French Culture: Food, traditions, fashion, art, and language

When you think of France, what is the first image that comes to your mind? Is it the famous Eiffel Tower with blinking lights at night, the delicious croissants, crepes and baguettes at the cosy cafe, or the sophisticated and passionate French language? While the world-famous landmarks and culinary delights are surely the staples of French culture, many more elements add charm to this Parisian country. Whether you're moving to Paris to study, work, or just simply experience the French way of life, learning about French culture, traditions, and etiquette will help you prepare well for life in Paris. 

Just like many things in France, even its food is full of art and culinary traditions. They are deeply ingrained in everyday life. After living for a while in Paris, you’ll notice that French people treat meals as special moments to not only enjoy the delicate textures of various cuisines but also to have engaging conversations with friends and family. Meals in France aren’t just about the eating; they are about having an experience and learning how each dish tells a story about the region from which it comes from. Some classic French dishes that you must try are: 

• Croissants 
• Baguettes 
• Crème brûlée 
• Cassoulet  
• Coq au vin 

There’s a reason why Paris is considered the fashion capital of the world. The French take their fashion seriously, whether it's vintage clothes or high-end labels. They prefer clean lines, muted colours and classic pieces that combine art, comfort, and their own unique sense of personal style. Each piece of clothing brings a flare of elegance and confidence in French fashion in their everyday life. During your stay in Paris, if you want, you can also embrace this strong French culture by adding a few well-tailored coats, a simple scarf, and classic shoes to your wardrobe. French fashion is all about timeless style over short bursts of trends, so don’t stress too much on getting it right. Wear what you like and feel confident and comfortable in. 

Art is a huge part of French culture and is ingrained into everyday life. Even the streets of Paris are filled with art and artists inspired by some of the world’s most renowned artists, such as Edgar Degas, an impressionist artist in the 1800s, Auguste Rodin, famous for thought-provoking sculptures, and Édouard Manet, known as the father of modern art. You can visit the Louvre Museum, Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, and Musée d'Orsay, where you can view works by artists like Da Vinci and Van Gogh and immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and creativity reflected through French art. Every corner of Paris tells a story and serves as an inspiration for art enthusiasts. Being in Paris allows you to witness this expressive culture firsthand. 

French culture is steeped in tradition. By learning about their traditions and what is important to them will help you understand social norms and experience Parisian life firsthand. French people like their holidays. From celebrating national holidays like Bastille Day and Fête de la Musique to participating in local events, there's always some kind of celebration happening in Paris. These celebrations are held on a grand scale, yet they remain intimate at the same time. People attend social gatherings but end the day with hearty meals at home with their families. You will notice that French people maintain a balance between work and leisure. They have adopted a more laid-back approach, and learning about these social norms and French etiquette will help you avoid any cultural misunderstandings or faux pas as the French call it. 

While French culture is fascinating and mesmerising, it is their language that will help you connect with Parisians and have unforgettable experiences. It is said that French is a Romance language derived from Latin. People also say that it is beautifully expressive and carries a deep sense of history with it. Improving your French skills will help you understand the culture on a much deeper level and appreciate the elegance that is seen throughout French culture. You can learn French in Paris with EP Paris, a language school respected for their comprehensive and engaging French courses. Located in the heart of Paris, it gives you an amazing opportunity to improve your French language skills and connect with the culture around you.