On a recent trip to Europe this summer, I was able to look at the diverse fashions on the streets of London and Paris.

London is a city of culture, fashion and history and I quickly saw that reflected in what people wore while shopping, going to work, or for a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park. I tried to differentiate the locals from the tourists but regardless, the mix of fashions was a delight to see.

Although it was July, many people weren’t wearing typical beach/summer attire (tank tops, casual skirts, shorts, sandals etc.). Instead, jeans, tees, hats and accessories definitely stood out as the regular wardrobe ensemble.

Many guys donned the trilby hat made out of straw, well-fitted jeans, sneakers or leather loafers, a messenger bag and a simple tee.

The girls were especially creative with their fashions, sporting all sorts of strappy sandals including elaborate designs of the gladiator sandal.

Hair accessories such as feathers, flowers, pins, headbands and hats were also a very chic addition to an outfit.

Leather was popular and was used in sandals, shoes, purses, accessories and hats.

Printed dresses, skirts and loose blazers were also a common trend.

It was interesting to see that umbrellas were sold at every cash register and people often carried umbrellas with them, which made it appear to be a fashion accessory.

To my surprise, sunglasses weren’t a popular accessory, although I wore mine for the majority of the time.

It was difficult at times to pinpoint one definite style for London since the style varied so much. Oxford Street, the high-street shopping district, consisted of numerous shops catering to different styles (vintage, classic, trendy, sporty etc.) and the broad range of stores definitely influenced how people express themselves through fashion.

“ The streets of Paris had a more relaxed attitude.

The streets of Paris had a more relaxed attitude.

Suits were a staple for men and I often saw them wearing well-tailored suits in grey or navy blue. Cuff links, leather shoes, a briefcase and a motorbike were the overall look for much of the male population.

The women had a simple, sophisticated, yet understated look and exuded a classic and elegant feel. Loose, free flowing dresses in neutral tones were a summer look which many women chose as it is very hot and humid.

The Parisian boutiques were a dream, and department stores Printemps and Galeries Lafayette were all amazing.

For that European flair, accessories are the way to go.

Bold jewelry and hair adornments are easy to work into any outfit. Of the many decals, flowers, bows and feathers were the ones that stood out and definitely make a statement.

Also, patterns and vintage jean or leather vests were prevalent throughout many of the stores.

Simple tees for men and leather accessories create an interesting mix.

Dressing up doesn’t have to mean wearing a three-piece suit at all times; try a white button up shirt or blazer to change up your look and you’ll ooze some European glamour.

Published in Volume 63, Number 30 of The Uniter (August 13, 2009)