7 Ways Anglo Culture Has Changed the French
The French have a reputation for doing things their own way. But over the years, so called anglo-saxon culture (U.S, British, etc) has crept in, changing habits, attitudes, and even daily life.
Some changes are obvious. Others, more subtle. France isn’t as immune to outside influence as it once was. Here are a few strong signs.
1. Cocktails Over Wine
Wine has long been the default in France. A glass with lunch, a bottle at dinner – it was part of the culture.
But in cities like Paris, cocktails are everywhere now. Speakeasies, rooftop bars, gin tastings. The French didn’t invent the cocktail scene, but they’ve embraced it.
American-style bars have made drinking spirits feel more sophisticated, more normal. Now, ordering an Old Fashioned isn’t seen as trying to be fancy – it’s just another option.
2. Casual Fashion Is Taking Over
The French still have their effortlessly chic style.
But walk around Paris, and you’ll notice sneakers, sweatshirts, even yoga pants outside the gym. Once unthinkable. Now normal.
Younger generations, influenced byAmerican streetwear, are dressing more casually. Big brands like Nike and Adidas helped, but so did travel.
Seeing how people in the US and UK dress every day made an impact.
3. Work Culture Is Loosening Up
The French have long resisted the idea of hustle culture, but startups and remote work are shaking things up.
More young professionals are leaving traditional office structures, embracing flexible schedules, even reconsidering the 35-hour workweek.
The influence of American tech culture is obvious. The idea that success isn’t just about stability but about growth, risk, and independence – it’s starting to take hold.
4. More French People Speak English Now
The stereotype of French people refusing to speak English is fading.
Tourism, business, and pop culture have made English a necessity.
Younger generations are far more fluent than their parents.
In big cities, many businesses expect employees to speak at least some English. And despite the old reputation, it’s getting easier to get by in France without speaking perfect French.
5. Fast Food Is No Longer Taboo
Once upon a time, fast food was a guilty pleasure.
McDonald’s existed, but it wasn’t something people openly loved.
That’s changed. Now, American-style fast-casual chains are everywhere. Burger places have exploded. Even boulangeries sell them.
Food delivery apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo have made quick, casual food an everyday thing.
The old idea of a long, sit-down meal is fading in favor of convenience.
6. French TV & Film Got Faster
French cinema used to pride itself on being different from Hollywood.
Slower-paced. More artistic. Less commercial.
But now? French TV and film have started mirroring cross-Atlantic trends.
Streaming platforms like Netflix pushed French productions to compete with faster storytelling, binge-worthy plots, and high-budget productions.
Even French audiences expect something different now.
7. Customer Service Is (Slowly) Improving
Traditionally, French service wasn’t about pleasing the customer.
The idea that “the customer is king” was an American thing.
But now, in big cities and tourist-heavy areas, you’ll notice a shift.
Waiters are friendlier. Shop assistants are more helpful.
It’s not universal, and it’s still nothing like the US, but businesses are realizing that a little extra warmth goes a long way for business.