Millennial on the Move: Paris, in Springtime!
“A bad day in Paris is still better than a good day anywhere else.”
For my 21st birthday, I fled the UK and decided to take on Paris! This was my first time ever going on a birthday trip, and also my first time in France. It's crazy to think that when you make all the necessary plans and preparations, things still don't usually go as smoothly as you would expect them to. When I arrived to Paris on the morning of my 21st birthday, I was exhausted, hungry, and disappointed to find out that the Air BnB I booked was 60 minutes away from the city center.... but after unpacking my bags and wallowing in my circumstances, I brushed myself off and decided to get out and see the city!
The first stop was the Arc de Triomphe, which is far more magnificent in person than I could have ever imagined! While traveling solo it's sometimes awkward when you don't have anyone to take your picture, but these days I try to pick out the other tourists in the area and politely ask them if they would take my photo. They are usually happy to, and I always offer to return the favor.
The food is arguably the best part about Paris! You are able to taste every ingredient, and everything tastes fresh. Crepes are available all around the city, with your choice of fruit, chocolate, or Nutella. Some of my favorite restaurants included Pizza Pino, Cafe de La Paix, and Boulangerie Patisserie de la Tour Eiffel! At Cafe de La Paix you will find a delicious buffet brunch with a wide variety of options. From escargot to fresh omelettes, they have it all!
My favorite area of Paris by far was Montparnasse. It's a quiet area at a very high point outside the city, to the left of the River Seine. As soon as you arrive you will feel the shift from city to serenity. Small boulangeries line the brick streets and down every ally is the opportunity to take a beautiful photo. From the top of Montparnasse you can see the entire city of Paris!
Before going to Paris, I assumed that I'd see all different kinds of street style looks and forms of expression. I was surprised to find out that the majority of people dress somewhat casual. After a bit of city searching I did run into the millennials who make it their job to express themselves through their style. Regardless of my surroundings, I always dress to express. It's a part of who I am, so you guys know I made sure to pull out some of my best looks for Paris!
Man in Mesh
Unconventional layering adds dimension and drama to any spring outfit.
When it gets warm, you have less clothing to work with, so layering isn't what comes to many peoples minds in the springtime. I decided to pair a mesh shirt from Ragged Priest with a Gap button up, and I wore my favorite pair of high waisted pants along with it. Black Oxfords kept the look classic and I added the beret and eccentric sunnies to turn up the drama just a bit. Both are from Topshop!
Black and White Funk
Flare pants, a statement t-shirt, and a moto jacket... what more do you need?
For a day exploring the Louvre and other museums, I had to make sure I fit in with the artwork. My flare pants and t-shirt are both by Berksha, and my lace undershirt is from H&M. Even though the majority of Parisians don't wear them, nothing says Paris like a beret! This is by far one of my favorite looks to date because it was extremely comfy, yet chic! Those are often two hard things to combine. My super light black and white runners are from Poshmark, and I could honestly walk for days in them!
Trench Flair
A scarf goes a very long way.
For awhile I have been dying to wear this lace shirt I got from Topshop! My last full day in Paris was the perfect opportunity, and I paired it with my absolute favorite H&M Trench Coat. I copped this statement satin scarf and my hat from a tourist shop (shhh, don't tell anyone). Black skinny's go with everything, and I rocked my black oxfords with this look once again.
Paris is by far my favorite trip that I've been on to date. There is so much to see and so much to do, and as soon as you leave you will want to turn around and go back. Check out some more pictures from my trip below, and please let me know, which of my 3 looks was your favorite?
