French Gifts for Kids | Holiday Gift Guide Day 5: Pour Les Enfants

It goes without saying that the holidays are a magical time for children, and sharing in their festive joy creates memories that can last a lifetime.

From full-sized French playhouses, petite plush toys, Parisian brand-name designer duds, and the cutest cooking sets, to beloved Christmas literary classics, traditional toile patterned bedding accoutrements, and even a grow-with-me crib that converts into a full-sized bed that any adult would envy—Day 5 of the TCA Holiday Gift Guide has the perfect presents for les enfants of all ages.

Whether your favorite little one is a budding ballerina, an aspiring chef, or even a new bébé on the way—there’s something for every munchkin on your shopping list. Scroll the Splurge and Steal categories below, and discover a gaggle of gifts that will have your petit piggie saying oui oui oui all the way home!

French Gifts for Kids | Holiday Gift Guide Day 5: Pour Les Enfants

LE SPLURGE ($50 and Up)

Le Cafe Kids’ Playhouse; $139
Crate & Barrel Kids
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”A tasty pick for growing foodies, this restaurant playhouse features two sets of signs, so it converts into a BBQ joint or a coffee shop in a snap. With menus, illustrated ads and signs, you can consider it fully stocked.”

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Little Dove Children’s Play Tent; $69.99
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
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”Designed to fit in with any decor and surround, this fun and fabulous teepee play tent will be a much loved addition to your home. With spacious space inside, your kids will have hours of fun in the loving tepee tent. Designed with window on the side to catch the breeze and tie down doors for easy entry.”

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Christmas Playground Gift Set; $149
Atelier Choux
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”Designed in the style of a Parisian “hotel particulier,” Atelier Choux’s ultra-luxury, signature gift set contains 3 organic cotton, large-format swaddles printed with water based, baby safe inks. Made in France. Featured Prints: Carousel, Hot Air Balloons, Christmas morning Atelier Choux's signature, multi-purpose swaddles are an everyday essential, at home in the nursery and out and about during the day in your diaper bag.”

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Evolur Julienne 5 in 1 Convertible Crib; $420
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
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”Inspired by French Country artisanship, The Julienne converts to a toddler bed with our conversion kit (sold separately) and daybed. Add our wooden bed frame (sold separately) to convert it into a full-size bed. It also features 3 mattress height settings.”

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Unisex Hooded Yellow Rain Jacket; $135
Petit Bateau
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”Since the early 1900s, Petit Bateau has created unique and playful clothing for your minis. With a name inspired by a famous French nursery rhyme, the iconic brand captures the magic of childhood through high quality clothing that is both comfortable and timeless.”

Petite Plume Children’s White Bathrobe; $58
The Tot
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”Made in a luxurious yarn-dyed fabric to prevent fading, the Petite Plume Flannel Robe is brushed for softness, has long sleeves and is accented with red piping. Petite Plume was inspired by the desire to create sophisticated and comfortable sleepwear in the most exquisite cotton available.”

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Lou Botton Turquoise Shoe; $60
Patt’Touch
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”Crafted in a French family atelier from high-quality and ultra-soft leather, these cute shoes are perfect for special occasions. Your mini's precious toes will love the flexible, comfortable soles and you'll love how they keep their feet cool and dry.”

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Beige Onesie with Fur; $210
Tartine et Chocolat
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Cozy children’s winter snowsuit with removable furry collar trim, and attachable mittens and feet. Size range from ages 1 month to 2 years.

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Personalized Children’s Paris Decor; $135.99 (Set of 4)
Nursery Rembrandts
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Set of 4 adorable Paris prints for your Paris themed bedroom or nursery, including: Paris Flower Shop, inspired by Olivier Pirou Fleurs in Paris; Parisian Cafe, inspired by La Maison Rose in Montmartre; French Patisserie, inspired by Laudree; Paris, and The Eiffel Tower with cherry blossom trees.”

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Louelle Apron Bib Gift Set; $100
Maisonette
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”Combining a pastel palette, light linen fabrics and simple silhouettes, Australian brand Louelle. aims to create everyday luxury for children. Their sleeping bags, bedding and baby accessories are designed to create a soft, calm environment that both you and your little one will cherish.”

Soft Top Bassinet; $320
Baudou
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Made in France, this woven wicker basket features white cotton, trimmed with embroidery and removable cover. Suitable for infants aged 0 to 3 months.

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LE STEAL ($50 and Under)

Madeline’s Christmas Activity Book; $7.99
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Now children can celebrate a Parisian Christmas with Madeline, Pepito and all their friends. In this activity book, children will have hours of fun using the seventy-five reusable stickers to fly the twelve little girls on magic carpets over the banks of the Seine, decorate a Christmas tree, or tuck the girls into bed in the old house in Paris. Sixteen pages of Christmas crafts and games, including an ornament to make, and the entire text of Madeline's Christmas are included. When children are done, they can simply put the stickers back on their sheets to play with Madeline and her friends year round.”

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Magnetic Kids’ French Poetry Kit; $18.95
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
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”Created with the help of native speakers, the Kids' French Kit features word tiles that are printed on two sides and stick both ways, with a French word on one side and its English translation on the other. For ages 5 and up.”

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Kids’ French Tea Set; $25.99
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
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”This 39 Pieces pretend play tea set complete Service for 4 including 1 Teapot, 4 Teacups Filled with Hot Swirled Coffee, 4 Saucer, 4 Coasters, 1 Tray, 2 spoons, 2 forks, 3 Tiered Cake Stand, 1 Pastry Server, 14 Pastry Deserts, macarons, cupcakes, and cake. 100% SAFE FOR KIDS, each bright, colorful pieces are certified non-toxic and BPA-free.”

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Invitation to Ballet (Book, Doll & Tutu Set); $39.00
The MET Store
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”Budding ballerinas can immerse themselves in the graceful world of the ballet with a collection inspired by Edgar Degas, who found a ready source of artistic inspiration in the ballet.”

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In the French Kitchen with Kids; Mardi Michels; $24.95
Amazon (Free Prime Shipping)
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”In her first book, Mardi shows that French food doesn't have to be complicated. The result is an elegant, approachable cookbook featuring recipes tailored for young chefs and their families. From savory dishes like Omelettes, Croque-Monsieurs or Steak Frites to sweet treats like Profiteroles, Madeleines or Crème Brûlée, readers will find many French classics here. With helpful timetables to plan out baking projects, as well as tips on how to get kids involved in the cooking, this book breaks down any preconceived notion that French cuisine is too fancy or too difficult for kids to master. With Mardi's warm, empowering and encouraging instructions, kids of all ages will be begging to help out in the kitchen every day of the week.”

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Degas Dancer Doll, “Marie;” $20
The MET Store
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”Our charming little cotton ballerina dressed in a tulle tutu is named for Marie van Goethem, the 14-year-old subject of the famous Little Dancer sculpture in The Met collection by Edgar Degas (French, 1834–1917). Degas's interest in ballet dancers intensified in the 1870s, and eventually he produced approximately 1,500 works on the subject.”

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Pierre the French Dog; $32
Mon Ami
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”Mon Ami strives to bring world class design and outstanding quality at the best possible price. Their whimsical heirloom dolls, soft lovable toys and home decor are sure to bring joy to you and your mini for years to come.”

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Deluxe Macaron Sidewalk Chalk Set; $45
TWEE
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Une, Deux, TWEE, Quatre, Cinq, Sweets! The perfect combination of oh so french and fancy! This set includes twelve sidewalk chalk macarons that come in a box. Two of every color - pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple - with a tiny touch of sparkle added for good measure!”

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Patisserie Toy Baking Set; $50
Anthropologie
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”A perfect gift for the holidays, this baking set features an assortment of make-believe pantry staples, making it a charming addition to your little one's playroom or nursery.”

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Petit Botaniste; $31.99
Maisonette
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”The Petit Botaniste Gift Set for infants and toddlers features an attractive soft fabric stuffed bear doll made of cotton blended fabrics and soft covered multi-colored crinkle book, useful for visual, tactile, and auditory sensations.”

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Pink French Toile Crib Bedding; $19.99
Sweet JoJo
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”Sweet Jojo Designs mini crib sheets are designed for smaller size cribs, play yards, and portable cribs. Made with soft and cozy fabrics in exclusive patterns and colors, Sweet Jojo Designs mini crib sheets add a stylish look to your space saving nursery.”

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Edmond the Sheep; $20
Tartine et Chocolate
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Soft plush toy sheep named Edmond, perfect for cozy baby cuddles. Delivered in a lovely Tartine et Chocolat boutique box.

*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!

Small Business French Gifts | Holiday Gift Guide: Day 4

If there’s one thing that Covid has taught us, it’s that small businesses need our support right now, more than ever. And if there’s one thing that the French have taught us—well, they’ve taught us many things, but go with me on this—it’s that one of the many pleasures in life can be found in the discovery of unique treasures.

While glamour and luxury are part of the fabric of French culture, pure materialism is not. Value is placed on the joy and enhancement that an item brings into our lives—whether a classic Hermès scarf, a fierce shade of Yves Saint Laurent rouge à lèvres, or a Limoges dinner set that’s been passed down through generations. Flea markets are abundant throughout France—most notably the famous Marche aux Puces, more commonly known as “Les Puces,“ of Paris—and are rife with treasured heirlooms, historical artifacts, and a bounty of undiscovered gems.

These special pieces in today’s Small Business Holiday Gift Guide—acquired by private collectors and small businesses—have been carefully sourced or created, lovingly cared for, and placed on the market to find new homes. Many are one-of-a-kind, and imported directly from France, so be sure to stake your claim quickly!

Small Business French Gifts | Holiday Gift Guide: Jour 4

LE SPLURGE ($70 and up)

French 10 Piece Sevres Child’s Tea Set; Ye Old Antiques Store, $99
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Gorgeous Child's French Ten Piece Tea Set with under plate. The set is blue and pink trimmed with lots of gold. This set is a SEVRES reproduction.”

Watercolors, Rooftops of Paris; Kevin Bailly, $248 each
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Find the atmosphere of the rooftops of Paris, and the magic of this capital in watercolor. Preparatory drawing for ink carried out on site in Paris by a French artist.

Antibes Gold Statement Chain; Hail the Maison, $160
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”At Hail The Maison we take old-world luxury and reimagine it. We live and breathe vintage, so we are proud to honor the luxury houses by giving their treasures a second life. We are not associated with Chanel, but have altered a vintage item to stand as its own incredible creation.”

Authentic Hermès Les Cavaliers d'Or Silk Scarf; Mainely Scarves, $414
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”Excellent condition vintage high end luxury Hermès scarf from 1975. Box with acid free paper included.”

Vintage French Monogrammed Linen Sheets; Chase Vintage, $145
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”Discovered in a Provence Flea Market, these are each absolutely beautiful, extraordinary hand embroidered and hand hemmed with GR monogram. Never used condition, fantastic example of French linen. We wish we had more, these fly off our shelves!”

Authentic French Laguiole Knives (Set of 6); Tariette, $166
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”This Laguiole range emphasises quality and value, bringing this famous style to kitchens and dining rooms across the world. These knives are the pinnacles of sturdy affordability and feature serrated blades with an eye-catching shape.”

Vintage Pierre Balmain Cufflinks; DejaVu Gouda, $108
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Keep shirt sleeves cuffed in style with a set of authentic vintage designer Balmain cufflinks.

Vintage French Limoges Cheese Plates (Set of 6); A French Kitchen, $150
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Six hand painted vintage Limoges cheese plates, perfect for apéro with friends.

LE STEAL ($50 and Under)

Vintage French Literary Classics; Pretty French Attic, $48.20
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”10 Larousse books from the 1930s, in lilac/purple tones. Small works of classical literature, good old condition with signs of age. An Ideal set to show off in a shabby chic style decoration.”

Paris Letters, 3 Pack; Janice MacLeod Design Studio, $45
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
Receive a personalized letter from Paris by best selling author Janice MacLeod. In the last year of the Paris Letters series, you'll get 3 personalized letters (with your name) on a hand-painted illustration copy in one package, sent flat for framing. PARIS LETTERS by Janice MacLeod is a best selling travel memoir book based on these letters.

Blue and White Chinoiserie Vessel Candles (Set of 2); The French Bee, $40
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”Blend of jasmine and rose on an undertone of cedarwood and patchouli with a strong background of moss. Our luxury candles are individually hand poured with the utmost attention to detail and care.”

Éloise & Arabelle Decorative Embellished Pointe Shoes; She’s Parisian, $28 each
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”Beautiful hand-embellished pointe shoe, part of our Nutcracker collection. Limited edition packaging. For decorative use only.”

Vintage Mid Century Le Blanc Cufflinks, TimeTrek Vintage, $14.95
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”This is a pair of mid century gold tone cuff links with the LeBlanc Paris Instruments logo. LeBlanc is an old French clarinet manufacturing company dating from the 1860's. Gift box included.”

Tissage de l'Ouest Vintage Print Tea Towel; Clementine Boutique CA, $21.30
CLICK HERE TO SHOP
”Tissage de L'Ouest has been crafting home linens since 1850 with respect for quality, tradition and modernity. Collect their prints that celebrate French culture with a touch of humour. A daily dose of happiness to wipe the dishes with a smile. This Tissage de l'Ouest Dishtowel that celebrates French culture with Tricolore stripes and bold design.”

*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!

French Gifts For the Artist | Holiday Gift Guide: Day 2

If Paris were a person, “art” would be its middle name. As the birthplace of some of the most creative souls—and hands—to ever hold a paintbrush or mold a piece of clay, France has arguably the richest catalogue of artistic history in the world, and houses some of the most celebrated opuses known to humankind.

From Degas and his impressionist renderings of 19th century ballerinas, to Monet’s waterlilies and Rodin’s immortal Thinker, there’s so much to explore in Day 2 of the official TCA Holiday Gift Guide. With a range of price points, arranged in Splurge and Steal categories, you’ll find the perfect gifts for those who seek to study and appreciate the fruits of these artists’ labor—or for anyone who relishes artistic expression.

CLICK THE LINKS BELOW EACH ITEM TO SHOP.

Holiday Gift Guide: Jour 2 | For the Artist

LE SPLURGE ($50 and up)

French Paintings in the Met; By Katharine Baetjer; $88.32

“Cataloguing The Met's remarkable collection of 18th-century French paintings in the context of the powerful institutions that governed the visual arts of the time—the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture, the Académie de France à Rome, and the Paris Salon—this book encompasses 126 stunning examples of work by 50 leading artists of the period, including François Boucher, Jean Siméon Chardin, Jacques Louis David, François Gérard, Antoine Watteau, and many more.”

French Paintings in the Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Adam Sculpture, Rodin; $495
”The Museum's Adam was cast in bronze about 1910 from Auguste Rodin's (French, 1840–1917) original 1880 model. Based on this work, our reduced-scale reproduction was created with a combination of three-dimensional imaging and traditional sculpture techniques.”

Rodin: Adam Sculpture

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The Louvre: All the Paintings; $75
”The Louvre is the world's most visited art museum, with 8.5 million visitors annually, and houses the most celebrated and important paintings of all time. For the first time ever, Louvre: All the Paintings collects all 3,022 paintings currently on display in the permanent collection in one beautifully curated volume. Organized and divided into the four main painting collections of the museum—the Italian, Northern, Spanish, and the French schools—the paintings are presented chronologically by artist's years of birth. Four hundred of the most iconic and significant paintings are illuminated with discussions by art historians Anja Grebe and Vincent Pomarède.”

The Louvre: All the Paintings

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Seated Torso of a Woman; $375
”An original sculpture by Paul Wayland Bartlett (American, 1865–1925) served as the model for this reproduction. Born in the U.S. and educated in Paris, Bartlett worked as an assistant to Auguste Rodin before establishing his own studio. He created major works of public art, with the centerpiece of his career being his Equestrian Statue of Lafayette, which was presented to France as a reciprocal gift for Bartholdi’s Statue of Liberty.”

Seated Torso of a Woman Sculpture

Click here to discover more famous French sculptures for your private collection.

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Degas: A Passion for Perfection, By Jane Munro; $50
”Edgar Degas’s (1834–1917) relentless experimentation with technical procedures is a hallmark of his lifelong desire to learn. The numerous iterations of compositions and poses suggest an intense self-discipline, as well as a refusal to accept any creative solution as definitive or finite. Published in the centenary year of the artist’s death, this book presents an exceptional array of Degas’s work, including paintings, drawings, pastels, etchings, monotypes, counter proofs, and sculpture, with approximately sixty key works from private and public collections in Europe and the United States.”

Degas: A Passion for Perfection

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The Monet Cookbook: Recipes from Giverny; By Florence Gentner

“This beautiful book presents 60 of Claude Monet's (French, 1840–1926) original recipes alongside glorious reproductions of his paintings, scenes from his life in Giverny, and stunning photographs. It is well known that Monet was a gourmand as well as an artistic genius. His culinary journals are filled with detailed recipes and notes about what he ate and with whom he shared his meals.”

The Monet Cookbook: Recipes from Giverny

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Le Steal ($30 and under)

Monet Waterlilies Sketchbook; $15
”Unleash your inner artist with this sketchbook featuring Claude Monet's (French, 1840–1926) beloved Water Lilies. The painting, now in The Met collection, one of four water lily pictures that Monet finished, signed, and sold in 1919. Today, his water lily paintings are among the most recognized and adored works of art in the world.”

Monet: Water Lilies Sketchbook

Can’t get enough of Monsieur Monet? Click here to learn more about Giverny and plan a day trip on your next visit to Paris.

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Floral Impressions Face Masks; $25 (Set of 2)
”This is not an FDA-approved product. This product makes no claims of antimicrobial protection, antiviral protection, particulate filtration, or infection prevention or reduction. This product is not intended for use in a medical setting.”

Floral Impressions Face Mask Set

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Degas Dancer Coasters; $15
”Artist Edgar Degas (French, 1834–1917) found a ready source of inspiration in the ballet dancers of the Paris Opéra, a subject he returned to throughout his career. Our cork-backed coasters showcase details from four of his works in The Met collection: The Dance Class, 1874; Dancers Practicing at the Barre, 1877; Dancer, ca. 1880; and Dancers, Pink and Green, ca. 1890.”

Degas Dancer Coasters

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The Kiss, Rodin Mini Sculpture; $28
”Like his famous The Thinker, The Kiss is taken from The Gates of Hell, Auguste Rodin's (French, 1840–1917) magnum opus. It was originally based on the figures Paolo and Francesca from Dante's Inferno, who were banished to Hell for eternity because they kissed after Francesca had married Paolo's brother. Sensual but also radiating a deep and sincere love, The Kiss, recalled by this resin mini sculpture, has remained one of Rodin’s most popular works to this day.”

Rodin The Kiss Mini Sculpture

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Degas: Painter of Ballerinas; $19.95
”Through Edgar Degas's (French, 1834–1917) beloved paintings, drawings, and sculptures, Susan Goldman Rubin conveys the wonder and excitement of the ballet world. Degas is one of the most celebrated painters of the impressionist movement, and his ballerina paintings are among the most favorite of his fans. In his artwork, Degas captures every moment, from the relentless hours of practice to the glamour of appearing on stage, revealing a dancer's journey from novice to prima ballerina. Observing young students, Degas drew their poses again and again, determined to achieve perfection. The book includes a brief biography of his life, endnotes, bibliography, where to see his paintings, and an index.”

Degas: Painter of Ballerinas

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French Impressionist Gardens Notecards; $25
”The emergence of the Impressionist movement in France during the late 19th century coincided with a significant transformation to the physical landscape of Paris and its surroundings, as a revolution in the style and nature of public parks took place and a renewed interest in horticulture and gardening emerged. Collected here are 36 notecards showcasing 12 works by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Georges Seurat, Auguste Renoir, and more, all from The Met collection.”

French Impressionist Gardens Notecards

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Other articles you might enjoy:

LES JARDINS | MONET, WATERLILIES & THE HUNTINGTON GARDENS

NYC GUIDE: BEST FRENCH DINING & TAKEOUT

LE DECOR | 5 FRENCH SCULPTURES FOR YOUR HOME

NÖEL | 5 FRENCH HOLIDAY ORNAMENTS FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE

BOOK CLUB | 5 FRENCH HOLIDAY READS FOR DECEMBER 2020

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

French Gifts For the Chanel Lover | Holiday Gift Guide: Day 1

Today marks the first day of The Chic American first official Holiday gift guide—and to start things off strong, today is all about Coco! Because as well all know, every true Francophile has an inner compass that leads back to the original French Girl couturier and her luxurious wares.

For this year’s shopping guide, think splurge-worthy skincare and fragrance, dreamy “It” bags, and delicate pearl-studded frames. From gotta-have-it Stocking Stuffers (read: $55 and under) like the perfect purse-sized Crème de Main and classic Chanel No. 5 bar soap and deodorant—yes, your underarms can now smell like Marilyn Monroe!—there’s something for every Chanel lover on your list.

Shop all of the items using the link below, or head over to the TCA Like to Know It SHOP page for quick, one-click purchasing.

Holiday Gift Guide: Jour 1 | For the Chanel Lover

Shop NORDSTROM and make merry with makeup, skin care and fragrance presents for every budget, from stocking stuffers to luxury gifts. FREE Shipping, FREE Returns, plus Contactless Curbside Pickup near you.

LE SPLURGE

1. Round Sunglasses; $780
Metal & Imitation Pearls. Pink Gold. Lenses: Beige, Gradient
2. Drawstring Bag; $3,700
Grained Lambskin, Smooth Lambskin & Gold-Tone Metal Beige
3. Coco Brush Bracelet; $4,200
Quilted motif, 18K yellow gold
4. Gabrielle Small Hobo Bag; $4,100
Aged Calfskin, Smooth Calfskin, Gold-Tone, Silver-Tone & Ruthenium-Finish Metal

LE MUST HAVE

1. No. 5 The Hair Mist; $65
2. Hydra Beauty Mask de Nuit; $65
3. Coco Mademoiselle Twist and Spray; $110
4. Exclusif Chanel 1957 Eau de Parfum; $350

LE GIFT SET

1. Sublimage Ultimate Indulgence; $372
2. Coco Mademoiselle Twist & Spray; $172
3. Rouge Allure Ink Fusion; $115

LE STOCKING STUFFER ($55 and Under)

1. La Créme Main; $50
2. Le Vernis Nail Color, Chaine D’or; $28
3. Rouge Coco Lip Balm; $38
4. Le Blanc Rosy Light Drops; $50
5. No. 5 Bath Soap; $26
6. Mademoiselle Body Lotion; $55
7. Retractable Foundation Brush #103; $50
8. No. 5 Deodorant; $50
9. Coco Noir Moisturizing Lotion; $55

*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!

Les Ongles | 5 Holiday Nail Colors from Orly

Stepping out for the holidays might lack a little bit of its usual luster this year, but that doesn’t mean your nails can’t shine on!

Take advantage of the glittery hues of the season with a manicure that’s sure to steal the show. If a salon mani isn’t in the cards right now, these five shades of sparkle make for an easy DIY that’s sure to last long after the ball drops on New Year’s Eve.

Holiday Hint: They also make great stocking stuffers!

5 Holiday Nail Colors from Orly

Halo

$9.50; Shop HERE

Shine

$9.50; Shop HERE

Gilded Glow

$9.50; Shop HERE

Ingenue

$9.50; Shop HERE

Shine on Crazy Diamond

$9.50, Shop HERE

*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!

Book Club | 5 French Holiday Reads for December 2020

Bonjour December! The holiday season is officially underway, the chestnuts are roasting on a proverbial open fire, and it’s the first weekend of the month—which means it’s time for a new round of French Book Club favorites.

Few things in the world are more beautiful than Christmas in Paris, and since it’s safe to assume that many of us won’t be seeing La Tour Eiffel under a blanket of niege this year, let’s bring the French spirit of Nöel to us, shall we?

From fictional holiday expat romances, a wartime tale of passion and human resilience, and an anthology of classic winter stories by acclaimed French literary luminaries, to a film critic’s 2008 memoir chronicling the daunting task of preparing a holiday banquet for his new bride’s large extended French family—‘tis the season for some holiday happiness.

Click each of the titles below to shop, and take a look back on last month’s picks here.

Book Club | 5 French Holiday Reads for December 2020

Last Christmas in Paris

By Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
Historical Fiction

“An unforgettably romantic novel that spans four Christmases (1914-1918), Last Christmas in Paris explores the ruins of war, the strength of love, and the enduring hope of the Christmas season.

August 1914. England is at war. As Evie Elliott watches her brother, Will, and his best friend, Thomas Harding, depart for the front, she believes—as everyone does—that it will be over by Christmas, when the trio plan to celebrate the holiday among the romantic cafes of Paris. But as history tells us, it all happened so differently…”

A Very French Christmas:

The Greatest French Holiday Stories of All Time

By Various
Anthology

“This collection brings together the best French Christmas stories of all time in an elegant and vibrant volume featuring classics by Guy de Maupassant and Alphonse Daudet, plus stories by the esteemed twentieth century author Irène Némirovsky and contemporary writers Dominique Fabre and Jean-Philippe Blondel.

With a holiday spirit conveyed through sparkling Paris streets, opulent feasts, wandering orphans, kindly monks, homesick soldiers, oysters, ham, bonbons, flickering desire, and more than a little wine, this collection encapsulates Noël and proves that the French have mastered Christmas. This is Christmas à la française―delicious, intense and unexpected―proving that nobody does Christmas like the French.”

Christmas in Paris

By Anita Hughes
Fiction

“Isabel Lawson is standing on the balcony of her suite at the Hôtel de Crillon as she gazes at the twinkling lights of the Champs-Élysées and wonders if she’s made a terrible mistake. She was supposed to be visiting the Christmas tree in the Place de la Concorde, and eating escargots and macarons with her new husband on their honeymoon. But a week before the wedding, she called it off.

When Neil suggested she use their honeymoon tickets, she thought it would give her a chance to clear her head. That is, until she locks herself out on the balcony in the middle of winter. Thankfully, her neighbor, Alec, a French children’s book illustrator, comes to her rescue. He, too, is nursing a broken heart at the Crillon over the holidays. With Alec by her side, she begins to enjoy Paris at Christmas. But after a chance encounter with a fortune-teller and a close call with a taxi, she starts to question everything she thought was important.”

Immoveable Feast: A Paris Christmas

By John Baxter
Memoir

“A witty cultural and culinary education, Immoveable Feast is the charming, funny, and improbable tale of how a man who was raised on white bread—and didn't speak a word of French—unexpectedly ended up with the sacred duty of preparing the annual Christmas dinner for a venerable Parisian family.

Ernest Hemingway called Paris "a moveable feast"—a city ready to embrace you at any time in life. For Los Angeles–based film critic John Baxter, that moment came when he fell in love with a French woman and impulsively moved to Paris to marry her. As a test of his love, his skeptical in-laws charged him with cooking the next Christmas banquet—for eighteen people in their ancestral country home. Baxter's memoir of his yearlong quest takes readers along his misadventures and delicious triumphs as he visits the farthest corners of France in search of the country's best recipes and ingredients. Irresistible and fascinating, Immoveable Feast is a warmhearted tale of good food, romance, family, and the Christmas spirit, Parisian style.”

One Christmas in Paris

By Mandy Baggot
Fiction

“Ava and her best friend Debs arrive in Paris just as the snow starts to fall. The Eiffel Tower glitters gold and the scent of spiced wine is all around, but all Ava can think about is Leo, her no-good, cheating ex.

Debs is on a mission to make Ava smile again, and as they tour the Christmas markets, watch lamplight glittering on the river Seine, and eat their body weight in pain-au-chocolat, Ava remembers there’s more to life than men... until they cross paths with handsome, mysterious photographer Julien with his French accent and hazelnut eyes that seem to see right inside her.

Ava can’t ignore the intense chemistry between them, but her fingers have been burned before and she can’t forget it, especially when her ex, Leo, starts texting again. Can Ava really trust Julien – and what exactly is his secret?”

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