Love Emily in Paris? How to Dress Like a French Girl

Source: Stephanie Branchu/Netflix

We’re all fans of the classic French Girl Style, and, in celebration of the Netflix phenomenon that is Emily in Paris, we’ve been longing for the city of light.

What is Parisian style?

We’re constantly lusting after Parisian Style, and getting the perfect picture whilst stood under the Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately, we aren’t able to do that right now. The next best thing? From the LBD to the perfect shoes, here’s six ways to recreate the stylish protagonist of the show’s wardrobe, and craft the perfect French Girl look.

It’s better with a blazer

Here at BrandAlley, we stand by the premise that everyone should possess at least one decent French style blazer. It’s the ultimate wardrobe hero, and no true Parisian femme fatale is without one.

Phase Eight Black Aylin Velvet Jacket – £40

Gant Classic Blue Linen Viscose Blazer – £129

Ivy & Oak Beige Wool Blend Double Breasted Blazer – £59

Top tip: Less is more when it comes to Parisian style, you can invest in a few pieces to build a capsule wardrobe, then mix and match to get the most out of your picks.


The to-die-for trench

Too cold for a blazer? Simply add a trench coat on top for the ultimate Parisian-chic outfit. Whilst French girls love their city, Paris weather can unfortunately be unpredictable, so avoid the showers (and gain some serious cool points) in a longline trench. Versatile and on-trend? We’re in.

Whistles Beige Paula Trench Coat – £89

Hobbs Navy Annora Trench Coat – £79

Mango Beige Flowy Oversize Trench – £32

Pexels / Polina Tankilevitch

 


LBD

Ah, the LBD. Made famous by fashion designer Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (who was one of the style inspirations for Emily’s wardrobe), the little black dress plays a key role in Parisian fashion. The best ones can be worn both day and night, and, similar to the blazer, it’s a piece which is sure to have a forever-place in any wardrobe – a worthy investment.

Levi’s Black Mirai Western Dress – £37

Mango Black Lace Trim Dress – £17

By Iris Black Ivita Smocked Dress – £65

Source: Carole Bethuel/Netflix

Comfortable shoes are key

Whilst we may associate glamour with high heels, it’s not always the same in the city. With cobbled streets and uneven surfaces, practicality has to take priority when it comes to shoes to wear in Paris and for day-to-day dressing – simply save those stilettos for your next party instead.

Dune Black Leather Paysan Chelsea Boots – £59

Joseph Black Leather Flat Mules – £119

New Balance Silver 373 Sneaker – £29


 

Scarf spotlight

If you’re not quite ready to devote yourself to the full French girl look, and would simply prefer to dip a toe in the water, a considered  French style scarf is a great place to start. It can be tied round your neck – or even used as a headband, a fun way to add a pop of print and vibrancy to your ensembles.

Coach Camel Horse and Carriage Oversized Square Scarf – £85

Gucci Grey Monogram Print Scarf – £199

Paul Smith Cobalt Rainforest Print Scarf – £30

Emily in Paris / Netflix

How to accessorize like a French woman

But how does the busy city-dwelling girl carry around all her belongings, and, more importantly, the perfect shade of rouge lipstick for last minute touch-ups? In your handbag, of course. As you can probably guess by now, the more understated, the better, however invest in a quality piece – les Françaises do adore their designers.

Givenchy Black Small Antigona Tote Bag – £1,055 

Longchamp Black Le Pliage Heritage Top Handle Bag – £289

Renata Corsi Black Leather Shoulder Bag – £35


Words: Maria Loizou