Easy Trip Packing and Stylish at Home: The French

When I lived in Switzerland, I worked for a French family is an Au Pair. Back then, it was different as the wife was a female executive at UBS and he was a stay-at-home artist. He painted mostly abstracts and made me iron everything and was a big neurotic pain in the butt. However, they did teach me how to dress. Her outfits were seamless; she would have on well-tailored pants topped with a shirt with some light pizzaz or a plain boring shirt, adorned with a Hermes scarf or incredible belt and bag. Some days she'd wear incredible dress but belt it to add texture or paid it was a cropped jacket. She wore textures and layers and seemed comfortable mixing it up. The "French Five" is a minimalist wardrobe curated by a fashion philosophy that emphasizes quality, versatility, and timeless style. Each season, under the concept of the French Five you are encouraged to purchase five key pieces that will elevate your style and integrates well with your existing wardrobe. These items are meant to compliment foundational essentials, a cashmere sweater in a versatile neutral color, perfect fit tailored trousers to pair with existing tops creating various options. The look is cohesive and put together. Sometimes, a great statement items is encouraged like a great new chic leather jacket or great patterned shoe that matches your personal style. You goal is to build a wardrobe over time and have pieces that work well together but sometimes adding a great color punch.

Starting your French Five Wardrobe can be a rewarding way to refine your personal style and adopt a more mindful approach to fashion. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. **Assess Your Current Wardrobe**: Begin by taking inventory of your existing clothes. Identify the timeless essentials you already own, like a white blouse, tailored trousers, or a trench coat. These will act as the foundation for your wardrobe.

2. **Define Your Style and Needs**: Think about your lifestyle, personal aesthetic, and upcoming seasonal needs. This will help you pinpoint the types of pieces that would enhance your wardrobe without overloading it.

3. **Set a Seasonal Budget**: The French Five Wardrobe philosophy emphasizes quality, so allocate a budget for five high-quality additions per season. Consider saving up for investment pieces rather than opting for fast fashion.

4. **Focus on Versatility**: Select items that can be mixed and matched with your existing wardrobe. For instance, a timeless leather jacket, a chic pair of ankle boots, or a stylish patterned scarf could transform multiple outfits.

5. **Prioritize Quality Over Quantity**: Invest in pieces that are well-made and built to last. Pay attention to fabric, craftsmanship, and fit to ensure longevity.

6. **Follow the “Five-Piece Rule”**: Each season, choose only five standout pieces to add to your wardrobe. These could include statement items, like a unique coat or a designer handbag, or practical yet stylish additions like a tailored blazer or premium jeans.

7. **Evaluate and Reflect**: At the end of the season, assess how well your five choices integrated with your wardrobe. This reflection will guide your future selections and ensure your wardrobe evolves thoughtfully.

By adopting this method, you not only elevate your style but also foster a more sustainable and intentional relationship with fashion. Which items do you think you'd prioritize for your first French Five Wardrobe season?