By Tyler Martin
There’s something so captivating about the French approach to fashion. The balance they strike between effortlessly chic and intentional is so perfect that it’s legendary, not to mention the fact that France is the birthplace of almost every major luxury maison, from the interlocking Cs and LVs to the iconic orange box.
When I talk about being captivated, it’s a reflection of my own passion. How much do I love French fashion? I’m a Fashion Media and Journalism student minoring in French. I studied fashion in France last summer and recently returned to Paris with my family for a fall getaway (and to shop, bien sûr).
If you’re also captivated by French fashion – or would like to be – SMU makes it easy to combine studying and style. You can study in Aix-en-Provence like I did through the SMU-in-France program (click here for details – applications are open now) or spend a semester in Paris through the fashion media program’s connection to the Parsons School of Design (click here for information on that, too). Both programs offer financial aid and the application for that closes Dec 15th, so it’s not too late.
Whether you’re heading to France for class credit or just a simple vacance, here are three suggestions on how you can embrace – and better understand – French fashion culture:
Leave the Athleisure
From Paris to Provence, one thing I have continually noticed is that athleisure is almost nonexistent. Unlike at SMU, where leggings and hoodies are everywhere, the French prefer to dress more polished, like a sweater, jeans, and a wool coat for grabbing coffee at a local cafe. Every outing in France feels like an opportunity to put together an amazing look. And I’ve done my best to adopt this mindset in Dallas.
Make Time for Fashion Museums
I’m always seeing posts featuring the magnificent multi-story spiral staircase surrounded by rainbow-hued mini Dior accessories at La Galerie Dior on my social media feed, and I am here to say that it’s not overrated. When in Paris, visiting this museum is a must. But don’t just stop at the staircase – there’s so much to explore here, including my favorite part, “The Dior Ball.” Located at the end of the tour, this immersive exhibit includes 13 projectors that highlight some of the most elaborate gowns from the brand’s archives.
While Dior is a must-visit, be sure to make time for the smaller museums, too. On my most recent trip, I visited the Musée Yves Saint Laurent. Located in the brand’s former headquarters, there’s an intimacy here that’s really special. The museum focuses as much on Saint Laurent’s creative process as it does on the history of the brand, and central to this is the opportunity to see his actual studio. That’s where he designed so many legendary collections and it’s preserved almost exactly as it was when he was alive.
Another exceptional fashion history opportunity isn’t a museum per se, but it’s definitely a top attraction for anyone obsessed with French fashion: At Chanel’s flagship store on 31 Rue Cambon, you can see the famous mirrored staircase that leads to Coco Chanel’s former apartment.
Prep Before You Pack
Before putting together your outfits for your trip – or even for your daily life in Dallas – I recommend checking out some French influencers for a quick masterclass in French style. I highly recommend checking out Camille Charriere. I love her approach to accessorizing – it’s simple yet impactful. She’s always adding a great belt or cuff bracelet to bring a touch of hardware to an otherwise minimal look. Another must-follow influencer is Jeanne Damas, who specializes in styling bold prints in timeless ways, no matter the season.
I hope these tips help you enjoy your time in France to the fullest, but the thing about French style is that it’s iconic anywhere and everywhere. That’s what makes it so amazing. Whether you’re headed to Les Halles or the Hilltop, anytime you’re channeling French style, you’re in fashion.
Cover graphic by Staff Member Athena Mamatas
