Oh god its good to feel attractive!

Its been described as “The Look”.

All French men (and some women) do it. Its more than a glance. Its much, much less than a stare. Its never a leer. Its never accompanied by a smile. It perhaps includes an almost imperceptible look up and down.

Its a brief meeting of eyes. Its nothing more than an acknowledgment that someone attractive, interesting, intriguing has crossed their path. It does not come with expectations, obligations, or a requirement for reciprocity.

There is never pressure to take it further. There may be an opportunity for that (eg a brief conversation, or even a discreet “intimate” rendezvous).

And perhaps that’s the most alluring thing about “The Look”. The heart flutter that comes from the excitement of meeting someone new, the opportunity of sensual “possibilities”.

Its 100% guarantee that, as a woman, if you walk down the street in France, you will get at least one “Look”. Everyday. On a good day you may receive 2 or 3.

If I receive “The Look”, it changes the way I hold myself, the way I walk, my facial expressions. I think this is the “thing” that French women have, the “je ne sais quoi”, the indescribable allure. They have known since they were little girls that they are beautiful and attractive. Everyday of their life, they receive more reminders.

Maybe this could be twisted into a belief that it is obligatory to look “desirable” all the time, in order to keep receiving “The Look”, or attract male attention. But really, I dont think its necessary. I’m no glamour puss. I’m not a size 6 model type. I certainly dont have a French woman’s body shape. And yet I still get “The Look” frequently enough for me to want to do my hair properly, add some eyeliner, just because I’m feeling good about myself.