It goes without saying that Parisians know how to dress well. Their effortless, timeless, yet elegant style complements the hectic lifestyle that comes with living in Paris. Parisian men are no exception to this rule, as you’ve probably noticed if you’ve ever visited the city. Parisian fashion is a little more sophisticated than overall French fashion, with classic pieces, neutral tones, and a cool, nonchalant attitude. Knowing how to strike the perfect balance between chic and casual is the ideal starting point for becoming a member of les Parisiens.
If you’ve arrived here, it means you’re looking for the closely guarded secrets that make Parisian men so simple yet fashionable. Don’t be fooled by the minimalistic appearance! Men in Paris take time and pride in taking care of themselves. That, of course, requires a significant amount of effort. Finding their ideal Parisian style is a never-ending quest for a sophisticated, yet chic and minimalistic vibe.
Must-have classic Parisian fashions for men:
1. Button-Down Shirt in Classic White
If you’ve ever been to Paris, this should come as no surprise. Every Parisian man’s wardrobe should include a classic white button-down shirt. This is closely related to their fast-paced, Parisian lifestyle. Men in Paris spend a lot of time looking for the right one. And believe me, that should be a full-time job in and of itself! You must not only find one that fits you perfectly, but also one that frames your figure elegantly and beautifully.
2. Chesterfield Coat
If you want to emulate French men’s fashion, there are a few essentials you can add to your wardrobe that will instantly elevate your style. A chesterfield coat is a wardrobe staple that every Frenchman owns. A chesterfield is a formal, knee-length coat in a dark color. Many will also have a velvet collar for an added touch of class. During the fall and winter months, the coats are meant to be layered over suits. Although the coats were invented and popularized by the British in the nineteenth century, they have since become a staple of French men’s fashion and a must-have in any French man’s wardrobe.
3. Black or Gray Tailored Suit
This is another essential item in every Parisian man’s wardrobe that should not be overlooked. A sharp, well-tailored black or blue suit helps Parisian men achieve a sharp, confident look. They are simply obsessed with it, and for good reason: they can wear it in both casual and dressier settings, just like the white button down shirt. It probably goes without saying, but a tailored blazer is perhaps the most important piece of a modern man’s wardrobe. A tailored blazer is an absolute must in France. They are worn with trousers for work and with more casual attire such as a fitted pair of jeans or chinos for everyday wear. To comply with French standards, the blazer must be properly tailored.
4. Vintage Denim Jeans
We’ve all heard that shopping for jeans can be a chore, but with the right information, it can actually be enjoyable. It’s critical to know your measurements, particularly your inseam and waist measurements, as these will always be used to determine which size you’ll need at any given store. We adore A.P.C Denim because they offer such a diverse range of fits and styles. On their online store, they even have a size assistant app. When you shop in-store, their trained sales associates can help you choose jeans and recommend which sizes and cuts will look best on your body.
5. White Tennis shoes
White tennis shoes are a must-have in any Parisian man’s wardrobe. This classic and timeless street style piece allows them to appear relaxed while remaining sharp. This item is not only fashionable, but it is also very practical: once you find your perfect pair, you will never want to wear anything else. And it is this that distinguishes their wardrobe. Finding pieces that you can wear on a daily basis that will become your staple. This will allow you to have a distinct and recognizable style that is also timeless, simple, and trendy… just like them.
6. A Pair of Formal Shoes
A good pair of dress shoes is essential in France. They are worn with trousers or jeans to anchor the look. A well-made dress shoe stands out; you can always tell when someone has put money into their shoes. However, if you know what to look for, you might be able to find a less expensive pair of dress shoes that look the same as their more expensive counterparts. Make certain that the upper part of your dress shoes is made entirely of leather. Leather is malleable and will mold to the shape of your feet over time, resulting in a much more comfortable fit. Another suggestion? Check the shoe soles to ensure they are stitched rather than glued to the upper part. They will last much longer.
7. Iconic Items
It’s very simple to emulate a Frenchman’s sophistication by investing in a few statement pieces that will serve the rest of your wardrobe all year.
Layering is an important part of the Parisian look, so having a variety of high-quality scarves and hats is a must. It’s a common misconception that the beret is only for Parisian women; however, every true Parisian knows that the beret is a unisex delight.
Most fashionable French men would not be caught dead wearing nose, brow, or lip rings. However, the French prefer a statement ring, bracelet, or even an odd understated earring (depending on the rest of your outfit, of course!).
When navigating the streets of Paris, sunglasses are a must. Keep them dark (frame and lens) and never attach them to chains around your neck! In the summer, replace thick scarves with patterned silk scarves that tie neatly (air hostess-style) around your Adam’s apple.
To summarize
The French style is more akin to what Americans would call “business casual.” When attempting to emulate the Parisian look, stick to blacks and neutrals rather than bright colors. The Parisian style borders on being discreet and risk-free, with neutral tones ranging from classic beige, white, grey, and black to burgundy, navy blue, and brown. The advantage of neutrals is that they can be paired with almost anything and a pop of color can be added with a few simple accessories.
While some French men prefer to work in suits, others save them for special occasions. The Parisian fit is slimmer than the standard American fit and can take some getting used to.
Unlike jackets and trousers, which are tailored to fit, jeans are a more casual affair. Denim is a popular fabric in Paris, whether in slim-fit, skinny-fit, or relaxed-fit styles. Most social outings call for vintage denim, a casual t-shirt, and a leather/bomber jacket.
Accessorizing is another popular option. Accessories, ranging from subtle jewelry to statement scarves and un parapluie long (a long umbrella), can elevate even the most basic outfits into a chic look.