A Reflection on Paris Street Style
Words and images by Kat Koehne, Creative Director
This is a snapshot of an unusually warm Parisian morning in late October. Following on the heels of Paris fashion week, the city is quieter, but no less fashionable. As I walked along the right bank of the Seine to Le Marais, one of the best neighbourhoods in Paris to shop, I caught a glimpse of what Parisians wear on a typical Tuesday afternoon. Whether it was running errands, meeting a friend for coffee or going to work, there was a distinct casual comfort in the way passersby carried themselves in their clothes. While it was impossible to catch every noteworthy outfit, there were instances of both simple and laid-back ensembles and some prominent fall/winter trends.
Bright and Bold
All runway images courtesy of Vogue Runway
Saturated pops of colour littered the streets. Some chose to use a monochromatic base to amplify their statement piece, while others stood out in multicoloured ensembles. The colour combinations were notably innovative—not different shades or complementary, but still had the sense of being purposefully mixed. This style was reflected in many designer collections including Chanel, Mui Mui and Prada.
An Abundance of Embellishments
From left to right: M Missoni Embellished Knitted Pants: courtesy of the Outnet; Nicholas Kirkwood MONSTERA Mules: courtesy of Farfetch; GANNI Sequin Dress: courtesy of the Outnet
Sequins, stones and sparkles took the place of accessories for the more formally dressed, frequently accompanying eye-catching colourways. However, these pieces did not necessarily scream holiday parties and New Years celebrations. Instead, they have taken on a multi-seasonal quality which could be styled during the Fall, Winter, or Spring.
Oversized, But Not Shapeless Streetwear
All runway images courtesy of Vogue Runway
Gen Z was seen sporting more casual looks which combined what appeared to be vintage pieces with trendy items. The outfits leaned more towards Kim Jones’ Dior and Virgil Abloh’s Louis Vuitton than Vetements or Supreme.
The Classic
All runway images courtesy of Vogue Runway
Lastly, there is the understated simplicity of timeless tailoring and fall staples. Men strolled by in perfectly tailored, fitted suits which were either elevated with leather Oxfords or dressed down with white sneakers. Likewise, women layered tailored pieces such as a French tucked button down, blazer, trousers and lapelled coat. Others chose sheer black tights paired with a mini dress and an ankle boot.
Most Seen Pieces:
Axel Arigato Catfish Lo: courtesy of Axel Arigato; Dsquared2 panelled chunky sneakers and Moncler Leave No Trace sneakers: courtesy of FarFetch
The Chunky Sneaker: It seems that the so-called “Dad Sneaker” has stuck around, but with a color blocking twist.
Bottega Veneta Asymmetrical Leather Trench Coat: courtesy of Mytheresa; Patou Oversized belted checked virgin wool coat: courtesy of Patou
The Trench: A quintessentially Parisian piece that never goes out of style, yet is constantly being updated.