French fashion is known for its timeless elegance and effortlessly chic style. With Brooklyn Frenchy, we blend that iconic Parisian flair with Brooklyn’s edgy, urban aesthetic. Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or new to the world of style, understanding some essential French fashion terms can help you appreciate the influence of French culture on the global fashion scene. Here’s a look at ten French fashion terms that every style enthusiast should know, each offering a glimpse into the sophistication and allure of French-inspired fashion.
1. Chic
Chic is one of the most widely used French fashion terms and translates to "stylish" or "elegant" in English. The term refers to an effortless style that appears both sophisticated and polished. When we say someone has a “chic” look, we mean they embody elegance without trying too hard. Brooklyn Frenchy’s designs embrace this concept by offering pieces that are simple yet stylish, allowing wearers to exude effortless chic.
2. Haute Couture
Haute couture, or "high sewing," refers to the custom, high-end fashion created by exclusive designers in France. These pieces are handcrafted and often one-of-a-kind, making them highly valuable and sought after. While Brooklyn Frenchy may not be haute couture, we’re inspired by this level of craftsmanship and the dedication to quality, incorporating well-designed, high-quality pieces into our collections.
3. Prêt-à-Porter
In contrast to haute couture, prêt-à-porter means “ready-to-wear.” These are high-quality, designer pieces that are made for retail and do not require custom fitting. Brooklyn Frenchy’s pieces fall into this category, offering accessible luxury that’s ready to be worn straight off the rack, making it easy for anyone to add a touch of Parisian style to their everyday wardrobe.
4. Effortlessly Cool (or Cool Effortless)
While not exclusively French, this phrase embodies the essence of French style. Effortless cool means looking stylish without appearing to have put too much thought into it. French style celebrates the idea of being naturally stylish. Brooklyn Frenchy aims to bring this philosophy to every piece we create, allowing you to look cool without trying too hard.
5. Bon Chic, Bon Genre (BCBG)
BCBG translates to "good style, good attitude" and represents a polished, sophisticated look often associated with upper-class French fashion. This look is all about refined elegance and understated luxury. Brooklyn Frenchy brings a bit of this BCBG spirit into each design, blending sophistication with an approachable edge.
6. Avant-Garde
Avant-garde means "ahead of the crowd" or “innovative,” referring to styles that push boundaries and experiment with new ideas. While Brooklyn Frenchy draws from classic French styles, we also love adding a touch of the unexpected, blending traditional elegance with modern, trendsetting elements inspired by Brooklyn’s urban vibe.
7. Parisienne
Parisienne refers to the quintessential Parisian woman who embodies the effortless, chic, and slightly mysterious style that Parisians are famous for. At Brooklyn Frenchy, we channel this “Parisienne” spirit into our collections, creating pieces that feel both familiar and fresh, bringing the allure of Parisian style to every closet.
8. Je Ne Sais Quoi
This phrase, which translates to "I don’t know what," describes a certain indefinable quality that makes someone or something special. It’s the little spark, the unique charm that’s hard to put into words. Brooklyn Frenchy’s designs aim to capture that “je ne sais quoi” that gives each piece an edge, making it more than just a piece of clothing.
9. Savoir-Faire
Savoir-faire means "knowing how to do" and refers to a refined sense of style and a practical understanding of how to present oneself. It’s about having taste, confidence, and elegance. Brooklyn Frenchy incorporates this savoir-faire into each design, allowing wearers to feel confident and sophisticated with ease.
10. En Vogue
En vogue means "in fashion" or "trendy." It refers to something currently popular and stylish. At Brooklyn Frenchy, we embrace what’s en vogue without losing the timeless qualities that make our pieces wearable season after season. Our goal is to create pieces that feel current yet enduring, allowing you to stay on-trend without sacrificing style.
French fashion terms capture the elegance, sophistication, and unique personality of Parisian style. By incorporating these values into Brooklyn Frenchy’s designs, we’re able to bridge the gap between French and American fashion, bringing timeless trends and edgy urban style together in each piece. Whether you’re a fan of haute couture, prêt-à-porter, or simply looking for that je ne sais quoi in your wardrobe, Brooklyn Frenchy has something for every style enthusiast. Discover our latest collection and add a touch of French flair to your look today.