Molly Bloom knows style

Today I got a timely email from a reader. I’ve been meaning to tell you about Paris style. Here you go.

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What’s the trend in the streets of Paris this Spring? I am leaving Friday, April 18th to attend French classes at the Alliance Francaise. I’m a stylish woman but need some advice re Paris style. I am kind of desperate. Tried many websites but could not find concrete information.

Thanks,
Marta

When I was packing for Paris I twisted myself into a bit of a crisis mode. Did I have the right shoes? Should I bring all my black sweaters? What about the dresses?

Here is my best advice: Whatever your suitcase is lacking, buy it in Paris. There are boutiques everywhere for window-licking. The French have that je ne sais quoi because they are French. It’s best to fake it with French things.

If you’re wanting to blend in on the street, think about what people will see as you strut past: outerwear, handbag and shoes. A new purse is a practical addition for travel; I bought a larger tote-style purse to accommodate my map, travel guides and purchases. There are amazing accessories everywhere in Paris, from independent boutiques to the scarves sold by street vendors and antique pins at flea markets. It will not be hard to spot something you suddenly cannot live without. You may want to buy the quintessential Parisian accessory, the scarf. To truly go Parisian, tie a silk scarf to your bag and add a few pins to your coat. Keep things sleek by wearing no more than two colors at a time.

The spring fashion windows were calling me but there was no use for sleeveless tops and blousy, billowy pants because the weather was cold when I was there. Women wore boots with jeans and skirts. Jackets were slim-fitting and I saw a few women wearing big leather belts on the outside. My chocolate brown coat stood out on the Metro as being not black but it’s well tailored so I didn’t feel like a clod. You can leave the sporty/outdoorsy stuff behind; Paris does not wear Patagonia, yoga pants or sneakers.

When I got to Paris it just sort of happened: I started pairing my clothes in ways I hadn’t before. I got better at the scarf thing. I noticed women wearing flesh-tone stockings so I bought a pair and they were exactly what a new dress needed. The exchange rate works against Americans traveling to Europe but you can find a mix of high and low shopping to get a true Paris look.