Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange

Have you ever wondered why Parisians are effortlessly chic and innately stylish? It’s because they learned some basic rules – one is to have personal style and second to never become a slave to trends. Reading Ines de la Fressange’s Parisian Chic we learn that you don’t have to be Parisian to have style.

A few basic rules that Ines covers:

1. Outfits are out – No color coordination – mix and match.
2. Bye-Bye Bling – No flashy labels and keep it simple, less is more.
3. Explore – Discover New labels, if you like it and are comfortable than wear it!
4. Don’t become a fashion victim – trends are fads that aren’t meant to last – style is enduring.
5. Split your clothing budget in half – half for basics and the rest for impulse buys. An impulse buy is that great handbag or piece of jewelry.

Having worked for luxury houses I learned that accessories played a huge role, a great handbag, great shoes and jewelry are considered essentials. Basics are T-shirts, jeans and cardigans.

The adage that less is more is true, keep your clothing to a three color pallet, make sure your trousers or jeans aren’t too short and above all buy quality. By buying quality, it doesn’t mean it has to be expensive, it means get to know your fabrics. I’ve bought great pieces at H&M, J.Crew, Banana Republic and Target. Read the fashion magazines and remember that trends are not for everyone, dress for comfort and your body type.

Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange is the French Bible of Style – it’s also a guide to Paris’s best boutiques and shops. This book is definitely coming with me on my next trip to the City of Lights.

Plus the illustrations and photographs are truly inspirational, a fashion must! Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange is Citygirl recommended. $29.95