Paris Chic & Trendy
I must confess something: Paris is not one of my favourite cities. I have been many, many times and stayed in every part of town on the floors of friends and in some of the cities best luxury hotels. I have walked and lived the city like a local but I have never really fallen for it like everyone seems to. I’m not sure why that is (although the Four Seasons Paris is one of my favourite hotels ever).
But The Little Bookroom was kind enough to send me a copy of their new book, Paris Chic & Trendy and I actually began to become a little excited about going (despite the fact I’m neither chic nor trendy!). The book is square, tiny, and red - three things I love and the photos inside are gorgeous. It showcases 54 boutiques - some known, some not but all small and beautiful. It’s as though someone handed me a secret guide to make me instantly in the know without having to be in the know. Love that.
Perhaps my dislike of Paris is that it has always been so uber-chic and I am not. Maybe there is a studio or two here that will change that.
Stores I’m interested to visit:
Tresor by Brigette Mason; 6, rue du Tresor, 4th ARR - lots of colour and imports from Sweden and Denmark.
Dice Kayek; 10, rue du Chereche-Midi, 6th ARR - classic dresses (think 50’s) from a Turkish designer.
Madame Andre; 34, rue du Mont-Thabor, 1st ARR - one of the smallest boutiques in Paris just looks fun.
Chantal THomas; 211, rue Saint-Honore, 1st ARR - the most stunning underpinnings!
What else?
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January 31st, 2008 at 9:24 am
dear alex. if i have understood your personal style correctly from what i have read so far in your different blogs, you will simply love dice kayek’s dresses (and everything else). Fabulous! I would also very much recommend the clothing line Machka (from a Turkish design duo as well). By the way, would you be interested in a girlsguidetocitylife/istanbul sequel?
January 31st, 2008 at 1:42 pm
I, too, am disappointed by Paris. I have lived in (the south of) France and spent many weeks in Paris that I feel confident that I’ve seen and done things beyond the typical tourist. But I would much rather spend my time in St. Remy or Avignon or Gordes or one of the many small Provence towns. In fact, I find Paris gray and gloomy compared to Provence. But everyone always thinks I’m crazy when I say this. I’m glad someone else knows where I am coming from.
January 31st, 2008 at 4:40 pm
I adore your site, your writing, and Paris! My only question is - and I am sure other readers may want to know also - how do you afford to travel so much and live so luxuriously?
February 1st, 2008 at 2:59 am
I love Paris. I love the south, I love the Ardeche, but I love Paris too. I am not chic or wealthy. I have been stranded in that city and lived on baguette and cheese for days on end. There is something magical about being there on the cheap. I amuse myself not with shopping but sunning and sketching and people watching. And who can resist the crazy roller bladers crashing through the city every Friday at midnight? I hope you find a way to fall in love with the city. Have a wonderful time in your travels. I look forward to reading all about your experiences.