One of the best ways to enjoy a Paris vacation is to assimilate into your new environment as easily and quickly as possible. Be perceived as a local, and you will inevitably feel like one!
If you are planning your first visit, you may be wondering if Parisians are as glamorous as everyone thinks. In a word (or two), not really!
So, what to do next?
In preparation of your trip, follow this easy checklist of fashion guidelines on how not to stand out as an obvious tourist in the City of Light.
1. Leave your white sneakers (aka running shoes, trainers, tennis shoes) at home.
Instead, bring other shoes you feel comfortable walking around in. That way, you won't stand out in a crowd.
2. Jogging or "yoga" pants that might normally serve as everyday wear for you are not considered entirely appropriate.
By Parisian standards, this is particularly true when out in public, even it if is just to go to the store, and especially when you're not exercising.
3. If you are visiting during a warm season, never wear shorts.
This cannot be emphasized enough, especially if you are a woman. Skirts are fine, but wear shorts and it will appear as if you're a naked tourist. Ninety-nine per cent of Parisians wear long pants or skirts throughout the summer months.
4. Fanny packs that are still in existence should not be used, nor should backpacks.
There are, of course, some Parisians who carry backpacks, but a map-carrying tourist with a backpack is an easy target for pickpocketers. Some visitors try to deter pickpocketers by carrying their backpacks on the front of their body, which is quite conspicuous in its own right. Find a handbag or messenger bag to take instead.
Overall, you won't find the French dressed from the pages of a fashion magazine, nor will you need to revamp your entire wardrobe when you pack your suitcase. One however may describe Parisian attire as stylish, trendy and most definitely well put-together.
With these 4 simple tips, you'll fit right in!
Photo Credits: Paris Tourist Office
(1) David Lefranc
(2) Marc Bertrand
(3),(4) Amélie Dupont
(Top) Margaret Li
By Margaret Li on Wednesday, April 11, 2012 @ 9:43 AM
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Fashion