By Anyssa Roberts

aroberts@kykernel.com

This Spring Break I took the rare opportunity of bypassing parties on Panama City beaches and clubbing in Miami, Fla. for an unforgettable tour of the most inspiring and romantic city in existence — Paris, France.

I spent nine unforgettable days with the Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles Study Tour class. Each day we traveled to a new fashion destination: Hermes Paris, the legendary Yves Saint Laurent foundation, Chapel leather goods company and Merci, a must-shop destination for the fashion lover and interior decorator alike. Each shop was a must-see and inspiring in their own way, but I veered away from the tourist experience and embraced the streets.

The streets of Paris are filled with style.

With a chic, original culture in artistry and fashion, I didn’t need to travel far to realize I was in the capital city of the fashion world. Parisians dressed for quality and comfort, often choosing high-quality pieces to not just add to their personal style, but to support local artisans. Looking presentable, even on the subway, seemed almost like a sign of respect to everyone around. Not looking presentable evoked plenty of unpleasant stares.

Everybody on the street had their own look and they were all worthy of my attention. On the streets, I saw gorgeous structured coats and dramatic scarves draped over shoulders. Hair was tousled and easily styled with a quick wave of the hand.

Cut-out ankle boots and Dr. Martens were worn with black tights for comfort and style.

Ultimately, each person’s look was their own and effortlessly chic.

I appreciated the effort to uphold a high standard for one’s appearance in his or her everyday life, and tried to dress the part, but my chic did not come so effortlessly. I did the best I could with what I packed, and while think I blended in well enough with the rest of the city, but the gap between the average American and Parisian style became wider with the more street fashion I saw.

I noticed most Americans in Paris were either over- or under-styled. Designer label items were stacked into outfits that screamed of effort and ultimately cheapened the look, while other tourists figured they could get away with unflattering jeans and sneakers.

Only a few days of sunshine graced us during our visit, but not one Parisian, college student or not, dared to step out in a pair of clunky sneakers, jogging shorts or sweatpants. And while I was very tempted to walk out in my extra-comfy black sweatpants one cold morning before an 8 a.m. appointment, I quickly snapped myself out of that and fully embraced the Parisian chic style.

The nine days flew by, but I will always savor the sounds and sights of that legendary city. I came back to the states with a freer and broader sense of style as being effortless and diverse.