Does ‘Emily in Paris’ Nail Authentic Parisian Style or Just American Dream?
‘Emily in Paris’ is a delightful exploration of fashion, embodying an exaggerated view of Parisian style through the character Emily Cooper. Interviews with fashion historian Alexandra Harwood dissect the show’s approach, highlighting the difference between American flamboyance and genuine Parisian chic—where comfort and understated elegance reign supreme. Through witty commentary, the article critiques everything from Emily’s color choices to her impractical footwear, revealing the fun and fantasy of high fashion against the backdrop of everyday Parisian reality.
Is ‘Emily in Paris’ an authentic guide to Parisian style or just an American’s fashionable daydream? The series’ plucky protagonist, Emily Cooper, has shot to fame as a sartorial sensation, showcasing an eye-popping wardrobe brimming with vibrant colors and whimsical prints. But let’s be real—is wearing flamingo pink in a city known for its classic “je ne sais quoi” really the Parisian way? Alexandra Harwood, a fashion historian and trend forecaster, spills the tea on the marvelous mess that is Emily’s wardrobe. While the costume designer, Marylin Fitoussi, aimed for an American fantasy of Parisian chic, the real fashion vibe is decidedly more muted and effortless. Harwood states, “The use of bright colours and mixed prints is more characteristic of the American style, where excess is often associated with a certain showiness.” So while Emily struts her stuff like the world’s fanciest peacock, the everyday Parisian woman is more akin to a laidback cat, grabbing whatever’s hanging closest in her closet without a second thought. She aims for timeless classics like trench coats and well-cut jeans—hardly the runway-ready splendor of a high-fashion show. And don’t even get us started on the footwear! Emily’s sky-high heels might make her the fairy tale fashionista, but good luck navigating Paris’ cobblestone streets without ending up in an orthopedic shoe disaster! Harwood humorously highlights, “This practical reality influences Parisian fashion choices, with comfort often taking precedence over sky-high stilettos.” Now, let’s talk hats—those chic berets Emily dons are about as common as unicorns in Paris. Harwood pointedly remarks, “No Parisian has ever been seen wearing this accessory, despite its iconic status in the collective imagination.” Apparently, it’s only the artists that are rocking the beret, not your average Parisian gal. When it comes to bags, the Parisian woman is all about nostalgia, sporting vintage treasures inherited from generations past rather than the latest designer fad. As Harwood dryly notes, “Luxury brands capitalize on this unattainable image of the Parisian woman to promote their products.” Lastly, Emily’s hair could easily be mistaken for a photoshopped campaign; it screams ‘just stepped out of the salon.’ But, surprise, surprise! The supposed ‘effortless’ look requires serious work, leading Harwood to quip, “This style relies on meticulous work that creates the illusion of being effortless.” Apparently, ‘nonchalance’ is the Franco-American term for ‘heavy lifting in hairstyling!’ So it looks like, while Emily Cooper might make the streets of Paris seem like one giant fashion show, the reality is rooted in comfort, timelessness, and a pinch of reality-check. What does a true Parisian style look like? Well, it may just be the art of looking effortlessly chic without even trying—kind of like making a soufflé look easy when it’s really just a fluffy disaster waiting to happen!
The resounding success of Netflix’s ‘Emily in Paris’ has sparked a fashion frenzy worldwide but has also raised eyebrows concerning its portrayal of Parisian style. In a realm where the crispness of Parisian chic meets vibrant, over-the-top American fashion, experts are stepping in to clarify the differences. The show’s protagonist, Emily Cooper, presents a flamboyant style often mistaken as quintessentially French, while true Parisian fashion tends to embrace a more minimalist and understated aesthetic. It’s a cultural clash with a twist of humor and irony, examined through expert opinions on fashion, trends, and what it really means to dress like a Parisian.
In the end, ‘Emily in Paris’ serves up a delicious platter of style that dazzles and entertains, but leaves the dish of authenticity unserved. While it invites us to indulge in a whimsical vision of what it means to be stylish in the City of Lights, it might just be a sprinkle of fantasy mixed with some heavy doses of American exaggeration. So, next time you toss on a beret and strut through your hometown like Emily, remember: less is more, comfort rules, and a vintage bag might just hold the key to unlocking your inner Parisian!
Original Source: www.tatlerasia.com
