Author: Francie
The Parisienne: Is It an Obsession?
As for me, I am fascinated!
I am Francie, a true Parisian, raised in one of the most refined neighbourhoods of Paris, where families enroll their children in private schools and place great importance on tradition and heritage. I love Paris- by that, I mean elegant Paris.
I am so passionate about our art of living that I feel an absolute need to share it with many (that’s why I am on Instagram @redlittlesuitcase). To me, the Parisian art of living is embodied by women. Let me explain why and how.
Maybe I am fascinated by the obsession!
So why are we so obsessed with Parisian women? From the U.S.A. to the U.K., the image of the Parisienne—slim, chic, and effortlessly glamorous—is ingrained in the minds of many women.
Everyone wants to know: what’s their secret?
Reality or Fantasy?
Let me spill the beans: the “perfect” Parisienne doesn’t really exist—just as perfection itself doesn’t exist. Real Parisian women are as diverse as the city itself. Sorry to break it to you, but it’s time to drop the stereotype—La Parisienne come in all shapes and styles.
I will whisper to you what truly makes a Parisienne special. It isn’t her looks. It’s her attitude! She’s confident, curious, and totally free-spirited (should I say: sometimes she acts brazenly). Think Brigitte Bardot, Eva Green, or Sophie Marceau.
Where does the confident Parisienne come from?
Exploring the history of the Parisienne tells us about her unique profile. Parisian women have been making waves for centuries.
- In the 18th and 19th centuries, they hosted salons—intellectual gatherings where social and political ideas were discussed. Women like Germaine de Staël and Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun were creative, bold, and ahead of their time.
- In the Belle Époque, the Parisienne became daring and romantic at the same time. Have you heard of Colette or Coco Chanel (1883–1971)? What about the Comtesse de Gramont collaborating with fashion designer Paul Poiret? These women weren’t just stylish; they were independent, full of life, and fearless. Read about them, you’ll find them fascinating.
The Parisienne in Pop Culture
There is a global obsession with the Parisienne’s chic, effortless style but it’s a myth, there is not one unique Parisian style but an allure, and this allure lies in her confident and free-spirited attitude.
By the 20th century, the world had fallen in love with the Parisienne. Between the 1940s and 1960s, movies, music, and photographs pictured the Parisienne into a symbol of mystery and elegance. Thanks to icons like Brigitte Bardot, Coco Chanel, and Josephine Baker, the Parisienne became synonymous with sophistication.
Parisian girls grew up idolizing strong women like Simone de Beauvoir—proof that you can be both smart and stylish. My own mother and grand mother taught me to be free and independent and make my own choices!
In the 20th century, the Parisienne independence and free spirit is symbolized by:
- The Bob Cut: Like Jean Seberg, the bob is a symbol of modern femininity, it’s a liberated style for Parisian women.
- • The “New Look” by Christian Dior: Full skirts and nipped-in waistlines became a signature of Parisian elegance. Many Parisienne are still delighted by this style.
- • Yves Saint Laurent’s powerful suit or trench coat: This reflected the practicality and elegance of the era.
- • The Café Society: Parisian political women and writers loved meeting at cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore (in Saint-Germain-des-Prés), symbols of intellectual and artistic life.
Do you see my point? If the Parisienne is a symbol, there’s a reason to be found in history. But still, we want to know what makes her truly special?
So, It’s Not Just About Clothes?
No! It’s about how she carries herself:
- • Confidence: She knows who she is and owns it.
- • Individuality: She doesn’t follow trends—she creates her own.
- • Freedom: She lives life on her own terms, and that’s what makes her irresistible.
The Parisienne isn’t just about looking good. She’s about living with confidence, curiosity, and independence. The stereotype may be glamorous, but as you see the real Parisienne is so much more.
References
- How to Be Parisian Wherever You Are: Love, Style, and Bad Habits by Caroline de Maigret, Anne Berest, Audrey Diwan, and Sophie Mas
- La Parisienne by Inès de la Fressange and Sophie Gachet
- All You Need to Be Impossibly French: A Witty Investigation into the Lives, Lusts, and Little Secrets of French Women by Helena Frith Powell
- Parisian Chic Look Book: What Should I Wear Today? by Inès de la Fressange and Sophie Gachet
- Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris by Jennifer L. Scott
- Parisienne: The Women of Paris in the 1920s by Gérard Uféras
- The New Parisienne: The Women & Ideas Shaping Paris by Lindsey Tramuta
- Paris Street Style: A Guide to Effortless Chic by Isabelle Thomas and Frédérique Veysset
Francie’s biography
Born in the 7th arrondissement, one of Paris’s most elegant districts, I grew up surrounded by beauty and sophistication. I attended a prestigious private school and see myself as a mix of old-school Sloane Ranger charm with a love for vibrant nights filled with dancing and joy.
I’ve traveled to 88 countries across all continents, with Japan being the one I’ve visited the most. I also know London like the back of my hand, having lived there for several years and later in Kent. My years managing international networks in a large corporation gave me a global perspective and deep appreciation for cultural connections.
Today, I am a private guide specializing in first visits to Paris and helping travelers uncover its hidden gems. My friends describe me as caring and joyfully spontaneous. I love sharing my knowledge and creating meaningful, elegant experiences.
You can easily find me on Instagram—@redlittlesuitcase contact me to discover the true magic of Paris in a way that is authentic, personalized, and unforgettable.
Merci beaucoup Francie for your lovely blog about how to be Parisian?
