Frivolous Fashion: Feminine and Fun

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International Fashion

Paris, France is recognized for its rich history, architecture and perhaps most importantly for its fashion. Known as the city of tres chic, Paris owns the fashion world when it comes to runways, designers, clothes and street style. The effortless, yet unattainable chic Parisian look influences people everywhere.

“Paris is a very elegant and romantic city, which is reflected in its locals’ styles,” said junior Jessica Chan who visited Paris last summer.

As the birthplace of the most distinguished design houses in the fashion industry, Parisian style has held the eyes of fashion lovers for centuries.

Today, design houses such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior and Louis Vuitton give Paris a spot as one of the four fashion capitals.

“What’s so intriguing about Parisian high fashion is that it’s very distinct. There’s the red colored sole on Christian Louboutins, quilted Chanel handbags and of course the Louis Vuitton logo,” said junior Christina Tsang.

In French Vogue, Editor- In- Chief Carine Roitfeld talks about trends seen on the runways of Paris during the spring and summer 2010 collections. According to Roitfield, the summer of 2010 is all about flouncing, ruching, drapery, lingerie and lots of white.

Another popular trend seen on the runways were light hues and clothing that revealed much more skin than recent years. The Chanel show was full of short dresses under their classic tweed coats filled with lace and flowers paired off with clogs for a more countryside twist. The romantic, simple country theme displayed a creative and unique story in the Chanel runway.

In the Dior and Balmain shows, jackets were seen on many looks. Dior brought back 1940s Hollywood film noir with trench coats and short dresses which were perfected with lace detailing

and transparent trains. Balmain however, took this trend to a different decade, with 1980s inspired military jackets, which had structured shoulders and were ripped and distressed in all the right places.

The influence of French runway and high fashion can be seen on many street bloggers as well.

Popular Parisian blogger Adeline Rapon uses her blog, adelinerapon.blogspot.com, to express her love for fashion, art and photography. She embodies Parisian chic through her simple, unique looks.

“In Paris, it’s different from other cities. You’ll never see a Parisian girl with perfectly waved hair. It’s always a little messed up. We don’t like to look like we spent hours in the bathroom; it’s even quite “vulgaire” to have tons of make up.” said Rapon.

Contrary to New York City, trends are not what make an outfit in Paris. Usually Parisians go for a more classic look with only one trendy item.

“I’ve noticed that we Parisians are fond of black tights and heels, no matter the weather. But my favorite trend is platform heels. This is the best trend ever, I love to look big and have very long legs,” said Rapon.

During the French exchange trip last year, students also got a feel of French style. “Paris street style is very free, timeless, and eclectic to me,” said junior Paulina Plata.

French style icon and legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” This quote proves true, especially for a city like Paris.