"Fancy" Explained
Fancy isn’t about excess—it’s about refinement, reverence, and purpose. It’s a way of presenting yourself, interacting with others, and respecting the culture around you. In Paris, being fancy isn’t about flashy displays of wealth but about knowing how to navigate situations with confidence, elegance, and ease. This concept, often embodied in the French notion of savoir-être (knowing how to be), is something we can all embrace—not just in Paris but in our everyday lives.
What It Means to Be Fancy
Being fancy is about more than appearance—it’s a mindset that influences how you move through the world. It’s the ability to balance high-quality experiences with an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. It’s confidence in your worth and your choices, knowing that you don’t need to overconsume to indulge in beauty and refinement.
Unlike the fast-paced, convenience-driven American lifestyle, the French approach to life is deeply rooted in tradition, etiquette, and an appreciation for culture. Fancy people seek out meaningful experiences that enrich their lives, whether it’s through food, art, conversation, or daily rituals.
How the French Embody Fancy Living
Refinement as a Way of Being
The French are raised with a deep sense of etiquette and refinement, from how they dress to how they interact in social settings. This is not about being “stuck up” but about a cultural emphasis on respect, self-presentation, and understanding the nuances of different environments.
Purposeful Living Over Hustle Culture
While Americans often fill their days with endless tasks and obligations, the French prioritize purpose and pleasure. They take time to enjoy their meals, engage in stimulating conversations, and immerse themselves in their surroundings rather than rushing from one thing to the next.
A Balance of Luxury and Simplicity
Being fancy doesn’t mean indulging in luxury at every turn. The French know how to appreciate both a Michelin-starred meal and a perfectly baked baguette from the corner bakery. They don’t live in scarcity but in a mindset of worthiness—knowing they can enjoy the finer things without excess.
A Deep Appreciation for Culture and Aesthetics
Whether it’s selecting wine, curating a home, or enjoying a walk through the city, the French embody an intentional approach to beauty. They cultivate an understanding of history, craftsmanship, and terroir, which enhances their appreciation of life’s offerings.
Bringing Fancy Into Everyday Life
Being fancy isn’t about wealth or status—it’s about embracing a refined, intentional way of living. Whether you’re strolling through Paris or going about your daily routine, cultivating an appreciation for beauty, quality, and presence can transform your experience. By integrating these simple yet meaningful habits into your life, you allow yourself to savor the richness of each day, no matter where you are.
A few tips:
Here's how I bring the fancy of France to my everyday life.
Savor Your Meals
Take time to enjoy your food, appreciate the flavors, and make dining a moment of pleasure rather than a rushed necessity.
Quality Over Quantity
Choose fewer, better things, whether it’s your morning coffee, home décor, or skincare routine.
Adopt a Slower Pace
Avoid the rushed, overpacked lifestyle and move through your day with presence and awareness.
Curate Your Wardrobe
Invest in timeless, well-made pieces that make you feel confident and sophisticated rather than chasing fleeting trends.
Engage in Thoughtful Conversations
Like the French, cultivate curiosity and have deeper, more meaningful discussions. Read, explore new ideas, and engage with others in a way that enriches your mind.
Make Everyday Experienes Beautiful
Light a candle at dinner, listen to classical music while you work, or arrange fresh flowers in your space. Small touches of elegance make all the difference.
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