Welcome to the Parisian world of fashion, where traditional elegance meets fearless innovation. Marilyn Fitoussi, the talented costume designer behind the hit series Emily in Paris, has redefined what it means to dress boldly. Her eclectic, vibrant fashion choices help bring the story to life, showing how clothing can be both a narrative tool and a statement of individuality.

Breaking Parisian Style Stereotypes
Paris, known for its classic and chic fashion, often evokes images of navy blazers, white shirts, and understated elegance. However, Fitoussi’s designs for Emily in Paris go far beyond these conventions. “Parisian style has become more casual,” she explains, with hoodies, t-shirts, and sneakers becoming everyday wear. For a series like Emily in Paris, however, Marilyn needed to push the boundaries.
Fitoussi was handpicked by Patricia Field, the legendary costume designer for Sex and the City, for her uniqueness and fearless attitude. “Patricia told me, ‘You are fearless,’ and that was a compliment I treasured.” It was clear from the start that Fitoussi’s boldness was exactly what the show needed.
Creating Emily’s Iconic Style
Emily Cooper, played by Lily Collins, enters Paris as a fish out of water—a bright, bold American in a sea of French minimalism. But rather than conforming to the French style, Fitoussi and Collins agreed that Emily should maintain her unique flair. “Why should she change?” Fitoussi asked. “Emily is strong and independent; her fashion should reflect that.” Instead of a typical makeover, Emily’s character embraces her colorful, eclectic wardrobe as a symbol of her personality.

In the first season, Emily’s wardrobe is playful, vibrant, and often whimsical, showcasing her naiveté and excitement in a new city. As the series progresses, her style evolves, blending American boldness with French sophistication. From colorful blazers to sharp, tailored outfits, her clothing mirrors her growing confidence and status as a marketing powerhouse.
The Role of Fashion in Storytelling
Fashion in Emily in Paris isn’t just about looking good—it’s about storytelling. Fitoussi carefully selects each piece to reflect the characters’ growth. For instance, as Emily’s confidence grows, her outfits become more refined. She begins to wear monochromatic looks and structured tailoring, symbolizing her professional evolution. “I love clothes because they never lie,” Fitoussi says. “They are the first message someone receives when they see you and the last one when you walk away.”
Fitoussi also took creative risks with Mindy Chen, Emily’s friend, who is an aspiring singer. Mindy’s vibrant and daring fashion reflects her larger-than-life personality. From glittering jumpsuits to colorful feathered hats, Mindy’s wardrobe is as bold as her love for the spotlight.
Sylvie’s Evolution Through Fashion
Sylvie, Emily’s boss, represents the epitome of French chic. At first glance, her wardrobe is minimalistic and understated—soft tones, flowing fabrics, and tailored pieces. However, as Sylvie’s relationship with Emily evolves, so does her fashion. By season three, we see a subtle mirror effect between Sylvie and Emily’s styles, reflecting their growing mutual respect. Sylvie even begins to experiment with more color and daring choices, a nod to her own personal and professional growth.
Fashion as Emotion and Expression
Fitoussi views fashion as a powerful tool for emotional expression. Her approach to costume design isn’t about following trends but about finding pieces that tell a story. “I never choose a brand because of its logo,” she states. “I choose clothes that speak to me, that make me feel something. If it tells the right story, it doesn’t matter if it’s high fashion or an affordable piece.”
This emotional connection to fashion is evident in Emily’s wardrobe as she ventures into Italy in season four. Fitoussi wanted Emily’s style to feel more sensual and relaxed, using polka dots, butterflies, and soft, flowing fabrics to represent her character’s journey through love and adventure. “When you’re in love, you have butterflies in your stomach,” she says. “That’s what I wanted to capture.”
The Bold and Fearless Fashion of Emily in Paris
One of the key reasons Emily in Paris has become a fashion sensation is its willingness to break the rules. Fitoussi’s designs are not about fitting in—they’re about standing out. “We never tried to follow trends,” she explains. “In Emily in Paris, we wanted to show people that it’s okay to be different, to dress in a way that makes you feel empowered.”
Fashion in Emily in Paris isn’t serious; it’s playful, fun, and daring. Fitoussi encourages women to experiment with color, texture, and style. “Wear glitter, wear feathers, be bold,” she urges. “Fashion should make you feel confident and beautiful.”
Conclusion
In Emily in Paris, fashion is more than just a backdrop—it’s a vital part of the story. Marilyn Fitoussi’s bold, fearless designs have brought the characters to life, making them memorable and iconic. By rejecting traditional fashion rules and embracing individuality, Fitoussi has proven that sometimes the most powerful statement you can make is simply being yourself.