“Parisian style is as much about cultivating a carefree attitude as it is about a combination of classic key pieces.”

Eleonore Toulin is the cool Parisienne you either want to be or be with. The model and quintessentially French It-girl is an ace at spinning simple everyday styles into something très chic. We spent an afternoon together in her local neighbourhood, taking pictures and talking Parisian style, secretly hoping some of her sartorial je ne sais quoi would rub off on us.

What is Parisian style to you?
"Parisian style is as much about cultivating a carefree attitude as it is about a combination of classic key pieces..."

Ooh la la... and those key pieces are?
"To me, it starts with a shirt or a blouse. I like to wear it nonchalantly half-tucked in and keep the top few buttons undone. For that gamine look, I pair it with straight-fit, slightly cropped jeans and ankle boots (in spring I switch them for ballet flats). On top, I throw on a classic coat and a little shoulder bag to tie it all together. All in all, strong, simple pieces with little touches of chicness that are perfect for every day."

And what about that attitude?
"It’s carefree and effortless! The point is to make yourself look like you didn’t try hard at all, although you probably did. For me, this approach is something that has been transmitted from my mother and the women I grew up around. It’s kind of how it is here. My mum taught me that less is more and showed me how to master minimal makeup."

What’s your favourite outfit from the shoot?
"I adore the jumpsuit! One and done, it pretty much sums up what effortlessness is all about."

Tell us about a memorable fashion moment from your childhood?
"Watching Sophie Marceau in Le Boum. It’s a French film from the ‘80s that I keep coming back to for fashion inspiration. Everything they wear is so cool! High-waisted blue jeans, oversized shirts cinched at the waist with big belts, the best boots... I just love that nostalgic vibe."

What is a good place in Paris to go and see some real-life French cool-girl style?
"Go to the restaurant Aux Deux Amis, or to the café Le Saint Gervais. Both are genuine, old-school Parisian places where my friends and I love to hang out."

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