised to see quality from afar. Because we were always a poor country, our grandfathers were either making everything from scratch with "meraki" so, they would get high quality materials and make the shoes, the coats, the furniture themselves or they would buy one expensive thing that they would use daily. So the younger generations (I believe until millennials) we grew up living and using high quality clothes and furniture and nowadays there are many people here complaining about things breaking easily, clothes made out of polyester instead of wool etc. It's a thing because of constant wars, people were poor and had to make things themselves so they would put so much attention to detail. We were raised like that. 2. And regarding choosing comfort instead of looking stylish and sexy; when you live in a country where you know someone in every corner and they know who you are, who your family is and they have seen you grow up, it's considered dishonest and cringy to try to wear something flashy or like you came out of a magazine. Especially wearing something during the day that is sexy, like "who are you trying to impress? We have seen you from the moment you wake up till you go to sleep, like why are you dressing sexy?" Of course there are exceptions, and there are events and parties that require you to dress flashy or stylishly, but in general, it's cringey. I tend to like french, elegant fashion and I seriously put an effort everyday to stop myself from overdressing because people will feel awkward around me. In the big cities though, like Athens, people dress however they like, but again, because of our upbringing, clothes are always minimal and comfy.
I couldn't agree more with you. I'm also from Brazil but I've been living in the UK for a while and I have spent a lot of time in Italy as well. Your point about culture is so true and you hit the nail on the head when you said that culture instructs your taste. You do need those references in order to know what make something beautiful, symmetric and pleasing to the eye, etc and you get that from books, art, music, etc. Well done for the video and the content. I think you are on to something here.
An important missing question. In Europe, we have excellent individual washing machines in each home. In the US, you have in most cases common washing machines in the basement, industrial washing machines that distroy delicate fabric. Moreover, at least in Spain, we seldom use dryers. Clothes are dry in the air, in the sun which helps your white cotton and linen remain white. In the US, people seem to prefer dryers. 😊
I think the dryer is a big difference, Ruth. I live in the tiniest apartment, but probably use the dryer a few times a year for towels and bed linen. Everything else goes on a drying rack in the middle of my living room 😅 Not ideal, but I prefer the clutter to ruining my favorite sweaters.
I live in Michigan in the United States where the winters are very cold but in the warm weather months I hoist my heavy laundered clothes to the clothesline in my back yard. A gentleman friend stopped by while I was hanging my wash. "You still hang your clothes on the line?" Admittedly, none of my neighbors follow my example but I notice when I run into them at the grocery store none of them are as well dressed as me.
We are raised to: wear our hair orderly, have clean fingernails and shiny shoes, and of course clean, ironed clothing. Those are the basics. Besides, we try to pay attention to our figures (difficult with our good foods and wine). But - what's the use of wearing expensive trousers or dresses with a balloon-gut hanging out in front?
I'm from Spain and I have to say that there are differences in style even between our own regions. In Madrid we tend to be more conservative than in the south parts of Spain for example as well as the northern regions. In regions where they have coast they tend to be more relaxed about their clothing style. I don't know the science or history behind it but it is something very noticeable
I came to comments to mention the same thing… I noticed that northern and southern Spain dressing is different. I also think that northern area like Basque Country is a little cooler than southern parts so it might have something to do with it. I think all the regions will vary somewhat in Spain.
Same here in Germany, where I live. In the north people dress more edgy and subculture oriented, in the south, especially Munich area, people are more conservative classy and fancier. Bytheway, I love the spanish style. (As well in architecture.) IMO the french style is way overrated. It's very uniform and boring to me, especially compared to italian or spanish style,
You’re so right! The key is knowing your shape, size and go what fits you and your life style. If you add quality over quantity and wash your hair regularly you’re going to be fine 😊 I’m not regular in body shape so I can’t fallow the fashion blindly. I’m short, pear shaped with short legs person. So I figured what looks good on me, and I’m not experimenting much. Love elegant, classy and bit sexy looks, cashmere, silk and fine jewelry. Everyday makeup and nails done;) But I’m Polish girl;)
I love your channel, it is educated me about fashion history and other Blogger not do. The information was good research and the explanations were very interesting. ❤❤❤
Natural fabrics are the key for me. A s basic simple style work S best for me. As far as fit, I have to keep three sizes in my closet. My size changes.
I love those videos, however second market and great clothes are very hard to find where I live in Canada. So even if I put my heart and time to find that European style, I don’t find well made, great cuts, high quality clothes easily. I often end up buying nothing
I live in Italy too and unfortunately I’ve seen a few times the postal delivery of a package labeled as shein. Its only a matter of time before the new generation loses their sense of fashion.
I much prefer European fashion to N. American. When in the UK I bought an entire wardrobe from charity shops. Beautiful linen pants (6 pairs) for £2.50 each, sweaters, a new navy bag from Italy, a scarf & blouses! No one here in Canada has the same clothes and I love they are unique. It's fabulous. I'm curvy so cigarette pants don't suit me at all, I go for a palazzo with a high waist and it's the most attractive look for me and what I feel most polished and comfortable in. So happy to have found your channel. Do you have one for styling rectangular scarves? Thanks from a new subscriber!
I love classics ! That’s my style! But were I live it is very Hot 10 mths. of the year, so it is very hard to find lovely cloths ,most of what’s for sale is Beach look- I love it when winter comes around.... enjoyed the ytube.
I think a lot of it is due to the fact that clothes tell you so much about a person so putting effort into how you look (even if it is to look effortless) tells people a lot about them.
Que legal encontrar uma brasileira aqui ❤❤❤❤ amei sua abordagem! Estou mais nesse sentido também… vivia tentando me encaixar como brasileira numa cultura que tem muito da exibição do corpo mas nunca me identifiquei… sempre me vesti mais clássica e era chamada de velha 😅. Hoje me sinto muito feliz tendo menos peças com mais qualidade e sendo eu mesma, sabendo o que fica bem em mim como você falou. Adorei seu vídeo e já ganhou mais uma seguidora! Beijos de SC 😘😘😘
I’m 61, and dare I say still look a bit youthful, I have long natural silver and grey hair. Best decision I ever made, wish I was brave enough to have done it sooner. My vibe in fashion hasn’t really changed a lot, today, I do a bit more fitted tops since I love my boho & barrel skirts. I love vintage, long trench, head pieces, I do wear body con , I will purchase them 1 to 2 sizes bigger, just looks better and more comfortable for me. I’m not sure what my 3 words, classic, hobo, unique. Any suggestions for me?
Brick and mortar stores are almost totally fine in America. This doesn't allow for looking and evaluating clothes in person. In a town of 50,000, Wal-Mart is the main store. Most of my clothes are 7-12 years old and still look great. I get by with a small capsule wardrobe of 4-6 each blouses, tshirts, trousers, skirts, sweaters, jeans, dresses and shorts. In the winter we have a meter of snow. In the summer it is 42+ degrees. So you get an idea of how small my wardrobe is. I do have 19 blazers. My clothes need to go from business professional to smart casual to Goth/Punk. I use a lot of accessories and choose from 13 pairs of shoes that I been wearing for years. It does help that most of my clothes are black. Most of my clothes are sewn by me. Besides not having the standard figure, I have long arms. By sewing I have total control over quality of my clothes. My clothes are of far higher quality than expensive ready to wear because I incorporate some haute sewing techniques into the garments that I make. Plus it's made for me! Americans seem to think that I'm a strange bird with my clothes because I do mix period and vintage with contemporary. My Goth daughter calls me the elder Euro Chic Goth. Europeans think of me as just as a geeky Goth that doesn't look too different. I am pushing 60. I do spend a lot of time hunting clearance fabrics for my clothes. I'm living on disability and won't be able to go back to work for another two years. Lately my adult children been buying me lots of gorgeous fabrics for me to sew for myself.
I recently visited Portugal and the city of Braga. Whilst enjoying lunch in a well known coffee shop, a group of older, 60 plus, ladies arrived. Wow! Their outfits were colourful, flambouyant, patterned. They all had chic sunglasses, perfect for their sunny country. Hair done, nails done, chic shoes and accessories. Nothing stuffy and too classic. They all looked like they enjoyed getting dressed up and had FUN with it. They also had movie star vibes. I think the younger TH-cam influencers have got a bit too serious with fashion - "how to look expensive", "quiet luxury" etc. Whilst I love those looks too, I think we need to let go a little and inject a bit of colour and fun into how we get dressed. In my younger, more creative days, I used to love rummaging through charity shops to see what I could find that was different. I might have to revisit them more frequently.
We favor quality over quantity, so we are already at odds with YT fashionistas except you, my lovely. We usually plan our expenses to carefully match what we already have. I think there may be less waste attitude and fast fashion. It exists, as you know, but I can't see it as popular as it is in the UK, where I live, which match closely the US culture. We also allocate a budget for make-up, perfumes, and underwear, so you don't just put things on the credit card to add clothes on top, hence the budgeting attitude. Great video!
PREACH! Quality vs quantity Another tidbit to add at least for us Americans, is knowing a tailor to personalize/tailor your clothes as a must for everyone’s wardrobe. My dream is to get gorgeous native loomed fabrics from Guatemala and bring it to a tailor to create classy clothing and wear it in my life to celebrate my heritage and family. 😊❤
I'm from Northern Italy and I can say that we definitely do not all dress well. Actually most people dress quite casually, unless they are from the upper-middle and ruling classes. Hell, the outdoor footage of this very video, shot in Milan BTW, proves this. All things being relative, however, it has to be said that Americans don't have a clue about dress sense. Why else invent dress codes, otherwise?
My view of fashion in Milan is via TH-cam. I gave to agree that they are extremely well dressed with the exception of footwear. Comfort seems the rule of the day as evidenced by a majority wearing sneakers (also known as gym shoes or trainers).
It seems that most European woman (at least those in the cities) are in shape and assiduously avoid the horrible and unfortunately popular-in-the-US- look of barely-there athletic wear, regardless of what size/shape the wearer's midriff and backside are in.
Okay I’m crazy but also lol I hope we go back to the days where women had appointments to those cool shops/boutiques to get customized clothes and get them done well, with good quality fabrics ie Selfridges……that way we curate wardrobes for who we are and our unique body shapes.
I was raised in the US. My mother emphasized that a woman needs to dress with a bit of class, that you dont have to have a huge budget just a good eye. Seems to have worked well with lifestyle.
Unless yr a mom, you don’t understand if you spill on your 800.00 fabulous coat its throwing money away. Kids are messy, cooking for a large family sort of dampens the intrigue of spending alot on fabulous clothes. Ive ruined many a beautiful garment being a mom, and homemaker. When kids are grown, a different story, (sort of) then grand kids come along💜💜Italians know their fine fabrics thats for sure, since the beginning, centuries ago. I just found an Italian wool blazer at a thrift shop, oooh the fabric and cut, it gleams in the sun. Great video Marianna!! Do more comparisons plz👍👍America is so different
Hi Ingrid! What I find really interesting is that they don’t actually spend a lot of money on fabulous clothes. They splurge on pieces that are essentials - like a sturdy parka or a cashmere sweater - exactly because they don’t want to buy the same item over and over again due to its poor quality. Even if budget is tight, many will get these building blocks second-hand, to save money without sacrificing quality. Something that is much more rare is the “luxury impulse purchase” a.k.a. spending hundreds of dollars on a pair of flashy designer heels or superfluous handbag just because it’s on sale.
My British Mum always wore dresses, she also worked as a home help. For her uniform, she was given a polyester checken long sleeved blouse/jacket type thing, which she took to wearing at home, together with an apron or tabard when doing housework and washing up. When her tasks were done, she took them off, revealing her clean dress underneath. I never really thought about it as a kid, as it was something she just did, and alsways made us where pinnies. Now I'm older, I realise what a good idea it was.
Oi Mariana, sou brasileira mas moro nos States minha vida quaze toda. Morei no Brasil e na Holanda. Adoro o estilo brasileiro e europeu, porem sou muito Americanizada. Meu canal muitas vezes dizem que tenho uma vibe Inglesa. Acabei de achar voce aqui. Estou adorando seu comentario social sobre a cultura e etiqueta... vou continuar assistindo para ver o que mais acho aqui. Beijos do TX.
Olá, Catherine, e bem-vinda ao canal! Que bacana que você já morou em diversos países... é tão interessante como essas experiências moldam nosso estilo e nosso jeito de pensar. Vou acompanhar seu canal também 😊
I was in Europe for a few weeks including Paris and Italian cities but actually I don’t even remember noticing anybody’s clothing on the streets 😂. The only thing I remember is the fast cars parked on Champs-Élysées in Paris which we have to pay for a ride 😂
During the pandemic, the only place we dared to venture was the grocery store. I made sure that I made a special effort to be well groomed. I even bought fancy face masks.
It is the same with food: nobody would buy crap, and if someone would sell crap, they would go out of business. Also, there are cupboards and wardrobes, not closets. You have to think what you want to own, as there is less space for storage.
I love the way European women focus on quality materials and fit. However I feel I can never find these items for my short curvy but small frame. If I shop stores that European women shop everything is made for tall super slim women with lots of vertical and straight angular lines. I can’t find anything small AND curvy, with waist emphasis and fabric that moves with you. European women are always in very square structured shapes and I’d look horrible in those silhouettes. I can’t find quality fabrics with waist emphasis! The clothes for curvy women are always all “sexed up”. I don’t want tight and clingy, I just want to maintain my shape. Nothing looks worse on me than a “classic t shirt” or square cardigan. Or a squared off blazer with no belt or waist emphasis. So much of fashion is made to suit angular long body shapes. The Kibbe naturals seem to rule the fashion universe!
Clothing that suits "naturals" is the easiest and least costly to manufacture. It doesn't require much tailoring. I've seen a video by Justine (her name MIGHT be Lecomte, but I am not sure) who used to work in the fashion industry and now is a style influencer here on YT in which she talked about how fashion brands try to cut cost and how their financial goals influence the design of their collections
Você é brasileira? Que incrível!! Já vou me inscrever, adorei o conteúdo :) só queria que por aqui o clima me permitisse vestir essas terceira peças, eu acho tão sofisticado
As a european I have to say you are giving us too much credit 😄 there are so many europeans that dress terribly. Also in France and Italy. But I really enjoyed your video and you definitely name some good points!
Italians are thinner, taller ? It looks like you have never been to Italy, only dreamt about it. They may SEEM thinner and taller (at least the Italians shown on TH-cam - which is by far not all Italians) because they know how to dress.
If you think the French are well dressed it is because you have never travelled with the Paris metro. I know what I am talking about : I am French and live in Paris. The so called French chic is an American dream… Rather look at Italians.
Also, they only refer to Paris. France is a big country, there are other cities to visit(and in my opinion, a bit more authentic). Paris has become a caricature and a "must go"for Americans, just for an instagram-shot.
Not being critical, but fabric not material. Material is what you make houses out of, fabric is for clothing. Old home economics person here and that was drilled into my head in school. lol I am enjoying your content. Thank you.
Well, Italians (I am half, form Veneto) we are obssesed with the looks. Yes I know, we can be also funny, confused, messy, etc.. but also, so very superficial.. This is why I am in Spain, here exist some kind of meritocracy and people are warmer and more natural. I do like French too, they have always been so nice to me, and IMO their style is the best. But Italy has the best history, food, and arquitecture. I would loved one day have enough money to buy some villa and Liguria would probably be my choice. But I have great friends in Italy don't get me wrong, one of my best friend is from Sicily.
Great observations and comments! I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it is about well-dressed Europeans, but you verbalized exactly what makes them so stylish from the inside out (not just the external and final expression). You made me think of two things: They have national pride without having to beat their chests about it. Also, fast fashion sells us the idea of things like Old Money aesthetic the way that the fast food industry tries to sell us faux meat. But Europeans seem to think “why settle for cheap imitations when you can have the real thing?”
Americans womens go everywhere with fitness look in Europe no...we love stailing.... for example when i wearing my black sport trauser i wearing my classic shirt and long coat. Sorry for my English ❤
As a Croatian I may say that we like to wear nice clothes and be dressed up all the time, not many people wear tracksuits or leggings around, I wear modest clothes and always try to have it nice and neat but without any big effort, it maybe comes from the period of socialism when there was no fast fashion but quality goods, we also had much of our clothes home sewn, my mum made a lot of my clothes
Those in the know n have the means in the major cities of the US Just take it up a notch, good or bad. It's fun but definitely not as elegant as the Europeans, especially the Italian. I'm half Italian American. Quiet luxury can be boring But that's not to say we don't appreciate quality. Americans are the major consumers of fashion after all.
The food is more whole foods and and fresher without a lot of the additives etc found in american food. I read comments all the time that ppl originally from Europe gain weight when moving here and americans living abroad lose weight.
I'm a Brit too. I would say style needs TIME more than money. There are plenty of good quality clothes in the charity shops. You need time to experiment with colours and cuts to find what looks good on you. Time and willingness to develope an eye and be educated on quality and style. Time to go shopping. Time to get creative in your wardrobe and put stylish outfits together. Time for good grooming, blow dry your hair, put on make-up, cook healthy meals at home so you stay slim and healthy. That is why the most stylish ladies here in the UK are the over 60's as they have time for all this. The younger women look great on nights out or weddings as they put in the time. Sadly, their everyday time is spent at work, looking after kids and the home. That is why women in the 50's look so great, they didn't work full-time so had time to shop and dress smartly.
And then you go to Germany and see people dressed for hiking with Deuter backpacks to go to work. I see almost 0 style and fashion here in southern Germany. I am German.
Not all Europeans dress and wear quality , the people working not shopping 🛍️ like the rich ones , can’t afford quality, you’re seeing the rich class shopping in Milan for example. Don’t put a country down , we all love lounge wear at home , some prefer totally organic some can only afford Primark prices .
A lot of Europeans have smaller closets, so they must be more discerning about what they buy. I think the Italians are the best dressed out of all the Europeans. They exude quality!
I know I’m a bit biased, but Italian style is exquisiiiiteeee! 🤩
Totally agree. Italy, then Spain…..France is further down my list 🤷🏼♀️🫢
Agreed and also Italian have a very good taste of aesthetic of fashion
I too agree that Italians are better dressed.
I have a sizable closet and I have 3 other nooks that hold more clothes (how did this happen!?).
As an American from Boston where Academia and Preppy/ Quiet Luxury was born....I never felt growing up the need for fast fashion. My mother and grandmother both had Jackie Kennedy as fashion icons. Furs (save your nasty comments) and jewelry were passed down. Rich natural fabrics, solid or print, were valued. A seamstress was a must. I grew to luv as these tips from the women in my family and passed it on to my own. The family with the oldest most beat-up Volvo station wagon was the pride of the neighborhood. It depends on what part of the States you were brought up in. From what I see, not all Americans wear polyester fast fashion.
i love american preppy as much as anyone else but quiet luxury was not born in the US. If anything is quintessential european aversion to logos (and general decrease of buying power) when other geographies like asia, america and africa wanted more and bigger logos (and had more money to pay for them).
Jackie Kennedy Onassis is my style icon, and I love wearing furs during the winter. And I get all of my professional clothing tailored. I bought myself a sewing machine so that I can learn to do some alterations myself.
My family is from New England also. My sisters and I, who all live in different states now, recently had a mini reunion . The packing list was easy: navy sweater, jeans, sneakers, no make-up. Where I grew up "fast fashion" was a Fair Isle sweater that was new and not passed down. The wealthiest wore dirty Keds and taped up Topsiders around town. Stealth Wealth was way under the radar.
"not all Americans wear polyester fast fashion"- like 1% of Americans
@@lvt2050
And that 1% apparently are fur lovers 😂😂
I mean, I do get Russians in Ural and Siberia but really?
Anyways a lot of EU states have banned the fur ,France and Italy included. Others have strict laws that there are no farms there. In general, we don't wear furs. It is so pasé. Like something that nonna would wear.
"It's so much more important to be chic than 'hot'"....This is so true in Europe! I love how women put their own personality imprints on their look, instead of copy-catting whatever the Kardashians and other "sexy" Hollywood or music celebrities are wearing to show off their bodies. In America, I've noticed with girls/women that there's a ramping up every spring & summer on how to out-sexy each other; every year they're wearing less clothes and showing more skin, as if that is the entire goal instead of being stylish and unique. I totally think this is behind the ubiquitous athleisure wear look, too. In NYC either half the women are actually on their way to yoga class (not!) OR they're wearing those yoga clothes all day to show off every contour of their bodies. Nothing left to the imagination at all. I also notice that most halfway classy men seem almost inured from seeing the va-va-voom look on women that seems almost like a uniform here in the USA.
In Europe, there's so much more intrigue in the way the women dress....so much more mystery about who the woman is, is invoked. In the USA, sadly, I feel like so many women don't care about that as much as they want to make sure they're broadcasting SEXY first and foremost, from the long "bedroom hair" to the pumped up lips, the very high heels to the clingy outfits showing lots of skin.
Another place the difference is obvious: In Europe I see so much more short to medium length hair in very stylish and cool haircuts that actually flatter the face and add a lot of personality to the overall look, and definitely more practical yet still stylish shoes, especially in the Nordic countries. Cobblestone streets and stilettos are a dangerous combo 😆 so maybe that has something to do with it, too.
Europe rules for classy, unique and inspiring style!
Great video, Mariana....so well thought out and presented! Thank you
Well, we are not crazy to watch and copy those Kardashians 😂😂
They literally ruined whole generation one generation or more, those poor women. We are allowed to grow old. We just enjoy and appreciate our free time, I would say.
The Kardashian style is extremely whorish and vulgar.
@@elbee1290 There is a musical contest on TV where the two women judges seem to want only to show off their boobs. It’s a boob fight between the two. It’s cringe worthy.
I'm from Germany and have never heard, that there is a European Style. I recognize, the most sense for style have the Italians.
If you lived in America, you’d realize the difference.
As a 72 year old, gamine, soft summer from Fargo, ND, USA I absolutely love your videos. You are amazing! We are never to old to learn from you. I personally purchase second hand most of the time and love when I find anything made in the USA or Italy. We have never been to Milan but Florence five times, Naples, and Rome. If I get to Milan, I hope to have lunch or dinner with you..
I would love that!!
I’m a 72 year old, gamine, true summer, from California USA! Hello fellow Gamine!
When I’m shopping in Italy, the sales person always mentions “ better fabrics “, and can usually see what size I am, even though my clothes! Their eyes tell me that they know what they are doing.
Very few sales people here in California have fashion skills.
Unfortunately, they just want to sell to you., so sad.
I adore Italian fashion! I moved from Australia to Greece and had to donate half of my wardrobe as it was full of synthetic/ nylon item which CANNOT be worn in a Greek summer. Now I check the composition of fabrics very carefully…..and of course, I follow the Italian style/ fashion. Love love love it.
My husband is Italian and for over a decade, while she was still living, his Nonna would go back to Italy, and bring us Italian leather baby and children's shoes for our children. Every single pair that she brought, including the first pair is still in EXCELLENT condition, even though they have been worn by SO many children (we have 10!). We cherish those shoes, and one day, my own grandchildren may wear them.
Ashley, this is one of my favorite comments ever! Not only because there’s a Nonna involved (😌), but because you took the time out of raising ten children to write it. Thank you!
@@MarianaZelenjuk well, aren't we a pair? Because you're one of my favorite TH-camr's! ;)
Europeans are raised to always care about how they present themselves to others. They tend to buy the highest quality they can afford and in doing so, they have tremendous self confidence. They are not lazy and sloppy.
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Very true, great craftsmanship, it's like it's in their DNA. Great quality x
Well , thanks for the high regard, but when I walk through my small southern German town I weep hot fashion-tears. I‘m afraid we‘re talking loads of clichés here. One thing I will say after a holiday in the States: the obsession with convenience is doing nothing for peoples bodies,souls and overall style.
@@katinsu7700 Yes, I've just been to Germany as my Grandmother was German, great culture but not stylish like Italy, same in Australia where I live, I think consumerism by American style has hit our shores x
I'm a Brit, worked in retail for years on the High Street. here many women seem to want a huge wardrobe with lots of choices, each item at a bargain price, rather than a small wardrobe of say 10 items per season in mix and match styles and quality fabrics. They won't pay the price for excellent quality. Handbags yes, as they are status symbols, clothes no. Really wierd.
"oben hui, unten pfui" (meaning something like fancy above, gross below) is a German idiom my mum would say to communicate that no amount of make up and nice clothing can make up for lacking basic hygiene.
To being cultured I would add basic etiquette and manners as well.
Most women and girls living in contemporary times in the northern American continent have points of reference as visuals from what my University Professor called low culture or I guess edge culture, what happens at the moment and it is reflected in manners, behaviors, expressions, ways of relating and of course, clothing. It is just a statement of fact. You become what you see and hear daily.
I agree with your professor
Buying clothes from a thrift shop and getting them tailored to my body shape is a great way shop. Italians are also hugely aware of colour and rarely wear more than two colours in any outfit - although they may wear several shades in the same colour.
Having second hand garments tailored is fine if you don’t mind paying more for the tailoring than you paid for the garment. Buy something that fits you, end of it.
@@solangelauthier2381 It does not matter to me if tailoring is needed if the second hand garment is exceptional. I would never buy a garment that was cheap in quality or style
As someone who had lived in several European countries and USA. I think I agree that these days due to social media and generally a lot of people moving between countries cultures are more uniform than ever, and you have people who dress casually or with more classical fashion sense everywhere.
But only in US, I experienced people shaming me for overdressing. It almost seems that they have an anti-classism thing going on, especially with woke culture among the youths. I was once shamed as "raised up privileged" when I mentioned to my co-workers that I was going to an opera that evening, and because I was well dressed (don't have time to go home to change), I felt like standing out with a lot of weird looks. I couldn't really understand why going to the opera has anything to do with being privileged, my family is pretty working class and we would still buy the cheapest tickets to go to the opera once in a while. When I went to the opera, to my surprise, I noticed it was mostly old people in the audience, while in European countries generally you have quite a mixed crowd.
Meanwhile in most European cities, you can dress up or down as you wish; people can express themselves in the way they like, or choose whatever is practical for them, and nobody would make any disrespectful comment.
Oh, Celeste, I hate when people connect culture to class! It's basically a way of saying: "if you don't have money, you're not good enough. You don't have the sophistication or ability to appreciate beautiful and interesting things". Such a damaging fallacy that keeps people from fully enjoying truly edifying experiences. Nowadays, with the internet giving us access to everything, from lectures to full-length operas, money should play an even smaller part in someone's search for culture.
Celeste, is so true what you said about America. WE hate intellectuals or anyone who is articulate and can actually express an idea is looked down on. In like sense, if anyone dresses in a classical way, they r looked down on asbeibg uppity or arrogant. IT is so disgusting that America has become that way.
I think it was when Pop culture became so POPULAR. Pop culture came out of America. ACTUALLY I don't care for pop culture. I do love Opera and I always think it's so funny that Americans don't realize that in Italy, Opera is for the lower classes as well as all the classes and they treat Opera like we do football:
they scream at the singer if they don't like them and they throw things and they have a great time. I don't see how we can change America back to how it was because all the pop singers make so much money and they're so looked up to. Yet, they're often people who came out of the gutter and then they lucked out because there's thousands just like them who didn't.
. I did travel to Europe when I was younger and I always wished I had stayed because I hate that aspect of America and you've made it so clear to me that I made a mistake by returning to America and not trying to make it happen in Europe.
I live in the UK and last year went to the Welsh Opera House to enjoy "Opera Favourites", ie a taster. Perfect for a first timer and I loved it. Got chatting to an usher who said the day before 1000 school children had visited for a special introductory day for children. I thought it was a great idea and something they would remember all their lives, even if they never went again. Maybe it would have inspired some of them to be the Opera singers of the future.
Thank you so much from Italy.
Hey Mariana, in your description of European styles you omitted the Baltic states and Central and Eastern Europe - quite a lot of styles, cultures and esthetics there! I am sure this omission was not on purpose, but due to lack of easily available stereotypes about these countries (especially for someone coming outside of Europe). I am from Poland and I can tell you that the styles I see on the streets and at work are a mix of current trends - feminine - classic/intelectual minimal chic. Due to the specific look (apparently 80% of our population fits the Soft Summer colour theory type), many people dress in cool/muted colours (and Polish brands cater for such preferences, check out Reserved, Tatuum or Deni Cler, or Taranko), which I guess could be our "stereotype". Thank you for a fun video as always!
Have you seen a paper bag from Polish Reserved in this video?
I'm a Brit - Cool / Soft Summer - thanks for the Polish brand tips. I will take a look. I find here in the UK there is too much black and dark or jewel colours. Perfect if you are a Winter, which I am not.
My style is evolving for the first time in a long time. I'm excited!
I think knowing your body type and wearing clothing that flatters it made out of mostly natural high quality fibers is the key to looking effortlessly chic. I think it’s easier to find more stylish pieces in Europe than the States. Personally, I think Europeans in general look better than Americans because they walk everywhere and are more fit. In the US there’s a lot of people trying too hard…trying to look hot, trying to look expensive, old money, trying to look like a kardashian, etc…also plastic surgery is becoming more common. Europeans are better at embracing their natural beauty and don’t need to be so done up all of the time!
so true
Oh you're so spot on with your comment.
"don't need" I agree.
However, I see many European ladies, particualry the over 60's, who love to dress up, clearly enjoy fashion, being creative and looking and feeling great.
It’s really the first time I see someone getting it right, understanding the differences between different European countries, and going deeper that the usual cliché of French girls in breton tops etc. Great video!
Italians have that elegant critical eye for details, i love love their fashion, food, architecture, art etc,everything they touch is GOLD!
When I went to Italy what I noticed was the cut of the clothes. Regular guys were wearing beautifully cut blazers/ suits.
Central Milan in July, a recent trip, the men were wearing tight fitting linen suits - oh my :)
As a "European" I also have to laugh when Americans refer to "Europe" as a whole. As if Germany and Italy, Greece and Norway had anything in common 😂
Excellent comment!
I have to laugh when people take the comment to mean they are all the same. No one thinks it is the same just as different parts of the US are different. Texas, New York, California, Chicago, Boston are all very different. Yet Europeans think it's all the same. So funny!
Same thing is done to Africa. I honestly think some people think Africa is a little country with a few villages inside😂😂😂
This was exactly what I’ve been thinking about and looking for. Thank you for making this post. It was very informative and interesting… good examples to illustrate your info. You are so good at observing and explaining…. Excellent video.❤
I applaud your knowledge and wisdom in communicating respectfully and with transparency!!
I agreed with Every pint you made, you nailed it!!
I love the cardigan you’re wearing in this video. So classic and elegant!
I noticed in Europe the women use scarves always, all kinds of Scarves! That's very interesting, like it's a type of layering, in case you suddenly feel Cold?
I do this as well! All seasons. I do it for that very reason, I go to different locations with different temperature settings.
It depends...Europe is a continent, so the climate up north is not the same as , let's say, south. I'm Greek, but living in a west-European country, for now. I started carrying a scarve with me (even in summer, with 35 degrees), just because the weather is very unpredictable, not so much out of a stylish concern.
Live in Spsin, absolutely all females wear scarfs most of the time. Me too 😊
The reason is rather monocrome clothing. The look can be easily altered with scarves in different colours. I also need to wear them under the turtleneck of my sweater.
Great video. Spot on! Just got back from Italy and I noticed all of your discussion points in just a week! For the last year I’ve been obsessed with French style and have used that to guide my buying choices while still incorporating what works for the state I live in. I’ve gotten more compliments on my dressing then ever before!
Bravo, Mariana! You have presented the idea in such a thoughtful and well-edited way. I love that you include 'cultured' as an element of dressing well. I am a new subscriber. I love that you didn't, as so many style gurus do, simply present a formula of wearing specific things. Here where I live in the British countryside, I am often more inspired by the colours of the landscape around me for my cloth than necessarily what is the colour of the season.
I have been to Europe many times over the years. I have diplomatic magic family in Paris. My latest voyage was interesting, and to make a point. There was not a single difference from the average American style on the street. The hair, the jeans, the oversized, figure hiding tops were the rigor diem. From the UK, Paris, to Milan, and Florence… very much the same. I do recognize a sense of beauty that is more classic, however. It can be seen in their carriage more than their dressing. Your street shots did not garner anyone better dressed, than in the USA. However, I did notice what started in the USA, that is, the dressing down, had flowed into Europe. Europe was no longer setting style, but following what it saw on American TV, and movies. You are a lovely woman, just in your manner, but not typical….you may be picking up, what many do when new to Europe….it’s a romance with the older culture, but peel away this, and they really do not have an overly outstanding presence.
I agree, there is not a big difference on the street. We can see the same trends walking everywhere. I hardly can notice elegant person in Paris (except some mature wealthy women).
I totally agree I specifically went to Paris to be blown away only to find the oversized gender neutral fashion there. I was so disappointed.
I agree. I live in Germany and never see anything extraordinary in Europe that I wouldn’t see at home on the east coast. The chic European woman is beginning to feel more like myth now.
Needed to be said for balance. There is however a seam of European style that is resistant to Americanisation and that is to be found in the older demographic and of course wealthier and they really do have the style of which Mariana is referencing and it is beautiful to behold but rare. They will not be wearing sneakers.
@@sararichardson737 The older ladies are likely retired or working part-time. They have TIME to go clothes shopping and creatively put outfits together and good grooming. Younger women, 20's, 30's, 40's, likely juggle working full-time and bringing up children and looking after their home. They may have the same amount of time, but it is spent on different priorities. Then women in their 50's get involved in caring for elderly parents. It is not until women hit their 60's and 70's that they have less family responsibility.
❤this was a wonderful episode. Thank you so much.
I really appreciate you explaining this as it is intrinsic to Europe and I myself try to dress European !
I am Greek and for the most part people are not very stylish in general but
1. I am raised to see quality from afar. Because we were always a poor country, our grandfathers were either making everything from scratch with "meraki" so, they would get high quality materials and make the shoes, the coats, the furniture themselves or they would buy one expensive thing that they would use daily.
So the younger generations (I believe until millennials) we grew up living and using high quality clothes and furniture and nowadays there are many people here complaining about things breaking easily, clothes made out of polyester instead of wool etc.
It's a thing because of constant wars, people were poor and had to make things themselves so they would put so much attention to detail. We were raised like that.
2. And regarding choosing comfort instead of looking stylish and sexy; when you live in a country where you know someone in every corner and they know who you are, who your family is and they have seen you grow up, it's considered dishonest and cringy to try to wear something flashy or like you came out of a magazine. Especially wearing something during the day that is sexy, like "who are you trying to impress? We have seen you from the moment you wake up till you go to sleep, like why are you dressing sexy?"
Of course there are exceptions, and there are events and parties that require you to dress flashy or stylishly, but in general, it's cringey. I tend to like french, elegant fashion and I seriously put an effort everyday to stop myself from overdressing because people will feel awkward around me. In the big cities though, like Athens, people dress however they like, but again, because of our upbringing, clothes are always minimal and comfy.
Wow, thank you! I never looked at ourselves like that. I rather thought is was normal! Well made video! 👏
I couldn't agree more with you. I'm also from Brazil but I've been living in the UK for a while and I have spent a lot of time in Italy as well. Your point about culture is so true and you hit the nail on the head when you said that culture instructs your taste. You do need those references in order to know what make something beautiful, symmetric and pleasing to the eye, etc and you get that from books, art, music, etc. Well done for the video and the content. I think you are on to something here.
An important missing question. In Europe, we have excellent individual washing machines in each home. In the US, you have in most cases common washing machines in the basement, industrial washing machines that distroy delicate fabric. Moreover, at least in Spain, we seldom use dryers. Clothes are dry in the air, in the sun which helps your white cotton and linen remain white. In the US, people seem to prefer dryers. 😊
I think the dryer is a big difference, Ruth. I live in the tiniest apartment, but probably use the dryer a few times a year for towels and bed linen. Everything else goes on a drying rack in the middle of my living room 😅 Not ideal, but I prefer the clutter to ruining my favorite sweaters.
I live in Michigan in the United States where the winters are very cold but in the warm weather months I hoist my heavy laundered clothes to the clothesline in my back yard. A gentleman friend stopped by while I was hanging my wash. "You still hang your clothes on the line?" Admittedly, none of my neighbors follow my example but I notice when I run into them at the grocery store none of them are as well dressed as me.
This is the best video I've come across on style psychology in a loooong time. Thank you for this!! So helpful!
Very helpful tips. Thanks Mariana
We are raised to: wear our hair orderly, have clean fingernails and shiny shoes, and of course clean, ironed clothing. Those are the basics. Besides, we try to pay attention to our figures (difficult with our good foods and wine). But - what's the use of wearing expensive trousers or dresses with a balloon-gut hanging out in front?
I'm from Spain and I have to say that there are differences in style even between our own regions. In Madrid we tend to be more conservative than in the south parts of Spain for example as well as the northern regions. In regions where they have coast they tend to be more relaxed about their clothing style. I don't know the science or history behind it but it is something very noticeable
I came to comments to mention the same thing… I noticed that northern and southern Spain dressing is different. I also think that northern area like Basque Country is a little cooler than southern parts so it might have something to do with it. I think all the regions will vary somewhat in Spain.
Generally people need the coast seem to be more casual in their dress, in my opinion. As if they're about to go for a swim
Same here in Germany, where I live. In the north people dress more edgy and subculture oriented, in the south, especially Munich area, people are more conservative classy and fancier.
Bytheway, I love the spanish style. (As well in architecture.) IMO the french style is way overrated. It's very uniform and boring to me, especially compared to italian or spanish style,
Hello, first time here. Very comprehensive list of style recommendations. Thank you for your great insight.
Very informative. Thanks
I love your point of view!
Great video !
You’re so right! The key is knowing your shape, size and go what fits you and your life style. If you add quality over quantity and wash your hair regularly you’re going to be fine 😊 I’m not regular in body shape so I can’t fallow the fashion blindly. I’m short, pear shaped with short legs person. So I figured what looks good on me, and I’m not experimenting much. Love elegant, classy and bit sexy looks, cashmere, silk and fine jewelry. Everyday makeup and nails done;) But I’m Polish girl;)
I love your channel, it is educated me about fashion history and other Blogger not do. The information was good research and the explanations were very interesting. ❤❤❤
Natural fabrics are the key for me. A s basic simple style work
S best for me. As far as fit, I have to keep three sizes in my closet. My size changes.
I love those videos, however second market and great clothes are very hard to find where I live in Canada. So even if I put my heart and time to find that European style, I don’t find well made, great cuts, high quality clothes easily. I often end up buying nothing
I live in Italy too and unfortunately I’ve seen a few times the postal delivery of a package labeled as shein. Its only a matter of time before the new generation loses their sense of fashion.
Thanks for another great video! I always enjoy your content! I am in love with your sweater; I think I may need to purchase one!
Isn't it super cute? And it's cashmereee a.k.a. the softest thing in my wardrobe 😊
I much prefer European fashion to N. American. When in the UK I bought an entire wardrobe from charity shops. Beautiful linen pants (6 pairs) for £2.50 each, sweaters, a new navy bag from Italy, a scarf & blouses! No one here in Canada has the same clothes and I love they are unique. It's fabulous. I'm curvy so cigarette pants don't suit me at all, I go for a palazzo with a high waist and it's the most attractive look for me and what I feel most polished and comfortable in.
So happy to have found your channel. Do you have one for styling rectangular scarves?
Thanks from a new subscriber!
🔖🧳🔖🧳🔖
2:50 Material matters most
Portugal is quite colourful in terms of fashion
9:10 rule I live by.. chic over sexy
I love classics ! That’s my style! But were I live it is very Hot 10 mths. of the year, so it is very hard to find lovely cloths ,most of what’s for sale is Beach look- I love it when winter comes around.... enjoyed the ytube.
I think a lot of it is due to the fact that clothes tell you so much about a person so putting effort into how you look (even if it is to look effortless) tells people a lot about them.
Que legal encontrar uma brasileira aqui ❤❤❤❤ amei sua abordagem! Estou mais nesse sentido também… vivia tentando me encaixar como brasileira numa cultura que tem muito da exibição do corpo mas nunca me identifiquei… sempre me vesti mais clássica e era chamada de velha 😅. Hoje me sinto muito feliz tendo menos peças com mais qualidade e sendo eu mesma, sabendo o que fica bem em mim como você falou. Adorei seu vídeo e já ganhou mais uma seguidora! Beijos de SC 😘😘😘
I’m 61, and dare I say still look a bit youthful, I have long natural silver and grey hair. Best decision I ever made, wish I was brave enough to have done it sooner. My vibe in fashion hasn’t really changed a lot, today, I do a bit more fitted tops since I love my boho & barrel skirts. I love vintage, long trench, head pieces, I do wear body con , I will purchase them 1 to 2 sizes bigger, just looks better and more comfortable for me. I’m not sure what my 3 words, classic, hobo, unique. Any suggestions for me?
This is really great stuff!
Love your videos!
Brick and mortar stores are almost totally fine in America. This doesn't allow for looking and evaluating clothes in person. In a town of 50,000, Wal-Mart is the main store.
Most of my clothes are 7-12 years old and still look great. I get by with a small capsule wardrobe of 4-6 each blouses, tshirts, trousers, skirts, sweaters, jeans, dresses and shorts. In the winter we have a meter of snow. In the summer it is 42+ degrees. So you get an idea of how small my wardrobe is. I do have 19 blazers. My clothes need to go from business professional to smart casual to Goth/Punk. I use a lot of accessories and choose from 13 pairs of shoes that I been wearing for years. It does help that most of my clothes are black.
Most of my clothes are sewn by me. Besides not having the standard figure, I have long arms. By sewing I have total control over quality of my clothes. My clothes are of far higher quality than expensive ready to wear because I incorporate some haute sewing techniques into the garments that I make. Plus it's made for me!
Americans seem to think that I'm a strange bird with my clothes because I do mix period and vintage with contemporary. My Goth daughter calls me the elder Euro Chic Goth. Europeans think of me as just as a geeky Goth that doesn't look too different. I am pushing 60.
I do spend a lot of time hunting clearance fabrics for my clothes. I'm living on disability and won't be able to go back to work for another two years. Lately my adult children been buying me lots of gorgeous fabrics for me to sew for myself.
I recently visited Portugal and the city of Braga. Whilst enjoying lunch in a well known coffee shop, a group of older, 60 plus, ladies arrived. Wow! Their outfits were colourful, flambouyant, patterned. They all had chic sunglasses, perfect for their sunny country. Hair done, nails done, chic shoes and accessories. Nothing stuffy and too classic. They all looked like they enjoyed getting dressed up and had FUN with it. They also had movie star vibes.
I think the younger TH-cam influencers have got a bit too serious with fashion - "how to look expensive", "quiet luxury" etc. Whilst I love those looks too, I think we need to let go a little and inject a bit of colour and fun into how we get dressed. In my younger, more creative days, I used to love rummaging through charity shops to see what I could find that was different. I might have to revisit them more frequently.
We favor quality over quantity, so we are already at odds with YT fashionistas except you, my lovely. We usually plan our expenses to carefully match what we already have. I think there may be less waste attitude and fast fashion. It exists, as you know, but I can't see it as popular as it is in the UK, where I live, which match closely the US culture. We also allocate a budget for make-up, perfumes, and underwear, so you don't just put things on the credit card to add clothes on top, hence the budgeting attitude. Great video!
" so we are already at odds with YT fashionistas except you, my lovely"... Fleur, you're so sweet! 😊
♥♥@@MarianaZelenjuk
Very good analysis.
I enjoyed you and the topic of your video very much.
PREACH! Quality vs quantity
Another tidbit to add at least for us Americans, is knowing a tailor to personalize/tailor your clothes as a must for everyone’s wardrobe.
My dream is to get gorgeous native loomed fabrics from Guatemala and bring it to a tailor to create classy clothing and wear it in my life to celebrate my heritage and family. 😊❤
I'm from Northern Italy and I can say that we definitely do not all dress well. Actually most people dress quite casually, unless they are from the upper-middle and ruling classes. Hell, the outdoor footage of this very video, shot in Milan BTW, proves this. All things being relative, however, it has to be said that Americans don't have a clue about dress sense. Why else invent dress codes, otherwise?
My view of fashion in Milan is via TH-cam. I gave to agree that they are extremely well dressed with the exception of footwear. Comfort seems the rule of the day as evidenced by a majority wearing sneakers (also known as gym shoes or trainers).
It seems that most European woman (at least those in the cities) are in shape and assiduously avoid the horrible and unfortunately popular-in-the-US- look of barely-there athletic wear, regardless of what size/shape the wearer's midriff and backside are in.
Thank you, wonderful!
Okay I’m crazy but also lol I hope we go back to the days where women had appointments to those cool shops/boutiques to get customized clothes and get them done well, with good quality fabrics ie Selfridges……that way we curate wardrobes for who we are and our unique body shapes.
Adorei saber que você é brasileira! ❤ me inspirei a fazer mais vídeos em inglês agora!🎉
I was raised in the US. My mother emphasized that a woman needs to dress with a bit of class, that you dont have to have a huge budget just a good eye. Seems to have worked well with lifestyle.
Mariana 🌺 can you tell us how looks fashion in Brazil. And maybe some better/different approach to the style?
* Do you miss Brazil?
Desde o início do vídeo percebi que era brasileira. Adorei seu vídeo!
eu também hahahaha. Quando ela falou que era do Brasil eu gritei "sabiaa!"
Unless yr a mom, you don’t understand if you spill on your 800.00 fabulous coat its throwing money away. Kids are messy, cooking for a large family sort of dampens the intrigue of spending alot on fabulous clothes. Ive ruined many a beautiful garment being a mom, and homemaker. When kids are grown, a different story, (sort of) then grand kids come along💜💜Italians know their fine fabrics thats for sure, since the beginning, centuries ago. I just found an Italian wool blazer at a thrift shop, oooh the fabric and cut, it gleams in the sun. Great video Marianna!! Do more comparisons plz👍👍America is so different
Hi Ingrid! What I find really interesting is that they don’t actually spend a lot of money on fabulous clothes. They splurge on pieces that are essentials - like a sturdy parka or a cashmere sweater - exactly because they don’t want to buy the same item over and over again due to its poor quality. Even if budget is tight, many will get these building blocks second-hand, to save money without sacrificing quality. Something that is much more rare is the “luxury impulse purchase” a.k.a. spending hundreds of dollars on a pair of flashy designer heels or superfluous handbag just because it’s on sale.
Not everybody has wild unruly messy children. Children, even small, can be educated. Then they will not spoil your outfit.
Maybe ask the European moms, what they buy? Could be an interesting video.
My British Mum always wore dresses, she also worked as a home help. For her uniform, she was given a polyester checken long sleeved blouse/jacket type thing, which she took to wearing at home, together with an apron or tabard when doing housework and washing up. When her tasks were done, she took them off, revealing her clean dress underneath. I never really thought about it as a kid, as it was something she just did, and alsways made us where pinnies. Now I'm older, I realise what a good idea it was.
Excellent video!
Oi Mariana, sou brasileira mas moro nos States minha vida quaze toda. Morei no Brasil e na Holanda. Adoro o estilo brasileiro e europeu, porem sou muito Americanizada. Meu canal muitas vezes dizem que tenho uma vibe Inglesa. Acabei de achar voce aqui. Estou adorando seu comentario social sobre a cultura e etiqueta... vou continuar assistindo para ver o que mais acho aqui. Beijos do TX.
Olá, Catherine, e bem-vinda ao canal! Que bacana que você já morou em diversos países... é tão interessante como essas experiências moldam nosso estilo e nosso jeito de pensar. Vou acompanhar seu canal também 😊
@@MarianaZelenjuk Thanks Mariana. It is not necessary, but welcome to my world. LOL Hugs
I was in Europe for a few weeks including Paris and Italian cities but actually I don’t even remember noticing anybody’s clothing on the streets 😂. The only thing I remember is the fast cars parked on Champs-Élysées in Paris which we have to pay for a ride 😂
Thanks Mariana
Well, We always dress up even for the grocery stores 😂
During the pandemic, the only place we dared to venture was the grocery store. I made sure that I made a special effort to be well groomed. I even bought fancy face masks.
It is the same with food: nobody would buy crap, and if someone would sell crap, they would go out of business.
Also, there are cupboards and wardrobes, not closets. You have to think what you want to own, as there is less space for storage.
I love the way European women focus on quality materials and fit. However I feel I can never find these items for my short curvy but small frame. If I shop stores that European women shop everything is made for tall super slim women with lots of vertical and straight angular lines. I can’t find anything small AND curvy, with waist emphasis and fabric that moves with you. European women are always in very square structured shapes and I’d look horrible in those silhouettes. I can’t find quality fabrics with waist emphasis! The clothes for curvy women are always all “sexed up”. I don’t want tight and clingy, I just want to maintain my shape. Nothing looks worse on me than a “classic t shirt” or square cardigan. Or a squared off blazer with no belt or waist emphasis. So much of fashion is made to suit angular long body shapes. The Kibbe naturals seem to rule the fashion universe!
Natural does seem to rule lately
Clothing that suits "naturals" is the easiest and least costly to manufacture. It doesn't require much tailoring. I've seen a video by Justine (her name MIGHT be Lecomte, but I am not sure) who used to work in the fashion industry and now is a style influencer here on YT in which she talked about how fashion brands try to cut cost and how their financial goals influence the design of their collections
Você é brasileira? Que incrível!! Já vou me inscrever, adorei o conteúdo :) só queria que por aqui o clima me permitisse vestir essas terceira peças, eu acho tão sofisticado
As a european I have to say you are giving us too much credit 😄 there are so many europeans that dress terribly. Also in France and Italy. But I really enjoyed your video and you definitely name some good points!
Italians are thinner, taller ? It looks like you have never been to Italy, only dreamt about it. They may SEEM thinner and taller (at least the Italians shown on TH-cam - which is by far not all Italians) because they know how to dress.
uh, she has lived in Milan for several yrs
Because of the weather
If you think the French are well dressed it is because you have never travelled with the Paris metro. I know what I am talking about : I am French and live in Paris. The so called French chic is an American dream… Rather look at Italians.
Also, they only refer to Paris. France is a big country, there are other cities to visit(and in my opinion, a bit more authentic). Paris has become a caricature and a "must go"for Americans, just for an instagram-shot.
Not being critical, but fabric not material. Material is what you make houses out of, fabric is for clothing. Old home economics person here and that was drilled into my head in school. lol I am enjoying your content. Thank you.
Watching this and taking notes even tho I'm from Europe myself lmao
Well, Italians (I am half, form Veneto) we are obssesed with the looks. Yes I know, we can be also funny, confused, messy, etc.. but also, so very superficial.. This is why I am in Spain, here exist some kind of meritocracy and people are warmer and more natural. I do like French too, they have always been so nice to me, and IMO their style is the best. But Italy has the best history, food, and arquitecture. I would loved one day have enough money to buy some villa and Liguria would probably be my choice. But I have great friends in Italy don't get me wrong, one of my best friend is from Sicily.
Great observations and comments! I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it is about well-dressed Europeans, but you verbalized exactly what makes them so stylish from the inside out (not just the external and final expression). You made me think of two things: They have national pride without having to beat their chests about it. Also, fast fashion sells us the idea of things like Old Money aesthetic the way that the fast food industry tries to sell us faux meat. But Europeans seem to think “why settle for cheap imitations when you can have the real thing?”
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Americans womens go everywhere with fitness look in Europe no...we love stailing.... for example when i wearing my black sport trauser i wearing my classic shirt and long coat.
Sorry for my English ❤
As a Croatian I may say that we like to wear nice clothes and be dressed up all the time, not many people wear tracksuits or leggings around, I wear modest clothes and always try to have it nice and neat but without any big effort, it maybe comes from the period of socialism when there was no fast fashion but quality goods, we also had much of our clothes home sewn, my mum made a lot of my clothes
Italians are the least overweight so of course they look good in clothes. It’s all about the body wearing the clothes.
Those in the know n have the means in the major cities of the US Just take it up a notch, good or bad. It's fun but definitely not as elegant as the Europeans, especially the Italian. I'm half Italian American. Quiet luxury can be boring But that's not to say we don't appreciate quality. Americans are the major consumers of fashion after all.
ALso, you are in Italy, Italians spend 50% of their income on clothes. Most people wouldn't survive doing this.
I noticed the lack of obesity. I guess they walk and ride bikes as part of their daily lives.
But then again, half of the people on the shots are tourists, not Italians.
The food is more whole foods and and fresher without a lot of the additives etc found in american food. I read comments all the time that ppl originally from Europe gain weight when moving here and americans living abroad lose weight.
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By European , do you mean also Eastern Europe? I'm British and not everybody is stylish here. It's the people with money who can afford only.
I'm a Brit too. I would say style needs TIME more than money. There are plenty of good quality clothes in the charity shops. You need time to experiment with colours and cuts to find what looks good on you. Time and willingness to develope an eye and be educated on quality and style. Time to go shopping. Time to get creative in your wardrobe and put stylish outfits together. Time for good grooming, blow dry your hair, put on make-up, cook healthy meals at home so you stay slim and healthy. That is why the most stylish ladies here in the UK are the over 60's as they have time for all this. The younger women look great on nights out or weddings as they put in the time.
Sadly, their everyday time is spent at work, looking after kids and the home.
That is why women in the 50's look so great, they didn't work full-time so had time to shop and dress smartly.
@@softsophisticate Yes agree time and money, most people don't have both at once.
Brasileira 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷!
And then you go to Germany and see people dressed for hiking with Deuter backpacks to go to work. I see almost 0 style and fashion here in southern Germany. I am German.
Same in The Netherlands! 😢
In Hamburg sieht man hingegen sehr, sehr viele gut gekleidete Menschen. Ebenso in Düsseldorf.
Not all Europeans dress and wear quality , the people working not shopping 🛍️ like the rich ones , can’t afford quality, you’re seeing the rich class shopping in Milan for example. Don’t put a country down , we all love lounge wear at home , some prefer totally organic some can only afford Primark prices .