It is a well-known fact among my friends and family (and, TBH, my Instagram) that I am a self-proclaimed Francophile. I've read How to Be Parisian multiple times, and go back to it whenever I need to reaffirm my values. Whenever I visit Paris, I quiz the locals showing me around about their skin, hair, and makeup routines. I, like the rest of the internet, think these chicks have beauty on lock, so I do everything I can to absorb their knowledge.
But I'm also an American, and a New Yorker at that. And some of the tips and tricks that work for Parisians need a little tweaking for those of us living in the USA. So, through my French obsession, I've Frankenstein-ed together a handful of tips and tricks inspired by Parisians, but adapted for Americans. Ahead, find seven ways to hack French-girl beauty. Red lips and gorgeous fragrances are just the tip of the iceberg.
Tip: Minimize With Multiples
When it comes to makeup, French women are all about minimalism. But their less-is-more approach can seem daunting to women like me — women whose makeup bags are so full, they look like they're about to burst all over their bathroom sink. But the easiest way I've found to incorporate this minimal mindset is with a multi-use stick. This one from Bite can work as a lipstick, a cheek stain, and — if you're feeling really ballsy — a trendy eyeshadow. It's the only thing I carry for a night out. How's that for minimal?
Bite Beauty Multistick in Mochi, $24, available at Sephora.
Tip: Layer Your Fragrance
I read in a Byrdie post once that French women pick their fragrance like they pick their lingerie — they choose one that is going to make them feel special all day. But how are you supposed to make your fragrance stick when you'll be running between subways all day? Layering, my friends. Use your fragrance's corresponding lotion first, then spritz on your scent. You'll smell like heaven all day long, and you'll feel as good as you do in your favorite negligee.
Miu Miu Body Lotion, $38, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Tip: Give Yourself A Massage
Skin care is insanely important to French women — so much so that they painstakingly layer on product after product. But if you're not one to sit in front of your mirror for 20 minutes before bed, just keep this one small tip from our favorite Frenchies: Massage your face. Especially if you're only applying a product or two. It will help the moisturizer or serum penetrate your skin, while also minimizing fine lines and bloating. Oui, s'il vous plaît!
Clarins Multi-Active Day All, $53, available at Clarins.
Tip: Brush Your Hair For Perfect Bedhead
French women are famous for their bedhead — that perfectly rumpled texture that can only be achieved with the help of your pillow. But here's the rub: My strands get matted and snarled if I don't work a comb through them. So, I've found that brushing my hair with a boar-bristle brush before I hit the hay keeps the knots at bay while working my waves out in a way that makes me say, "Ooh la la!"
Mason Pearson Nylon & Boar Bristle Hair Brush, $150, available at Nordstrom.
Tip: Double Cleanse With Micellar Water
Micellar water is one of the cornerstones of the French skin-care regimen. It's how they cleanse their skin — no water involved. But if you're a little skittish about ditching your face wash, consider using the micellar water as the first step in a double-cleansing routine. Use it to remove your makeup, and then lather up with a gentle cleanser. Eventually, you may find that you don't need the second step at all.
Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Clay Cleanser, $45, available at Sephora.
Tip: Go Below The Neck
Speaking of skin care, here's a big issue we Americans have: We tend to stop at the neck. This is a major no-no, and many French women take care to make sure their neck and chest areas are well taken care of. Luckily, there are plenty of brands that have concocted creams that can be used from your hair line to your breasts. This one from RoC also contains SPF 30.
RoC Multi-Correction 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, & Face Cream, $22.47, available at Walmart.
Tip: Give Your Red Lipstick A Boost
If you haven't been using a lip liner to give your red lipstick a solid foundation, you're going to want to start. Sketching in your lips before putting on your pigment is the simplest way to ensure your lipstick doesn't budge. But don't just use the liner on the perimeter of your lips — fill in your entire mouth for a real stay-all-day look.
NARS Lip Liner Pencil in Jungle Red, $22, available at NARS.
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