The secrets to French style - my top tip!

Few do it better than the French women when it comes to fashion. Their style might be simple, but even so it’s so stylish and chic.

They’re known for sporting styles such as the sophisticated trench coat, the simple white shirt, classic knitwear, the Breton stipe, timeless ballerina shoes, denim, and of course the little black dress.

Have you ever heard of La Redoute? This French fashion brand has just created an amazing site for inspiration and style tips on French style, called The Secrets to French Style. It guides you through 7 different styles of a typical chic French fashionista, and as part of this I have been asked to share my favourite style tip with my lovely readers.

So, here it goes…

My top style tip is… shoes!  

Don’t worry, I’ll elaborate... A pair of shoes can make or break an outfit, so it’s important that you choose the right pair for what you’re wearing. 

Are you wearing a neutral outfit? 

Then spice it up with a pair of colourful shoes! 

Do you happen to have a pair of shoes the same colour as your handbag? 

Make sure to wear the two items together to bring them both out in your outfit! 

Leather shoes combined with a leather belt?

For god's sake make sure it's the same coloured leather!

What to wear with skinny jeans?

Heels will always be the perfect match. 

Going to a garden party?

Avoid stilettos as these will sink into the grass, and opt for a pair of wedges instead.

What about shoes for a maxi dress or flowing skirt?

 A pair of classic ballerina shoes will make the outfit look effortless, girly, and a little bit bohemian.

Sneakers and trainers?

Leave them where they belong - in the gym!

And last, but most importantly...

DON'T buy a pair of shoes if you can't walk in them! It doesn't matter HOW gorgeous they look on the shop shelf - limping is not attractive!

 

For my outfit today I’ve chosen to go for the typical Breton striped top in white and black (from Jane Norman), and as you can see I’ve matched this with my black and white shoes from Dolcis. The overall colour scheme is very neutral, but the white and black contrast in the top and the shoes really stand out anyway.

My classic denim jeans in a pale grey hue are from Next, and the cropped black leather jacket is from Vero Moda.

And when it comes to "fake" French style (because I'm Swedish, and not an elegant French woman...) there's nothing wrong with throwing in a classic French landmark in your outfit. Yes, which one am I talking about? :P

This silver Eiffel Tower charm with the matching bracelet is from Links of London.

 What's your top tip for French style, and style in general?

Do you agree with the style tips on La Redoute's site The Secrets to French Style? 
Keep an eye on their facebook page as the clothes in these style examples will be given away in competitions shortly. Exciting times!