Welcome Sonia Rykiel (and lots of her,) Louis Vuitton, LaCroix… Etro, Chanel and Dior! I didn’t particularly notice the labels that people were wearing. Labels are never "worn on one’s sleeve" in Paris… the art is not in whose collection you’re wearing – it’s in the way you choose to wear the collection. Understatement is a cardinal rule in French fashion. Anything that is too visible is considered garish. Even at a distance on the Metro, you see the personal approach and charm that one adds to their style. The French learn at a very young age about the fabric and tailor of clothing -- have you ever put your kids in Bonpoint or Molli? Parisian’s always look good, and all seem to blend together a bit. Fashion conservatives in tailored jet-black suit and Louboutin’s, fashion liberals in plaid, tweed, short skirts and tights with over-the-knee boots and many people simply dressing like they need to…work, université or dinner calls! Globalization and imitations tend to homogenize fashion, making everyday wear look similar in large cities like Paris, London, Milan, and NYC. I am pompous to say that New York definitely still has it!
Perhaps there is no café or cobblestone charm – nor is there the Champs Elysees, St. Germaine, or the terribly clean rues, but I’ll take our lack of cigarette smoke over the Brasserie any day. And I’m still trying to decide if the chewing gum aptly named, "Style" by Hollywood is sold in LA or if their popular Vogue Cigarette is as healthy as it is trés stylish? The French are truly lasses-faire. I like that! My life in fashion has been that way. With the turmoil in the markets however, designers are trying to make fashion more meaningful, more impactful, and more justifiable. Yes, it is time to show the consumer why that bag is worth the 1,600 Euros or dollars. I saw it! Rhinestone tights at Miu Miu, sequin embellishments and perforated details on boots and coats, yes coats! Zippers and studs are like chocolats… everywhere! Marni’s collection is insanely beautiful, ooh-la-la! Boots manufactured in leather so buttery at Paul and Joe, they appear to melt around your calf and/or thigh... and fur, fur, fur PERIOD! You’d have to be blind not to notice all the incredible details. I love the challenge that collections have been presented with…obviously nothing ventured will mean nothing "financially" gained.
I am happy to say that I didn’t buy much in Paris…I spent my Euros hanging out with Judith seeing the city (and it’s beautifully dressed people!) I realized that I could get most of the same offerings state side, minus the charm. New York is plentiful! But I must say, I did fall in love with the Mercedes, subcompact A-class. Smart! Now, this is where we could certainly take a lesson, but Fashion my friend, is what you make it!