Fashion Faux Pas: What New Yorkers Find Shocking in Parisian Style

EXCLUSIVE: From Big Apple to City of Love - One American's Shocking Adventures in Paris

In a world where New York City and Paris are often touted as two of the most fabulous destinations on earth, one young American is about to spill the beans on what it's really like to live in the French capital. Meet Elena Taber, a 28-year-old influencer who traded in her Brooklyn lifestyle for a life of croissants and couture in Paris - and we're getting the inside scoop!

Elena, who has been documenting her adventures in the City of Light on TikTok, recently shared some jaw-dropping insights into what it takes to navigate the complex social scene in Paris. And let's just say, it's not all champagne toasts and romantic strolls along the Seine.

For starters, Elena is unapologetically herself - even if that means committing a 'fashion felony' or two. In her latest TikTok video, she hilariously revealed how she got tongue-lashed by the fashion police for wearing athleisure wear in public. Yes, you read that right - in Paris, where chic and style reign supreme, Elena's casual getup was deemed utterly unacceptable.

"Okay, I'm committing a crime right now," she confessed, as she walked home from the gym in her black biker shorts, zip-up jacket, and trusty running shoes. "People do not wear athleticwear here, at all... Don't do what I'm doing right now. This feels illegal... Straight to jail!"

But Elena's no stranger to navigating cultural differences. As a popular YouTuber with over 100K subscribers, she frequently dishes on life as an American in Paris. And let's just say, it's not all sunshine and rainbows.

In one of her YouTube videos, Elena shared that despite taking language classes to improve her French, making friends has been a major challenge. "French women are not particularly warm," she confessed bluntly. "Some are, but it's just a bit challenging."

And it's not just the locals who are aloof - Elena also discovered that even expats in Paris tend to stick with their existing social circles, rather than venturing out to meet new people.

"In a big metropolitan area like New York, I feel like people for the most part are very inclusive and want to make new friends," she explained. "But for a big metropolitan area like Paris, people are quite closed off unless they're expats."

So what's behind this notoriously tough social scene? According to Lee Thompson, co-founder of Flash Pack, it's all about being open-minded and adaptable.

"The trick is to be open and curious to new opportunities as they arise and say 'yes' to invitations – even if you feel a bit shy about doing so," he advises. "Equally, I've struck up friendships with the guy busking in the park, or by saying yes to an impromptu game of Pickleball."

Lee recommends signing up for events like supper clubs, open mic nights, or weekly park runs to connect with like-minded people. And with just a little online research, you can discover a world of possibilities.

"A dash of online research will open up a world of events wherever you happen to be travelling," Lee shares. "All you need to do is look them up and choose ones that speak to your personal interests and values."

We reached out to Elena for more insight into her experiences in Paris, and she shared some candid advice for those considering making the move.

"It's not all champagne and caviar, but it's definitely worth it," she says. "Just be prepared for a different pace of life, and don't take it too seriously if you make mistakes – that's half the fun!"

With Elena's irreverent humor and infectious enthusiasm, we can't help but wonder what other secrets this American expat has up her sleeve. Stay tuned to find out!