An Afternoon of Perrier-Jouët and Pâtisserie at Newly Renovated Hotel Bel Air Lounge

A perfect afternoon celebrating the newest culinary offerings at the iconic Hotel Bel Air.

On Friday, luxe libations and a sampling of timeless tastes—think small bites of truffle grilled cheese, savory vidalia onion dip on crunchy crostini, and egg boats topped with a decadent dollop of caviar—were perfectly prepared by the hotel’s renowned Culinary Director, Chef Joe Garcia, in the style of afternoon tea, served with a sparkling glass of Perrier-Jouët in the hotel’s recently renovated, cozy Living Room lounge.

Just across the glamorous grounds, The Pâtisserie has officially opened its onsite doors, sharing celebrated French Pastry Chef Christophe Rulle (star of the Netflix original reality series, Bake Squad) and his signature selection of traditional Parisian pâtisserie. Come for a taste of the traditional Tropezienne, a melt-in-your-mouth Tahitian vanilla Chantilly cream puff, tempting tarts with fresh flavors of gorgeous Gianduja ganache and salted caramel, and of course classic croissants, café cookies and artisanal baked goods to take on the go.

If you reside in Los Angeles, or are thinking of planning a voyage to the coast soon, sure to stop by and experience the hallowed Hollywood history and cultural charm of this luxurious landmark while tasting some of the finest culinary craftsmanship and perfect pastry in town.

Scroll down to see more, with additional info and photo credits to Mark Read for Hotel Bel Air.

Learn more about the new offerings at The Pâtisserie and redesign of the Living Room at Hotel Bel Air:

”Los Angeles’ legendary estate and enclave of rarified exclusivity, Hotel Bel-Air, a Dorchester Collection hotel, ushers in a new era of culinary excellence and innovation with the reveal of  The Living Room and The Patisserie on August 16, 2024. Offering two unique dining experiences effortlessly transitioning from day into afternoon and evening and brought to life by Champalimaud Design, the new spaces are carved from nature, reflecting the understated glamour which has cemented Hotel Bel-Air as an icon of Hollywood since 1946, taking guests on an immersive sensory journey designed for connecting, unwinding, and indulging.

The new culinary outlets add to the hotel’s existing dining options, The Restaurant and Bar & Lounge under the inspired new direction of Culinary Director Joe Garcia (formerly of The French Laundry, Bicyclette, Manzke Restaurant, Bouchon in Beverly Hills and more), Executive Sous Chef Gel Zara, and Executive Pastry Chef Christophe Rull (“U.S. Chocolate Master”).

THE PATISSERIE

As guests cross the iconic Swan Lake bridge, they are welcomed by the aroma of home-made pastries and artisanal coffee at The Patisserie, an elegant and refined bakery nestled in an intimate outdoor courtyard. All specialty items and beverage selections can be ordered to-go or enjoyed in this welcoming new space amidst the hotel’s scenic gardens.

Replete with al fresco seating and an outdoor wood-burning fireplace, The Patisserie offers simple yet elevated delights, artfully baked by the hotel’s expert pastry team led by Chef Rull. Guests can indulge in a menu that takes inspiration from French pastry fundamentals and local purveyors, showcasing the best of California’s produce. An expansive croissant and cookie menu, freshly baked breads, handcrafted cakes, artisanal coffees, pastries, and specialty baked goods are among the specialty offerings. All to-go orders are placed in custom-designed packaging to ensure items are well maintained while in transit. 

Champalimaud’s new design evokes a nostalgic European boulangerie, tailored to the dreamy California vibe of Hotel Bel-Air. Past a display vitrine of artfully decorated baked goods, guests can admire the specialty breads which sit on bronze shelving overlooking the palms and florals outside. Fresh pastries of the day are presented in a yellow tiled display cabinet, a nod to Hotel Bel-Air's sun-drenched setting. Just outside the Patisserie, two courtyards set the scene for idyllic moments: a warm weather treat from the seasonal gelato trolley, or a latte enjoyed at bistro style seating overlooking blooming florals.

 Menu selections include: Tahitian Vanilla Chantilly Cream Puff topped with Craquelin, Chocolate Gianduja Ganache and Salted Caramel TartPain au Chocolat, CroissantsShortbread Cookies, and Banana & Blueberry Muffins. A variety of freshly baked Sweet and Savory Breads, including a gluten-free option, are also available. 

 The Patisserie is open daily from 7am to 12pm.

 

THE LIVING ROOM

The Living Room is an evolution of the quintessential hotel lobby lounge experience, showcasing exceptional afternoon and evening menu offerings developed by Culinary Director Joe Garcia. 

 Inspired by the lush experience of a conservatory, Champalimaud Design created a warm, enchanting atmosphere complementing the verdant setting of the hotel. A bespoke wallcovering featuring hummingbirds, jasmine, ferns, and citrus blossoms is accompanied by fabrics and finishes in hues of green, yellow and red mixed with natural textures. The iconic fireplace glows in the center of room as guests are enveloped by a variety of palms and dracaena that reflect the unique indoor-outdoor look and feel of this tranquil hideaway. The space is activated through afternoon high tea, light fare, a caviar menu, and specialty cocktails.

Menu selection highlights include: Vidalia Onion Dip, an elevated play on the classic American party food made with sweet caramelized Vidalia onions, crème fraîche, garnished with pickled pearl onions, crispy onions & chives, served with toasted baguette and optional caviar addition, Liberty Farms Duck Confit Gateau with Harry’s Berries strawberries and Sicilian pistachios, an Australian Winter Truffle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, and Ora King and Smoked Salmon Rillettes, alongside a decadent caviar menufeaturing classic and unexpected accoutrements such as blinis & toasted brioche. Guided by seasonality, Chef Garcia’s menu is masterfully paired with an inspired mixology program curated by Food and Beverage Director Micah Paloff. A highlight of the cocktail menu is an interactive preparation of the ‘Coldest Martini in Town’, served tableside.

The Living Room is open for service Wednesday through Sunday from 2pm to 9pm. Afternoon Tea is served Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with a seating at 3pm.

The new culinary concepts complement the hotel’s enduring staple dining experience, The Restaurant, where Culinary Director Garcia and Chef Zara meld modern California cuisine with Mediterranean influence to create exceptional all-day fare and weekend brunch. Guests will enjoy bold flavors that highlight peak-season local ingredients and amplify the ethos of Southern California with a level of refinement on par with the beloved hotel.  

‘The launch of The Living Room and The Patisserie is a testament to our dedication to creating diverse and exceptional dining experiences throughout the property” says Christoph Moje, General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air. “The premier culinary offerings introduced in these welcoming and stylish new spaces will enrich our overall hotel experience and are destined to become favorite spots for guests and neighbors alike.’”

Unboxing DIORIVIERA from La Collection Privée by DIOR Beauty

Unboxing DIORIVIERA—the captivating French fragrance from Dior Beauty. Fresh and floral, this Dior signature scent from La Collection Privée sparkles with light notes of rose and fig, serving as an olfactory love letter in a bottle from Christian Dior, master of style and sartorial elegance, to his beloved French Riviera.

Watch below or on Instagram, and read more about the spectacular summer soirée hosted by Dior at the Beverly Hills Hotel here.

DIOR x Beverly Hills Hotel: A Spectacular Summer Soirée

It was nothing short of an absolute pleasure to attend the most spectacular summer soirée, hosted by the House of Dior and the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel—in celebration of the life and legend of hâute couturier Christian Dior, and three exquisite Dior Beauty fragrances from La Collection Privée.

With a carefully curated masterpiece of a menu that paid homage to the fêted French fashion designer’s historical heritage and gastronomic preferences, and a perfect pairing of pours to complement the Mediterranean coastal cuisine’s fresh flavors, with nods to its most luxurious locales (while mindfully incorporating the top notes of each fabulous fragrance) this seasonal supper was truly a feast for (all of ) the senses.

The al fresco affair was hosted in the hotel’s private garden, kicking off with a welcome glass of Ruinart Blanc de Blanc as guests entered the peaceful patio of the storied and stuccoed pink palace, taking seats at a beautiful banquet table dressed with an elegant spray of pink florals and twinkling tea lights.

Dior’s lovely fragrance ambassador guided us along an olfactory journey, punctuated with a dreamy description of each of the three scents—DIORIVIERIA, EDEN-ROC, and JASMIN DES ANGES—with a spritz for each of us, illustrating the timeless tales of Christian Dior’s remarkable life as a purveyor of sartorial elegance, and his indelible imprint on contemporary couture—while the hotel’s cherished chefs elegantly described the flavors and ingredients of each course, and our sommelier explained the taste profile and purposeful pairing of each selected wine, making for a marvelous melange and merging of flavor and fragrance.

Keep scrolling to read more and watch highlights of this festive fête of fragrance below.

The Beverly Hills Hotel’s celebrated chefs prepared an exquisite culinary experience that commenced with a light and creamy chilled Vichyssoise (a summer soup blending potatoes, leeks and onion—originally imagined by the Head Chef of the Ritz Carlton in New York City, Louis Diat, in the early 20th century) accompanied by a truffle petit croque for decadent dipping.

Moving on to the next savory sensation—and perhaps my favorite flavor of the evening—a perfect petit choux (puff pastry) injected with lemon and chive-whipped crème fraîche, topped with a generous garnish of caviar and edible gold leaf—for the pinnacle of a presentation that was truly la pièce de résistance.

Next came a sweet summer salad of grilled peaches and goat cheese on a nest of arugula, drizzled with lavender honey and sprinkled with marcona almonds, paired with a zesty New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

For our entrée, we diners beheld a beautiful Branzino fillet, dotted with heirloom cherry tomatoes, zante currants, and pine nuts, in a lemon caper sauce. The hotel’s supreme sommelier selected a 2021 Clos de Lambrays from Morey-Saint-Denis.

Concluding the culinary coup was a traditional Tropézienne—individualized with spongy halves of brioche sandwiching juicy raspberries and rich crème pâtissière, topped with a light dusting of sugar. Equally moist and marvelous, with a swallow of sweet Sauternes —a robust dessert wine—from Chateau d’Yquem.

As a parting gift, each guest was gifted a generous full-size bottle of DIORIVIERA to keep and unbox at home—which you can also watch here.

Dressed for a Dîner en Blanc, wearing this lovely summer linen dress from Australian brand, Dissh, in the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel salle de bain.

Celebrating 60 Years of French Flair at Hotel Sofitel Beverly Hills

Celebrating 60 years of elegance and French flair with a black-tie sunset soirée at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

It was truly a night to remember, with French-themed signature cocktails, a live band playing Edith Piaf tunes, ice sculptures, macaron towers and Croquembouche, decadent desserts and luxe giveaways—all with surrounding sunset views of the Hollywood Hills from the sleek Sofitel rooftop.

The evening also unveiled the hotel’s exclusive collaboration with Courbet, the first sustainable jeweler on Place Vendôme in Paris.

Since opening its flagship hotel in the Alsace region of Strasbourg in the 1960s, Sofitel has become synonymous with elegant French hospitality and continues its legacy with locations all across the globe.

Scroll down to see more and read about this beloved Los Angeles landmark below.

A Night to Remember

The evening was a grand celebration, attended by esteemed guests and notable figures, including actors Gillian Anderson and Dali Benssalah, who recently headlined Sofitel’s new brand campaign. The ambiance was set with live music, talented fashion illustrators, personalized champagne glasses, and decadent seafood and dessert displays. The highlight of the night was our exclusive collaboration with Courbet, the first sustainable jeweler on Place Vendôme in Paris. One lucky attendee walked away with a piece from this exquisite jewelry collection, specially designed to honor our diamond anniversary.

Sofitel’s Legacy of Luxury

Since opening our first hotel in 1964 in Alsace, France, Sofitel has grown into a symbol of French luxury hospitality worldwide. Our expansion beyond France in the 1970s brought our unique savoir-faire to every continent, making Sofitel the first French luxury hospitality brand with a global presence. This Diamond Jubilee is a testament to our commitment to building bridges between cultures and delivering thoughtful, heartfelt luxury.

Exclusive Collaboration with Courbet

Our partnership with Courbet highlights our shared values of sustainable luxury. Courbet’s exclusive jewelry line for Sofitel’s Diamond Jubilee features 18 original creations, including diamond pavé earrings, cord bracelets, pendant necklaces, and rings adorned with ethically sourced diamonds. This collection beautifully symbolizes our commitment to excellence and sustainability.

Looking Forward

The event also featured the unveiling of our new brand campaign, “The Encounter,” which was filmed at Sofitel Mexico City Reforma. This campaign reflects Sofitel’s evolving brand platform and our dedication to the French art de vivre.

SOFITEL TIMELINE

1964

SOFITEL IS BORN WITH ITS FIRST 5-STAR HOTEL in Strasbourg, in the heart of a region renowned for its history and haute cuisine. This inauguration marks the start of a mission to redefine the art of hospitality with a French Zest.

1970's

SOFITEL IS EXPORTED ABROAD. The brand embarks on a rapid international expansion trajectory as it opens 5-star hotels in Asia, Europe, and America. A first step toward sharing the French flair with the world.

1980

SOFITEL JOINS WHAT WILL BECOME THE ACCOR GROUP. The brand is purchased by Paul Dubrule and G.rardP.lisson under the SIEH banner, as the icon of the French luxury hospitality industry, with a network at the time of 43 hotels and two thalassotherapy centers. Later on, the two prominent French businessmen will create the Accor group in 1983.

1990's & 2000's

SOFITEL CONTINUES TO MAKE INROADS AROUND THE WORLD as it opens hotels that rapidly reach icon status: in the United States (with an emblematic hotel in New York near the famed Fifth Avenue), in South America (Buenos Aires, Bogot.), in Asia (Hanoi), in Europe (Lisbon, Biarritz, Amsterdam) and in the Pacific (Melbourne, Sydney).

2003

SLEEP IS, MORE THAN EVER, A PRIORITY. To ensure restful nights for its guests, the brand introduces Sofitel MyBed™: soft, snug bedding including a topper that quickly earns accolades. This is “flexible” comfort, groundbreaking in the hospitality industry. Since then, Sofitel has also opened an online boutique where the public can purchase its most successful products such as its base, mattress, topper and comforters. A winning combination that raises the brand’s prestige.

2009

OÙ SOFITEL LEGEND, SYMBOLE SOFITEL LEGEND, A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE, IS BORN. These are one-of-a-kind hotels that each have a legendary history and provide an exceptional level of personalized service. The first hotel in this category was the Metropole Hotel in Hanoi, which was built in the early 20th century.

2010's

SOFITEL ELEVATES ITS BRAND STANDARDS and leverages its hotel network to offer its guests an ever more luxurious experience. Impeccable comfort and service are a given at every Sofitel hotel across the world, and the experience is enhanced by new key partnerships—

with Le Petit Prince and the Antoine de Saint Exup.ry Youth Foundation, Hainan Airlines, and even Vogue.

2020

TRAVELERS ARE UNDER LOCKDOWN AT THE FOUR CORNERS OF THE WORLD. Yet global demand for luxury hospitality is far from stagnating, and Accor decides to strengthen even more Sofitel to ensure the brand emerges from the pandemic stronger than ever.

2024

SOFITEL CELEBRATES ITS 60TH BIRTHDAY. To mark its anniversary, Sofitel unveils a new brand platform, supported by a brand campaign film featuring its two new ambassadors – world-famous actors Gillian Anderson and Dali Benssalah. It also unveils new carefully selected partnerships to disseminate the brand’s values more widely. To top it all off, the year will see a host of openings and the renovation of a number of iconic properties.

Mothers' Day Gift Guide: French Gifts for Maman

Imported from France, the Salam teapot from French luxury homegoods brand Dégrenne is the perfect gift for the Maman who lives for afternoon tea.

Imported from France, the Salam teapot from French luxury homegoods brand Dégrenne is the perfect gift for the Maman who lives for afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea has been my personal Mothers’ Day tradition with my own Maman for as long as I can remember. From lavish hotel spreads with warm scones and finger sandwiches, to cozy tea rooms with homemade lemon curd and creme anglaise, high tea now defines our holiday. But just as memorable are the tea parties we’ve had at home, with our own linens, formal tableware, and French favorites. So when this beauty arrived from the French luxury home essentials brand Dégrenne—and just in time for La Fête des Méres—it seemed like divine timing. Imported exclusively from France, the Salam teapot (pictured here in Jade) holds six cups of your favorite tea, and the original stainless steel design—unchanged since 1953— keeps tea warm for three hours.

Read on to shop and discover more gift ideas for a Sunday soirée entre les filles—or on June 4th (French Mothers’ Day) for the truly committed Francophile Maman!

For the Maman Who Loves to Host Salam Teapot, Dégrenne; $128 (6 Cups Size) French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP The Salam Teapot was created in 1953 and is Degrenne’s signature product. The porcelain design combined with the shimmer of the stainless steel body enhances the tea drinking experience. A felt sleeve lining keeps tea at an optimum temperature for twice as long as a classic teapot, and the removable filter prevents the bitter taste from over-brewing.

For the Maman Who Loves to Host
Salam Teapot
, Dégrenne; $128 (6 Cups Size)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
The Salam Teapot was created in 1953 and is Degrenne’s signature product. The porcelain design combined with the shimmer of the stainless steel body enhances the tea drinking experience. A felt sleeve lining keeps tea at an optimum temperature for twice as long as a classic teapot, and the removable filter prevents the bitter taste from over-brewing.

For the Maman Who Loves Surprises My French Country Home Box; $275 CLICK HERE TO SHOP Curated by Sharon Santoni, arbiter of style in the South of France, this subscription box (available as a monthly recurring option or a single gift) will deliver M…

For the Maman Who Loves Surprises
My French Country Home Box; $275
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Curated by Sharon Santoni, arbiter of style in the South of France, this subscription box (available as a monthly recurring option or a single gift) will deliver Mom a box full of French luxuries—think candles, soaps, watercolors, lotions, fragrances, and scarves, to name a few—by local artisans and small business brands from Paris to the provinces.

For the Maman Who’s Too Busy to Cook Instant Pot Dua Nova; $99.95 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”The Instant Pot Duo Nova is a true multi-tasker. This 7-in-1 cooker can handle the work of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté…

For the Maman Who’s Too Busy to Cook
Instant Pot Dua Nova
; $99.95
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”The Instant Pot Duo Nova is a true multi-tasker. This 7-in-1 cooker can handle the work of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker and warmer. It’s easy to put your cooking on autopilot with 14 Smart Programs with settings for meats, soup, stew, beans, chili, poultry, rice, yogurt and more.”

For the Maman Who’s Serious About Cooking Viking 11 Piece Cookware Set; $799.95 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Be ready for any recipe with this comprehensive, high-performance cookware set. The aluminum core conducts heat evenly and quickly, whil…

For the Maman Who’s Serious About Cooking
Viking 11 Piece Cookware Set
; $799.95
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Be ready for any recipe with this comprehensive, high-performance cookware set. The aluminum core conducts heat evenly and quickly, while the stainless-steel cooking surface is nonreactive, easy to clean, and delivers excellent browning and searing.”

For the Maman with a Green Thumb Veritable Smart Garden; $250 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP Even city mamans can grow aromatic herbs, edible flowers and baby vegetables effortlessly in the kitchen. The LED lights use a color spectrum adapted speci…

For the Maman with a Green Thumb
Veritable Smart Garden; $250
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Even city mamans can grow aromatic herbs, edible flowers and baby vegetables effortlessly in the kitchen. The LED lights use a color spectrum adapted specifically for edible plants; the special color and performance ensure quick growth and develop the flavor of plants, no natural light necessary. Comes with four ready-to-use refills for growing sweet basil, curly parsley, chives and cherry tomatoes.

For the Maman Who Cooks in Style Elderflower Apron by April Cornell; $35 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Simple and sweet, this floral-patterned apron is the perfect barrier between clothes and splattering sauces, melting chocolate or cookie dough.…

For the Maman Who Cooks in Style
Elderflower Apron
by April Cornell; $35
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Simple and sweet, this floral-patterned apron is the perfect barrier between clothes and splattering sauces, melting chocolate or cookie dough. Two large front pockets keep recipe cards or baking utensils close at hand, while an adjustable tie cinches around the waist for a comfortable fit.”

For the Maman Who Thinks She’s Martha Stewart Magnolia Bundt Pan; $38 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Create beautiful treats for the taste buds and the eyes with this botanical-inspired pan from Nordic Ware. The design bakes shapely leaves surroun…

For the Maman Who Thinks She’s Martha Stewart
Magnolia Bundt Pan
; $38
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Create beautiful treats for the taste buds and the eyes with this botanical-inspired pan from Nordic Ware. The design bakes shapely leaves surrounding an open blossom right into your creations, capturing every delicious detail. Add a dusting of confectioner’s sugar or a thin glaze for a sweet finishing touch.”

For the Sentimental Maman Maman Necklace; Nifty Sparkles; $43 French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP Say it with jewelry! Treat the mamans in your life—both the new and the experienced—to a wearable token of appreciation. Available in silver and gold. Nifty…

For the Sentimental Maman
Maman Necklace
; Nifty Sparkles; $43
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Say it with jewelry! Treat the mamans in your life—both the new and the experienced—to a wearable token of appreciation. Available in silver and gold. Nifty Sparkles is a small handmade minimalist jewelry company founded by French-born Elodie & Sylvie.

For the Maman Who Sets the Mood Maman Scented Candle; $10 French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP An ode to mamans everywhere, with notes of fig, walnut, violet, pine bark, iris, amber, cedarwood and tonka bean, this mini candle packs a punch with a scent th…

For the Maman Who Sets the Mood
Maman Scented Candle
; $10
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
An ode to mamans everywhere, with notes of fig, walnut, violet, pine bark, iris, amber, cedarwood and tonka bean, this mini candle packs a punch with a scent that Mom is sure to love.

For the Macaron Maman Mothers’ Day Macaron Box; Thierry Atlan; $32 French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP The ideal accompaniment to Mothers’ Day afternoon tea, this twelve piece assortment box includes Strawberry Verbena, Rose Lychee, Vanilla, Violet Cassi…

For the Macaron Maman
Mothers’ Day Macaron Box
; Thierry Atlan; $32
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
The ideal accompaniment to Mothers’ Day afternoon tea, this twelve piece assortment box includes Strawberry Verbena, Rose Lychee, Vanilla, Violet Cassis, and Raspberry.

For the Maman Who Bakes Lillivuyt Patisserie Cake Stand; $99 French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP For the Mom who bakes. Her desserts will look like they belong in a true French patisserie when displayed with this elegant scalloped cake stand, crafted in …

For the Maman Who Bakes
Lillivuyt Patisserie Cake Stand;
$99
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
For the Mom who bakes. Her desserts will look like they belong in a true French patisserie when displayed with this elegant scalloped cake stand, crafted in authentic French porcelain. The Pillivuyt factory in Mehun-sur-Yevre, France has been perfecting the art of porcelain-making for over 200 years. Made from materials sourced in France and greater Europe, each dish is crafted with care and fired at 2550 degrees Fahrenheit resulting in porcelain that is of the highest quality.

For the Maman Who Puts Ice Cubes in Her Verre du Vin Corkcicle Wine Chiller; $24.95 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP Keep her favorite French wine chilled to the perfect drinking temperature with this fun gadget from Corcsicle Chills. Suitable for bo…

For the Maman Who Puts Ice Cubes in Her Verre du Vin
Corkcicle Wine Chiller; $24.95
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Keep her favorite French wine chilled to the perfect drinking temperature with this fun gadget from Corcsicle Chills. Suitable for both whites and reds, a built in aerator keeps every sip as as fresh as the first.

For the Maman On the Go Cuisinart Tote Bag Cooler; $48 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP This state of the art tote keeps everything mom needs—including perishables. Perfect for an impromptu picnic, the insulated interior and durable outer shell is ac…

For the Maman On the Go
Cuisinart Tote Bag Cooler; $48
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
This state of the art tote keeps everything mom needs—including perishables. Perfect for an impromptu picnic, the insulated interior and durable outer shell is accompanied by a water-resistant zip closure to keep cool air in, and the waterproof lining can be wiped out for quick cleanup.

For the Maman Who Entertains Onde Gold Flatware; Degrenne; $99 (each 5 piece set) French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP For the ultimate Provencal dinner party, no tablescape is complete without a set of elegant gold flatware. Each table setting from Degre…

For the Maman Who Entertains
Onde Gold Flatware; Degrenne; $99 (each 5 piece set)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
For the ultimate Provencal dinner party, no tablescape is complete without a set of elegant gold flatware. Each table setting from Degrenne Paris includes five pieces: a salad fork, dinner fork, dinner knife, dessert spoon, and teaspoon.

For the New Maman Merci Bisous Baby Carrier; $102 French Wink CLICK HERE TO SHOP A practical and easy alternative to hard-to-knot slings and baby carriers. Resistant, very comfortable and carefully tested, this French-designed baby carrier will perf…

For the New Maman
Merci Bisous Baby Carrier; $102
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
A practical and easy alternative to hard-to-knot slings and baby carriers. Resistant, very comfortable and carefully tested, this French-designed baby carrier will perfectly maintain baby's back and head. Ideal for newborns all the way to 27 pounds.

For the Maman Who Loves Marble Marble Pastry Board; $99.95 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP Mom can cook and bake on a classic marble surface, perfect for keeping dough cool to keep it from sticking. From Christmas cookies to weekend croissants, ther…

For the Maman Who Loves Marble
Marble Pastry Board; $99.95
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Mom can cook and bake on a classic marble surface, perfect for keeping dough cool to keep it from sticking. From Christmas cookies to weekend croissants, there’s always a good excuse to whip out this board.

A Retro Photoshoot and Collab with The Beverly Hilton Hotel

When The Beverly Hilton asks you to do a retro photoshoot, you say yes!

With its signature swinging ‘60s vibes and visions of sophisticated glamour around every corner, checking into The Beverly Hilton is probably the closest any of us will ever come to actually turning back the clock and taking a trip back in time to Hollywood’s Golden Age.

To showcase the hotel’s recent collaboration with Hollywood Classic Cars, I had so much fun styling and modeling two retro looks to complement my two very special costars—a red vintage Porsche Cayenne and a baby blue 1959 Corvette.

I’ve always dreamed of becoming a Bond Girl, which was the inspiration behind Look #1, while Look #2 had me feeling like one of the original ladies who lunch, like Babe Paley or one of Truman Capote’s Swans—with plenty of Chanel accessories, of course.

Check out some stills from the shoot below, and scroll to watch some fun promo clips from the collaboration.

Watch the Bond Girl dream come true on Instagram here.

Watch the full Femme Fatale transformation on Instagram here.

5 French Red Lipsticks for Valentine's Day

Joyeux St. Valentin from Moi and my Estée Lauder lips! Head over to the Shop page to claim your own, and live la vie en rouge.

Joyeux St. Valentin from Moi and my Estée Lauder lips! Head over to the Shop page to claim your own, and live la vie en rouge.

A bold red lip is about as synonymous with timeless French Girl style as baguettes and berets—albeit much less of a cliché and more of a lifestyle.

If parading around with a ruby red pout is less of an everyday look in your world, and more of an occasion, who could think of a better holiday than St. Valentine’s Day to paint the town—and your lévres—red?

Behold five shades to switch up your daily maquillage routine with a pretty pop of rouge, brought to you by the Fab Five French Fashion houses—Chanel, YSL, Dior, Guerlain, and Estée Lauder.

Click the links below, or head over to the TCA Shop Page to add these colors to your cart.

5 French Red Lipsticks for Valentine's Day

#520 Carnal, Pure Color Envy; $32 ESTÉE LAUDER CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Saturates lips with high-intensity color. Lip-sculpting statement shades for all skintones. Super creamy, glides on effortlessly, covers evenly. Sensually soft and smooth, luxuriousl…

#520 Carnal, Pure Color Envy; $32
ESTÉE LAUDER
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Saturates lips with high-intensity color. Lip-sculpting statement shades for all skintones. Super creamy, glides on effortlessly, covers evenly. Sensually soft and smooth, luxuriously comfortable. 8-hour wear. The lipstick bullet is shaped to sculpt the curves of your lips. The case feels like luxury in your hands. And with one click, case closed.

#444 Gabrielle, Rouge Coco; $40 CHANEL CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”An exclusive complex of Jojoba and Mimosa butters, Sunflower wax, and silicone, provides lasting hydration and luminous shine. With a vibrant colour spectrum, featuring shade names inspired …

#444 Gabrielle, Rouge Coco; $40
CHANEL
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
An exclusive complex of Jojoba and Mimosa butters, Sunflower wax, and silicone, provides lasting hydration and luminous shine. With a vibrant colour spectrum, featuring shade names inspired by Coco Chanel and the friends, artists and lovers who inspired her.

My shade is #520 Carnal, Pure Color Envy by Estée Lauder.

My shade is #520 Carnal, Pure Color Envy by Estée Lauder.

5 French Red Lipsticks for Valentine's Day
#453 Adorée Satin Finish, Rouge Dior; $38 DIOR CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Available in 75 beautiful shades, from Dior’s iconic reds, romantic pinks and rosewoods to trendy nudes in satin, matte, metallic or new velvet finishes. More modern and luxurious th…

#453 Adorée Satin Finish, Rouge Dior; $38
DIOR
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Available in 75 beautiful shades, from Dior’s iconic reds, romantic pinks and rosewoods to trendy nudes in satin, matte, metallic or new velvet finishes. More modern and luxurious than ever, the new Rouge Dior lipstick is adorned with a signature band featuring the CD initials, a nod to Dior's runway looks.

#1966 Rouge Libre, Rouge Pur Couture; $38 YSL BEAUTY CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”The iconic gold tube of Rouge Pur Couture is dressed in red to celebrate love and the joy of gifting. Available in 3 gorgeous red shades, this full-coverage satin lipstick offe…

#1966 Rouge Libre, Rouge Pur Couture; $38
YSL BEAUTY
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
The iconic gold tube of Rouge Pur Couture is dressed in red to celebrate love and the joy of gifting. Available in 3 gorgeous red shades, this full-coverage satin lipstick offers up to six hours of ultra-rich, stay-true color in just one stroke.

#M331 Chili Red, KissKiss Matte; $39 GUERLAIN BEAUTY CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”The light, delicate scent of a vanilla "floriental" leaves its incomparable mark on KissKiss. Top notes sparkle with a lemon, orange and bergamot accord. The rose and iris hear…

#M331 Chili Red, KissKiss Matte; $39
GUERLAIN BEAUTY
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
The light, delicate scent of a vanilla "floriental" leaves its incomparable mark on KissKiss. Top notes sparkle with a lemon, orange and bergamot accord. The rose and iris heart exudes sweetness. The vanilla and tonka bean dry-down gives KissKiss all of its intensity.

5 French Red Lipsticks for Valentine's Day
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Celebrate La Chandeleur: The French Holiday Devoted to Crêpes

We all know that the crêpe—French cousin to the American pancake—is a national delicacy and signature dish in France, but did you know that there is, in fact, an entire holiday dedicated to the oh-so delicious sweet and savory foldable griddle cakes we love so much?

Today marks the annual French holiday known as la Chandeleur (also known as “Candlemas” in English) which falls exactly 40 days after Christmas—and yes, it’s the perfect excuse to break out the Nutella and sugar.

CLICK HERE to read a fantastic article about the traditions, superstitions, and historical evolution of La Chandeleur, posted by Coucou French Classes—one of our favorite French language programs in the US, with online courses and in-person lessons at brick and mortar locations in New York and Los Angeles.

See an excerpt below:

According to Sophia Millman’s piece for Coucou:

“In the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I decided to put an end to the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia that Christians celebrated. He encouraged them instead to celebrate “the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” which would take place 40 days after Christmas, on February 2nd. While the Romans had carried torches into their fields to make offerings to their god of fertility, Gelasius instructed Christians to carry candles. It was said that, at the end of the Candlemas ceremonies–called la Chandeleur or la Fête de la Lumière–believers had to leave the church with a lit candle. If its flame went out, they risked attracting the evil eye…

When Christians returned to Rome after a pilgrimage, Pope Gelasius I said that they should eat crêpes made with surplus flour from the prior year. Round like the sun, the crêpes were supposed to represent light and wealth in the new year. According to tradition, if it rained on la Chandeleur, forty more days of rain would follow the holiday. 

Today, many French people still believe in some of the superstitions surrounding la Chandeleur. For instance, on February 2nd, you’re supposed to flip your crêpe in the pan while holding a gold coin in your left hand to ensure prosperity. But don’t try this at home, especially if you’re left handed! You’re also supposed to eat your crêpes in the evening and put the first crêpe you make in a cupboard drawer or on top of your closet to bring good luck. (Not sure how long you should leave it there? Supposedly, it will never go spoiled, but we’ll let you be the judge)…

If you’ve ever been to Brittany, you know that les Bretons are famous for their cider and their crêpes. According to legend, la crêpe bretonne was invented when a farmer’s wife spilled some buckwheat porridge onto a very hot, flat stone lying in her fireplace. Today, la crêpe bretonne can be made with wheat flour and served as a sweet dessert (une crêpe sucrée). If you make it with buckwheat flour (known as “sarrasin”), you’re supposed to call it une galette. Une complète is a galette topped with Gruyère, ham and a sunny-side-up egg. Traditionally, in Brittany, crêpe batter is cooked in a specific device called un billig or galetiere. You spread it with a small spatula called un rozell or une raclette, as the rest of France calls it. Check out this French video about a Breton chef making his famous crêpes…

Fun fact: According to this French article, 76 percent of French people manage to successfully flip their crêpes in the air. The most agile crêpe flippers are 50-64 years old!”

Galette des Rois | History of the Traditional French Kings Cake

Behold the traditional French Galette des Rois.

If you’ve spent any time in New Orleans or found yourself festooned with strings of colorful beads to celebrate the festival of Mardi Gras, you may be familiar with a Galette des Rois—known stateside as a King Cake or a Three Kings Cake.

Established in the Middle Ages as the official end to the Christian holiday season, Twelfth Night is the final night of the Twelve Days of Christmas—a partridge in a pear tree, anyone?—which is celebrated usually on January 6th* with this beautiful dessert made of flaky puff pastry and creamy frangipane filling.

In the United States, a variation on the galette takes on a ring shape, and is rather easy to identify (see below) due to its tri-colored appearance—gold to symbolize wealth and prosperity, green for growth, and purple for justice—but are you familiar with the origins of this annual tradition involving paper crowns and a plastic baby?

According to biblical reference (and many a Christmas carol) Twelfth Night commemorates the tale of the Three Wise Men (Three Kings, or Trois Rois) visiting the newborn Jesus Christ, and offering the child gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Nowadays, this celebration is commemorated in many Francophone households with a feast among family and friends—and a Galette des Rois as the pièce de resistance of the dinner table.

The most fun part of this tradition is searching for the tiny fêve (figurine) that’s hidden inside the galette, symbolizing the Baby Jesus. In medieval times, a pea or a bean was used, and today any small token will do. If you’re the lucky person who receives the slice containing the fêve—just be careful not to swallow it!—you will be coronated as the official King or Queen for the night—complete with a paper crown to seal the deal.

Even though the origins of this little game are steeped in religion, it's become a secular tradition for everyone of all backgrounds to enjoy—including 85% of French citizens, according to a 2014 poll.

Ingredients and aesthetics of a Kings Cake can vary according to the traditions of different geographic regions—ranging around the world, from Northern France and Belgium to Quebec and the Creole community of New Orleans. Other cultures also have their own versions of this holiday, like Mexico’s El Día de los Reyes Magos. Mardi Gras revelers generally enjoy colorful slices of a denser cake drizzled with glaze, while European households tend to opt for the traditional round shape, with a simple but elegant design carved into the flaky pastry.

No matter how you choose to celebrate the holidays, if you find yourself suffering from a mid-winter depression once the ball has dropped and the decorations come down, why not add this fun New Year tradition to your January calendar?

Want to try your hand at making a traditional French Galette des Rois? Here’s a great recipe to get you started!

The alternative, colorful version of a King Cake, celebrated in New Orleans and around the United States along with Mardi Gras festivities.

*Some recognize this day on the 5th, depending on varying interpretations and the calendars of different religious denominations.

Get NYE Ready with French Gifts for the Champagne Enthusiast | Holiday Gift Guide

Gifts for the Champagne Enthusiast
Gifts for the Champagne Enthusiast

Of the many gifts that the French have bestowed upon humanity, Champagne easily tops the list—right alongside croissants and Chanel perfume. French Champagne is so special, that any bubbly bottled outside of the hallowed vineyards of Champagne, France, cannot be called Champagne and must be referred to as “sparkling wine.” Ask any sommelier!

We all know someone who lives for the bubbles—and I’m proud to say that in my circles, I am that someone. From modern marble champagne chillers to traditional engraved silver ice buckets, Gatsby-esque champagne tower coupe glasses to festive stemless styles, bubble inspired home decor and art prints to lust-worthy gifts infused with the fizz—including intoxicating candles, diffusers, gummy snacks, hair spray, breakfast jams, and even Taittinger filled truffles—Day 7 of The Chic American Holiday Gift Guide might be the most jam-packed yet.

Scroll down to shop, and add a little extra sparkle to someone’s holiday—including your own—with any of these glittery gifts. Most still ship before Christmas, and if not, don’t forget that New Year’s Eve is just around the corner!

Gifts for the Champagne Enthusiast

LE SPLURGE ($50 and Up)

Waterford Lismore Essence Collectors Champagne Flutes; $175 Bloomingdales (Free Shipping + $25 Off) CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Exuding classic glamour, the Lismore Essence Collector's Edition saucer champagne glass features the Lismore pattern's diamond-li…

Waterford Lismore Essence Collectors Champagne Flutes; $175
Bloomingdales (Free Shipping + $25 Off)
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Exuding classic glamour, the Lismore Essence Collector's Edition saucer champagne glass features the Lismore pattern's diamond-like facets.”

Marble Champagne Chiller Bucket; $125 Nordstrom CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”The perfect blend of function and style, this bottle holder made of naturally cool marble provides a stylish display while keeping chilled wine cold.”

Marble Champagne Chiller Bucket; $125
Nordstrom
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”The perfect blend of function and style, this bottle holder made of naturally cool marble provides a stylish display while keeping chilled wine cold.”

LSA Coupe Champagne Tower (Set of 10); $95 Bloomingdales CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Create the ultimate in celebratory centerpieces with this set of champagne coupes. Whether you arrange in a tower or simply set the table, these classic designs offer a toa…

LSA Coupe Champagne Tower (Set of 10); $95
Bloomingdales
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Create the ultimate in celebratory centerpieces with this set of champagne coupes. Whether you arrange in a tower or simply set the table, these classic designs offer a toast-worthy vessel for your favorite bubbly.”

Champagne Saber; $129.95
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Rooted in the 19th-century French tradition, the saber features an elegantly curved stainless steel blade that slashes through bottles with ease, and the polished wood handle gives you an ergonomic grip.”

Champagne Inspired Leaf Chandelier; $1,074 Houzz CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”The Dolce Semi Flushmount displays with a Champagne Leaf finish for a perfect look, and compliments any space with Incandescent light. Include it with your ideal atmosphere and moo…

Champagne Inspired Leaf Chandelier; $1,074
Houzz
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”The Dolce Semi Flushmount displays with a Champagne Leaf finish for a perfect look, and compliments any space with Incandescent light. Include it with your ideal atmosphere and mood.”

Champagne Penthouse Diffuser; $115 Houzz CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Our hand blown glass diffusers filled with natural essential oil based fragrances, unite home fragrance with art to create the perfect ambiance. Fragrance: clean and sparkling; with notes …

Champagne Penthouse Diffuser; $115
Houzz
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Our hand blown glass diffusers filled with natural essential oil based fragrances, unite home fragrance with art to create the perfect ambiance. Fragrance: clean and sparkling; with notes of ginger, grapefruit, lemon, and raspberry.”

Romantic Getaway to Champagne, France; $82 per night Hotels. com CLICK HERE TO BOOK Plan a French getaway to the Champagne region of France and experience the vineyard life, complete with champagne tastings and a lifetime of sparkling memories.“With…

Romantic Getaway to Champagne, France; $82 per night
Hotels. com
CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Plan a French getaway to the Champagne region of France and experience the vineyard life, complete with champagne tastings and a lifetime of sparkling memories.

“With a stay at Champagne Voirin-jumel in Cramant, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of the Möet et Chandon factory. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.”

Sensa Champagne Flutes ($84, set of 6)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Cheers to elegant glassware! The Sensa collection from Schott Zwiesel features modern, flat-bottom bowls with classic long stems and wide bases for stability. Simple, yet stylish, these champagne flutes add an air of sophistication to any occasion.”

Celebration Champagne Bowl ($169)
Mark & Graham
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Pop the champagne and celebrate in style with the Celebration Wine Bowl. Designed for effortless entertaining, this oversized bowl is the perfect way to display and keep your favorite Champagne ice cold at your next gathering. The bowl is elegantly crafted with an ornate base and a choice of silver or gold finishes. Add monogrammed initials or up to twelve sand blasted letters for a personal touch to this stunning wedding, housewarming, or special occasion gift.”

LE STEAL (Under $50)

Man’s Hand Champagne Toast Print; $18 Art.com CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”This genre of art involves a realistic depiction of living as well as inanimate objects. Artists like Jean Michel Basquiat, Norman Rockwell, and Banksy are renowned for giving a platf…

Man’s Hand Champagne Toast Print; $18
Art.com
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”This genre of art involves a realistic depiction of living as well as inanimate objects. Artists like Jean Michel Basquiat, Norman Rockwell, and Banksy are renowned for giving a platform to cultural commentary and human experiences through their art.”

Voluspa Maison Noir Champagne Candle; $29 Nordstrom CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Sparkling brut champagne mingles with hints of vanilla and barrel oak. A candle presented in ornate packaging with rich colors and intentional flourishes that reflect the inspir…

Voluspa Maison Noir Champagne Candle; $29
Nordstrom
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Sparkling brut champagne mingles with hints of vanilla and barrel oak. A candle presented in ornate packaging with rich colors and intentional flourishes that reflect the inspiration for the aroma inside, Voluspa candles are hand-poured in the United States.”

La Rochere Napoleon Champagne Flutes ($71, set of 6)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Adorned with the iconic Napoleonic bee, La Rochere has been producing artisanal glass in the heart of France for more than 500 years, making it the oldest continuously running glass factory in Europe. Inspired by French cuisine, culture, art and style, each piece evokes both casual comfort and modern elegance.

France Theme Champagne Glass Charms ($34, set of 6)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

These beautiful France-themed handcrafted charms are the perfect markers to help guests easily identify their own glasses whilst mingling. Each box of six charms includes a selection of the following: Eiffel tower, Arc de Triomphe, Perfume bottle, Suitcase, Fleur de Lis, Love, Camera, and Wine Bottle.

Marble Champagne Chiller ($60)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Chill Champagne and wine stylishly in our Marble Wine Cooler. Stunningly modern and strikingly simple, the marble and brass construction will accent a variety of décor styles, and it fits most bottle sizes.”

Champagne Cutting Board; $21.60 Society6 CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Our cutting boards feature bright designs that transform a kitchen essential into a functional design piece. Use the wood side for prep and the display side as a serving board for drinks. …

Champagne Cutting Board; $21.60
Society6
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Our cutting boards feature bright designs that transform a kitchen essential into a functional design piece. Use the wood side for prep and the display side as a serving board for drinks. Available in round or rectangular options.”

Art.com
Taittinger Champagne Truffles; $25 Jacques Torres CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”A blissful, simple and decadent combination of our creamy Belgian milk chocolate, fresh cream and Taittinger Brut La Française Champagne. Yes, our truffles contain REAL Champagne!”

Taittinger Champagne Truffles; $25
Jacques Torres
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”A blissful, simple and decadent combination of our creamy Belgian milk chocolate, fresh cream and Taittinger Brut La Française Champagne. Yes, our truffles contain REAL Champagne!”

Le Creuset Champagne Opener; $30 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”A smart and stylish addition to any home bar, this unique cross-shaped opener effortlessly lifts the cork out of any bottle, giving the user total control and eliminating the danger o…

Le Creuset Champagne Opener; $30
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”A smart and stylish addition to any home bar, this unique cross-shaped opener effortlessly lifts the cork out of any bottle, giving the user total control and eliminating the danger of releasing pressurized corks near others. The star shape is easy to grip, and a push and gentle twist easily removes corks.”

Simón Coll Milk Chocolate Champagne Bottle; $15 Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Here’s a champagne bottle everyone can enjoy—available in two sizes, a mini, perfect for stockings or place settings, and a full size approximately the same size as a r…

Simón Coll Milk Chocolate Champagne Bottle; $15
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Here’s a champagne bottle everyone can enjoy—available in two sizes, a mini, perfect for stockings or place settings, and a full size approximately the same size as a real champagne bottle. These aluminum foil-wrapped bottles contain hollow figures of milk chocolate with 30% cocoa, quality ingredients and no artificial additives.”

Poppin’ Champagne Truffles; $24.95 Williams Sonoma CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Raise a toast with our effervescent truffles, infused with Champagne essence and tiny candies that pop like bubbles with each bite. Master chocolatiers prepare the silky ganache …

Poppin’ Champagne Truffles; $24.95
Williams Sonoma
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Raise a toast with our effervescent truffles, infused with Champagne essence and tiny candies that pop like bubbles with each bite. Master chocolatiers prepare the silky ganache and tender shells from Guittard couverture milk chocolate. The truffles are hand packed in a handsome box to arrive fresh and ready for gift-giving.”

Cuvee Beauty Champagne Spray; $45 Neiman Marcus CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Our multitalented, weightless texturizer gives hair that second-day, lived-in look in an instant. Hair looks soft, shiny yet perfectly imperfect. Enriched with our exclusive Cuvée C…

Cuvee Beauty Champagne Spray; $45
Neiman Marcus
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Our multitalented, weightless texturizer gives hair that second-day, lived-in look in an instant. Hair looks soft, shiny yet perfectly imperfect. Enriched with our exclusive Cuvée Complex and deliciously scented with our intoxicating Cuvée fragrance featuring champagne and fig leaf notes.”

Edible Glitter for Cocktails; $9.59 Amazon CLICK HERE TO SHOP Add a little sparkle to your next champagne cocktail with Gold Edible Glitter For Drinks. Kosher Certified, Vegan, Gluten, Nut Free."

Edible Glitter for Cocktails; $9.59
Amazon
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Add a little sparkle to your next champagne cocktail with Gold Edible Glitter For Drinks. Kosher Certified, Vegan, Gluten, Nut Free."

Celebratory Champagne Balloon; $4.95 Shein CLICK HERE TO SHOP Get ready to celebrate with a fun sized champagne bottle shaped balloon, perfect for birthdays, New Year’s Eve and surviving 2020 in general.

Celebratory Champagne Balloon; $4.95
Shein
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Get ready to celebrate with a fun sized champagne bottle shaped balloon, perfect for birthdays, New Year’s Eve and surviving 2020 in general.

Champagne Wallpaper; $39.20 Society6 CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Our peel and stick Wallpaper is easy to apply and take off, leaving no adhesive residue. Featuring sharp, vibrant images, Wallpaper patterns are ideal for accent walls, flat surfaces and tempo…

Champagne Wallpaper; $39.20
Society6
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Our peel and stick Wallpaper is easy to apply and take off, leaving no adhesive residue. Featuring sharp, vibrant images, Wallpaper patterns are ideal for accent walls, flat surfaces and temporary installations.”

Rosé Champagne Holiday Ornament; $19.96 (reg. $25) Sur La Table CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Celebrate the holiday season or dress up your next soirée with our 2020 rose champagne ornament, which features the bubbly beverage in glittery detail. Our European …

Rosé Champagne Holiday Ornament; $19.96 (reg. $25)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Celebrate the holiday season or dress up your next soirée with our 2020 rose champagne ornament, which features the bubbly beverage in glittery detail. Our European glass ornaments are mouth-blown and hand-painted by artisans using techniques that have been handed down through the generations.”

Sugarfina Bubbly Bears; $20 Nordstrom CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Delight friends and family alike with this set of effervescent, grownup gummies infused with the flavors of French champagne. These classic Brut and delectable Rosé bears are cute enough to h…

Sugarfina Bubbly Bears; $20
Nordstrom
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Delight friends and family alike with this set of effervescent, grownup gummies infused with the flavors of French champagne. These classic Brut and delectable Rosé bears are cute enough to have their own cult following.”

Men’s Champagne Socks; $8 Macy’s CLICK HERE TO SHOP ”Celebrate in hopes of better days ahead with Bar Iii's dress socks, featuring a fun champagne motif along the side.”

Men’s Champagne Socks; $8
Macy’s
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”Celebrate in hopes of better days ahead with Bar Iii's dress socks, featuring a fun champagne motif along the side.”

Raspberry Peach Champagne Jam; $7.99 Stonewall Kitchen CLICK HERE TO SHOP Add a little sparkle to your breakfast. “We combined sweet peaches, refreshing raspberries, and a little champagne” to this delicious gluten-free jam.

Raspberry Peach Champagne Jam; $7.99
Stonewall Kitchen
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Add a little sparkle to your breakfast. “We combined sweet peaches, refreshing raspberries, and a little champagne” to this delicious gluten-free jam.

Stonewall Kitchen, LLC

*This article may contain affiliate links. TCA only promotes products we love, whether we make a small commission or not, so rest assured that you’re always getting our best. Merci for your support!

Champagne Enthusiast Gift Guide.png

The Chic American French Holiday Gift Guide

It’s that time of year again! From baking essentials and kitchen gadgets to dazzling gift boxes from French favorites like Ladurée, Maxim’s, and Diptique, The Chic American Holiday Gift Guide is back—with the perfect cadeau for every Francophile on your list.

FOR THE BUDDING BOULANGER

Emile Henry Baguette Maker ($144.95)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Perfect for baking artisanal breads, this ceramic loaf baker ensures that bread retains the ideal amount of humidity while baking. Made from Burgundy clay, each baker provides even, gentle heating and features vent holes that allow excess moisture to escape. Produced one at a time, each piece of Emile Henry cookware is formed and hand-finished by skilled artisans.”

FOR THE CARNIVORE

Laguiole Olivewood Steak Knives
($179.95)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

”This handsome wood presentation box makes an elegant addition to any home, and a thoughtful gift for the steak lover. Knives feature gleaming stainless-steel blades with riveted olivewood handles and shining stainless-steel caps—with a lifetime warranty!”

FOR THE LATTE ARTISTE

Breville Barista Pro ($849.95)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Make café-quality beverages right at home with the Breville Barista Pro. Its new intuitive LCD interface guides you through every step so you can easily make all your favorite coffee and espresso drinks at home in no time. It only takes three seconds to heat up, and quickly transitions to steam milk so you can create flavorful micro-foam milk for impressive latte art.”

FOR THE OENOPHILE

Coravin Wine Preservation System ($230, was $329)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Pour your favorite French wines (without pulling the cork) and come back to the bottle again and again for months or even years. “Inspired by the holiday season's rich color palette and warm, metallic touches, the special edition Gemstone Collection brings a new level of elegance to the Timeless Series. Included carry case makes system easy to transport.”

FOR LE PETIT CHIEN

BONNE ET FILO DOG MACARONS
French Wink ($69.99 for 3 boxes of six)
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Made with 100% natural, human-grade, non-GMO ingredients, these treats are perfect for any pup. Choose from vanilla, rose, and strawberry flavors.

FOR THE HOSTESS

Laguiole French Cheeseboard ($79)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Elevate your next soirée with the beautiful form and function of this cosmopolitan cheese board set. The handsomely curved board is crafted from olivewood grown in the Mediterranean region and features a unique grain that provides lasting durability and warm presentation. The trio of distinctive Laguiole knives features curved, three-rivet handles adorned with the classic Napoleonic bee emblem, brightly finished with handles fashioned in eye-catching turquoise.”

FOR THE PÂTISSIER

Macaron Making Kit ($34)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Prepare deliciously dainty French treats sure to impress with our Macaron Kit. Inside this set is everything necessary to create Macarons, including a silicone mat that ensures perfect sizing and spacing and a bowl scraper for transferring batter. Pastry bags make it easy to pipe batter and fill macarons once baked. There are four tips for a range of patterns and decorations, an offset spatula for smoothing filling and a recipe booklet featuring our favorite flavor combinations.”

FOR LES ENFANTS

Eiffel Tower Building Kit ($24)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Made of FSC-certified wood from sustainably managed forests, this Eiffel Tower building kit is a fun way for future engineers to learn the basics of construction with one of the world’s most iconic landmarks!

FOR LA JEUNE FILLE

Les Parisiennes Tea Set ($56)
Maisonette
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Precious and delicate, a powder pink painted tea set with silver edging, presented in a charming illustrated box for serving tea to mummy and to all the little mouse friends. Designed in France and made with the finest French fabrics & materials, Moulin Roty represents 40 years of dreams and playfulness.”

FOR THE BAKER

KitchenAid Artisan Mixer ($349.96 was $449.95)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“With baker-friendly features like a tilting head for easy access, 10 speeds for stirring, whipping, and everything in between, and a range of mixing heads to tackle everything from slow mixing or kneading to ultra-fast whipping, this stand mixer will be part of your kitchen for years to come.”

FOR THE CHOCOHOLIQUE

Maxims de Paris Chocolate Gift Box ($34)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Maxim’s is one of the most beloved Parisian institutions. Prepare to be transported to the Belle Epoque with this selection of 22 assorted chocolates—and keep the beautifully illustrated box as a souvenir for proof, Midnight in Paris style!

FOR THE CUISINIER

Le Creuset Holiday Dutch Oven ($319.96 was $399)
Sur La Table
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Braise, bake, deep-fry and more with this festive Dutch oven from Le Creuset. The beautiful, embossed design on the lid makes it ideal for seasonal cooking while the tight-fitting lid provides a secure, no-slide fit that locks in flavors and aromas.”

FOR THE TEA DRINKER

Palais des Thés Holiday Tea ($29)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
A secret delicious blend of green and black tea, red berries, and slivers of chocolate to evoke the holiday spirit.

FOR THE MACARON MAVEN

Ladurée ‘Nuit’ Gift Box ($149, 42 flavors)
Ladurée Paris
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“Celebrate the holiday season with the emblematic Napoleon box with its festive design, filled with your choice of Ladurée macarons.”

FOR THE FRAGRANCE COLLECTOR

Sapin Pine Tree Room Spray ($48)
Diptique
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“The Sapin / Pine tree scent is now available as a home fragrance in a portable, travel-sized format to take with you anywhere. Fresh, woody notes of mountain pines warmed with the honeyed tones of mimosa fill the night with the sparkling of stars.”

FOR THE CHIC BÉBÉ

The Cub Set, Mittens & Hat ($40)
7AM Enfant
CLICK HERE TO SHOP

“French designer and mother of three, Rebecca Campora founded 7AM® ENFANT. The company offers a variety of versatile, urban and stylish outerwear baby accessories that combine clever designs, quality materials, and fashion-forward fabrics.”

FOR THE EIFFEL ENTHUSIAST

Eiffel Tower Snowglobe
($15)
French Wink
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Transport yourself to Christmastime in Paris with this perfect winter souvenir.

*This article may contain affiliate links. TCA only promotes products we love, whether we make a small commission or not, so rest assured that you’re always getting our best. Merci for your support!

Shop Black Friday French Thanksgiving Essentials From Sur La Table

Thanksgiving is almost upon us! And even though the French of course don’t celebrate the beloved American holiday and its culinary traditions, there are still plenty of ways to incorporate French techniques and aesthetics into your kitchen on Thursday.

What’s even better? Major Black Friday sales have already hit the internet—finally a piece of good news among the ashes of this très bizarre year—which means there’s still time to score deals on everything you need to turn the Big Day into a chic (and socially responsible) soirée.

Shop Black Friday French Thanksgiving Essentials From Sur La Table

Sur La Table is the ultimate destination for everything a French chef—or an aspiring one!—could possibly desire, and this week only, there are some mega sales on some of the most lusted-after pieces on the shelves. Shop some of the highlights below to get a jump on your holiday cooking—and your Christmas gift shopping!

Read about my experience baking croissants at a signature Sur La Table culinary class here.

12 Piece Turkey Dinnerware Set; $120.00 (Reg. $128.00)

”Thanksgiving feasts are about more than just the food—they’re about the memories. Make your seasonal celebrations memorable with our exclusive Turkey dinnerware featuring original artwork created just for us. It’s made of durable, dishwasher-safe earthenware and ideal for setting your Thanksgiving table.”

French Home Laguiole Pakkawood Carving Knife & Fork; $59

”The perfect set to have on hand for holidays, this elegant carving set includes a knife and fork made of heavy gauge stainless steel that ease through turkey, chicken, ham and roasts. They feature the iconic Laguiole bee insignia and triple-rivet design that references the town in Southern France where this style of utensil originates. Handsome pakkawood handles are curved and weighted for a comfortable grip.”

Staub Round Cocotte; $99 (Reg. $389.95) *MAJOR DEAL*
Staub Tomato Cocotte; $294.95

”A traditional French cooking vessel designed to concentrate flavorful juices, this hand-finished round cocotte is ideal for stews, soups, casseroles, roasts and braises. Enameled cast-iron construction distributes and retains heat evenly and effectively and requires no seasoning. Lid features self-basting spikes for continuous, even distribution of juices throughout cooking, so food stays moist and flavorful.”

Le Creuset Mini Cocotte; $84.94 (Reg. $120)

”Perfect for cheesy artichoke dip, fruit cobbler and more, this mini cocotte is great for preparing and serving individual portions of your favorite dishes. Cast iron’s efficient heating is perfect for slow cooking and baking, while the tight-fitting lid locks in heat and moisture for tender, delicious results. Available in a wide range of Le Creuset’s signature vibrant glazes, these cocottes add a touch of classic French beauty to any kitchen or table.”

La Rochère French Bee Wine Glasses; $65 (Set of 6)

”Embellished with bees, an emblem of Provence, from the oldest glassmaker in France. 8 oz. Dishwasher safe. Made in France.”

Le Creuset Heritage Pie Dish; $49.00

”Perfect for sweet or savory pies, quiche and more, this classic pie dish provides gentle, even heating for excellent results every time. Making an evenly fluted crust is easy thanks to the dimpled edge, and the thick enamel resists scratching. Durable stoneware features an industry-leading enamel interior that protects against utensil damage, staining and odor absorption. Bakers feature Le Creuset’s signature glazes in a variety of colors for striking oven-to-table presentation.”

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La Tarte | 5 Thanksgiving Pie Baking Essentials From Sur La Table

5 Thanksgiving Pie Baking Essentials From Sur La Table

Thanksgiving is likely going to feel a little quieter this year, which means it’s the ideal time to spend this week honing those culinary skills, perfecting recipes, and practicing technique.

Thanksgiving is nothing if not known for the pièce de résistance of all holiday desserts— the classic pie. Whether you prefer the usual crowd pleasers—like traditional apple, blueberry, or pumpkin—or fun fall flavors that are a little more outside the box, Sur La Table has everything you need to bake a complete showstopper that’s sure to make even the most tender turkey jealous.

Shop all the essentials below, and find more holiday favorites—already on Black Friday sale!—here.

5 Thanksgiving Pie Baking Essentials From Sur La Table

Emile Henry Traditional Pie Dish; $39.96 (reg. $44.95)

Made in France just for us, this pie dish has a traditional size, shape and depth that’s great for baking classic pies just like grandma used to make. This Sur La Table exclusive is the same color on the inside and out, making it a unique piece of Emile Henry bakeware that you’ll be able to pass on to future generations.”

Sur La Table Pie Server; $14.00

”With one serrated edge and a rounded spade shape, this stainless steel server is perfectly designed for serving delicious slices of pie. It features a durable handle and cleans up easily in the dishwasher.”

Le Creuset Pie Bird; $13.00

”Let these colorful birds help you make crisp, delicious pies. Pie birds let steam escape from your pie without bursting the crust or spilling over into your oven. Simply place this oven-safe ceramic bird in center of pie and surround with filling and pastry top. Arches on the bottom redirect excess moisture to keep the bottom crust from becoming soggy.”

Harvest Pie Plungers; $10.50

”Use our exclusive pie plungers to create fall pies that truly stun. Simply put the plunger over your dough, press the plunger down, and you’ll have dough in an autumn-inspired detailed shape to decorate your pie with. They’re also great for making cookies. Set includes four pie plungers in the shapes of a leaf, a leaf with twig, a pumpkin and an acorn.”

Ceramic Pie Weights; $12.00

”Pie weights work better to keep pastry from shrinking or forming bubbles while it bakes. These ceramic weights do a superb job of holding the pastry shell in place during baking and cooling. Washable, reusable weights are conveniently packaged in an attractive glass storage jar.”

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5 French Paintings from the Getty Collection Christie's Auction

As a philanthropist and patron of the arts, Ann Getty was known for her discerning eye and eclectic taste in style, decor, jewels, and of course, fine art. More than just the wife of Gordon Getty (son of J. Paul Getty, and heir to the oil tycoon’s fortune) Ann championed global causes and served on the boards of some of the most illustrious institutions—including the Metropolitan Museum, The New York Public Library, and the San Francisco Opera (among others) throughout her life, until her death in 2020.

This fall, Christie’s will be auctioning off nearly 1500 of the most notable pieces from the Ann and Gordon Getty Collection—including rare gems, global artifacts, decorative objets d’art, and personal elements of style—all available for bidding online or at Christie’s New York auction house. Featuring a veritable treasure trove of masterpieces from one of the most magnificent private collections in the world, each auction focuses on a specific category, from Chinese textiles and iconography to jewels and tableware to 19th and 20th century artwork.

From Matisse to Manet, Degas to Renoir, take in five oeuvres from these French masters below—highlights from the Gettys’ personal collection, which also includes authenticated originals from notable Anglo artists like Mary Cassatt and John Singer Sargeant.

Browse the full collection and bid HERE.

The Ann & Gordon Getty Collection
New York & Online, October 10-25 2022

LOT #129
HENRI MATISSE (1869-1954)

Paysage avec cyprès et oliviers aux environs de Nice”
Painted in Nice circa 1918
Est. $150,000 - 250,000 USD

LOT #140
PIERRE-AUGUSTE RENOIR (1841-1919)

La place Pigalle”
Oil on Canvas (circa 1880)
Est. $500,000 - 700,000 USD

LOT #181
EDGAR DEGAS (1834-1917)

”Femme mettant son corset”
Pastel on Paper (circa 1883)
Est. $500,000 - 700,000 USD

LOT #120
JAMES (JACQUES) JOSEPH TISSOT (1836-1902)
Kathleen Newton at the Piano”
Oil on Canvas (circa 1880-1881)
Est. $500,000- 800,000 USD

LOT #147
JEAN-LÉON GÉRÔME (1824-1904)
Sortie du bal masqué”
Oil on Panel
Est. $200,000 - 300,000 USD)

5 French Handbags From the Ann Getty Collection Christie's Auction

As a philanthropist and patron of the arts, Ann Getty was known for her discerning eye and eclectic taste in style, decor, jewels, and of course, fine art. More than just the wife of Gordon Getty (son of J. Paul Getty, and heir to the oil tycoon’s fortune) Ann championed global causes and served on the boards of some of the most illustrious institutions—including the Metropolitan Museum, The New York Public Library, and the San Francisco Opera (among others) throughout her life, until her death in 2020.

This fall, Christie’s will be auctioning off nearly 1500 of the most notable pieces from the Ann and Gordon Getty Collection—including rare gems, global artifacts, decorative objets d’art, and personal elements of style—all available for bidding online or at Christie’s New York auction house. Featuring a veritable treasure trove of masterpieces from one of the most magnificent private collections in the world, each auction focuses on a specific category, from Chinese textiles and iconography to jewels and tableware to 19th and 20th century artwork.

Behold five handbags below from Ann’s personal collection—which includes a whopping 23 Hérmes sacs-a-main (eight Birkins and three Kellys), six Dior clutches and saddle bags, and four from Oscar de la Renta—which you can soon add to your own closet with the wave of your (virtual) paddle.

Browse the full collection and bid HERE.

The Ann & Gordon Getty Collection
New York & Online, October 10-25 2022

LOT #708
VERT FONCÉ POROSUS CROCODILE BIRKIN 35 WITH GOLD HARDWARE
HERMÈS, 2005 (Est. $8,000-10,000 USD)

LOT #707
LIMITED EDITION CALFSKIN LEATHER & EMBROIDERED TOILE DE JOUY TROPICALIA MEDIUM SADDLE BAG WITH BLACK HARDWARE
DIOR, 2019 (Est. $1,000-2,000)

LOT #778
MATTE DUSTY ROSE ALLIGATOR JUMBO DOUBLE FLAP BAG WITH PERMABRASS HARDWARE
CHANEL, 2014 (Est. $8,000-10,000 USD)

LOT #765
OSTRICH CLUTCH WITH GOLD HARDWARE
CELINE, CIRCA 1980 (Est. $500-700 USD)

LOT #798
PAIR OF CLASSIC MONOGRAM CANVAS SUITCASES
LOUIS VUITTON (Est. $1,000-2,000 USD)

Celebrating Francophone Films at the Annual American-French Film Festival

As always, I loved celebrating opening night of The American-French Film Festival (TAFF)—a Francophone film fête and festival that I look forward to every year—which is is especially near and dear to mon coeur, as a filmmaker myself.

Formerly known as COLCOA, the annual event kicked off at the Directors Guild of America in Hollywood, with a bustling buffet—featuring light bites from local French eateries, teeny tiny coupes of Champagne, and goodies from sponsor L’Oreal Paris, followed by a screening of Jean-Jacques Annaud’s fêted film ‘Notre Dame Brûle’ (Notre Dame on Fire’) about the tragic blaze that nearly destroyed the iconic and beloved Parisian église and global landmark in April of 2019.

The festival always includes a packed lineup of cinematic achievements from filmmakers, who not only hail from France, but across all Francophone geographic regions (including Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire, among others) to shine a spotlight on complex cultural issues, while also celebrating the diverse history and unique tapestry of of French speaking cultures around the world.

Why 'You've Got Mail' is the Autumn Inspiration We Need Right Now

Why 'You've Got Mail' is the Autumn Inspiration We Need Right Now

“Don’t you just love New York in the fall?”

I often feel compelled to express my annual affection for the autumnal rom-com classic, You’ve Got Mail, and present a case for why it’s one of the most charming love letters to New York City the cinema has ever seen. Or at the very least, a masterpiece of 90s nostalgia.

Why 'You've Got Mail' is the Autumn Inspiration We Need Right Now

So why do I feel the need to defend its very existence? Because it’s one of those movies that just would never be made today. Having worked in film and TV development in Hollywood for many years—a job that requires reading piles of scripts, submitted with pride by hopeful scribes everywhere, and then ripping apart their life’s work in a matter of hours—I can admit that this adorable story would be considered problematic in many ways by the current standards of the industry—and our social climate in general.

So since the late, great Nora Ephron is no longer here to discuss her evergreen autumnal classic and the ultimate feel good flick of 1997, I volunteer as tribute.

Let’s address the problematic parts first, so we can move on to the good stuff.

“That caviar is a garnish!”

“That caviar is a garnish!”

1. It’s not a feminist story. In any way.

Women’s rights went through a bit of a latency period between the bra burning 1970s and today’s common era. Living in the pre-social media 90s meant that for many, ignorance was bliss. Things seemed fine on the surface. Those pesky, highly publicized sexual harassment scandals were conveniently brushed aside as soon as the next one cropped up, women seemed equally comfortable at home or at the office, everybody seemed satisfied with their salaries, privilege and diversity weren’t much talked about in Hollywood elite circles—more on that in a minute—because no one had the ability to vocalize such injustices in a public forum quite the way we do today, and ironically, this is a movie about the very technology that would change all of that.

So yes, Kathleen Kelly was allowed to fall in love with a man who savagely destroyed her livelihood and her late mother’s legacy; who essentially ghosted her on their first date by not revealing himself as her online paramour, and then purposely strung her along via some (really charming) instant messaging. Yes, in hindsight, it might have been more satisfying for her to be the one to unmask his identity first and then string him along as an act of revenge for obliterating The Shop Around the Corner, but we all know she’s just too darn nice for that! Also it’s just a movie, so let’s move on.

Yes, in the 90s nothing mattered, so we could say things like that.

“I’ll bet you just love that Mr. Darcy.”

I’ll bet you just love that “Mr. Darcy.”

2. Their online meeting is just too coincidental.

Of all the billions of people in the world, what are the odds that your internet pen-pal would turn out to be your real-life nemesis, instead of, say, a 70 year old catfish in Ecuador—or more likely back then, a group of 13 year olds giggling in someone’s basement. The fact that they’re both in fact who they say they are, is a surprisingly modern concept.

“I said we were a goddamn piazza!”

“I said we were a goddamn piazza!”

3. Why is Dave Chappelle the only Black person in New York City?

Enough said. But from a casting standpoint, we can throw Ephron a little bit of credit for having the vision to imagine the (then scandal-free) comedy legend as Joe Fox’s business partner and wingman in one of the unlikeliest—and PG rated—roles of his career.

“We are…an American family.”

“We are…an American family.”

4. Why does Joe’s 90 year old grandfather inexplicably have an eight year old daughter?

Did he adopt Annabelle, Daddy Warbucks style? Is he in the middle of a bitter custody battle? A single father by choice? Is this a statement on ageism? We need answers!

“Ah Rose, that is a great name.”

“Ah, Rose. That is a great name.”

5. “You can do it. Zip zip.”

This is the glib response Joe gives (a then unknown) Sara Ramirez—playing the disgruntled cashier at Zabar’s who won’t accept Kathleen’s credit card after she was too distracted by his presence to read the Cash Only sign, and is subsequently heckled by a bunch of Karens in line behind her. This is a pretty weak attempt—beginning with a cringe-worthy knock knock joke—to give Joe a redeeming moment (or a “Save the Cat” moment as its known in screenwriting lingo) as Kathleen’s would-be knight in shining armor—not to mention, a rather condescending way of speaking to service people. Although I suppose it’s fitting with the arrogant behavior we’ve come to expect at this point in his character arc.

But overall, the implied message here is that being exposed to Kathleen and her compassionate, light-hearted nature melts Joe’s steely, business-minded heart and makes him a better person who stops to smell the daisies, if you will. So we can forgive him for now. Also, a Cash Only line? How 1997!

So, now that we’ve addressed the proverbial elephants in the room, let’s talk about the things that make this movie such a delightful time capsule and an ode to the Autumn in New York that Billie Holliday once sang about.

Hugging! What a novel concept for modern day romance.

Hugging! How refreshingly chaste for a modern day romance.

1. It’s rated PG

When is the last time you watched a movie made entirely for adults that was rated even PG-13? I don’t know about you, but I find the absence of profanity and gratuitous nudity quite adorable.

“My breath catches in my chest as I hear those three little words…You’ve got mail.”

“My breath catches in my chest as I hear those three little words…You’ve got mail.”

2. Dial Up Dialogue

Yes, it’s laughable to go back and remember a time when patience was still a virtue, as we watch Kathleen dial up “the ‘net,” and trigger our Pavlovian responses to those chiming sounds that are forever ingrained in everyone’s nervous systems. But the witty exchanges—”bouquets of sharpened pencils,” anyone?—and Godfather references between Joe and Kathleen are just so charming that it’s easy to forget what a cad he is. Rest in power, AOL.

“You know what always surprised me about Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, is how old they looked.”

“You know what always surprised me about Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, is how old they looked.”

3. Parker Posey

Ok, this is the gift that keeps on giving. Cult classic darling Parker Posey as Joe’s hilariously out of touch, publishing maven girlfriend, Patricia, is just too good. Yes, she’s cynical, jaded, neurotic to the point that she “makes coffee nervous,” and is dependent on sleeping pills. But come on, it’s New York! Who isn’t?

“Standing tall, waving boldly, in the corrupt sands…of commerce.”

“Standing tall, waving boldly, in the corrupt sands…of commerce.”

4. You, Are a Lone Reed.

I didn’t intend for this to be an ode to the supporting characters, but here we are. Greg Kinnear as Kathleen’s lovably egotistical columnist boyfriend is the most hysterical nod to the self-important intellectual West Sider stereotype since Woody Allen’s 1980s hey-dey. He’s verbose. He’s delightfully supercilious. He professes love for his typewriter and romanticizes the notoriously executed Soviet spies Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in historical musings for the Observer. It doesn’t get more on-the-nose than that. Plus, the scene where he flirts shamelessly (and terribly) with a low-budget TV talk show host (played by 90s sitcom fixture Jane Adams) is pure gold.

“No, thank yur.”

“You are what you read.”

“You are…what you read.”

5. The Hair

Meg Ryan’s signature piece-y pixie-shag hybrid is arguably the greatest contender to rival The Rachel for the title of most iconic 90s hairstyle. It went on to be copied by grown women, teenage heartthrobs, and boyband members alike, and will never NOT be adorable.

“I wish I had a river I could skate away on.”

“I wish I had a river I could skate away on.”

6. The Soundtrack

Everything from the Cranberries’ classic ‘Dreams’ as the musical backdrop for the opening montage, to a handful of Harry Nilsson and Roy Orbison ditties, as well as maudlin Joni Mitchell references, to Stevie Wonder’s cheerful ‘Signed Sealed Delivered’ and the occasional Bobby Darin transitional tune, the film compiles a heartwarming array of melodies, leading up to Nilsson’s sentimental rendition of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ to close out Kathleen and Joe’s meeting reveal in the final scene.

7. The Cozy Outfits and Pumpkin Accessories

Everything from Kathleen’s oversized sweaters, midi skirts with tights, and bookish cardigans in neutral heues of oatmeal, taupe, and heather gray, to Kevin’s collection of rusty suede and leather jackets, each piece in this wardrobe is so delightfully autumnal and has the festive warmth of all cozy, pre-holiday style—until, you know, the end when it’s suddenly spring and the daisies and linen ensembles arrive.

Also so many black turtlenecks! It would be a shame not to mention these, as they’re a personal wardrobe favorite of mine—and that of every well dressed east coaster, really. Plus the pumpkin is so perfect as a fall fashion accessory, that it might as well be a purse.

I wonder how much this apartment would go for these days.

I wonder how much this apartment would go for these days.

8. The 90s nostalgia.

Because that’s what we came for, right? Remember when book superstores were once the conglomerate forces to be reckoned with? Joe Fox certainly would have gotten his comeuppance a few years later when Amazon hit the scene like a torpedo, disrupting traditional sales models and leaving a graveyard of brick and mortars in its path—with free shipping to boot.

Better yet, remember going to the movies? Who would have thought that a mere 23 years later, shutting down cinemas would practically become an act of martial law? It’s comforting to look back and remember the days when cartoon concessions sang innocent jingles during the previews— ”You need quiet while the hot dog is singing?!”—and west side brownstone apartments were still affordable and decked out in cottage core florals, overstuffed pillows, and Pottery Barn’s finest.

Is it likely that Kathleen married Joe after the credits finished rolling, divorced him a few years later, and finally got her karmic chunk of the Fox Books fortune? I guess we’ll have to wait for a sequel!

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Blue - Running Out of Time - give us 24

Le Gigot Sleeve | Sitting Pretty in Parisian Fashion

Sitting Pretty in Parisian Fashion

Sitting Pretty in Parisian Fashion

Puffed sleeves have been a fixture in French fashion since—well, the Renaissance, actually. And while we no longer style them with bustles and bonnets, this oversized look has gotten many a modern update over the centuries—reinventing itself throughout different chapters in fashion history and cementing its eternal place in the French girl’s style playbook.

One variation that you may recognize from the days of yore, seeing its heyday in the late 1800s, is the Gigot sleeve—which is puffed from the shoulder to the elbow, and slim through the forearm. You may be surprised to learn that this style was literally named for its resemblance to the shape of a sheep’s hind leg. Etymology aside, the moniker seems quite chic, but then again, everything sounds better in the language of love!

We’ve seen the more contemporary Gigot make its way into pret-a-porter collections of recent years, along with its other puffy cousins. One such descendant of the Gigot family tree is this lacy version from the European casual-chic brand, Parisian Fashion. Fierce and fabulous, this sheer chemise is quite a conversation piece, complete with its attached pussy-bow—a name that makes it clear why the French should always be in charge of naming these things.

Head over to the Shop page to browse other favorites from Parisian Fashion.

Parisian Fashion
Sitting Pretty in Parisian Fashion - Gigot sleeves
Sitting Pretty in Parisian Fashion - Gigot sleeves
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Les Fleurs d'Automne | How to Wear Autumn Florals

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In case you haven’t heard, floral prints are no longer just for spring and summer. Fall florals are definitely their own thing, and the good news is: they’re here to stay.

Meryl Streep’s iconic line as fashion doyenne Miranda Priestley in the 2006 film, ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’

Meryl Streep’s iconic line as fashion doyenne Miranda Priestley in the 2006 film, ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’

Here to make the case is FRNCH—which if you’ve been here for a while, you know is one of my all-time favorite French girl brands.

Consider this your handy how-to guide to wearing the autumnal wardrobe trend that’s surely becoming a perennial staple.

  1. Look for long sleeves.
    Sleeveless and strapless tops pretty much scream “warm weather,” so a long-sleeved top or dress (like this one) will make it clear to everyone around you that you’re aware of what month it is—especially during a year like this one which has made it easy to forget.

  2. Choose a pattern with a dark background.
    While I’m an advocate for wearing whites and light tones all year round, a dark background distinguishes the floral pattern apart from spring and summer territory.

  3. Try a maxi length style.
    A longer skirt will add extra warmth during those cooler months. Give it a try!

  4. Opt for a thick fabric.
    By the same token, a thicker fabric adds texture and warmth to a fall ensemble.

  5. Style shorter hems with black tights and boots.
    There are so many ways style cool weather dresses. Black tights create a monochromatic and elongated silhouette in tandem with your dark floral background which will allow les fleurs to shine, and give you a chance to show off those boots and bottines (booties) which are often hidden under pants.

Click HERE to shop the FRNCH US Fall/Winter 2020 Collection.

And click here and here to read about some of my other FRNCH favorites.

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La Rentrée | The Season of the Fresh Start

Anyone else getting major First Wives Club vibes from this tenue blanche?

Anyone else getting major First Wives Club vibes from this tenue blanche?

There’s something magical about the transition from summer into fall.

It’s a time of fresh starts and new beginnings. It’s symbolic of a new school year, and for me personally, it’s literally the beginning of a new year on the calendar. As you may know, my birthday falls during the last week of August, which is always the week when something in the wind shifts, ever so slightly. It’s still summertime and the end-of-season pool parties are in full swing, but in my world, it’s always marked an intangible turning of the page. These first few weeks of September set the shift into motion, culminating with the first day of l’automne, which officially begins today. In France, this transitional period is called la rentrée.

As we’ve discussed before, the month of August is synonymous with vacation in France. Restaurants and boutiques temporarily shutter for weeks at a time, city dwellers make a bee-line for the countryside and the beach, public transit slows to a drip, and everyone—from shopkeepers to government officials—essentially closes up shop, leaving each other with the cheerful phrase, “À la rentree!”

Meaning, See you in September!

"Bonnes vacances!”

"Bonnes vacances!”

“À la rentrée!”

“À la rentrée!”

As the excitement of summer vacances gives way to the back to school (and back to work) mentality, some feel the post-holiday blues, and some feel invigorated—happy to return to normalcy and ready to begin a new chapter.

Although Europe and America (and most of the world) celebrate the official New Year on January first, I personally never feel a perceptible change when the clock strikes midnight, because the middle of winter never feels like the time for newness—it’s something about the first breeze of coolness in the air, the first few leaves to jump ship from their branches. It’s buying school supplies, shopping for sweaters, and that first whiff of cinnamon and pumpkin spice.

Many cultures and religions, like Judaism, celebrate the New Year during this period—Shanah Tovah to our Jewish amis—and of course, the fashion world celebrates the illustrious release of the September issue—magazine speak for the editorial debut of fall fashion—when beloved designers and couturiers unveil their seasonal Fall/Winter collections and campaigns. It’s the month of Fashion Week—NYFW is underway, and PFW starts today.

As a former fashion editor for NBC, lifestyle writer, and editorial devotee, this period thrills me, and as someone who prefers to look forward, not backwards, I love shifting focus from warm weather holidays to the preparation of the cozy winter ones. I don’t typically mourn seasons, because, as my maman likes to say, there’ll be another one next year. Which is just a more positive way of saying, we’re captive on a carousel of time. Merci, Joni Mitchell.

The concept of the summer holiday is actually rooted in agricultural history, dating back to the year 1231—believe it or not—when Pope Gregory IX closed universities for a month each summer so that students could return home to help their families prepare the crops for the fall harvest. While many Americans tend to think of France and Paris as one and the same, there is a deeply rooted history and tradition in the large rural swaths of the country, known as la campagne, and France is nothing if not deeply devoted to its honoring its people and upholding its traditions.

In celebration of this time of rebirth, if you will, I’ve decided to pay my respects in a symbolic white suit—all Zara, all the time—with a crop for a timely and trendy twist. It’s a perfect transitional ensemble—a sort of “in memoriam” to bid farewell to warmer days, which, at least in Southern California, will still be hanging around for a while—and a first step towards the annual re-introduction of long pants and blazers into the fall wardrobe.

Bienvenue, l’Automne and Happy Pumpkin Spice season to my chic Américanes—which, let’s be honest, is well on its way to becoming an official holiday.

Selfie Shade Match - trèStiQue
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