POSTED: Thu, 01/21/2010 - 10:24am

French women... American men.

French women love fashion, and put a lot of thought into how they dress and present themselves to the world. I love that philosophy, and now that I've been introduced to a world of dressing with style, I'm starting to wonder about something.

As Mireille says, "French women dress to take out the garbage, because you never know." :) So, I imagine in France, that men put equal thought into how they present themselves. Women dress for pleasure and to be viewed as stylish, and I think that French men return the favor and present themselves stylishly for women. Sort of like a mutual admiration society of the sexes.

But, since I've been paying more attention to how I look when I go out in the world, I've noticed a real disparity between women and men, especially since I am single again... and observing men my age a little more closely... ;)

So many men have just let themselves go! It's true it might be different in major metropolitan areas, like NYC, but here in anytown USA.... yikes.

The other day, I saw a couple walking in the mall. She looked so cute, from her carefully thought out white wool mini over dark brown leggings, beautiful ivory cashmere sweater, chic boots, matching belt and bag, and a little newsboy cap. Every detail from head to toe was perfect. Here was a woman who presented herself well to the world and enjoyed fashion. Well, her beau looked like he fell out from under a train. Saggy sweats, big stretched out sneakers that he didn't even bother to tie, stained sweatshirt, and stubble on his face that was obviously from neglect, not an attempt to look like Don Johnson.

Tonight I have a dinner date with a witty, funny, articulate man. We're going to a trendy bistro, it's kind of French in spirit, actually. I'm going to do my thing and dress with attention to detail and put together a nice outfit. I know that he's going to roll off the couch and meet me there in whatever he found lying under his bed. I'm still going to have a good time, because I enjoy his company. But, really. At least brush the dust bunnies off the pant legs, Dennis. :)

I actually feel petty for complaining and I'm not really complaining. Just noticing that it's not a mutual thing, as a rule, on this side of the Atlantic. My question is, couldn't American men take as much pride in their appearance as French men? Wouldn't it be nice, if they spent some time (any time...) raising the bar, and presenting themselves well for us? What are everyones thoughts on this?

Cheers,
Deb