Stylin'

French people are known internationally as harbingers of style; and from observation I have to say the stereotype is true. What is it that gives the French their flair, thier sense of style? I decide to observe.
First off, they ALWAYS have nice shoes. There are no Birkenstocks. There are no Crocs (thank God). There are no runners (unless they are running). The shoes worn may be casual, but always stylish (witness the 'Euro runner') but are more likely leather, high and pointy. And this makes for one heck of a put together look.
Second, nice coats. Choices are usually wool, leather or suede, usually black, but not exclusively. Denim is rarely seen (but would be OK paired with a floaty skirt). During winter, poufy parkas were around, but they were slimmer and less bulky than their Canadian counterparts. Men especially look chic in their classic black dress coats. Ooh la la!
And then there are the scarves. If I had to pick one fashion item to define the French it would be the scarf. It is worn casually, twisted and wrapped effortlessly about the neck. Its almost always of a fine material, or alernatively is worn a funky counterpoint to a conservative ensemble. There are wooly winter scarves, floaty summer scarves, skinny statement scarves. They are everywhere.
Of course, anything worn looks better on an attractive wearer, especially someone slim. And the French are uniformly thin. Not slim, not svelte, thin! Which brings me to my next topic.........

PS-no one wear berets. That stereotype is not true!