The Parisian beauty rules worth following

There’s something about Parisian women and their lifestyle that seems to just work. Maybe it’s because croissants and pastries are eaten with abandon; or perhaps it’s the laissez-faire way of life. Whatever the reason, the French tend to look chic and sophisticated no matter what. 

Which is why it makes complete sense to take a leaf out of their book and embrace a slightly more Parisian lifestyle by following the very beauty rules French women live by (and hey, we always endorse more croissants, too).

#1 / Hair should always be effortless

While a gorgeous sleek blow-dry will always look sophisticated and you’re guaranteed to have compliments flowing in, French women are all about hair that requires little-to-no effort. Embrace your natural texture, spritz with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray and muss it up for good measure. 

#2 / Red lips are a must

It makes sense that a bold red lipstick is a staple for Parisian women – it’s literally the one beauty product that can instantly take your beauty look to the next level. No matter what you’re wearing, or how your hair is styled, you are guaranteed to look like you’ve made a tonne of effort. Try Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet in 03 Hot Pepper for a pop of colour that’ll seriously last, and embrace the Parisian rule of simplicity by pairing it with luscious, full lashes created with Bourjois Volume Glamour Effet Push Up Black Serum Mascara. It’ll give your lashes that perfect ‘I woke up like this’ definition, while conditioning them at the same time.

#3 / Eyeliner must be imperfect

While Parisian women love the definition a black eyeliner brings, they prefer a somewhat messy, slightly slept-in finish, so when creating a dramatic line, use a soft kohl liner, or an eyeshadow pencil like Estée Lauder Magic Smoky™ Powder Shadow Stick and slightly smudge it out.

#4 / There’s always time for a classic wing

Yes, Parisian women may be all about effortless beauty and a no-fuss routine, but there is always, always time for a sleek winged liner. Arm yourself with the Bourjois Liner Feutre SLIM (the soft nib makes it an excellent, user-friendly choice), and follow our tips for achieving the best winged eyeliner of your life.

#5 / Good skin is essential

The secret to Parisian-perfect skin is no secret at all, it’s just diligence and dedication to a skin care routine that’ll leave your complexion radiant and glowing. While a well-maintained cleanse-tone-moisturise system will do, we recommend throwing a facial oil into the mix, too, and we’ve got the best ones for every skin concern (and a few handy tips on how to apply it in the best possible way.)

#6 / Wear only your signature scent

When it comes to fragrance and French women, there’s no such thing as having a wardrobe. You pick your signature scent, and that’s it – no matter the time of day, the season, or even the occasion. If you’re having some trouble picking your own, read Jacques Polge’s (one of the world’s top perfumers) tips for finding your signature scent. 

Can’t get enough of Parisian beauty? Discover the cult French beauty products every woman should try.

Image credit: Getty