After residing in Paris for almost two years, I’m nonetheless amazed at how nicely European ladies costume. It’s uncommon to see anybody who isn’t well-dressed, even when they’re shopping for some milk from the grocery retailer. We lived down the block from an elementary faculty, and each day we’d see mothers with excessive heels and skirts pushing their strollers down the road.
That’s why I believed I might share a few of my observations on ladies’s European style from residing in Paris and from my travels all through Europe. Hopefully, these style ideas will allow you to select which garments to carry in your subsequent journey and provide you with an concept of methods to costume like a European.
Observe: Most of my observations are from Paris, as that is the place I’ve lived essentially the most. Nevertheless, Parisians are thought of among the best-dressed individuals in Europe, making them group to hunt style recommendation from.
The Golden Guidelines For Girls’s European Vogue
Actually, there are not any “guidelines” and there actually isn’t a real “European” style. You’ve most likely heard that Parisians solely put on black, however in the event you stroll across the streets of Paris you’ll see trendy individuals carrying all types of colours.
That’s why this information will spotlight the overall style tendencies that I’ve noticed, however I urge you so as to add your model to your clothes selections. My main objective is to introduce you to European style and provide some concepts on what you may need to put on throughout your go to.
It’s All About The Match
Folks assume Europeans look nice as a result of they’ve closets filled with designer garments however this isn’t utterly true. They might have just a few higher-end gadgets, however they store at H&M, Zara, Mango, Hole, Topshop, and different multinational outlets similar to the remainder of us. The key is that they buy garments that match nicely — and if the match isn’t fairly proper, then they’ll get their garments tailor-made. I really feel that it’s rather more frequent to have small alterations accomplished in Europe, and people little adjustments make the garments match higher.
Hold it Easy
European ladies hold their wardrobes easy and traditional. They select timeless items that don’t scream for consideration. Then they’ll add a shiny accent (scarf, sneakers, jewellery, and so on) to carry the outfit collectively. I additionally noticed plenty of contrasting items used collectively — like pairing a barely outsized, chunky sweater with a good skirt or skinny denims.
Skinny Denims
Denims are a staple of any European wardrobe. Most ladies I noticed wore skinny or slim denims. Generally, they principally wore darkish denims and not using a wash or with a minimal wash (i.e., solely a small quantity of distressing). Gray denims are additionally a well-liked selection. However Europeans don’t simply put on black and gray, so don’t be afraid to put on a pair of shiny crimson denims/trousers.
Easy Hair
European ladies have a tremendous capability to have great-looking hair that appears effortlessly pure. I don’t know how they do it, however it looks as if they don’t fuss with it an excessive amount of — it wouldn’t shock me in the event that they roll off the bed and tousle it with their palms. Lengthy hair is positively in model, so begin rising! Whenever you’re visiting Europe, simply throw your hair right into a modern excessive ponytail or a messy bun and be in your means. Take a look at this submit by Hair on the Mind for some recommendations on methods to create the right messy bun.
Images from intotheglass.com and haironthebrain.com
It’s All About The Footwear
Europeans dwell in shoebox-sized flats however they nonetheless handle to have a tremendous assortment of nice sneakers.
European ladies, particularly these in cities, typically put on excessive heels. However beware… these fashionistas have years of apply navigating cobblestone streets and tough metropolis sidewalks, so that you may end up actually struggling in the event you select to put on a pair of attractive stilettos. Wedges are additionally a very talked-about and a bit extra sensible possibility since they provide extra floor space for strolling.
No shoe assortment is full and not using a few pairs of trainers. Through the winter, you’ll see tall leather-based boots in all places, however cute ankle boots are a well-liked selection throughout the remainder of the 12 months. Take a look at our information to Finest Waterproof Boots for Girls for some cute and cozy boots.
When the climate will get heat, it’s time to interrupt out the light-weight sneakers. Strappy leather-based sandals, flats, loafers, and informal sneakers are all nice selections.
That mentioned… in the event you’re going to be touring to Europe, I recommend leaving the uncomfortable sneakers at dwelling. Nevertheless, that doesn’t imply it’s essential to put on ugly trainers. I like to recommend a pair of cute sneakers, flat boots, and cozy sandals. If you happen to do carry a pair of impractical sneakers for going out, make certain they’re not going to kill your toes (blisters are not any enjoyable). Additionally, keep in mind that a high quality set of Superfeet insoles could make sneakers extra comfy.
Take a look at our information to journey sneakers for some examples of trendy and cozy sneakers, boots, sandals, and extra.
Picture courtesy of Chictopia
Scarfs
Nothing is extra European than a shawl they usually’re the right solution to pull an outfit collectively. A heat and comfy scarf is ideal for winter, and a lightweight silk or cotton scarf is nice for summer season. Need to know methods to put on your scarf… try this information from Scarves.web
Images from HIP Paris and Toronto Woman West
Trench Coats
A traditional trench coat is an elegant solution to look superb throughout these chilly and wet European winters.
It’s In The Bag
Whether or not it’s a tote, messenger bag, or purse, you’ll be able to’t go away the home and not using a cute bag. A bag is a good accent for including a bit of additional colour or model to an outfit.
Tip: Thwart pickpockets by ensuring your bag has a zipper. Study extra about Pickpockets in Europe.
Images from Kayture and Vanessa Jackman
Get In Contact With Your Female Aspect
European ladies will not be afraid of embracing their femininity. They put on silk, lace, and different superb materials. So escape these female, flowy attire on a sunny summer season day.
Impartial Like Switzerland
Whereas it isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, many Europeans have a tendency to decorate in darkish and impartial colours. After all, you’ll see loads of colours so don’t really feel like it’s essential to costume such as you’re at a funeral — however when doubtful, select impartial colours.
And dressing in neutrals additionally makes packing for journey simpler since every little thing you carry coordinates.
Simple On The Make-up
I discover that European ladies desire a pure look in the case of making use of cosmetics. They’ll simply use the fundamentals and don’t overdo it. However the one factor they appear to like is lipstick — particularly the Parisians. Vivid crimson lipstick is a favourite and also you’ll see ladies carrying it throughout the town.
Take a look at my Information To Skincare, Make-up and Magnificence Necessities For Journey for extra perception into my journey skincare routine.
Cool Shades
I used to be all the time amazed on the eyewear that Parisians had been sporting — They usually virtually all the time wore designer frames. Thick 70s-style frames are a traditional selection. I like my Warby Parker sun shades in the event you’re searching for one thing trendy and inexpensive.
By no means Put on Sweats or Operating Footwear
In Paris, I by no means noticed Parisians carrying sweats and trainers in public — except they had been really exercising. It was solely the vacationers who wore them round. Simply don’t do it.
That mentioned, there’s nothing fallacious with trendy sneakers! In truth, you’ll see loads of European ladies sporting Nike, New Stability, Adidas, and so on.
Take a look at our information to journey sneakers for some examples of trendy and cozy sneakers.
The place To Discover Vogue Inspiration
I’ve discovered that one of the simplest ways to see European model is by shopping common European style retailers. Beneath are just a few high-end and funds retailers that I’ve used for style inspiration.
- H&M – This common Swedish retailer has areas all the world over. Their garments aren’t nice high quality however they’re low-cost.
- APC – A stylish French model that has high-quality, traditional gadgets. They’ve nice denims. They’re costly.
- Zadig & Voltaire – One other high-end stylish French model.
- The Kooples – Have cash to burn? The Kooples is without doubt one of the hottest designer boutiques.
- Mango – A Spanish firm that has stylish and pretty cheap gadgets.
- Zara – One other common style retailer from Spain. They’re recognized for being inexpensive and maintaining with the tendencies.
- ASOS – This UK retailer is common with European teenagers and twenty-somethings.
- Kookai – This French style label is common within the 20- to 40-year-old demographic.
- Galeries Lafayette – The Galeries Lafayette is essentially the most fabulous division retailer in Paris. They carry virtually each luxurious and high-end style model. Their web site is all in French, however they’ve an enormous collection of the newest fashions — every little thing from $8000 Dior baggage to $50 Levis denims.
Sensible Packing & Journey Vogue Suggestions
As you’ve most likely discovered, trying trendy whereas touring is rarely straightforward since you don’t have plenty of room in your baggage to pack a lot clothes. So, except you have a workforce of individuals to hold round your baggage, you’re going to be choosy about what you carry. That’s why on this part you’ll discover some sensible packing ideas for staying trendy whereas touring in Europe and I’ll embody some really useful journey clothes.
For extra in-depth packing ideas try our Journey Europe Packing Record for a ton extra data.
Attempt Packing Gentle
Being trendy and packing gentle doesn’t all the time combine however it’s vital to be good about what you pack as a result of lugging an enormous suitcase round Europe is a horrible expertise. After all, in the event you take taxis in all places, issues change into simpler.
I’m not saying you completely must restrict your self to a carry-on measurement piece of bags however you’ll be happier and not using a monster-sized suitcase.
Basic Clothes Suggestions
- Create A Capsule Wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe is mainly when every bit of clothes you carry may be paired with a number of different gadgets.
- For instance, one shirt can match three pairs of pants/skirts. The thought is that you could carry fewer particular person gadgets however nonetheless have many outfits.
- Stable, impartial colours are simpler to match so take into account gadgets like that.
- Restrict “One Off” Objects: It’s superb to pack one thing that you just’re solely going to put on a few times, however you’ll need to restrict this to keep away from overpacking.
- Low Upkeep Clothes: Journey may be robust on garments so attempt avoiding issues with particular washing directions — like dry-clean solely.
- Decorate: Easy issues like scarves or a necklace is a simple solution to change up your wardrobe.
- Purchase One thing in Europe: Europe is dwelling to superb purchasing so you’ll be able to all the time purchase extra garments whenever you’re touring.
Beneficial Journey Clothes and Manufacturers for Girls
There are a selection of manufacturers that make clothes particularly for journey. They use particular materials which can be sturdy, resist wrinkles, assist forestall odors, and are additionally trendy.
Journey Tops, Clothes, and Bottoms Manufacturers
It’s onerous to search out trendy journey clothes however these manufacturers provide some cute choices (though among the stuff nonetheless seems a bit of “outdoorsy” so that you may want to look a bit). Will you appear to be you’re purchasing at Dior? No. However you received’t appear to be you’re mountain climbing a mountain or simply getting back from yoga class.
- Bluffworks Girls: Bluffworks is without doubt one of the leaders in trendy and useful touring clothes. They’ve a pleasant collection of pants, attire, and shirts.
- Athleta: Athleta has actually stepped up their journey clothes they usually have plenty of stable choices. A few of their choices really feel like yoga garments however there are some non-yoga selections.
- Lululemon: Lululemon has a lot of good journey clothes choices. Once more, a lot of their choices look a bit of too “athleisure” however there are some nice-looking selections.
- Prana: Prana is an organization that has historically made outdoorsy clothes however they’ve not too long ago began making extra trendy gadgets.
- Anatomie: Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end clothes that appears very nice.
- Uniqlo: Uniqlo all the time has just a few nice journey clothes choices which can be pleasant in your checking account. Their inventory is all the time altering so make sure to examine them out.
Journey Socks and Underwear
Journey Footwear
Ahh, sneakers… they’re one the toughest issues to pack. I attempt to restrict myself to 2 pairs however typically I take three. It’s inconceivable to slim it right down to the “finest” sneakers however I’ll listing just a few manufacturers/choices that I actually like. Additionally, try our information to the very best journey sneakers for extra suggestions.
BENSIMON sneakers are tremendous cute and informal sneakers which can be common in Europe. I’ve seen a number of stylish Parisians carrying them throughout the summer season. These sneakers are a bit onerous to search out within the US however Superga and Keds each make sneakers in a really related model —so that they’re an awesome different that’s additionally straightforward to search out.
New Stability is common all around the world they usually make loads of trendy sneakers.
Ecco additionally makes some surprisingly cute and tremendous comfy sneakers — particularly their Smooth VII sneakers.
You’ve most likely already heard of Allbirds sneakers. They’re fabricated from wool — which sounds form of bizarre however it really works nicely. They’re comfy and you may put on them with out socks (one of many advantages of wool is odor prevention). And they’re loopy light-weight so that they’re straightforward to pack away.
They’re additionally cute and are available in a number of colours and types. Examine the out through Allbirds.
Even athletic sneakers may be trendy — try the Nike Flex, Nike Free, New Stability Arishi, and the Adidas Operating and Adidas Originals sequence. All of those are sporty and trendy.
A pleasant pair of comfy flats is a pleasant possibility since they take up little or no room they usually look a bit of nicer than sneakers. The Born Julianne is a pair I personal as a result of they give the impression of being good, present respectable arch assist, and are available in a number of colours.
Packing Equipment & Baggage
And upon getting all of your stuff, it’s time to get all of it packed.
First, I like packing cubes as a result of it’s one of the simplest ways to maintain every little thing organized they usually additionally assist hold your garments wrinkle-free. Take a look at our information to Packing Cubes for extra particulars about utilizing packing cubes however my favourite is the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes.
Subsequent, you’ll want baggage — both a suitcase or a journey backpack. As I discussed earlier than, you need to ensure you don’t choose one thing so massive that you could’t really carry it round. Beneath are just a few choices that ought to work nicely for any journey round Europe.
Examine our picks for the finest journey backpacks.
Beneficial Journey Backpacks
Rolling Baggage
James Feess is the creator of The Savvy Backpacker and the creator of the guide “The Savvy Backpacker’s Information To Europe On A Funds”. He is been running a blog about funds journey in Europe since 2010.
No Humorous Enterprise
The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. Which means whenever you purchase merchandise/providers by way of hyperlinks on the location, I could earn an affiliate fee—it doesn’t value you something additional and it helps assist the location.
Thanks For Studying! — James
Questions? Study extra about our Strict Promoting Coverage and How To Assist Us.
