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Over-Stylish Shoes: The White Sneaker / Sandal Catastrophe

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/13 .. -shoes-the-white-sneaker-sandal-catastrophe.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, December 13th 2025 at 21:28 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Emily in Paris and the Fashion Faux Pas That Will Make You Look Less Like a Tourist

When the Netflix hit Emily in Paris made its debut, the show didn’t just make viewers fall in love with French cuisine and croissant‑filled mornings. It also became an inadvertent “style crash course” for anyone who’d ever dreamed of strolling the boulevards of Paris in something that looked both chic and effortlessly “locals.” Travel & Leisure’s recent article, “Emily in Paris Common French Fashion Mistakes,” pulls back the curtain on the most common missteps travelers make when trying to emulate their favorite television star’s wardrobe—and, more importantly, shows how to sidestep them. Below is a full rundown of the article’s key points, the cultural wisdom it pulls from other Travel & Leisure pieces, and the practical “how‑to” that will keep you looking as if you’ve spent years mastering the Parisian aesthetic instead of just borrowing from a Netflix script.

1. Over‑Stylish Shoes – The White Sneaker / Sandal Catastrophe

The article opens with the quintessential “Emily‑in‑Paris” shoe faux pas: the tendency to lace up bright white sneakers or wear oversized leather sandals that scream trend, not Paris. In a city where walking on cobblestones and hilly streets is part of the daily rhythm, the article points out that many travelers forget the comfort factor. The piece cites the Travel & Leisure guide on “Parisian Comfort Shoes” (link in the article) which recommends low‑heeled leather loafers, classic Oxfords, or a clean pair of leather ballet flats. The takeaway? Choose shoes that are as functional as they are fashionable.

2. The “Bag‑Obsession” Trap

In Paris, bags are treated like extensions of the outfit. The article warns against bringing “big plastic totes or chunky designer bags that look out of place in the narrow Parisian streets.” Instead, it recommends compact, versatile cross‑body or satchel styles that can be dressed up or down. It even links to a Paris Fashion Week style roundup that showcases how local designers combine utility with elegance, providing a useful reference point for travelers who want to buy a new bag while in town.

3. Color Confusion

“Emily in Paris” is known for its saturated palettes, and the article notes that some travelers over‑emulate this by wearing too much neon or overly bold hues. The writers suggest sticking to neutrals—black, navy, white, and beige—paired with a single, eye‑catching accessory (e.g., a silk scarf or a statement brooch). They also reference a Travel & Leisure article on “The Parisian Color Palette” that explains why muted tones are the go‑to for locals: they’re flattering, versatile, and effortlessly chic.

4. The Sportswear Slip

While athleisure has made a splash worldwide, the article reminds readers that Parisian fashion does not usually embrace a “gym‑in‑the‑streets” vibe. The article cites a Travel & Leisure piece titled “Why Paris Loves Classic Tailoring” to explain that a tailored blazer or a structured trench is the way to go when you want to look polished without sounding like you’re heading to the gym. The key is to pair a simple, fitted top with a slim‑cut trouser or a knee‑length midi skirt, keeping the look timeless.

5. Too Many Shoes in the Bag

Travel & Leisure points out that tourists often pack multiple shoe styles, hoping to have an “every‑occasion” pair. The article counters that this practice leads to bulky luggage and a diluted sense of personal style. The recommended solution? Pick one pair of versatile shoes that can transition from day to night. A single pair of brown leather loafers or black ankle boots will cover most situations without compromising on comfort or aesthetics.

6. Oversized Accessories

From oversized sunglasses to gigantic hats, the article flags oversized accessories as a frequent mistake. A quick glance at the Travel & Leisure “Parisian Accessories” guide (linked within the article) shows that French style leans toward understated sophistication. A small leather clutch, a simple gold chain, or a minimalist watch can elevate an outfit without drowning it.

7. Forgetting to Layer

The Parisian climate can be unpredictable—especially in spring and fall. The article stresses that many visitors forget the importance of layering, arriving with a single outfit that either feels too hot or too cold. It references a Travel & Leisure “Packing Light, Packing Smart” article that advises travelers to include a light cardigan, a tailored blazer, and a lightweight scarf as essential layering pieces.

8. Ignoring the Importance of Fit

In Paris, the cut of a garment can be as important as the color. The article urges readers to ensure that every piece fits perfectly—neither too tight nor too loose. The linked Parisian Tailoring article offers a quick guide on how to find the right size and the value of having a garment tweaked by a local tailor. This extra step can transform a bland outfit into a tailored, runway‑ready ensemble.

9. Using Heavy Perfumes

The final, perhaps the most subtle, fashion faux pas is over‑applying perfume. In a city where the air is already rich with the scent of baguettes and coffee, a strong fragrance can feel overpowering. The article suggests using a lighter perfume or a subtle body mist that doesn’t clash with the Parisian atmosphere. A reference to a Travel & Leisure fragrance guide is included for readers who want to explore perfumes that are historically popular in France.

Bottom Line: How to Channel Emily in Paris without Falling Into These Pitfalls

1. Choose Comfort‑First Footwear – Pick shoes that can handle cobblestones and give you style points at the same time.
2. Opt for Subtle, Versatile Bags – Keep your carry‑on compact, elegant, and functional.
3. Stick to a Neutral Palette – Use bold accessories sparingly for a modern, chic look.
4. Ditch the Sportswear – Favor tailored pieces that speak to sophistication rather than athleticism.
5. Limit Your Shoe Count – One versatile pair goes a long way.
6. Keep Accessories Minimal – Less is more in the Parisian style playbook.
7. Layer Thoughtfully – Stay ready for weather changes without compromising on fashion.
8. Mind the Fit – A good fit elevates any outfit; consider a tailor.
9. Use Subtle Fragrances – Keep it light to blend with the city’s natural aromas.

The article’s overarching theme is simple: emulating the look of Emily in Paris doesn’t mean adopting the show’s high‑energy fashion wholesale. Instead, it means absorbing the core principles of Parisian style—comfort, subtlety, impeccable fit, and a sense of understated elegance—and applying them in a way that feels personal. By avoiding the nine common mistakes highlighted in the piece and following the linked resources, travelers can step off the set of Emily in Paris and onto the streets of Paris with confidence and authenticity.

So next time you plan a Paris trip, check out the full article and the many helpful links it provides. From the “Parisian Color Palette” guide to the “Packing Light, Packing Smart” article, there’s a wealth of information at your fingertips to help you dress like a local—and perhaps even better, like your own version of Emily.