Netflix’s new original series Emily in Paris features the adorable Lily Collins as an account manager at a Chicago-based marketing firm. The firm acquired a smaller French firm and her character, Emily Cooper, is chosen to move to Paris and be the American eyes and ears at the French firm, Savior. As a very quirky and very American young girl, Emily soon learns all the ins and outs of the harshly elegant French culture. As I began to binge the show in just two short days it reminded me very much of myself and my experience studying abroad in France. Much of this show highlights the differences in not only the French and American cultures, but more specifically the styles of each. In January I was the young, quirky American girl setting out to explore France and all it had to offer, and watching Emily in Paris made me relive all my culture shock.
While there are many differences between a variety of aspects in the French and American cultures, one that is very prominent in this show is the strongly opposing styles of each culture. When Emily first arrives in Paris, her style sticks out among her chic European colleagues. In fact, throughout the entire show, she maintains a boldly unfamiliar choice of clothing that shocks and even disgusts many of the French people that surround her. She is often strutting the streets in bright and eye-catching colors. She mixes patterns that most would not dare to mix. Some pieces of her outfits might even be classified by some as “clashing.” Yet that is much of what American street style consists of these days. And just like a tourist, she sports a classic red beret on some occasions. I coincidentally did the same during my time in Paris, the Parisiennes must have pinned me as an American tourist from a mile away (see the picture).
French style is much more low-key than that of Emily in Paris’, and Americans in general. The French are simple, they do not heavily accessorize, they rely on solid colors mostly, and occasionally, statement pieces. When Americans are bold and colorful, the French are chic and neutral. Yet they still manage to standout in their own way. The French style radiates a sort of effortless sophistication that Americans strive greatly to achieve. It is clear in the show, that Emily appears very playful and adorable with her outfit choices, while her elder French boss shows dominance and a sexy sophistication through her style.
During my time in France, I noticed the same. However, due to my limited luggage space and empty wallet, I found myself striving to replicate French looks I had seen on the streets in the confides of my very solid and small-in-quantity wardrobe. Before then, I had always thought more clothes was always better, but the French altered my beliefs. I managed to remain stylish without an abundance of options. And now, I am back to the many clothes piled up in my closet and I find it to be harder than ever to piece together an outfit. More certainly is not always better!
Another time in the show that the difference between French and American style is highlighted is through the competition between the modern American brand Grey Space and the traditional French designer Pierre Cadeau. As Paris fashion week approaches, Emily’s marketing firm that represents Pierre Cadeau is preparing with traditionally chic French pieces. On the other hand, the modernity that encompasses American street style is represented in the rival brand, Grey Space. Grey Space consists of sweatshirts and t-shirts and what many people refer to as athleisure. However, the French are unfamiliar with sweatpants as an article of clothing you ever leave the house in. Pierre Cadeau’s collection in the show centered around luxurious fabrics, and high-end couture. In America and at Stevens particularly, when attending classes on campus, many students dress in sweatpants most days of the week. In France, when attending classes, all the students arrived in skirts, or dresses, or some kind of very fashionable and put together outfit. It seems they show much more care in how they look and dress than Americans typically do.
Personally, I think American fashion has much to learn from the French. Many luxury brands originate in France and that is no surprise. Many aspects of their style radiates luxury and sophistication. Sweatpants are meant to be worn in bed at home, not out and about in the streets. While although the modernity of American brands may be fashionable, Yves Saint Laurent said himself “fashion fades, style is eternal,” and I think that is exactly the aim of the French, especially in this Netflix original series. It may be a little cheesy sometimes, I warn you, but take it as a chance to explore the French culture from the comfort of your home.
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