Bon jour! Every year I travel to Paris for two design shows—Deco Off and Maison Et Objet. It’s the most inspiring way to start off the new year! The beauty, design, fashion, culture…it’s sublime.
I like to stay in the 6th Arrondissement for several reasons: there are so many chic boutique hotels, Deco Off runs throughout the cobblestone streets of the 6th, and it’s the closest to feeling like you actually live in Paris. Deco Off is the name given to the various furniture and fabric showrooms that show their newest product offerings. Fabric lampshades line the streets and set the tone.
We always make sure to have a balance of culture, work, food, and, of course, shopping!
Flamant is one of my favorite home furnishings in Paris. Please stop in Etoile or look online at www.EtoileHome.com to check out some of the interesting Flamant pieces that we carry.
Le Bon Marche is the most amazing department store in the world. Owned by LVMH, the store curates the finest and most unique assortment. And there is always something interesting going on at "Le Bon". The beautiful building usually also hosts an art exhibit. What could be better than shopping the latest fashions while submerged into art?!?
The Hermes boutique in the 6th is also a must-see! In keeping with the company's proud reverence for the elegance of the past, architect Denis Montel and RDAI agency maintained the spirit of the historic landmark's Art Deco interior, while bringing an innovative and whimsical approach to the signature Hermès style.
So many cute cafes in the 6th to stop for lunch! For me, it's usually a frisée salad, a glass of Sancerre, and, of course, frites.
The newly opened Galerie Dior is NOT to be missed. This permanent exhibit shows the House of Dior throughout the years.
Be sure to stop into the newly redesigned Dior flagship at 30 Avenue Montaigne. Genius architect Peter Marino reimagined this space (again) and it is sublime! (Fun fact: Christian Dior was inspired by a star. On the way to a meeting about starting his fashion house, he leaned over and picked up the object that had nearly made him fall over: it was a star, the one that was to propel him into the upper echelons of haute couture and luxury, his evening star indicating the path to follow.)
How does one describe this beautiful color!?!
And you might even find something to bring home…
Then head up to Crimson Cashmere. Crimson has been providing luxurious cashmere sweaters and clothing to in-the-know Parisians for over 25 years. Linda Wright, a former model, designer and fashion guru, has quite an eye. I could have sat and talked to her all day!
Lunch at Lou Lou is always a must on our trip to Paris. I call it a "pinch-me" moment when I am eating the most delicious truffle pasta while overlooking Le Louvre. And the people-watching is fabulous!
Evenings in Paris!
Evenings are always picturesque in the City of Light. Some of our favorite restaurants include Gigi, Hotel Costes, Chez Julian, La Societe, Monsieur Bleu, and Le Recamier for the best soufflé.
And we always hit Paul Serpette to hunt for the most amazing vintage and antique pieces. I can’t wait to bring back some treasures for Etoile!
And we always hit as many museums that we can for inspiration!
I love some of the smaller museums such as the Picasso Museum.
The Musee Marmottan has the world's largest collection of Monet's painting.
Au revoir Paris! See you next year!