Tag Archives: luxury

Fashion

From LANCASTER to Paris with Lancaster Paris

I walked along Rue St Honore today to visit some of the most spectacular boutiques close to the Louvre, on my way to the Madeleine and I stumbled upon Lancaster, Paris!  How perfect is this brand for me, being I’m FROM Lancaster and now RESIDE in Paris?  I simply must have a bag from here!

Upon entering, it truly felt like a candy store for bag ladies like myself.  Every color you could imagine is offered here.  In lovely Italian Saffiano leather, these bags are truly exceptional and well priced, I might add.  This gorgeous green clutch (and messenger bag) as it comes with it’s very own matching leather strap was only 59 euro!  I’ve seen plenty of pleather bags that I wouldn’t pay anything for and are priced higher than this genuine leather beauty that will be with me for years to come!

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It’s tough for a gal like myself when there are so many truly beautiful options.  Not only in colors, but in shapes, sizes- envelope versus basic clutch…you see the dilemma!  And that’s just for their more standard collection.  Then, they have crocodile stamped leathers, or the just as fabulous- python options which were fabulous as well.  What’s a girl to do?  Thankfully I had some assistance.

Fabien, their very knowledgable associate, assisted me in not only further educating me on the brand, but also helping me choose the right option for me.  As it turns out, Lancaster Paris has been around for 25 years, offering lovely leathers mostly in France.  Good news for fellow Americans like myself, they have just opened showrooms in NY and LA so there’s hope that soon we, too, will have the opportunity to score some of these beautiful bags stateside soon!

 

Fashion

Les Vendanges en Avenue Montaigne!!

Calling all Fashionistas, Mesdames et Messieurs!   A special evening, hosted by some of the best brands across the world, right here in Paris.

This is thee night, the night to discover all the new collections, from some of the best fashion houses….all on one street, Avenue Montaigne.  And this little American In Paris, just happened to be one of the lucky ones to enjoy this incredible soiree last Thursday.

It’s a night where some of the top global brands open their doors to showcase some of their best,  most luxurious items in-store.  All while serving up some of the tastiest treats, wine and of course, not to be missed toasting a glass…or two of the finest Champagne!

Our destination for the night was Salvatore Ferragamo.  I know, I know…I’m in Paris, though we decided to give our love to the Italians for this special occasion.

The red carpet was rolled out in it’s entirety to all those in attendance.  And this is certainly not a party to be missed!  I happened to fall in love many times this evening with several of the incredible pieces Ferragamo had on display and also those being modeled from the lovely ladies walking about the boutique.

From the finest leather accessories and shoes, to the wine and the macaroons, this evening will go down as one of the best nights in Paris, thus far.  Gracie Mille, Ferragamo for your phenomenal Italian hospitality right here in Paris!!

Here’s a taste of the evening and even a brief cameo from yours truly:

More information on Les Vendanges: http://www.avenuemontaigneguide.com/les-vendanges-jeudi-10-septembre-2015/

A special thanks to the incredible photographer, Emmanuel Doumic, for capturing some of our fun on this spectacular evening!

Fashion

La Rive Gauche et Le Bon Marche, S’il vous plait!

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I’ve always heard about life on la Rive Gauche…and I am thankful now to be living it, myself.   As I now reside, just a mere two blocks away from the spectacular and historic, Le Bon Marche, which is simply divine and dangerous all at the same time!  As this grand magasin, has been open and offering incredible wears since 1852 and now in 2015, it’s my turn to experience the luxury and beauty that is offered here.

From it’s stunning collections,  unique art installments and historic look-and-feel that has been carefully crafted and maintained, this place is truly divine.

The architecture inside is impeccable and yet still offers clean lines that make it feel quite open and easy to navigate within.  The center escalators frame the interior space and offer a pristine and lovely focal point, as you find your way strolling through some of the best fashion and global brands alike.

Now, onto the shoe department!  (As if this goes without saying!?)  It is almost as if these delicately gorgeous shoes are on display within a dome shaped, bird cage.  Absolutely stunning and makes me want to sit on my pirch all day, trying on each and every pair!  Tweet, tweet.

Lastly, and certainly worth the mention, is their upcoming Brooklyn Rive Gauche animation and inspiration, featured throughout the shopping experience.  You can find “Made in Brooklyn” items by various artists and designers, starting September 3rd-officially.  Luckily, on my walk about this morning, I caught a glimpse at what’s in store.  Though it’s not just in the themes, or items sold within that are note-worthy, it’s an entire experience!   From the moment you enter, you will notice the BROOKLYN inspiration throughout.  Colorful lounge chairs set up in a museum-like black room, featuring gigantic LED screens, showing visually pleasing images and videos of Brooklyn, as part of this exhibit are not to be missed!  Especially for me, being an east coaster by birth, nothing is more exciting than to see your original favorite city being featured, in your new favorite city, of Pareeee!  Through this installation and thematic inspiration, they have truly done a spectacular job creating an experience for their shoppers.

As they say…Art is Fashion.  And as far as I’m concerned, Le Bon Marche epitomizes these two cultural essentials- bringing together the best of both.  So with much appreciation and adoration, this little Rive Gauche Dweller says:  Merci Beaucoup!!!!!

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.  -Coco Chanel

Culture, Fashion, Travel

Dam(n), I love Amsterdam!

Although I’ve been before, I was ready to explore and experience Amsterdam once again.  I left Paris to experience a new city…especially as most Parisians are on vacation anyway… and I didn’t come to Paris to hang out with Americans.

I must say that the driving, even the walking around in Amsterdam is complete insanity.  Bikes everywhere.  Cars everywhere.  Shouting from bikers… A gazillion accidents waiting to happen!!

Though this place is truly unique.  From their edgy style to the incredible cuisine.  Sadly, from my little suitcase, I was ill-prepared for the fashion sense in this city.  No sandals, except for me and a family of tourist.  Mostly converse.  Dark colors predominantly. Seattle hipster vibe.  Had shorts on….complete Ridiculousness.  Clearly,  my packing has failed me.  Perhaps it’s so I can further justify purchases I make!!  It is an emergency you see.  A girl can’t freeze in the middle of summer when there are plenty of enticing opportunities to expand upon my wardrobe!!
For a traditional mall girl, there is something truly dynamic about street side fashion.  There is inspiration everywhere.  Not your perfectly manicured shopping centers, splattering ads throughout.  Just the incredible architecture and unique dynamic this city offers.
For me, fashion is everywhere. I love to seek it out while I stroll around aimlessly, through these foreign streets.  I explore random alleys with my handbag and an open mind, open to the experience. To see. To be inspired.

 

Life

Treasure Trove…and Luxe alike…

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Marche aux puces,  Saint-Ouen on a Sunday afternoon.

Designer finds and uniqueness extraordinaire.  Guaranteed to be a feast for your eyes, with offerings ranging from very pricey and tres jolie chandeliers to vintage Chanel pieces that are in pristine condition.  And might I add, way better than bringing home yet an eiffel tower keychain!

Although most items are simply to be adored, as although I’d love to bring home a historic chaise lounge or gigantic chandelier, I’m not sure that will fit within my suitcase.  However, Paris is known for it’s open air and antique markets that are not to be missed.

If you enjoy museums, unique art and creative displays, this is certainly where you can get your fix.  Especially when most stores are closed on Sunday….and even more so in August when most Parisians pack up for a more coastal locale.  So head out of the city, to indulge your senses….do some antiquing…and fill your soul, just be careful not to empty your wallet while doing so!

The best things in life are free, the second best are very expensive.  – Coco Chanel