Around the time of 1928, Rene Magritte painted this image called “The Treachery of Images”, wherein a pipe was painted and below it written, “Ceci n’est pas une pipe”. The image brought into question thoughts of representation, reproduction and authenticity. Although we often identify an image by a replication of that which it is, it most certainly is not “the real thing.”
Case and point, our recent Advocates excursion to Paris.
So there we were, going to shoot fashion films in the fashion capital of the world, with none other than famed photographer Renata Kaveh, and her team of top industry talent. Having grown up with shows like Sex and The City, the romantic notion of Paris had been practically calling me from across the pond for years.
Despite the obvious language barrier, I was determined to enjoy every moment of Paris, so i summoned up all my Grade 12 French and set out to experience all the fashion, culture, dining, and nightlife that Paris had to offer. And of course, I brought all my most fabulous garments that were just special enough for Parisian nightlife.
To my dismay, Paris was not the walking runway I had dreamt it up to be since my days as a budding fashion enthusiast. Not even close. Girls were wearing flats with jeans and tshirts. Whaaa?? No 6 inch stilettos for a jaunt to the local cafe? No shimmery silk dresses to cocktail hour? Balls.
The worst part of it all, was that I brought some 14 dresses for 9 days (hey! you have to switch from day to night!) and I, nay Billie, had to cart them in a garment bag, slung around his neck. Fun times had by all.
Conclusions: The romantic version of Paris you envision, is a marketing vehicle created by the media and tourism industry to sell Paris vacations. Paris is probably one of the most casual towns in the world despite (or because?) of it’s fashion accolades. Therefore, if you are heading for Paris, opt for uber casual and leave your fancy rags at home.
And if you’re wondering when those fashion films will be popping up… stay tuned.
There’s that pimped Roots leather jacket again, which ultimately became the staple item of my Paris wardrobe.