Paris

Pretty in Paris

Everyone says Paris is the Romance city of the world, it truly is beyond spectacular and induces the mind with charm and pure satisfaction. It is effervescent and whimsical, ancient, and inspiring. Every cobblestone street and flurrying road has a story, a history, and evokes the true beauty of Paris.  Having been to Paris seven times, everytime I discover more detail and depth. Although I’ve gazed at the Eiffel tower and seen Le Mona Lisa numerous times, Paris still holds this power over me that I cannot explain. When all the tourism drifts aside there is still the most perfect coffee shop, patisserie, or bottle of red wine and baguette to be enjoyed.

This lifestyle epitomizes Europe, and especially Paris; which is so chic and non-chalant. Although the Parisiens are driven and constantly flitting about ,they still sweat this joie de vivre. Meals are eaten slowly, introduced with a kir, and hours later finished with a bottle of red. They are constantly basking in an effortless love for life and pleasure. If you want to sit in the lap of luxury and travel back centuries ago, visit Le Grand Vefour, and dine in Napoleans actual seat. This restaurant will smother you with exquisite food and an experience fit for a king, with 6 courses, and we can’t forget the assortment of rare chocolates at the end of the dinner. Besides the wining and dining, Fashion is exquisite from vintage, high-end boutiques, to Marc Jacobs dans Le Palais Royale. Paris was the home and inspiration to some of the worlds most renowned designers. The beloved Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Givenchy; these icons paved the road for Fashion around the world.

Le Marais, in the 3rd Arrondisment, has the most quaint and special shops in Paris. Not to mention that this quarter is by far the most charming and idyllic. Not only is the window shopping to die for, but there are also the most beautiful buildings, doors, and cobblestone streets, that would be a photographers playground. While in the Marais, visiting the Place de Vosge is a must. This tiny park is surrounded by a square of most gorgeous architecture and apartments that housed the famous writer Victor Hugo, as well as the beautiful cafe’s that sit beneath these ancient archways. Grab a baguette and orangina from the patisserie down the road, and bask in the true essence of Paris beneath a fountain at this charming nook.

Highlights of Paris:

* Place De Vosge

* George Pompidou Museum of Modern Art

* Ile St. Louis: antique books stores, farmers markets, 17th century charm

* Les Deux Magots : architypical bistro with fine cuisine, a perfect view for people watching, and the glistening window of Dior on the periphery.

Fashion:

* Le 3 Marches de Catherine B: Here you can find the most beautiful vintage bags..Hermes’, Chanel, etc.

*Quidam de Revel: Idyllic vintage store in the Palais Royale, amazing accessories, balmain, etc.

* Zadig & Voltaire: boutique with great pieces, tunics, blazers, shoes.

* Yohji Yamamoto: ultra-space-age store captures the true uniqueness of this designer’s pieces.

* Lanvin: True parisien chicness radiates from this location.

* Didier Ludot: Spectacular Vintage!

(Quidam De Revel et Didier Ludot in the Palais Royale)

xx Isabella