Did someone ask you if you've seen the new '…iets Frans' collection? What are they talking about? Are they referring to a movie or something? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression '…iets Frans' translates to 'something French' in Dutch. It references the French film 'La Haine,' released in the mid-90s. During the film, the character would knock on a door and reply with '…iets Frans' when the resident asked who was at the door.
The phrase is a way of announcing yourself comically. The saying also refers to a premium clothing brand owned by Urban Outfitters. More people understand the UO brand's meaning more than its use in the French film.
Example Usage
“Wow, that’s a cool jacket. Is it ‘…iets Frans?’ I love it. I think I’m going to order one from Urban Outfitters when I get home.”
“…iets Frans, Camilla. Open the door and let me in. It’s freezing out here. The rain soaked me and I need to get dry.”
“Have you seen the latest collection from ‘…iets Frans?’ They have some dope clothing, and I think I’m going to buy a few garments to add to my wardrobe.”
Origin
The expression '…iets Frans' originates from the European and Asian design team of Urban Outfitters. The urban clothing brand was launched in 2017, and many people mistake it for an independent label. However, it's an in-house brand managed and owned by Urban Outfitters.
'…iets Frans' is an urban streetwear brand, and you'll usually find it on UO shelves next to brands like Adidas and Nike. While it's a premium clothing brand, it's affordable, giving access to high-end streetwear on a budget. Essentially the brand is a discounted version of Virgil Abloh's 'Off-White' garment collection.
The label created designs based on the style and fashion in the French cult classic movie 'La Haine.' Michael Taylor, the brand manager for iets Frans said the following in an interview when describing the label.
"We were referencing the styling of the main characters in that film. It was Parisian street culture: sportswear mixed with functional workwear."
The phrase ‘…iets Frans’ also appears in the French film ‘La Haine,’ where one of the lead actors uses it to announce himself at a venue. People found the line comical, using it to announce themselves when arriving at a friends house. It’s a humorous response to someone asking who is at the door.
Phrases Similar to Iets Frans
- Urban Outfitters.
Phrases Opposite to Iets Frans
- N/A
What is the Correct Saying?
- Iets Frans.
Ways People May Say Iets Frans Incorrectly
As ‘iets Frans’ is a French saying, people that don’t have a French-speaking background may pronounce the saying incorrectly. While it won't be offensive to French people, it makes you look like an ignoramus when you don’t have the correct phonetic pronunciation of the phrase.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Iets Frans
You can use the phrase ‘iets Frans’ when describing the premium clothing brand available from Urban Outfitters. Some people may use it as a way to announce themselves when arriving at a venue. The phrase suits social use with people that understand the meaning of the phrase or are fans of the brand.
You can use ‘iets Frans’ with friends when you want to talk to them about the brand or describe the garments they offer in their stores. You can use the phrase when shopping or when admiring the clothing available from the brand.