What constitutes ‘Parisian-chic’ isn’t necessarily a once-size-fits-all model – as muse and fashion designer, Jeanne Damas, and former Editor-in-Chief of ELLE Paris, Lauren Bastide, attest in their latest collaboration, ‘In Paris.

Shining a spotlight on the lives and style of twenty true Parisians, this elegant coffee-table book – encompassing 100 rich and vibrant photographs – is an inclusive look at style, spanning a diverse pool of women that include artistsactivists, booksellers, and filmmakers, and ages ranging from teens through to those in their seventies.

Before you step into their unique worlds, and learn l’Art de Vivre of the most extraordinary Parisiennes – from secret and haute hideaways, and the best red lipsticks to swear by, to five types of red wine to drink on different occasions – soak up the authors’ savvy on Parisian style and get the inside track on their culture haunts in the French capital versus our own.



How does Parisian style compare to London style?
Parisian women are more classic compared to Londoners – but, on the flip-side, Parisian women are occasionally envious of the boldness of women in London. They’re not afraid to experiment and have fun with clothes; in France, we call it fautes de goût, which means to not be afraid of making a fashion faux pas. 

Is there anyone who personifies this mindset for you?
When we think of bold British icons who we love, we think of Vivienne Westwood and Kate Moss!



Where are your go-to haunts for culture and style in Paris? 
Our favourite spaces for exhibitions are LE BAL and Musée du quai Branly; when it comes to shopping, it’s all about vintage! We’d recommend La Mode Vintage and Nice Pieces.

What about in London?
Nothing beats a stroll around Hyde Park, a trip to the Victoria and Albert Museum, or a stop-off and snoop around the vintage shops in Brick Lane and Notting Hill.



What does ‘living like a Parisian’ mean to you?
It means living life with passion – and embracing your, supposed, ‘flaws’!

Click here to shop In Paris by Jeanne Damas and Lauren Bastide.

In case you missed it, read our interview with Morgane Sezalory of Sézane as it lands in London.