Visiting France and Want to Stand Out as a Tourist? Check Out This Common Artifact
For those planning a trip to France, understanding the local fashion culture can greatly enhance the travel experience. Parisians are known for their effortless chic, timeless, and understated style. To avoid standing out as a tourist, it's best to opt for simple, well-fitting, and muted clothing with carefully selected accessories.
The French fashion scene favours premium fabrics, fluid silhouettes, and subtle incorporation of current trends. Muted hues, such as butter yellow or polka dots, are common, as are monochrome outfits, elegant minimalism, and classic pieces with modern touches. Mannish jackets softened with feminine details, printed dresses, scarves, and statement belts are all stylish choices, but should be worn with an air of relaxed sophistication.
However, there are certain items that tourists should avoid to blend in seamlessly with the locals. The red beret, for instance, is a clear sign of being a tourist and should be avoided. Despite its popular association with French culture, berets are rarely worn by the average French person today. They tend to be sported mainly by elderly men playing petanque in parks, making it a stereotypical tourist accessory.
It's important to note that the beret originated from Greece and was adopted by the French military in the early 20th century. Sailors also brought the beret to the Basque region. Today, some locals in Paris, especially the elderly or those from the southwest, may wear neutral-colored berets for practical purposes, such as winter accessories. However, it's best to save the beret for winter months to avoid veering into tourist-trap territory. Wearing a beret during spring or summer months may make a tourist stand out awkwardly.
When it comes to fashion, the key is to be discreetly elegant rather than making bold statements. Avoid oversized hats, flashy logos, novelty items, or garish clothing. Instead, consider classic and practical fashion staples like a neutral trench coat, well-tailored pants, crisp shirts or blouses, and minimalist hats or caps. Lightweight scarves and comfortable flats or sandals can further help to get into the French or Parisian style without calling for attention.
Being mindful of local style sensibilities can help you to have a more authentic and enjoyable experience while exploring France. Wearing a beret can help you to avoid falling prey to pickpockets, as it may make you less of a target. However, it's important to remember that wearing a beret can also make you a target for unwanted attention, especially in crowded areas.
If you want to wear a beret, opt for a subtle and solid-colored one, like a black or navy wool version, and avoid getting it at a souvenir shop. Modern Parisians prefer minimalist and classic styling like blazers and monochrome color schemes. By following these fashion tips, you can ensure a more seamless and enjoyable journey through the stylish streets of France.
- To emulate the Parisian style during travel, consider investing in a neutral-trench coat, well-tailored pants, and minimalist hats or caps, while avoiding oversized hats, flashy logos, or garish clothing.
- To fit in with locals while exploring France, it's advisable to avoid wearing the red beret, as it is commonly associated with tourists, though some elderly locals or those from the southwest may wear neutral-colored berets for practical purposes in the winter months.
