Going to Paris, Again

 

The space in which you live should be comfortable, and this Paris apartment is  a perfect example of easily obtained comfort, the french way. I know that I am on a kick with French homes this week, but the easy and chic designs of the homes are just captivating, but seem so foreign at the same time. The different elements used throughout this apartment, including wood floors, the leather furniture, the metal window frames, all bring a feeling of naturalism to the space. It seems as thought all these elements contribute to a look of continuity and visual peace. If you didn't want to live in Paris before this week, I would think that after today, a Parisian apartment is becoming more and more appealing.

 

Photos courtesy of French by Design

Lofty in Place de Monges

 

Loft spaces in general can feel cold and industrial, but this lift in a converted factory in the Place des Monges part of Paris has many of the original industrial detail, but with many more cozy and homey details. The iron windows set the tone for the entire space, giving the feeling that you're in a converted industrial, space, but the beautiful use of color and materials elsewhere in the apartment are calming, and not chaotic, like the space once was. This loft has the quintessential Paris-chic quality, with disheveled piles of books, and an array of colors and art throughout the apartment. In my opinion, there is nothing chicer than a Parisian home, they are tastefully underwhelming.

 

Photos courtesy of French by Design

Wonderful World of E. Goyard

In a world of designer logos, it's hard to find one that is uncommon (and not fake). Although the hundred year old French company of E. Goyard was founded in 1853 and lives to be one of the most prestigious french luggage manufactures in the world. The E in the name stands for Edmond, the founder's son's name. They obviously craft more than just luggage, they handcraft different styles of handbags, wallets, briefcases, and various other leather goods for their tasteful clientele, including British royalty, an American president, and a fashion icon (and a few others you'll see below). The company's recognizable and coveted logo cover their goods, yet does not over power anyone's wondering eye.

Typical color schemes of the trunk

Karl Lagerfeld's Luggage

Hand painted special order

Attache case

Mens briefcase

On display at Bergdorf Goodman

Alber Elbaz of Lanvin

Vintage trunks

Traditional card case

Simon Doonan of Barneys NY

Store

Gwyenth Paltrow

On my wish list 

Collection of classic trunks

Inquire for photo details

Balmin Spring 2012

My favorite french label is absolutely Balmain. The historic design house has changed hands many times, and the most recent departure of Christophe Decarnin paved the way for a great look that is still reminiscent of the new designer, Olivier Rousteing former boss and predecessor. The ultra-luxe label is known for their outlandish price tags and sometimes unwearable clothes, but this Spring collection, along with their Fall 2011 collection is fantastically wearable and all together cool. Balmain has been a fan of layering for quite sometime, and this collection is no different, however their layers are lighter and come in lighter colors like lemon, mint, and orange. The airy colors in this collection are grounded by black leather jackets (personal favorite, and a brand staple), as well as heavy and dark outwear, along with a fully python vest. Balmain's edgy and unkempt look has that certain persian aesthetic, making it instantly cool.