Your recipe for French style

• Fashion
• 30 May 2012
• by Sophia Helene Price

When it comes to style, the Parisians have nailed it. Without a hair out of place, Parisian women stride confidently along the streets of the French capital, silk scarves perfectly complementing their uncreased trench coats on which hangs the latest 'it' bag. When I first arrived in Paris, I was in awe of these creatures but I was pretty sure I'd soon be amongst them... there must be something in the city air that magically transforms you into a picture perfect Parisian! There isn't...

Rather than fitting in immaculately, I stick out like a sore thumb with my creased tops, ruffled up hair and clumsy-looking, overstuffed bag. After months of working hard, I have decided to fully accept my Franco-British style, I now use the term messy chic although most would probably label me scruffy. Nevertheless, I have done my research and checked out the latest must-haves from the fashion capital and so I say shop the French trends and wear them with British attitude!

Your must-have ingredients:

1 pair of Repetto shoes

1 Charlotte le Bon for Comptoir des Cotonniers bag

1 The Kooples scarf

1 Trench

Preparation :

YourRepetto shoes are a key ingredient. Start with a classic pair of T-bar heels in a sombre colour which is easy to wear with most outfits and the quality of these shoes comes second to none. Comfort guaranteed so you can stride with style.

Add the trench in a light material. Soft beige tones are good but this shell tone jacket fromComptoir des Cotonniers is a gorgeous alternative to the classic light beige trench and is completed by the small leather details.

You can choose to wear the trench alone but in true Parisian style, this outfit looks perfect with a light scarf for the final touch. The Kooples have a beautiful light scarf with colour splash detailing and the mini skull print is totally on trend at the moment.

Complete the style with the latest 'it' bag to hit town... the anti-sac which is a collaboration from Charlotte le Bon with Comptoir des Cotonniers, it's the must-have purchase (the first stock sold out almost instantly) and at only £41 it's totally affordable.

From left to right: Comptoir des Cotonniers trench coat, £206 and bag, £41, Repetto shoes, £160 and The Kooples scarf, £75.