Tag Archives: Paris

Tinder moments in Madrid.

May 23, 2019 Francine

Although this is technically my second visit to Madrid. As my first trip to Madrid was back in 2015 when I decided to live for awhile in Paris. Turns out a friend I had met on a previous adventure in Belize en route to Guatamela was also in Europe the first week of my arrival. He asked if I’d be interested in a road trip from Paris to Spain where he planned to be. I thought why not? Here I just picked up my life to move to a new country by myself. What else was I to be doing?!

Upon arriving in CDG, I was picked up and whisked away to my new apartment in the 9th to quickly meet my air bnb host, drop off my bags and re-pack a lighter duffle for our Eurotrip. Mind you, my trip started in San Diego, to New York and finally arriving a day later into Paris. To say I was exhausted was an understatement. However, just like that, we were off! We didn’t have any real plans, just hit the road headed south for Spain. First official stop was in Lyon, enjoyed the town and continued on, ending our first day’s adventure settling in Biarritz. Which we loved so much we stayed for two nights before hitting the road again. Days spent sipping espresso and rose by the sea. Sounds cliche. Doesn’t it. It was and it simply didn’t Matter. It was pure bliss. Only “real agenda” was that we had to make it to Madrid by Saturday night as my friend had a random “Tinder date” that evening. The entire adventure was just that- what a true road trip should be. From stopping off in Pamplona to see the quaint town where the running of the Bulls occurs each year, to one of my favorites, San Sebastián. As he drove, I drank Spanish beers in the car and DJ’ed to the Best of my ability with French radio. When we finally arrived in Madrid I was ecstatic to explore a new European city. Though this Saturday night I was out to enjoy the liveliness of Madrid solo. As my road trip companion was out with his Tinder date. I found myself a bit bummed to be in this insanely lively city, feeling the need to be a bit more cautious since I was riding solo. Fear not, I still made the very most of my experience-having dinner in a crowded plaza. Sangria(S), live music and an exhilarating energy I was grateful to take in. The next day I was able to spend the day with my friend and his new friend from Tinder. Spending the day on Sunday with these two allowed me to feel I had the chance to authentically experience Madrid, though it left me wanting more…

Here I am 4 years later, returning to Madrid with a friend who has never been. His excitement and adoration for this city further inspired my appreciation for it and eagerness to dive back in. Making our way through the cozy streets and neighborhoods of the city. Stopping off in gardens and sampling some of the best tapas and Sangria this fine city has to offer. This was my time to truly surrender to the city and take it all in with a life long frend as well as my local friend. As life would have it, my “local friend” just so happens to be my friend’s “Tinder date” from my first trip to Madrid, just 4 years prior. Funny how online dating has turned into a life-long friendship with my non-date, from Tinder. I guess you could say meaningful relationships CAN come from Tinder after all.

Beautiful architecture, surrounded by picturesque gardens

Life

Homecoming

August 11, 2017 Francine

For as long as I can recall I’ve had what was before a bit of a quiet obsession with France. Growing up with a Grandfather who traveled the world a zillion times. Even going to Epcot at DisneyWorld meant that I could finally make my way to my beloved. (Or at the very least, a kids view of what Paris must be like). Then the weekend of my 21st birthday I found my dream of going to Paris finally fulfilled. I honestly cried when I made my way out of the Metro for the first time to find the L’arc de Triumphe so graciously welcoming me to her city. Studying in England allowed me to discover Europe, the joys of traveling and most importantly the incredible freedom I feel when traveling. This is where it all began for me. Thankfully for years following I often found myself vacationing in France. From dating a head Chocolatier and touring France with he and his family to moving there on my own in my late 30’s- just two years ago, Ahem….

The other night I decided I needed my “fix.” Time to get home, I felt. So, just like that- trip purchased and excitement in my heart. I’m going home!! It’s not about going to see the “typical Parisian hotspots” it’s about just being. There. To walk those streets fills me beyond belief. There are no words to explain the feeling I get in that beautiful place. Much of the time I’ve spent in Paris have been just me, myself and I. Perhaps that’s part of the reason I love it so much. For I love to get up, grab a noisette and a baguette and hit the streets. From its diverse landscape of cultures and people, to the most divine architecture and layout- Ohhhh Paris how I love thee. I’m anxiously awaiting the morning smell of the boulangerie baking some of the most succulent treats to be found around the globe. Walking through pristine gardens that offer hours of relaxing moments to yourself or to cherish the laughter of children and families playing by your side. Not to mention Paris at night- truly magical. Something about the soft lighting, tree lined streets accented by classic Haussmann buildings. You know you’re experiencing some of the best of history under the soft light of this spectacular city…and often under the shining beam coming from the Eiffel Tower. C’est magnifique!

Life, Travel

What’s in a city?

October 23, 2016 Francine

After spending close to three weeks in New York to open the World Trade Center, I realized what the energy of a city can do. Either a city can empower and invigorate (More often than not) while others will chew you up and spit you out. Time out magazine wrote on the topic of: Does being a New Yorker make you an Asshole? I found this to be very interesting especially as I travel the world hoping to make every place a piece of my heart…my inner fiber. I’ve always had a strong love for New York. Growing up in Pennsylvania allowed us to be far enough away to make it exciting every time we visited, though close enough that it allowed the city to feel like I was still a part of it.

During college I had the chance to study abroad in the UK, which was a phenomenal experience to which I feel I owe a great deal of my life’s most prized possessions to- that of exploring the globe. This allowed me to embrace the fear of going to live out of your “norm” away from those you hold close to you both in your physical space and are your Life. Leaving it behind for 6 months to survive on fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie and a slew of Guiness. I get it that this might not be the most inspiring start to living overseas, it was real. Especially for that of a college student…And from Pennsylvania. It doesn’t get much more simple than that. Though it opened up my eyes to see a beautiful world, full of many option, cultures and cities that needed to be explored. By me.

After this experience and following graduation I decided my roots in PA had been nurtured and nourished enough for me to find my way to a new place to call home. I considered NY since, as I mentioned, my love for this city is endless. However, I figured if I already moved to the other side of the pond, why not venture to the other side of the country. And that’s exactly what I did. I had NO idea where I should go. I knew enough from my vacations growing up, that California was a place that I certainly loved and considered even making it home. Just had no idea where to go. Friends from college considered joining me to strike gold in finding a new journey on the west coast, though no one ended up making it with me. For this, like many, was a journey I was to make on my own. (Though let me be real, most of the times I’ve fought this aspect of journeying by myself and yet I know traveling solo was the reason for my trip to begin with!)

I landed in glorious Newport Beach which was a bit of a culture shock, simply due to all the luxe lifestyle and living this little beach town had to offer. I called Newport Beach my home for 7 fantastic years to then branch out further, down south to San Diego. San Diego was the perfect place for me to find my way in the world. I worked for 6 years as Marketing director of Fashion Valley. At the time, the 3rd most profitable shopping center in the US. And this was even in the down economy of 2007. Luckily, it taught me a ton about business, pr and the true value of relationships. Eight years later I was onto yet another…even bigger city to explore. I took a brief sabbatical to Paris in the summer of 2015 which would end up being an absolute game changer!! From here, my world opened like never before. After heading to Europe to live, knowing no one, I knew I could go anywhere.

After returning from Paris, as much as I loved San Diego, I knew the wind was blowing me onto something new. Something bigger. Though I honestly didn’t realize it would be LA. And this was simply due to the fact that I came here to be a part of something I was extremely passionate about. And now… It’s been 6 months that I’ve called Los Angeles my home. The place I vowed to NEVER move to. The same place that every day instantly stimulates and a place that can be incredibly overwhelming at the same time. It’s the second largest city in the U.S. so what else would you expect, I ask myself? It’s everything I thought it would be and nothing like I thought it would be at the same time. From helicopters to absurd traffic- this place is a zoo. And I’ve realized that it’s taken a bit of a toll on my sensitive soul. With all the energy I’ve got running through me to now be countered by the intense amount of energy that exists in this concrete jungle, it can weigh on me at times. So, now it’s about finding the peace within, in this new city I call home.

In Newport, I was at the beach and in San Diego, I was by the bay. Both of which offer a welcoming sense of tranquility- even if life is far from it. And although it can be a bit rare for me to sit at the beach or lie by the bay, something about those locations, that were still closely connected to city offerings allowed me to still enjoy some peace and harmony. And now, here I sit at CBTL on Sunset blvd and am very much aware of the fact that I sit on a patio- outside- though instead of feeling ocean breeze, I’m breathing in car fumes and listen as those from “the industry” talk about their next big opportunity. And with all of this, I’m living each moment to truly experience this new city of mine. For most of my adult life I’ve dreamed that I could be bi-coastal, to also experience living in New York, and I have to say I’m quite thankful having had the chance to spend weeks at a time in that glorious city and yet still call California home. Because at the end of the day, Home is where you make it. (Or at the very least, where you pack and unpack your bags!) So, here’s to you, Lalaland…I’m all yours. Whether you’re home for a year or a lifetime, I hope you’ll offer me a sense of comfort, home and peace in this crazy big city of yours and I vow to bring a little bit of sunshine and gratitude your way.

Culture, Life, Travel

an American in Paris

May 28, 2016 Francine

For many years, my traveling has been ever growing and expanding into new countries, new areas across the globe. Though I must say I’ve always had a love for France, even before ever arriving for the first time. And yet, it’s a constant theme that comes up in my life. Then once I decided to “move to Paris” for a while, the signs continued to be more apparent and consistent. Signs of Paris were everywhere. Perhaps I’ve succumb to subliminal messaging that lead me to Paris for my 3 month sojourn, and however it ended up happening, it will by far be one of the best gifts I’ve even given myself. The time and freedom to LIVE. And to live it up in one of my favorite places on earth, Paris.

After booking a one way ticket to Paris, not knowing anyone or even knowing how long I would truly stay, I boarded an American flight to CDG knowing I was about to embark on a life changing adventure. And at the time I simply thought of it as time to enjoy life, no expectations, no goals needing to be fulfilled- other than taking in all that his incredible city had to offer. And that’s exactly what I did!

Upon my return, I’ve had many ask me for an itinerary around the city of Lights. Though in reality, Paris has so much to offer that it’s a bit of a tough question to answer without giving a little bit of all of it.

From the world famous museums and world class cuisine, to the art of simply sitting street side in a cozy cafe watching this bustling city, overwhelming you with it’s beauty and history.

However, there are many musts in Paris. Although I absolutely love wandering around aimlessly to be sure not to miss a thing (Clearly I’ve got some FOMO when it comes to this place) you must ride the metro. It’s so convenient and fairly simple to make your way from neighborhood (arrondissements) to another. And considering this city has so much to offer, you want to be sure to maximize your trip by letting the efficient metro system guide you around Paris’s underground. A few MUSTS on my list:

An afternoon spent leisurely winding your way up and down the historic hills of Montmartre.
Tea at the Grand Mosque….along with a sweet treat. A heavenly way to relax and enjoy your day in the Latin Quarter.
This goes without saying…a jaunt up the Tour Eiffel. I mean…you ARE in Paris after all.
Rent a Velib bike. It’s such a fun and exciting way to see the city. At times a bit sketchy, riding along the traffic of the city….though a great adventure, just the same!
A cocktail at sunset at the stunningly beautiful, Peninsula Hotel- gorgeous views and if there’s a chill in the air, they offer cozy warm throws to ensure your experience is truly top notch.
If time allows for a day excursion out of Paris: Versailles and Giverny. At Versailles you can explore Napoleon’s former home, gardens, and more. You could spend an entire day simply within the grounds at Versaille alone. Touring the palace is another day in itself. Or head off to the incredibly small and charming place of Giverny where Claude Monet called home and painted some of his most noteworthy and visually stimulating masterpieces.
Jazz Night in Paris. Take a step back in time to enjoy one of the best neighborhoods to listen to some jazz at any of the numerous clubs located at Chatelet. Around this area you will find a slew of jazz clubs and plenty of bars to keep you entertained ’til the wee hours of the morning.
The Catacombs….although rather creepy and bizarre and oddly a site I was eager to explore. This estuary is the burial site for over 6 million. It is said that more people are buried underneath Paris that live above it. Going down in the depths of the catacombs is an experience within itself.
Although it sounds so cliche, simply sitting at a cafe for hours is still one of my favorite “things to do” in Paris. You get to see the diversity, the excitement, the style of the city walk by while you sip away on some delicious rose? Not a bad way to enjoy life in general, I’d say.
Museums, Museums, Museums. Paris is home to some of the most sensational art collections around the globe. Save yourself the agony of the insane lines that tend to be a part of the museum experience. Book your ticket in advance on-line. Trust me. Pre-planing makes for maximization of your time…and your sanity.
And since it’s not my style to only give the minimum…one more is necessary. A visit to Parc des Buttes Chaumont is a beautiful treat. A simply gorgeous park that also plays home to Rosa Bonheur, a quaint little bar in the heart of the park. Perfect way to spend an evening in the park, with a delicious bottle of rose. Incredible date spot or a memorable night out with friends. Highly recommend.

Above and beyond a few highlights, simply take a few moments to let yourself get caught up in the music of the underground. Some of the most talented and gifted musicians play throughout the stations to further inspire you along on your adventure. There is so much to savor in Paris- from the flavors, to the sights, to feeling the history as you stroll past the architecture that seems to be untouched after all this time. The reality is that Paris is there to offer you whatever you want…it’s up to you to dive in with reckless abandon and let the city show you all you seek. Enjoy the adventure, mes amies!!

Culture, Fashion

Custom “Made in Italy”

October 13, 2015 Francine

As an American who has worked in the world of retail and fashion for most of my career, it was top on my list to explore, discover and purchase all the incredible “couture” I could find during my 3 months living abroad. My first week alone, I can recall walking…or rather, sprinting on a serious mission to find my new fashion mecca for something unique and oh so french. Sadly, I was rather disappointed to find most of the boutiques were of the brands I’m already well versed in. Not that I was disappointed to find the original Goyard, or strolling along streets that housed Dior, Kenzo, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, and the like. Though I was hoping to find my very own treasure trove.

After weeks in Paris doing my own “research” and coming up empty handed. Ok, that’s not entirely true, as I was still scoring some incredible fashion-obviously. I was not finding the Made In France finds I had hoped for.

So, before heading to the U.S., I went to Italy now completely determined to find something custom and rare throughout my tour-de-Italia! Off to Florence, I went. I mean, this is after all, the home to some of the top world renown brands that put Italian fashion on the map! Although I did manage to find a few boutiques that offered Made In Italy labels, it wasn’t what I had dreamed up on my hunt. In addition to the fashion houses that call Florence home, you can also find the Gucci Museum as well as the Salvatore Ferragamo museum, which I personally LOVED. It housed years of collections from the most glorious, gorgeous shoes a girl could dream of! Needless to say, I was able to get my dose of fashion while in Florence, even if I didn’t find a new collection of “collectables” along the way. Thankfully, however, I made up for my minimal shopping by consuming as much glorious pasta and vino I could get my hands on. So much for shopping, time for a new Italian indulgence!

We travel to experience something new. To experience new culture. To enjoy a new viewpoint in life. To FIND ITALIAN CLOTHING. Luckily, I experienced new culture, appreciated the historic beauty and essence of Italy, though I came up empty handed in regards to discovering some new Haute Couture. For me, it’s about exploring and discovering not only the local flavor and certainly the fashion. Guess that means I’ll just simply have to be back again soon to Do it Again! Ciao for now Couture…

Fashion, Travel

A day of Iconic history and fashion…then again, it IS Paris.

Gallery October 8, 2015 Francine

Yesterday, I had an overload of stunning handbags, as I went to the original Goyard boutique on Rue St. Honore, as well as a visit to Rue Cambon, to the original and mind blowing Chanel store (which just also happens to be where Coco herself resided, and now also houses Karl Lagerfeld’s office on the 3rd floor) Talk about feeling the love for Chanel!

I decided after living in Paris for close to 3 months, it was time to indulge. And indulge I did. My original intent was to finally purchase the signature Goyard tote as a sweet souvenir to return home with. However, I instead treated myself to a little something at Chanel and topped it off with a little champs in-store, to officially celebrate this fine day. There’s something truly special to the service offered in these boutiques. No wonder people come back for more, as you’re truly queen for the day. Or at the very least, while splurging!

Spending time at the original Chanel store offers more than beautiful couture, it offers a rich history into one of the most prestigious brands in the world. Knowing Coco spent time here, diligently deliberating over every detail to ensure the highest quality and fashion is enough to inspire any fashionista. Every detail in ensuring the most welcoming visit to the store, even includes fitting rooms that just may happen to be larger than your petite hotel room! Along with a gorgeous Chanel robe to sport, in between fittings, of course. Hands down, the entire experience is simply, Tres chic!

After having the chance to spend an afternoon with some of the best brands in Paris and certainly some of the best shopping offered on Rue St. Honore, it was time to give thanks for enjoying some incredible materialistic finds by spending some time at the historic La Madeleine. La Madeleine is a historic Catholic church located nearby in the 8th arrondissement. Luckily, I stumbled in just as service was starting. Being there to hear the prayers and hymns in french was a unique and powerful experience in itself. No better way to finish the day, than to be able to indulge in some of the best of Paris, through Couture, then wrapping up the day by experiencing one of the most historic monuments in Parisian history. An iconic day all in all. Bon soir, my sweet Pareeeee!

Culture

Who takes the Bus?

October 7, 2015 Francine

When in Rio a few years ago, we took the bus to go from Leblon to Copacabana and to be honest I was a bit snobbish about it. I thought…Who takes the bus? However, my ignorance was based on the fact that Americans don’t often take the bus. Nor much public transportation for that matter. Especially in Southern California. The east coast, certainly a bit more, especially in the larger metro areas of Ny, Philly and DC. Though I’ve realize why. It’s highly inefficient there.

When working for Westfield I had a meeting in LA and refused to sit one more early and long morning in that insane 405 traffic. So I decided to take the train. Why not! The train station is a mere two blocks from my little neighborhood of little Italy and seemed rather convenient and a nice experience. And it was. As For anyone who has taken the train along the Southern California coast will most likely agree that it is picturesque, as you travel along the spectacular coastline. However once you arrive in LA. That’s where the inefficiently comes into play. Upon arrival I had to then call an Uber to take a 45 minute ride to my office. And this was after 3 hours on the train. Mind you, without traffic LA is technically only a 2 hour drive. Though no traffic and LA really never go together. As I’ve even been stuck in traffic on the freeway in the middle of the night-Its that bad!

I arrived safely 4 hours later to my 4 hour meeting to then turn around and carpool with a colleagues for 5 hours home on the freeway. I’ve never been great with math though I can tell you that a 9 hour commute for a 4 hour meeting doesn’t seem to make much sense. Put simply, that’s a commute that doesn’t compute!

So now. Here I am in Paris. No car. At the “mercy” of public transport. And I have to say I’m delightfully surprised at how well I’ve taken to it all!

For my final weeks of living in Paris, I’m residing in the “burbs” for yet another experience of my life in France. So, to get to the city of lights, I now either walk 30 minutes to the metro, or take a bus to the station, though you never quite know when it will show. Though I must say, it’s quite nice. No worries about stressing on the freeway…Nutty drivers, commuters eating a breakfast burrito with one hand and applying mascara with the other. Just once in awhile, having to manage a fellow metro passenger nutcase. And yes there are plenty of those. Nonetheless, it has been a delightful experience taking on the public transportation. And I can only hope that the states someday, somehow, someway find a way to offer efficient public transportation in future. Better for the environment and certainly better for our sanity! Plus there’s often great entertainment in the corridors of the metro, even on the train themselves. Not to mention it’s been a great “life lesson” in seeing others be courteous to one another and showing random acts of kindness. Letting the elderly and or the ladies take their seat when the metro is packed like sardines or in helping an older woman bring her heavy suitcase up the metro stairs. All of it truly warms my heart. Manners….ahhh…oh so refreshing. Now if only some of the smells on the metro were just as refreshing, we’d be fairly close to perfection!

Fashion

PFW…Paris Fashion Week 2015- street side fashion

October 2, 2015 Francine

Since I’m fortunate enough to live in this fabulous city during the most incredible time of year- Fall fashion, a girl simply must check out all the insanity that is Paris Fashion Week!

So, my favorite “Scot” and I went on an adventure to see what we could scope out. And it certainly did not disappoint. Other than the Fashion. HUH? How is that? It’s fashion week!

Sure, you always see postings from Fashion Week as to the “street side fashion” and it’s always outrageous and something to note. Though this truly was baffling to see some of the ensembles that some seemed to “throw together” for some of the best events of the week.

We went to the Grand Palais to check out those going in and out of Barbara Bui. This was my take from it- stunning models, leaving post-show, that still looked quite chic. Though what about those who were in attendance. I saw a woman with gold confetti fringe that was appalling to say the least, to a guy wearing a white tee, white jeans and a Robin hood hat. WHAT? You had a seat in a FASHION SHOW. And not just any fashion show- A top global brand!!

We followed up this show by heading to The Academie des Beaux Arts in Saint Germain where LANVIN was showing in hopes of spotting some much better and stylish wears. Here we were sure that true fashionistas and the well dressed would be. YET AGAIN, highly disappointed. Honestly, it appeared as though most were pulling together a few items from their closet and throwing it on. No incredible outfits that were in attendance. And this is for one of the best fashion iconic brands in Paris!!

Luckily, we spotted the ever-fabulous Anna Wintour coming into the event and Anna Della Rosso, the also incredibly stylish fashionista from Vogue who looked simply stunning. Though other than that…it was truly a hodgepodge of so called fashion.

I am fully aware that the Hipster vibe seems to be the fashion of today and to represent a look that is much more downplayed. Or the fact that many are trying to get some lovin’ from “street side fashion” though to me, Fashion Week, is a time to pull out ALL Stops! Time to dress your best, to pay homage to the brand you’re attending and wear something, dare I say, Fashionable? As for what is fashion forward, street chic or simply ridiculous….I’ll let you decide!

Fashion

From LANCASTER to Paris with Lancaster Paris

October 1, 2015 Francine

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!

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

Scarfs and STRIPES forever *****

Gallery September 25, 2015 Francine

Ok, so maybe not the Stars, though no doubt the Scarfs and the Stripes. I’ve always thought of Parisians as wearing stripes, a beret and having a baguette in tow, each day. And I have to say, I’m fairly close. Maybe not so much the beret, but certainly stripes and baguettes. And why wouldn’t you? Paris by far, has the best bread around! I honestly have no problem eating just a baguette for a meal, by itself-it’s That GOOD! I’ve even heard they bake their baguettes with less glutens, which in my minds means it’s “healthy” and delicious….and guilt free!

Though as for the other French traditions it seems to be quite true. As I was a bit surprised to find that from Souvenir shops, to locals alike, Stripes can be seen everywhere in this town. Which suits me just fine as I tend to think that stripes are just another Basic, like a plain colored tee. I’ve historically not been much of a “print wearing kind of gal” that is until I started working with and representing brands like Custo Barcelona, Desigual and other International brands that have forced me to branch out of my traditional/classic mold. Again, I was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania- not really a place where they honor and cherish fashion per se. Though I have to say that I simply love the fact that Parisians love their stripes!

As for scarfs- yet another must have item while in Paris. It tends to rain a fair amount here. Which, quite honestly was news to me. So along with your handy dandy umbrella, a scarf is another essential. Not only to change up and add a little “Je ne sais quoi” but also as a way to cover your newly coiffed “Do” and/ or to cover up and keep you from the chill in the air, especially during a sporadic and almost always guaranteed rain storm. As you’re bound to get caught in one! So embrace the romance of these refreshing storms, just don’t get caught out in one, or be prepared to do so.

Therefore, if you are to find yourself headed to Paris and are like myself, a big fan of stripes, be sure to pack them up, pack them in…and you’ll fit right in! All you’ll need is a baguette, in your tote, to finish off the final look and you’re ready for Paris, my sweet!