Wear it like... Parisians

What is it about Parisian style that makes it so appealing? How is the soul of the City of Light reflected in the wardrobes of its inhabitants? In their case, is less always more? To answer all these questions and more, Sharon Alexie, Sofia Moser and Sabina Socol have given us an exclusive look inside their wardrobes (and their feeds). Although only one of them was born in France, all three have been living in Paris for so long that we can say without a shadow of a doubt that, by now, each one embodies a version of the contemporary Parisian woman in the most authentic way. Minimalist, eclectic or sensual? Same questions, same collection, completely different results! They agree on just one thing: there’s no single secret to recreating that famous and much-prized je ne sais quoi. Scroll down to discover how the city’s culture, lifestyle and customs influence the looks of those who know fashion best.

SHARON ALEXIE

Artist and content creator Sharon Alexie’s take on the Parisian woman can be summed up very intuitively: poetic. In her vision, elegance is purely natural and, certainly, not at all contrived. Her style does not follow the ‘Parisian rules’ of the game but rather reinterprets them in her own language – one that is delicate, simple and full of feeling. Her look is a clear example of this, proving that with a white see-through co-ord, some kitten heels and a flowing blouse, you can put together an outfit that still feels truly Parisian. It is elegant without being stiff, sophisticated without being pretentious, and deeply connected to her way of seeing the world.

How would you describe your personal style in three words?

Feminine, classical and poetic.

How would you describe the Parisian aesthetic?

The Parisian aesthetic has always been associated with a certain sense of elegance, refinement and good taste. I think that when people come to Paris, they often expect a high standard in these areas – not only in the beauty of the architecture and in fashion, but also in the way of life. In short, I’d say it’s an aesthetic with cultural significance, linked to the long history of Paris as the centre of Europe.

What is the thing you find most inspiring about the city?

The most inspiring thing about Paris is, without a doubt, the architecture. I think that all this beauty, when you really take it in, inspires us to live in a poetic way.

Does your style change in summer, just as the city’s vibe does?

Not really – let’s say I adapt my style to the temperature, but my style remains the same.

What’s the most Parisian item in your wardrobe?

A white silk shirt. It’s a piece that can embody so many things, from authority to sensuality.

What is the ‘je ne sais quoi’?

The beauty of existence, like a half-open vintage book at a second-hand bookshop on the banks of the Seine.

SABINA SOCOL

There’s something about Sabina Socol’s style that perfectly encapsulates the image of the contemporary Parisian woman. She’s sensual, carefree and manages to strike that balance between naturalness and sophistication that seems impossible to replicate. On this occasion, the journalist, content creator and entrepreneur has gone for a foolproof combination – an outfit that exudes (apparent) effortless elegance and makes us wonder: is there anything more Parisian than a lingerie-style top, a midi skirt and a pair of kitten heels? She tells us all about it herself.

How would you describe your personal style in three words?

Effortless, timeless, intentional.

How would you describe the Parisian aesthetic?

It’s less about what you wear and more about how you wear it, a great blazer thrown over a simple tee, never overdone. It’s confidence dressed down. Parisians have this gift of looking like they didn’t try, even when every detail was actually considered.

What is the thing that you find most inspiring about the city?

The light, especially in my own apartment, I get this incredible southern light that changes everything throughout the day. But beyond that, it’s the way Paris holds history and modernity together so naturally. You can be inspired by a 17th century building and a stranger’s outfit in the same five minute walk.

Does your style change in summer, just as the city’s vibe does?

Definitely. Paris in summer feels lighter, slower, more sensual, the city breathes differently. My wardrobe follows: I trade structure for ease, more linen, more skin, lighter fabrics that move with you instead of against you. Same attitude, just undone a little.

What’s the most Parisian item in your wardrobe?

A great trench coat. It works with everything, every season, every mood, dressed up or thrown over pyjamas for a coffee run. It’s the ultimate “I didn’t try” piece that actually does all the work.

What is the ‘je ne sais quoi’?

Honestly, I think it’s confidence without explanation. It’s not a piece of clothing or a trick; it’s wearing what you love without needing anyone’s approval. The moment you stop performing and just are, that’s it. You can’t buy it, you can only own it.

SOFIA MOSER

We can safely say that, having lived in Paris for almost seven years, the Portuguese ceramicist and content creator Sofia Moser embodies the freshest take on Parisian style. With a wardrobe that evokes the spontaneity characteristic of Portuguese girls, her looks stand out for their colour, unexpected silhouettes and certain tomboy touches, which she combines with a carefree and casual attitude. Denim, checks, splashes of red, stripes upon stripes... Rather than following classic Parisian codes to the letter, she has made them her own: eclectic, original and full of character.

How would you describe your personal style in three words?

Feminine, eclectic and practical.

How would you describe the Parisian aesthetic?

Parisians love a good uniform. They tend to keep things understated and low-key minimal, yet effortlessly chic with a unique sense of style.

What do you find most inspiring about the city?

The people. Paris is a city of thinkers, non-conformists, romantics and creatives. There’s something incredibly inspiring about being surrounded by so many different personalities who aren't afraid to express what they think.

Does your style change in summer, just as the city’s vibe does?

Not really. My style stays fairly consistent throughout the year, just with lighter fabrics. It also becomes a little more casual because I often wear the same outfit from day to night and rarely stop at home in between.

What’s the most Parisian item in your wardrobe?

Probably my countless pairs of Mary Janes.

What is the ‘je ne sais quoi’?

I think it’s about attitude: being confident without trying too hard.