I'm back
I know, I know, it has been eons since I have written a post. I have been busy completing a six-week course on writing, put on by the Writer Mama (great course, by the way. Any moms out there interested in launching a career in freelance writing should check out Writer Mama's courses).
Today, I just wanted to write an observation that I made this week when dropping the Bambina off at her fairly international preschool:
What North American moms are wearing when they drop their kids off at school: track pants and sneakers (Why do we do this? We look so hideous. Why, why why?).
What French moms are wearing when they drop their kids off at school: pencil skirt, silk blouse, high heeled shoes (My question: how do they manage to walk on the cobblestone streets and climb up the 80 or so stairs to the school without breaking a leg?).
What Italian moms are wearing when they drop their kids off at school: designer velour track pants purchased at La Perla or Armani, Converse or other designer sneakers with not a scuff on them, gold necklace, gold earrings, counterfeit Cartier watch.
I think the Italian moms have got a good compromise going between comfort and style...
11 comments:
Welcome back!
Hmm, you just reminded me that I need a good writing course. Not for freelance writing, unless my Italian translations count, but just out of desperate need!
not just the moms, but every woman. Paulina (my parisian friend) and I compare notes on our former "tank, jeans, heels" uniform to our new skin of sexy wedges, fitted coats, dark jeans and fuzzy sweaters-- just for going to the supermarket.
Was it American women who invented that ghastly look of well-dressed, stylish, professional -- teamed with sneakers! I first saw this in Boston in the late 80s and couldn't believe my eyes - so hideous. Is this still happening in the States?! Track pants and sneakers is the worst clothing look in the world. Except for track pants, sneakers, and fleece --seen in many parts of UK.
Anna
How about what the kids are wearing? Now there's a culture gap!
Okay, I'll follow up on Louise...North American kids - comfortable style, sneakers ... brand names. French kids - usually not very comfortable at all, no jeans, no sneakers, the vast majority wearing something either navy or white or both colours ... brand names up and coming but not as peer group influenced. Italian kids - ask the Bambina ...
I can understand the north American Moms TBH. I mean, if you are really only doing a school run and are going straight back home pretty much, then what's the point of dressing up?
When I was an au pair and I had to take the kid to school I used to put my coat on over my pajamas and go. LOL.
I have really come to loathe track pants since moving to Europe BUT I have to admit that the Italian women seem to know how to look good in them and I have, since moving here, acquired a velour ensemble from Petit Bateau that looks quite nice for track pants.
I really miss the days of throwing on my 'old comfies' to run an errand.
Now every errand takes me at least an extra hour - as I want to make sure that I have the right outfit on, my hair is in place and I am suitably made up.
I wouldn't even dream of answering the door to the pizza delivery guy in track pants now either!
Elle
The British mums would be in jeans, comfy flat or low-heeled shoes (although probably not sneakers), sweater or fleece. Our continental neighbours put us to shame.
Hello!
I just found your blog and this was the first place I went~~I was laughing at your perfect description of American Mom's dropping their kids off~~I have even seen pajamas. I am a US resident but at times am embarrassed at how casual & unkempt people have become. I would love to travel to France just to have the cultural contrast and see how the other half live~~the elegant way!!
Michelle
Hi there:)
I love your Blog, one of the reasons is that Iam a "polyglotte" myself and I love different cultures.
I would add to your post speaking about Albanian mothers, they are pretty much like the french ones high heels, fancy clothes and make up!!
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