The month is April, and my second French spring is underway.
The last one was a bit of a shambles; I’d just moved here from New Zealand, having filled my suitcase with only my bulkiest winter coats and my skimpiest summer dresses.
I was not entirely sure what I should be wearing at that time of the year – I just knew I was going to be gone for a very long time, and that kind of pressure can do weird things to a girl’s packing instincts.
My fur coat had to make the cut, my beloved high heels were of the highest importance, and I could barely stand to leave my fifth, sixth and seventh favourite handbags behind.
So clearly I wasn’t thinking straight/practically.
Now, I have experienced enough in my year here to know that fur coats are not necessary in April, May, June, July or August, high heels will get little use when you’ve just arrived to live in a new country and you have no friends and nowhere to go to, and handbags…well. Actually handbags are ok, bring all of them, even just to look at and dust occasionally.
In fact, I’ve learnt a few handy things:
- The weather is pretty inconsistent in spring (as with most places), and while you may be lucky enough to get a few scorching hot days, anything can happen, and the temperatures can equally be surprisingly low, especially at either end of the day.
- The locals are fairly pessimistic when getting dressed in the morning – you won’t see anybody in sandals until summer has well and truly arrived.
- The French throw bulky layers out the window en printemps, instead opting for practical (weather-winning) accessories that actually add to their outfits.
- Classic staples are paired with bright new season additions that keep their looks chic, and never ‘store-window’.
- Frenchies are always cool – even when it heats up, thanks to elegantly executed skin-baring options.
Nailing French style in the springtime is a game of numbers – pick the right pieces, and it all adds up to something flexible, practical, and effortlessly chic.
My formulae for French springtime style success?
1. printed shirt + skinny jeans + ankle boots = an effortlessly cool look that is bright and breezy, but well-covered for any unexpected turns in the weather.
2. denim shirt + relaxed tee + cigarette trousers + loafers = a casual/chic outfit that gives you the laid-back look of a denim shirt with tailored trousers and a fun loafer.
3. printed shirt + tailored shorts + trench coat + stockings + brogues = frenchies aren’t afraid to whip out some hosiery during spring, especially with a pair of cute shorts in a look that’s a little bit sunny day, and a little bit torrential downpour.
4. sleeveless tee + lightweight blazer + skinny jeans + scarf + pointed flats = a super versatile option that can be stripped back when the sun’s out, and loaded on in the evening. That most vital component of French dressing – the scarf – pulls the whole look together, and keeps a chilly breeze at bay.
5. bomber jacket + high-waisted skirt + relaxed tee + stockings + ankle boots = easygoing, yet totally feminine, this combo does wonders for your curves.
6. cut-out dress + oversized cardigan + pointed flats = a great option when the forecast is in your favour – just throw on that extra layer to ward off the chill, then show off a little unexpected skin with a bottle of rosé over lunch.
