Lessons from Madame Chic: The Giveaway!

Last spring, always looking for a bit of French inspiration, I learned about Jennifer L. Scott’s book Lessons From Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris after reading a complimentary review in The New York Times. Thankfully, I quickly ordered the book, because before I knew it, Simon & Schuster had also discovered what a wonderful treasure it was as well and whisked it off the shelves to revamp it for its re-release that is now finally just a few days away – Tuesday November 6th.

Needless to say, Scott’s Lessons from Madame Chic is certainly a must-have for Francophiles, but it is also a wonderful resource for anyone who wishes to cultivate a more simply luxurious way of living. Through beautiful narrations, Madame Chic’s lessons are shared in three different parts on the subjects of Diet & Exercise, Style and Beauty, and lastly, How to Live Well.

Based on Scott’s time as a foreign exchange student in Paris as a young woman, she is now a mother of two young daughters, happily married and living in southern California, so she converses with her readers from a relatable platform.  Immediately upon reading it again, I was reminded of another author who shares her insights and tips on living well with inspiration from the French – Mireille Guiliano. Scott’s tips are weaved skillfully into her experiences and time with Madame Chic and her Parisian family, so much so that you feel you are having a conversation with a trusted, yet wiser girlfriend.

And the beauty of discovering her book was that it didn’t have to end once I finished reading it. As the founder of the blog The Daily Connoisseur, readers are able to enjoy a regular dose of inspiration and YouTube video instructions on how to continually integrate the fine art of French living into their every day lives. 

The re-released edition of Lessons from Madame Chic (279 pages) contains the same content I initially raved about in my review in April (click here to view), but is now adequately accessorized with illustrations found throughout the entire book from the talented artist and designer Virginia Johnson (view the back cover’s illustration below – j’adore the long, waving scarf and Breton top).

 

~The lovely author herself – Jennifer L. Scott, the cover you will find in Australia and New Zealand that is available on November 6th as well! and the back of the cover of the copy being given away to one lucky reader.~

Now if you’re like me, when you see something you know you are going to love, you may not want to wait to see if you win the giveaway. Trust me, you will love this book. My copy has endless margin notes, underlines and asterisks so that I can quickly review my favorite tips and suggestions (read my favorite here).

Even though it isn’t released until November 6th, you can preorder today from Amazon, and what I’ve found is that you will be certain to receive it on that exact release date and sometimes even earlier. (Click here to order for only $14.18 from Amazon.) 

Important Information to Know About the Giveaway:

~1. Enter to win a copy of Jennifer L. Scott’s Lessons from Madame Chic by leaving a comment on this blog post which must contain an email address to reach you at should you be the lucky winner.

~2. Due to regulations by the book’s publisher, this giveaway is unfortunately only open to residents of the United States and Canada (however, those of you who live in Australia and New Zealand, look for your own chic cover to be available for purchase on November 6th – see cover above)

~3. Be sure to enter by Monday, November 5th at midnight.

~4. The winner will be announced Tuesday morning November 6th on the blog!

It’s that simple! Good luck!

This & That: No. 23

~Blog

~The Budget Babe

Dianna Baros

I recently had the opportunity to communicate with the successful blogger, Dianna Baros who authors the blog mentioned on Oprah, People, and many other well-known publications, The Budget Babe. With a mission to share and inspire readers to discover the “Fab without a Fortune” as they style themselves for their daily lives, Dianna’s energy and enthusiasm is something that comes through as you read through her blog. If you love fashion, and you also want to stick to your budget, be sure to stop by.

~Book

~Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris by Jennifer L. Scott

I briefly mentioned last week on my Tumblr and Pinterest pages that the much anticipated re-release date of Jennifer L. Scott’s book Lessons From Madame Chic has been announced, but I wanted to post it on the blog as well. On Tuesday, November 6th a beautifully redesigned hardback version of what publishers and first readers fell in love with in the spring will be available. With beautiful illustrations, Jennifer has kindly offered to sponsor a giveaway on The Simply Luxurious Life closer to the release date, but if you want to ensure you have your very own copy, feel free to pre-order now. 

~Film

~The Eye Has to Travel 

While the documentary of iconic Harper Bazaar’s editor-in-chief Diane Vreeland (she was also the editor of Vogue for eight years following her tenure at HB) debuted last year at the Venice and Telluride Film Festivals to positive acclaim, it is now finally premiering here in the states. Produced by her granddaughter-in-law Immordino Vreeland and edited by Bent-Jorgen Perlmutt and Frédéric Tcheng, editors of “Valentino: The Last Emperor”, New York Fashion Week will be the backdrop of The Eye Has to Travel on Saturday, September 8th. Be sure to take a few minutes to view the trailer (here), as it certainly caught my attention with her strong convictions, signature style and the confident voice of DV herself heard throughout much of the entire film.  Following the premiere, it is being released in New York and Los Angeles on September 21st and nationwide in early October. Something to put your fall calendar to rev up your fashion engines and remind yourself why fashion has such a prominent place in our culture.

“There’s only one very good life, and that’s the life you know you want and you make it yourself.” –Diane Vreeland

~Recipe

~Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad 

Summer may be coming to a close, but gardens are now brimming full of their deliciousness – from cucumbers, squash, potatoes, apples and pumpkins, and one of my favorites - the heirloom tomato. Chef Dana Minuta shares this perfect end of summer recipe – Heirloom Cherry Tomato Salad - which she suggests pairing with a crusty baguette. Yum!

~Shopping

~Mabel & Zora boutique

Over the weekend I escaped to Portland, and thoroughly loved strolling around the Pearl District. The sun was warm, the breeze was absent and people were enjoying the idyllic summer weather by relaxing in the parks, popping into stores, dining al fresco and taking in the art scene as the annual event Art in the Pearl was in full gear.

As I was wandering about, I walked by a women’s boutique clothing store on 11th that caught my attention – Mabel & Zora. I took a minute to stop in after inquiring about a Trina Turk link necklace that caught my attention (and now I am saving up for), and discovered delightful service, a fun and inviting atmosphere and many other designer labels that I regularly look to in order to replenish my closet (Laundry, 7 for all Mankind, Ella Moss, as well as local designers).

If you’re ever in the Portland area, be sure to soak up all that the Pearl has to offer, and when your fashion bug strikes, be sure to visit Mabel & Zara.

~Tory Burch Patent Leather Eddie Ballet Flats in Royal Tan   - $178

I have mentioned many times about ballet flats being one of my go-to footwear essentials, and since I highly recommend quality so that they can last from year to year (my current flats are just finishing their second year), Tory Burch’s royal tan flats are the perfect neutral flat to have on hand at the most reasonable price I’ve found (trust me, I’ve searched everywhere for quality nude flats that are affordable). These flats will pair well with jeans all year round and with dresses and skirts as well.

Why Not . . . Wear A Pencil Skirt?

While I’m not usually one to latch onto seasonal trends, the revival of the pencil skirt that has continued to walk down the runways during the past few seasons has me smittened.  I guess the bigger question is, “Is it really a trend?” After all, if something is figure flattering, allows you to feel fabulous and can be paired with a limitless list of other items, isn’t it safe to call it a foundational piece of a woman’s wardrobe?

After having completed my spring shopping, I was thrilled to see so many stores carrying pencil skirts. It was only five years ago that they were much more difficult to find, and I must say I am over the moon to see them in so many different fabrics, textures, colors and prints.

Below are a few ways to welcome the pencil skirt (or any skirt) into your weekly fashion regimen.

1. A Piece of Art

If you are already someone who wears skirts, take a bold step and wear a pencil skirt with a beautiful print – for example Lela Rose’s printed cotton-blend skirt – that allows it to become the focal point. Pair with a solid blouse and nude heels and very few accessories will be needed as your skirt will be doing all of the talking.

2. Conservative Yet Chic
When it comes to work, choosing classic colors will always be a safe, but at the same time, stylish choice. Select navy, gray, black or camel and pair with a gorgeous silk blouse, corset belt and at least 2 inch heels (3 inches is my rule), as the pencil skirt helps to elongate the legs and the heels only help.


3. Show Some Curves

Whether you are boyishly thin or born with Christina Hendricks’ curves, pencil skirts should be your skirt of choice. While revealing your natural curves, they also reveal your feminine figure as they highlight a woman’s waist, hips and legs. While I don’t want to live in the Mad Men era 60’s, I certainly do appreciate them reveling in feminine fashions.

4. Pop of Color

Spring is a wonderful time to be a bit bolder when it comes to color choices. With neon and other bright colors adorning this seasons boutiques and department stores, choose something that flatters your skin tone and pair it with a simple blouse that doesn’t create competition. By wearing such loud colors but in a style that is quite classic, you maintain that chic-factor and simply look stylishly confident.


5. A Little Bit Longer

I prefer my pencil skirts just over the knee, for no other reason except it makes me feel more comfortable when I sit down.  Depending upon your height, consider changing up the length. Always keep it appropriate, but know that pencil skirts do not have to hit just above the knee as for so long many of us have been instructed.

6. Stylishly Casual

Just because you aren’t going to the office doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider wearing a pencil skirt. Paired with a simple tee shirt or beautiful cotton tank top, an oversized boyfriend watch or statement necklace, a belt to cinch your waist and tote (oh, and don’t forget the heels), you can quickly create a fun and fashionable ensemble.

7. Exude Confidence

A woman who wears a skirt makes a uniquely different first impression compared to someone who wears trousers or jeans. A woman who wears a skirt (of an appropriate length) conveys an image of owning her femininity, subtly exuding confidence, and speaking volumes of her belief that being a woman and being taken seriously can indeed go hand in hand.


As you can see, there are many different ways to wear a pencil skirt. I don’t know about you, but I’m adding the pencil skirt to my wardrobe essentials list.

A few weeks ago, you may recall I reviewed Jennifer L. Scott’s book Lessons from Madame Chic, and one of the suggestions that I am currently working on incorporating in my life is the 10 piece capsule wardrobe. With that limited number, I know there will be at least two pencil skirts as they can easily be paired with multiple tops, blazers, belts, heels and sweaters. Certainly a simple way to remain chic and mix up your choices.

Whether you begin adding pencil skirts or an alternative cut design to your wardrobe selection, consider all that the skirt can do and revel in owning your femininity, but continuing to adhere to your very own unique signature style at the same time.

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Make Your Life a Formal Affair

“Tailor what living life as a formal affair means to you . . . analyze the aspects of [y]our life that could use a little more flair . . . by introducing aspects that are often thought of as ‘formal’ into [y]our life you can live a richer existence . . .”  

-Jennifer L. Scott author of Lessons from Madame Chic: The Top 20 Things I Learned While Living in Paris

A few weeks ago in the inaugural This & That post, I introduced a book I was eager to read, and boy, I wasn’t disappointed. Jennifer L. Scott’s recently released book Lessons from Madame Chic is full of 20 lessons she learned while living in Paris during college and how nearly ten years later she has incorporated these lessons into her life in California.

(the new cover, to be re-released on November 6, 2012)

(the first cover)

Filled with specific advice, anecdotes and descriptions of Madame Chic and Madame Chic’s entire Parisian family, Scott shares ways to live a fulfilling life that are not only simple, but help to create a luxurious life that is rich and focused on what most all of us seem to want to put at the top of our priority list – healthy relationships, good health and the ability to be our best selves. 

As I was reading I found myself underlining a sentence or two on nearly every page that I didn’t want to forget, and after going back over these annotations I realized that the lesson of living formally doesn’t have to take the beauty or the spontaneity out of living, but in fact it can enhance it. By showing respect to the life we’ve been given and then continue to create for ourselves we consciously make it all the more enjoyable. 

Below are a few ideas for welcoming in a bit more formality and at the same time simplicity that I especially took favor too. Have a look: 

1. Play classical music throughout your home

If you don’t have any Bach cds laying around the house, simply go to Pandora on your computer, iPad or iPhone and search classical symphonic music, and it will create a radio station for you for free. 

2. Eliminate snacking

Each meal that you sit down for is an opportunity to eat well. Scott explains how dinner in Paris with Madame Chic’s family always included at least three, sometimes four, courses and one was always a cheese platter, yet still her host family was slender because when they ate it was mindful. 

3. Create rituals to look forward to

Maybe every Saturday morning you wake up and stroll down to your favorite coffee shop for a tasty treat and chat with a good friend, or you play checkers with your son every Sunday evening in front of the fire or perhaps you take a bubble bath and savor a glass of wine after Monday has wrapped up. Take time to discover the activities that you enjoy doing either alone or with those you love and make them regular occurrences that are something to look forward to. 

4. Wear luxurious lingerie

The mistake that seems to be perpetuated regarding lingerie is that it is worn for someone else.  This is not entirely correct.  In fact, a woman should wear beautiful, high-quality lingerie for herself. Simply knowing you are keeping something to yourself and at the same time have treated yourself to something luxuriously wonderful is certain to raise your confidence at least a smidge. While it will take time to build your lingerie wardrobe, know that you are worth investing in. 

5. Purchase a Clarisonic
Treat your skin as though it were porcelain. Be very particular and handle it with care. Scott highly recommends using the Clarisonic skincare tool that gently exfoliates while allowing your cleansing products to work even harder for your skin producing noticeable brighter and healthier skin. An investment, but one to save up for.

6. A 10 Item Wardrobe

Hear me out first. When I read this, I too shook my head as I thought it was absolutely implausible to only live with 10 items in my closet, but as Scott explains, the 10 items do not include outerwear (coats, blazers, etc), shoes or other accessories, and there is a spring/summer and fall/winter wardrobe that should rotate. With that said, the key is knowing your signature style, purchase quality items that are interchangeable and most importantly that flatter your unique beauty. By limiting yourself to 10 items you reduce decision making in the morning, save money in the long run and are confident that what you are wearing looks timelessly chic.



7. Only buy the best that you can

In an effort to de-clutter and welcome more quality into your living environment, choose wisely, purchase less and be particular about what comes into your home.

8. Maintain an air of mystery.



9. Less television, more theater, book readings, art exhibits, etc

Not only is this exercise for the mind, but it also is more interactive, helps you become more in tune with what is going on in the world and in your community and enables you to be an active participant in your life instead of idling watching others live their lives on television.

10. Always go shopping with a list to avoid unnecessary purchases

Whether it is the grocery store or shopping in your favorite clothing boutiques, always have a list with you to ensure you get what you need but aren’t tempted to buy something that simply grabs your attention or your stomach. Especially when it comes to clothes shopping, by adhering to the 10 item wardrobe you will know exactly what you need, what to splurge on and what to avoid.

These are just a few of the many gems of advice Scott shares in her book. Without hesitation I highly recommend her book Lessons from Madame Chic if you are seeking to live a life filled with quality, pleasure and contentment.

However, it was just announced last week that due to the success of the initially release of her book that the title has been picked up by Simon & Schuster and they are taking it off the shelves until this fall.  At that time they will be re-releasing it in a hardback copy (click here to read more). Until then, stop by Jennifer's blog The Daily Connoisseur which is where the book originated. 

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