The Beauty Of Being French

tangomag.com:

The more time I spent with French femmes, the more I realized they don't spend the inordinate amount of time grooming that American women do. Most let their hair air dry, wear little makeup, and skimp on hair removal. And honestly, they look better for it: more natural, more nonchalantly gorgeous.

When I began cutting down on prep time, Monsieur X was appreciative. He could finally smell "me" and not my deodorant and shampoo, he murmured, nuzzling my neck. I'll admit the comment made me want to sprint to the shower. But there was something so liberating about letting go of my Californian Ivory Girl sensibilities. I didn't need to be depilated and exfoliated to a shine to be attractive. Americans make much of the sophistication of French women, but the truth is, when it comes to beauty, these swans are fairly rock 'n' roll. Yes, they eat sensibly (no snacking) and pay attention to their skin, but they also engage in a healthy abandon we sometimes lack.

Read the whole story: tangomag.com

Comments

[PeteBogs]

yes, they take a lot of time to make themselves beautiful... then ruin it by lighting up a cigarette...

PS: Eva Green is HOT!!!

[CrankyGal]

I love France and everything French.

We're always told that the way we live is the best in the world, but it isn't. We have the most crap, but that isn't the same thing as the best lifestyle. Europeans have better lifestyles in general. Better food, less stress, longer lives.

They live better than us. Period.

[loril]

Maybe it is the difference between "style" -- something that can be attained by anyone who puts in the time and effort -- and the fembot version of beauty that is held up here. In France, I noticed that many of the people were not obviously good looking...but, still looked good.

In our culture, about 2% of the population can achieve the Hollywood look...huge breasts on tiny frames for women and beefy, yet sculpted guys. While such a large portion Americans battle obesity, unsuccessfully, and suffer a host of related health issues.

I know I will never be movie star gorgeous, but I can attain the benefits of eating healthy food, trying to get adequate sleep and figuring out ways to combat stress. I think it works, because, although nobody would mistake me for a beauty queen, I am often told I look younger than I am. Allowing yourself some enjoyment in life contributes to well being. It is so "all or nothing" here and most people cannot live up to the ridiculous standards we have, so they give up caring for themselves at all.

[SmolderingRuin]

Well, for one thing, they aren't fat.

[ramal]

In addition consider: much more healthy and simple food; a much more honest and informal view of sex; a generally less stressful lifestyle AND NOT having to worry about health insurance. It all adds up in the end.

[felixtkatz]

VIVE LA FRANCE!!!

[lamarguerite]

Well, . . . I will take your article as a personal compliment!

From my French culture, I have learned the virtue of moderation, and good taste.

Less is more.

http://lamarguerite.wordpress.com