My Cardinal Rules of Fashion

Today let me explain my Cardinal Rules when it comes to fashion and personal style.

While fashion is something different to everyone (that's the beauty of it!), I think you can't go wrong with the following set of rules, and as always, feel free to add your personal spin to it!

1) Less is More :

Minimalism is key, always. You might want to reduce and refine the pieces you wear, whether is clothes, accessories, or jewelry.

When selecting a pair of earrings, for example, you should stay away from those bulky fake diamond studs or cheap 12-14mm fake pearls that really don’t fool anyone, and instead, go with something real, more subtle, delicate and feminine.

Sophistication is subtle, never ever loud.

2) Don't follow trends :

Trends come and go, but style never fades. The saying is cliché but you should be able to tell the difference between a classic piece and a trend that will fade in time.

I would advise you to stay away from the majority of fashion trends and fast fashion items, and if you do want to try, try to support the vintage ones which have stood the test of time.

Is Neon fun to wear for that Ibiza trip? Maybe

Is that cute pastel biker jacket super trendy for winter? Probably

Does that mean that one should invest in those very temporary trendy pieces? No.

3) Invest in quality pieces :

You should invest in a limited number of quality pieces each season.

Have you heard of the 5-Piece Wardrobe? French people practice the philosophy of buying less each season but investing in quality pieces when you do make a purchase that will last for years. Your fashion style should be timeless.

Avoid impulse purchases and go for well-made pieces that will last longer than a few seasons.

Avoid buying because it’s on sale. Usually, we are more appealed by the discount than by the clothes we purchase. Sales are the best way to mindlessly spend thousands of dollars each year on fast fashion.

4) No huge logo!

I would rarely be seen with a giant logo or logo print anywhere on my body. The best designers create signature looks which can be recognized without plastering their logo all over the item.

Forget Louis Vuitton print everywhere and while we’re at it, stay away from Gucci logo-printed sneakers.

That is extremely "Nouveau Riche" and "Tape a l'Oeil" for all the wrong reasons.

Patterns are acceptable and encouraged. Logos are not. Don't be a walking advertisement.

Again, elegance is subtle.

5) It isn't so much about what you buy, it's about how it fits!

Buy things that fit you well and flatter your body. Research and know your body shape type.

Try everything on! Recognize the fabric and cuts that fit you best. Everybody is different.

Know your best features (legs, ankles, arms, shoulders, etc..) and put the accent on them, but remember, only one at the time.

When shopping online, don’t be afraid to order two different sizes and send back the one that doesn’t fit you as well.

With time, you will know your perfect size in your favorite brands.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of tailoring!

If you found that Per-fect piece that you can’t live without but it’s not quite your size. Get it tailored!

Usually, it adds a mere $20-$30 to the Cost Per Wear (I'll explain everything you need to know about CPW in the next article!)

This happens a lot when you thrift shop.

I will tell you a little secret here, I personally love thrift stores!

Everyone should go thrift shop sometimes, online or in-person.

It's fun and you will find little treasures that no one else is wearing.

You can likely find luxury, great quality vintage items (hello, little 50' & 60' summer dresses!), cashmere coats from the ’80-’90s, soft wool blazers, tweed jackets, etc… that might be too big for you.

Found a vintage cashmere coat? A gorgeous two-piece power suit? The perfect little black dress?

Just trust your tailor, explain what you want, let them take all your measurements, and boom!

Tailor-made clothes are a little luxury but oh so worthed!

6) Choose ONE statement piece per outfit

It’s rare to see elegant people with several flashy pieces on an outfit. A statement piece is almost always paired with basics to prevent looking too much. For example, a multi-color bag is often paired with a basic button-down shirt and straight-leg trousers. Conversely, a patterned sweater is worn with basic pants and a basic handbag. The eye should never be confused as to where it should be looking at your outfit.

Sometimes it’s the shoes, sometimes it’s the jacket or shirt, but each time a French girl wears a look-at-me piece, it’s typically only once per outfit.

7) Fabric is SO important :

Stick to quality, natural fabrics. Your summertime wardrobe should be filled with pieces made of cotton and linen fabrics. The wintertime wardrobe should consist of wool, cashmere, or a nice natural blend.

Everyday pieces are made of silk.

Avoid viscose, nylon, polyester, and other man-made fabrics at all costs when shopping.

And there you have it, my 7 cardinal rules when it comes to everyday fashion!

Thanks for reading darlings!