Je ne sais quoi.

Paris-Fashion-Week-Look-for-Less
Is there anyone cooler than French girls?  As Paris Fashion Week kicks off today, I venture to argue ‘non’…

I was lucky enough to spend a week in the City of Lights a few years back and thought I’d use this week to shed some light of my own on what makes this incredible city tick.  First up – it’s effortless style.  French women have a je ne sais quoi that the world over tries to replicate, and I think one of the most important lessons we can all learn is that it’s not about the price tag.  Pair a flea market find with Chanel – they dare you!  Alas, until you can afford that Chanel bag of your own, here’s a few inexpensive ways to find a bit of Parisian cool.    
Nest:  A love of great art seems practically in their blood – ease your way into the Louvre by purchasing prints of original artwork (at a fraction of the price).  This watercolor of Marion Cotillard is like a modern fashionista’s version of the Mona Lisa and would look so perfect in a thrift store frame.

Dressed: As iconic as the little black dress, the striped shift dress is a closet staple.  Wear it with flats, wedges, espadrilles or sneakers.  A blazer, cardigan, denim jacket or trench.  I could go on and on.  At less than $25.00 I shouldn’t have to.

The Rest: You know what Lou Dillon has that you don’t?  Well a lot actually, but effortless hair is certainly high on the list.  It’s that sipping espresso at a cafe with slightly smudged eyeliner and unwashed hair but still managing to be the most beautiful woman around type thing.  I swear by this dry shampoo (found at most drugstores) for prolonging time between washes.  Indispensable when channeling your inner it-girl.