So many people are infatuated with France, particularly Paris, without ever having visited. It has an inimitable mystique and charm that keep dreamers enthralled with what they imagine life to be like – undoubtedly a more glamorous depiction than it actually is.
Many might never have the opportunity to experience the wonders of wandering aimlessly along the Seine or sitting at a café for hours watching effortlessly chic (and sometimes the fashionably disastrous) Parisian women pass by. But for all wistful Francophiles, there are a few decorative and lifestyle items that allow you to bring a little Paris to you.
Nichole Robertson's Perpetual Paris Calendar
Nichole Robertson may be best known for her long-running blog Little Brown Pen but she can now add successful photographer to her resume. With every trip to Paris (several times a year), she spends hours wandering the streets of Paris snapping the stories behind everyday objects, those often overlooked and neglected.
With her husband Evan, they put together a perpetual calendar (pictured above) from their photos of chalkboards, license plates, doorways, bottles, monuments and more. As she says, “49 glimpses of Paris that capture the essence of the city at street level”. Bring a little Paris into your home everyday of the year! Order from Etsy or Nichole’s newly launched online shop. Don’t forget to watch the how-to video (awesome)! {$49, international delivery}.
"Je Ne Sais Quoi" Pouch
What is one of the most universally known, widely used and, more or less, pronounceable French expressions? Je Ne Sais Quoi – that indescribable extra, a certain something – usually in reference to personality or style. American designer Rebecca Minkoff knew how to add some French flair to her collection with the Je Ne Sais Quoi pouch. With genuine leather and custom hardware, it’s the perfect accessory to store all your little knick-knacks and change. Conveniently, it’s sold on the aptly-named online multi-brand shop Je Ne Sais Quoi! {Int’l shipping, 51€ -price also available in pounds and dollars}.
French Script Notebook
The French love to scribble. Whether they’re jotting down their grocery list, agenda for the week or existential musings (sometimes in the form of drawings), it’s often enclosed in something more sophisticated and design forward than a spiral notebook. This French Script handmade vintage style notebook can also moonlight as a journal or sketchpad. Even better, it fits nicely into a handbag and can be customized. Un must-have! {$8 on Etsy}
Fleur de Lys Soap
The Fleur de Lys is the symbol of French royalty and was even thought to represent perfection and life. Who doesn’t want a little perfection in their lives? This elegant vanilla hand soap is the perfect romantic decorative touch for any bathroom or kitchen and makes a lovely gift. Did I mention it’s vegan? {$3.95 on Etsy}
"Keep Calm and Travel On"
A little less French than the rest, I still had to include this one. The ever-popular “Keep Calm” posters are a great and inexpensive way to decorate your space, this time with just a hint of Paris. Since the French love to travel, this is a particularly relevant reminder not to stay put! {$15.95 on Etsy, available in multiple colors}.