Inside the Bag of a French Girl: 14 Parisian Purse Essentials

Accessories
Written By Lily

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parisian purse essentials

Ever wonder what magic Parisians carry in their effortlessly chic handbags? The French woman's allure is undeniable – that je ne sais quoi of effortless style and timeless confidence. Their seemingly innate sense of style is most evident in the contents of their handbags.

In this blog post, we're taking a peek inside the quintessential accessory of every French girl's ensemble – her purse. Discover the 14 Parisian purse essentials that the most sophisticated femme française swears by. From a pair of elegant sunglasses to a versatile color stick, you'll always have what you need with these French-inspired handbag essentials.

 
 

14 Parisian Purse Essentials

1. Wallet

A sleek, minimalist wallet is essential for keeping your cash, cards, and ID organized.

Organization is key for the Parisian woman on the go. Look for wallets with multiple compartments for bills, coins, and cards. A dedicated slot for her metro card is also a must. While some may prefer minimalist designs, most Parisian wallets offer enough space to keep it all organized without becoming bulky.

Durability and timeless appeal are key. Opt for classic designs in quality materials like leather to add some sophistication to your everyday essentials. Think buttery smooth calfskin or pebbled full-grain leather that gets better with age.

Like the rest of their wardrobe, a Parisian's wallet reflects a love of timeless elegance. Neutral tones like black, brown, or navy are no-fail options. A pop of color might be present in a rich burgundy, blush pink or deep emerald green.

2. Sunglasses

Whether it's sunny or overcast, a pair of chic sunglasses is a must-have accessory for any French girl on the go. Forget trendy shapes and bold logos. Parisians favor classic silhouettes that never go out of style. Think tortoiseshell wayfarers, sleek aviators, or oversized cat-eyes that pair with anything in your wardrobe.

Sunglasses should flatter your face shape, not overpower it. Take some time to try on different styles to find the perfect pair that complements your features! I’m personally obsessed with oversized sunnies, and I’ve been wearing a similar pair to these gorgeous frames from Chloé.

When it comes to color, Parisian style leans towards neutrality. Stick to classic colors like black, brown, or tortoiseshell that complement any outfit. While a pop of color can be fun, it's best incorporated thoughtfully.

3. Compact Mirror

A Parisian woman is always prepared to face the day, and that includes maintaining her signature look throughout. A compact mirror is essential in any Parisian purse for quick touch-ups no matter where you are.

The chicest option has to be the Chanel Mirror Duo. This sleek and slim compact features a regular mirror on one side and a magnifying mirror on the other — perfect for touch-ups. But what makes it truly stand out is the signature Chanel design. It’s certainly a splurge, but it will last for years to come.

4. Perfume

The scent you wear is a reflection of your personality, and French women take great care in choosing their signature fragrance. Keep a travel-sized perfume in your purse to refresh throughout the day and leave a lasting impression wherever you go.

In general, Parisian women favor classic fragrances that stand the test of time. Think floral musks, elegant orientals, or chic citrus scents. Avoid trendy or overly sweet perfumes that fade quickly.

Parisians keep their scent subtle — a single spritz behind the ears or on the wrists is enough. They also tend to prefer an eau de parfum for a stronger, longer-lasting fragrance.

While there's no single perfume that defines a Parisian woman, some iconic French fragrances are perennial favorites. To discover your own signature scent, explore the following blog posts:

5. Multi-Purpose Color Stick

The French woman's makeup routine is all about effortless beauty. Enter the multi-purpose color stick, a hero product that simplifies your routine and keeps your bag light.

A multi-stick combines blush, lipstick, and sometimes even eyeshadow in one convenient stick. This eliminates the need for multiple products, streamlining your makeup routine and saving precious purse space. Designed to be sheer and blendable, they’re perfect for on-the-go when you want to add some quick color to your cheeks and lips.

To get the natural French girl look, look for colors that mimic the natural flush of your cheeks and lips for a monochromatic look that appears effortless. You can find a range of shades designed to complement various skin tones.

The NARS The Multiple is one of my favorites with a creamy, blendable formula that can be used on cheeks, lips, eyes, and even the body for a touch of shimmer. If you’re looking for an organic and cruelty-free option, the ILIA Multi-Stick offers a buildable wash of color for a natural, healthy flush on cheeks and lips.

6. Multi-Purpose Balm

A Parisian woman's beauty routine is all about minimalism and maximizing results. That's where the multi-purpose balm comes in – a single product that tackles a multitude of beauty needs, keeping her bag streamlined and her look polished.

A multi-purpose balm can be used on everything from dry lips and cuticles to chapped cheeks and even flyaways. You can also dab a touch on your eyelids for a dewy, natural-looking sheen. This eliminates the need for a plethora of separate products, simplifying your beauty routine wherever you are.

French women prioritize quality ingredients. Look for balms packed with nourishing oils like shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax to soothe and hydrate skin without irritation. Avoid synthetic ingredients and artificial fragrances that can be drying or comedogenic.

French pharmacies are a treasure trove of multi-purpose balms, but I love the compact size of the C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve Balm that fits in all of my bags. Another versatile balm that you can find in the U.S. is the Everyday Shea Butter which comes in a chic and compact tin.

7. Hand Cream

No French girl's purse is complete without a rich hand cream to keep her hands soft and hydrated. Cold city winters can wreak havoc on skin, so a luxurious hand cream is a non-negotiable staple in her purse.

The chicest of French women prioritize quality over everything else. Go for creams packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and protect the skin.

A good hand cream is as much about the experience as it is about the results. Think rich, creamy formulas that sink in quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Delicate floral scents or calming herbal notes add a touch of luxury to the routine and provide a moment of self-care throughout the busy day.

You can find some of the best hand cream at the French pharmacy. The Caudalie Vinotherapist Hand and Nail Cream is one that I personally love and frequently repurchase at my local pharmacy. A classic choice, the iconic L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream is popular for a reason. It’s packed with 20% shea butter to deeply hydrate and soothe dry skin while being simultaneously non-greasy.

8. Hair Brush

French women are known for their nonchalantly chic hairstyles, but that effortless look often requires a touch of strategic grooming. Amongst the essentials in a Parisian's purse, you’re likely to find a compact and practical hair brush.

Quality is important for Parisian women. Opt for brushes made with natural boar bristles that gently detangle and smooth hair without causing static. The Mason Pearson Pocket Boar Bristle Brush is a luxurious choice, handcrafted with natural boar bristles that detangle and smooth hair without causing damage. The small size makes it perfect for on-the-go styling.

Another Parisian pick is the Alexandre de Paris Travel Brush. This chic travel brush is a stylish and functional addition to your purse.

9. Hair Accessories

parisian purse essentials 
Alexandre De Paris

Large Barrette

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Whether it's a chic silk scarf, a stylish hair clip, or a classic hair tie, French women know the importance of accessorizing their hair to complete their look. Here's a look at the hair accessories you'll find tucked away in a Parisian's purse:

  • Claw Clip: The claw clip is back, and the French woman has embraced it. Look for chic tortoiseshell styles or sleek black clips that can transform messy strands into a chic updo in seconds.

  • Barrettes: Beyond the claw clip, Parisian hair accessories are all about understated elegance. Think delicate barrettes with pearl accents or slim clips in tortoiseshell or gold. These are perfect for securing flyaways or creating a polished twist on a braid.

  • Silk or Ribbon Ties: A touch of whimsy is always welcome. Parisian women love to elevate a ponytail or braid with a silk or ribbon tie. Opt for neutral colors like black, navy, or cream for maximum versatility, or embrace a pop of color with a vibrant hue.

  • Bobby Pins : No Parisian purse is complete without a stash of bobby pins. They are essential for creating intricate updos, securing braids, or simply taming flyaways for a polished look.

10. Hand Sanitizer

While the French are known for their effortless style, that doesn't mean they skimp on practicality. A hand sanitizer is a must-have in any Parisian's purse for maintaining hygiene on the go.

Strong, artificial scents are a turn-off for most Parisians. They often opt for lightly fragranced sanitizers with natural scents like lavender or rose, or fragrance-free formulas altogether (that B&BW hand gel might be a no-go).

For a luxurious sanitizing spray, I love the Chantecaille Rose Geranium and Basil Hand Sanitizer. It’s infused with botanicals and rose geranium and basil essential oils for a refreshing aroma reminiscent of a spring garden.

That said, it doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just make sure it’s slim enough to store in your purse.

11. Compact Umbrella

The weather in Paris can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to carry a compact umbrella in your purse to shield yourself from sudden showers without sacrificing style.

For that undeniably chic Parisian aesthetic, look for solid colors in black, navy, beige, or perhaps a chic pinstripe pattern.

A favorite for its quality and style, the Davek Solo Umbrella comes in a variety of colors. It's small, lightweight, and folds up into a compact size, making it perfect for tossing in your handbag. For a more affordable option that is just as sturdy, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is a smart choice.

12. Reusable Tote Bag

Say goodbye to single-use plastic bags and embrace eco-friendly living with a reusable tote bag. The French woman is as conscious of style as she is of sustainability. A versatile tote is a staple in her purse, allowing her to be prepared for impromptu grocery trips or picnics in the park, all while reducing waste.

Look for a tote bag that folds up into a neat pouch, taking up minimal space in your purse until needed. Baggu makes some of the most compact bags that come in a variety of colors and patterns. It's stylish, sustainable, and perfect for tossing into your purse.

Show love for your favorite local spot with a graphic canvas tote. You’ll see Parisians and tourists alike with totes from the iconic English-language bookstore, Shakespeare & Co., but I also love the selection from Paris’ cool-girl café, Café Kitsuné.

13. Mints or Gum

parisian purse essentials 
Les Anis De Flavigny

Rose French Mints

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Keep a pack of mints or gum in your purse to ensure you're always ready for a tête-à-tête with friends, especially when you need some freshness post-café. Mints and gum don’t need to be anything special, but there are so many upgraded options for a gourmet addition to your purse.

For a more unique flavor experience, Les Anis De Flavigny has a range of aniseed-flavored pastilles with a subtle sweetness and a long-lasting licorice aftertaste. Even if you don’t enjoy the flavor, you can easily refill their elegant tins with your preferred gum and mints. It looks so luxe in your purse!

Whenever I’m in the U.S., I make sure to stock up on my favorite gum from Simply Gum. They have some of the best flavors including ginger and sugar-free spearmint.

14. Book

A Parisian woman knows the importance of unwinding with a good read. Nestled amongst the essentials in her purse, you'll likely find a well-worn paperback or a thoughtfully chosen new release.

Pocket paperbacks are the preferred format. They're lightweight, easy to slip into a purse, and won't weigh you down during your daily errands.

From Simone de Beauvoir's "The Second Sex" to Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," you can’t go wrong with a classic French novel. When it comes to French poetry, Charles Baudelaire and Sylvia Plath are popular choices. Seeking something more thought-provoking? Michel de Montaigne's essays or a recent bestseller on philosophy might pique a Parisian's curiosity. Ultimately, carrying a book that genuinely captivates and inspires you to read is what’s most important.

Shop Parisian Purse Essentials

And there you have it – the 14 Parisian purse essentials inspired by the chicest of French girls and their bags. Whether you find yourself strolling the streets of Paris or not, be sure to stock your purse with these must-have items to embrace the effortless elegance that defines Parisian style.

Which Parisian purse essentials do you keep in your own handbag? Let me know in the comments below.

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