What is French fashion? How to transform your style into Parisian chic

PARIS – Heads up American friends: If you're traveling to France, don't expect to wear your gym leggings in the streets of Paris or you'll be met with quite a few disapproving eyes. But no need to be scared – we'll set you up for success so you can be classy but easygoing when you visit Paris.

Marie Bou Aziz, an American-French influencer on social media, has learned how to bridge the fashion gap.

"I'm mostly in Miami, but when I come to France, it's definitely different," she says. "In Miami I will be in athleisure, I will be comfortable. In the U.S., we have casual fashion, casual comfort. In France, it's chic comfort, so it's a little bit different."

Finding ways to dress up simple pieces is the key to achieving the effortlessly chic look the French strive for. "It's 'dress to impress,'" said Bou Aziz. "Everything in France is about simplicity, and about elegance. Less is more."

There are distinct differences that set one another apart. American fashion dares to go bold with color, trendy pieces and athleisure as a typical uniform. Classic basics, minimal to no logos and an effortlessly chic look has remained the choice dress code for centuries for the French, both unique and influential.

"It's very neutral," Bou Aziz says, noting a good accessory will go a long way. "You'll have a pop of color in your purse, in your little silk scarf, but you don't want to be too flamboyant."

In the U.S., French labels, such as Sézane (think oversized, cozy clothing and vintage-inspired bags) and Ba&sh ('50s high-fashion jackets and basics) are gaining a footprint. "Sézane is an iconic French brand," says Bou Aziz, who deems it "chic" and "effortless." Sézane values quality over quantity, with a majority of its clothing using sustainable and eco-friendly materials, and its prices reflect that (their iconic blue-striped Max shirt runs for $125).

"The French love to pass down from generation to generation. So, I'm now investing in quality ever since I made that switch in my brain to start investing in good pieces," says Bou Aziz. 

Americans love a trend, but by adding some French closet staples, you'll have pieces that will last through the years.