Chic, timeless, effortless… these are just a few adjectives that come to mind when one thinks of French fashion. And be aware fashion is not just limited to your wardrobe — from what to wear, to how to decorate your home, to where you go and what you choose to do in your free time, fashion is a lifestyle. We’ve rounded up our favorite books on French fashion, so you can bring that coveted je ne sais quoi into your own closets, homes and lives.
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Dress Like a Parisian
By Alois Guinut
First on our list of best books on French fashion… Personal stylist and fashion blogger Aloïs Guinut is your witty guide to how real Parisians dress. Featuring stunning photography shot on the streets of Paris and illustrations by acclaimed fashion illustrator, Judith van den Hoek (who has worked with the likes of Hermes and Prada), Dress Like a Parisian reveals French fashion secrets, shares Guinut’s favorite French brands and boutiques and shows you how you can use style to enhance your personality.
Parisian Chic Encore: A Style Guide
By Ines de la Fressange (Foreword by Sophie Gachet)
A special re-edition of her worldwide bestseller, Inès de la Fressange updates her timeless style guide to include some dos and don’ts for both the French-inspired wardrobe and home. From what you choose to wear to crafting the aesthetic of your living spaces or office, learn how to insert French fashion style into any surrounding. Featuring a foreword by ELLE fashion journalist Sophie Gachet, it’s an ideal gift for yourself or any other style-savvy Francophile.
Dior Joaillerie: The A to Z of Victoire de Castellane
By Victoire de Castellane & Olivier Gabet
What is more luxurious and fashionable than jewels? A colorful insight into one of the world’s most respected jewelry designers released to celebrate 20 years, this dazzling dictionary showcases the best creations of Dior Joaillerie’s long-term Creative Director, Victoire de Castellane. Complemented with notes from Olivier Gabet — Director of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris — this collector’s book features over 300 images that trace the famous French house’s jeweled history, from its first collection to its most recent.
Entre Nous: Bohemian Chic
By Mary Russell & Pierre Passebon
Entre Nous is a sumptuous photographic diary of Fashion Editor Mary Russell’s time spent in Paris during the 1960s and 1970s. As a fashion correspondent for Glamour, Vogue, Women’s Wear Daily and The New York Times, Russell — who was recommended for a job by Diana Vreeland herself — quickly became part of the city’s bohemian elite, fueling the art and fashion scene of the time. Part photo diary and part memoir, you’ll discover intimate portraits of the industry’s bigwigs — Andy Warhol, Yves Saint Laurent, Jane Birkin and more.
Fashion Insiders’ Guide: Paris
By Carole Sabas
In this impossibly chic city guide (penned with French fashion lovers in mind and beautifully designed by a French fashion illustrator), renowned French Vogue correspondent Carole Sabas shares her best recommendations and secrets in the City of Light. From shops to restaurants to florists to cocktail bars to antique markets, Sabas describes her favorite fashionable spots, offering insider advice, exact location and contact information. Friendly in tone and fun to read, you’ll also find additional tips from local fashion industry celebrities. It’s sure to make your next visit authentically Parisian!