Ahh April, a special month, not only because it is my birthday month, but also because Spring really starts to blossom over here in France. All villages and cities will be in full bloom. Spring is a magical thought when coming from colder months. To put away the wool coat in exchange for the trench is what brings up the excitement. Thankfully we have four seasons, unless you live in the south of France! Not jealous *wink. What is funny though is many think we are starting to wear our straw hats, sunbathe in bikini and wear the famous strappy sandals, when we barely are getting out of the ’50s and into the ’60s. Well, today on the blog, I am sharing seven essentials to take on Paris in April, much less for Springtime.

1

TRENCH CHOAT

The beige trench coat is an iconic piece of attire for the French girl. Once it starts to get warmer you pull back the sleeves and voilà, you are still styling.

2

   Belt bag

This should be evident, however, if not understood, having a shoulder bag is not realistic unless you are going to dinner and taking a taxi! Not to fret though, we all still have alternatives. I just love that the old fanny pack has been given a new life. So many great options open for a belt bag and some double as cross-body. Also, you can never go wrong with a bigger cross body bag (ching ching)

3

Farmer’s market bag

Shopping seasonal fruits & veggies is the way of life here, and well we know Spring brings on the new harvest of blackberries, asparagus, spinach, radishes, and lettuce. Luckily, we have covered and open farmers market here, so you do not want to miss experiencing the French markets here!

4

Layering Clothes

Another lifestyle of the French is layering clothes, a sweater over a long sleeve with jeans or a dress is the way. Living here I realize that clothing is never done for a fashion statement however a necessity, they just make it look effortless! For example, when it gets warmer during the day you can take the sweater off and for me, I tie my silk scarf in a knot around my purse handle. This is a Spring fashion trick I have come to use on the daily! Winter is a different ball game, you layer to just STAY warm *wink

5

WATERPROOF SHOES

Unfortunately for me, the French do not sport rain boots as a fashion statement, so my Hunters, nope, not happening (tear). A waterproof ankle boot is every French woman’s go-to boot, especially on raining days. However, with or without rain a nice white classic tennis shoe is another classic. What I love about the white tennis shoe is girls/ladies of all ages wear this shoe! I love mine that I bought at Massimo Dutti!

6

Umbrella

Yes, I put umbrella on the list, because umbrellas are essential if you live in France and if you are visiting during March/April trust you will need one. It’s hit-or-miss in April, however, it is better to be fashionably prepared. You even have specialized umbrella stores here, even for repairs and such if that gives you an idea. Style: now, you can be the red umbrella in the sea of black or go classic with white or black or make a statement with a vibrant one. I have a transparent one because I need to see in front of me when I walk and the sidewalks where I live, do not allow all of us to take up a lot of real-estate HAHA.

7

SCARF

The French use scarves all year round! The material of the scarf is what gets changed out. In April, some afternoons can get warm however, for the most part, it is still chilly. Prepare for a light scarf during the day to a heavier one for the evening. Pashmina is a perfect choice to use all day.

MERCI LES FILLES FOR STOPPING BY!

BISOUS BISOUS,

XXCR