Last month in Europe, I took note when I noticed something about the Europeans around me that was inspirational and chic- how women age gracefully, how people aren’t afraid to really EAT, how Italians that are complete strangers feel perfectly comfortable touching you lovingly, how people sing in public. I began taking mental note when I noticed something that I wanted to take back with me- whether in essence or in a physical way- to my life here in the US.
So, please enjoy my fourth rendition of things I find incredibly chic, Europe edition.
Perhaps the chicest one yet?
European Sleepwear Stores:
Tickles my brain and reminds me of my childhood. Top Left to Right: Generes De Punt La Torre, Schostal, Sabbia Rossa, Casa Del Bianco
Branded Butter:
My case for more well-designed butter. Inspired of course by the Europeans.
French Hairclips:
Absolutely no one does a hair clip better than the French.
Italian Hairbrushes:
Italy is known for their hairbrushes. My favorites are from Acca Kappa and can be bought at most European pharmacies- especially in Italy.
Antique Embroidered Linens:
Bonus points if you can find something with your initials on it.
Listening to the French Radio:
It’s my humble opinion that the French have probably the best taste in music out of all of the European counties. I LOVED listening to the radio in France and found myself streaming a few stations when I got home for maximum joy. These days I have replaced Spotify with Cherie FM which I listen to here or Crooner Radio here. I’m telling you…maximum vibes in my house. The extremely chic hotel I stayed in Napoli played Cherie FM for guests in the morning, opera in the afternoon- it was a great lesson in living with good music.
European Slippers:
I always find myself stocking up on slippers when in Europe. Another thing the Europeans make that can't be surpassed. L to R: Loretta Caponi, Charvet, Sabbia Rossa
Having Real, Individual Style:
Taken on the bus in Monte Carlo. Not pictured: She had a pixie cut and was wearing huge 80’s sunglasses. Now this woman had STYLE. Of all things in Europe, I’m always reminded individual style exists, and the chic women of Europe inspire me endlessly.
Grandma Shoes:
Grandma shoes to Europeans, extremely chic comfortable and stylish to us. Kicking myself that I didn't get a pair in Barcelona.
Antique Silverware:
One of my most pleasurable days was stumbling upon an antique market in Provence which had the absolute BEST antique silverwear. Definitely something to stock up on when in Europe.
Newspaper Racks:
Contrast Piped Furniture:
I don't think it gets chicer than contrast piped furniture. Spotted in Italy.
Lived in Clutter:
Exhibit A: the amazing hotel I stayed in Napoli that reminded me of Annie’s house in London from the Parent Trap.
Well-Branded Matchboxes:
Well-Designed Platewear You Can Actually Buy:
Nothing tickles my brain more than well designed platewear. I was SO happy when I learned you could purchase Le Club 55’s iconic platewear on their beach in St. Tropez.
Sleepwear Dresses Worn Casually:
Every European vintage store I went into, I looked for silk sleepwear. I LOVE wearing a silkly airy dress in summer- some of the best I have found are in vintage stores.
That seafood plate is a need!
I’ll take two pairs of slippers, a silver champagne bucket and monogrammed napkins please!