What does bcbg mean?
The expression "Bon chic bon genre" mainly includes a lifestyle based on specific values, a desire to distinguish oneself socially, a supposed external refinement, behavior in many areas of daily life and a subjective good taste, which transcend differences in fortune and religion.
Origin and meaning of BCBG
The slang term BCBG is a French expression that comes from the abbreviation "Bon Chic, Bon Genre" . It refers to people with a classic and elegant style. The acronym BCBG does not only refer to a person, it can also be used to refer to a rather chic place. For example, "this restaurant is BCBG".
The BCBG lifestyle
BCBG refers to the “upper middle class” who stereotypically share a specific clothing style and attitude. A guide explaining what BCBG is was published by Hermé in 1985 by architect Jacques Bléhaut. The book became a bestseller and sold over 500,000 copies.
BCBG clothing characteristics
In terms of clothing, we find characteristically: the Hermès square, the pearl necklace (we speak of the "Pearl Necklace-Hermes Square" style), the Burberry scarf, Liberty fabrics, the three-piece suit, etc. This way of being and dressing allows us to differentiate ourselves from other social groups and to claim a prestigious and elitist side.
How to recognize a BCBG?
The preppy style can be worn for any occasion, from a job interview to school or for a drink on a terrace. In general, a preppy person dresses in a modern way with moderate luxury, without going as far as very elegant haute couture.
To recognize a BCBG woman:
The pieces are cut straight, straight pants (tapered or not), straight and fitted dresses, etc. Initially, preppy women wore long dresses or midi dresses synonymous with elegance. Today, for those who want to play in originality and/or modernity, dresses can be worn shorter, according to taste.
To recognize a BCBG man:
The BCBG style is taken from the British preppy style. Men wear straight cuts, for example straight chinos (or flannel) often in rust or beige. The BCBG also dresses with country jackets, striped shirts, a blazer, a V-neck wool sweater, etc. The tie is an essential accessory for the classic BCBG style, generally accompanied by a pair of classic shoes.
First names and tradition
For first names, a certain classicism is found: first names from Catholic culture, old, antique or other composite first names. This desire to distinguish oneself socially from the rest of the population means that a certain number of clothing and accessories manufacturers target this clientele exclusively: Jacadi, Cyrillus, etc.
Conclusion
BCBG transcends differences of wealth and religion by offering a distinctive lifestyle and dress code based on traditional values, careful education and refined behavior.
To discover more preppy styles, explore our old money shoes collection and our old money bags collection .
