What’s Trending in the South of France?

France has a long-standing reputation as an international leader in culture and style, with Paris in the spotlight as the world’s fashion capital. However, just a four-hour train ride south of Paris lies Montpellier, the vibrant city where I studied abroad last spring. Home to several universities, Montpellier is a city of students, making it an epicenter of trends and youth culture. I spent my five months there observing and taking mental notes on the styles around me. Here is a compilation of my findings:

Scarves (No, not the infinity kind)

When I think of scarves, my mind typically goes to chevron print, owl pendant necklaces and everything 2014. However, the scarves I spotted all over Montpellier carried an entirely different aesthetic. When the weather was dull or rainy, people could be seen using soft, dark-colored scarves to cover their hair in a balaclava-style wrap. When it was bright and sunny, scarves tended to be much smaller, with a print and worn knotted around the neck. I tried both of these styles, and I am sad to report that the dreary-weather wrap does very little to actually protect against the rain.

Black is the New Black

While I expected this in the northern regions of the country, I was surprised to find that the French aversion to colorful clothing also extends to the south of France. Despite Montpellier’s largely sunny climate, it was rare to spot someone wearing anything other than black, gray, navy and, if they were feeling adventurous, white. This was a stark contrast to the colorful summer wear I had anticipated seeing on the Mediterranean coast, but I did find it terribly chic. 

Business Casual in the Club?

Before studying abroad, I had heard that Southern French fashion tended to lean on the conservative side, but I was shocked at the reality of this. Clubbing or going-out attire for French women often consisted of a blazer, a slick-back hairstyle and short heels. Skirts or shorts were rarely worn without opaque tights, and jeans were heavily favored for added coverage. I never opted for a blazer myself, but I have to imagine that with the scarcity of air conditioning in France, it would make for a very sweaty night out. 

Two Words: Funnel. Neck. 

Arguably the most popular trend I witnessed in Montpellier was the funnel-neck takeover. Leather jackets, pea coats, sweaters — everything came with a funnel neck. This silhouette was especially chef’s kiss with long hair tucked into the collar with a few strands escaping to frame the wearer’s face. I couldn’t help but join the herd on this movement — I am now the proud owner of two funnel-neck jackets. 

What’s in a Name?

Contrary to the French reputation for “quiet luxury,” I noticed a wide variety of visible branding in Montpellier. Zadig & Voltaire’s signature wings were everywhere, and the Balenciaga Le City bag was imitated with varying levels of success across the city. Even more accessible luxury brands, such as Fear of God ESSENTIALS, could be seen plastered across hoodies and T-shirts. I have no personal opposition to visible branding, and I find it interesting that the residents of Montpellier, particularly the younger generations, appear to be rebelling against what was historically considered classic “French” fashion.