Standout Like a Tourist in France with This Fashionable American Apparel
For those planning a trip to France, blending in with the locals rather than standing out as a tourist is a goal many travellers aspire to. One key fashion tip to achieve this is to avoid distressed or ripped denim, which is viewed as less polished and more casual than classic French style.
In cities like Paris, where fashion is a way of life, Parisians and other urban French locals tend to favor timeless elegance and subtlety over flashy, overly casual looks. To help you look sophisticated and understated during your travels, here are several fresh, fashionable alternatives that will help you fit right in.
### Jeans and Trousers
A good place to start is with classic dark indigo jeans, opting for straight-leg or wide-leg jeans in a classic dark indigo wash, without any fading, rips, or holes. These are wardrobe staples in France and look polished for both day and evening outings. High-waisted styles (straight, flare, or wide-leg) are also in vogue and offer a chic, elongating silhouette.
Non-denim options like wide-leg trousers or tailored pants in neutral shades (black, gray, navy, beige) are both stylish and versatile, suitable for museums, cafés, or a stroll along the Seine. For warmer months, choose trousers in breathable linen or cotton. The French Riviera, for example, welcomes playful, boho-inspired looks with loose-fitting, lightweight fabrics—think pastel hues and breezy silhouettes that reflect the city’s artistic, laid-back vibe.
### Spring and Summer Options
In cities like Nice, soft pastel pieces (light pink, sky blue, lavender) not only look chic but also complement the local architecture and sunlight, keeping you cool and photogenic. Capri pants are a trendy alternative for late spring and summer, especially when paired with a simple camisole or blouse for a modern, effortless look. Boho boxers, paired with a button-down shirt, offer a playful, androgynous vibe and are popular in artsy, coastal cities.
### Casual & Elevated Alternatives
Elegant shorts, choosing clean, tailored styles (not athletic or super-short) in neutral colors—denim cut-offs are best if they look new and unfrayed, are also a great option. Silky trousers in silk or light blends are both stylish and comfortable, ideal for city exploring or a chic dinner. Layer with a well-fitted cardigan, blazer, or cashmere sweater for an effortlessly French look, especially in transitional seasons.
By choosing classic, well-tailored silhouettes in neutral or soft hues and avoiding ripped, overly casual, or flashy items, you’ll present a fashion-forward image that’s both locally appropriate and effortlessly stylish. This approach is especially appreciated in France, where understated elegance is the hallmark of true local style.
Comfort is important when packing for a trip abroad, and a trip to France is an opportunity to elevate your travel wardrobe. Quality denim jeans are a closet staple in France, and while you can wear whatever you want, it's recommended to wear classic jeans instead of distressed ones to avoid looking like a tourist. The French people are known for their iconic sense of style, and ripped denim isn't popular in France.
While opinions on distressed denim may be mixed in online forums like the r/ParisTravelGuide SubReddit, avoiding distressed denim may help blend in with local fashion. Material_Show_4592 wrote that in Paris, comfort is prioritized over fashion, and pinkified22 stated that ripped jeans are out of style everywhere.
By following these fashion tips, you'll be well on your way to looking like a stylish local during your trip to France.
In Paris, where lifestyle and fashion intertwine significantly, it's wise to adopt a timeless, elegant approach to your attire, eschewing distressed or ripped jeans for a more polished look that aligns with classic French style. For instance, opt for sleek, dark indigo jeans or tailored trousers in neutral shades, as these options seamlessly blend with the urban fashion-and-beauty aesthetic found throughout the city.
