Tell me someone who at some point in their life has not dreamed of packing it all up and spending a year abroad in France? Whether it be renting an apartment in Paris with a terrace overlooking the Seine River or heading south to a villa in Provence beside a lavender field, there is something about France that stirs up something in most of us.
So what is it about the French that is so attractive? On the surface it is of course their effortless style; the ability, for instance, to look chic with a simple tie of a scarf. Or is it the romantic street cafes lining the Parisian sidewalks? Their bakeries filled with fresh croissants, warm baguettes and patisseries? Maybe it is the way they wrap and present even your most simple purchases. Or maybe it is just listening to the romantic French language that draws us in.
Beyond all of this though is the attitude. The French also exude confidence, poise, and often, yes, a cool demeanor not matched anywhere else in the world. It leaves us with the feeling that they hold a secret to living life that mot of us want in on!
While moving to France for a year is of course on my bucket list, it is not an option quite yet! So until then, I find inspiration wherever I can from the French. Today I am sharing three French things I am currently loving.
Lover Of All Things French
Podcast: “Pardon My French” with Garance Doré
“Pardon My French” is a podcast hosted by Garance Doré, fashion photographer, icon and author of the New York Times best-selling book Love Style Life. Grounded in her love for fashion, creativity and self-expression, Garance shares stories and her point-of-view on everyday subjects with her guests, in a relaxed and open conversation. Most of her episodes center on real (and often hilarious) conversations with people she admires-from trailblazing women (think Cassandra Grey!) to a round table with her girlfriends. And with each episode, Garance brings a French eye, (and accent!), and authenticity that has made her beloved around the world.
French Clothing Line: Sezane
Coincidentally, I first discovered Sezane through the above mentioned Podcast. And I quickly came to learn that no other women designer in the industry right now has received the same level of cult status as Sezane. With every great brand comes a great story. Morgane Sezalory started her label by selling vintage finds on eBay and, in a matter of years, turned it into a lucrative fashion brand whose collections sell out within days.
Sezane designs understated, feminine pieces that are easy to wear; from loose silk shirts and floral skirts to embroidered white T-shirts and feminine dresses. Prices are kept relatively accessible – around $100 for a dress. What truly sets the the brand apart from its contemporaries though, was the initial decision to launch itself as an online store, rather than a standalone shop. It was, in fact, the first label in France to do so. And as such, Sezane creates beautifully styled on-line images that I love to peruse.
Don’t let the fact that their on-line presence is based in France dissuade you from making a purchase. My package was delivered to me in four business days after I placed my order. Oh! And remember that beautiful package presentation I talked about in the opening of this post? Sezane does not disappoint in their delivery!
Skincare: Darphin
In addition to their effortless fashion, French women are also known for their unbelievable skin. Yet French women are not fussy with their skincare. In fact, they often remain loyal to a specific skincare routine most of their life. They are not interested in “quick” fixes but rather sage advice passed down by generations of women. And at the center of every French women’s skincare routine: a great moisturizer.
It is no surprise then, that I have absolutely fallen in love with this nectar oil cream from French skin care line, Darphin. I am not going to lie, I bought it because it smells like heaven! But truly, it is magic in a bottle. I wear this under my make-up and the result is flawless, radiant, perfectly quenched skin. In fact, the first time I used it and met my mother for lunch, she asked me if I had “work” done. True story!
French Products Featured:
Photos by Hannah Schweiss Photography shot on location at Maison Marcel
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Thanks for stopping by!
L, M
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