Paris Atelier

Strike Up the Band

2012-02-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

The super creative and lovely ...Love Maegan linked up to my Ziegfeld Follies post on her blog this morning. Thank you Maegan!

Photo Via

Her post is just beautiful. Here's a taste: It involves feathers and Louis Vuitton. Need I say more. Check out her gorgeous post about short film "Join the Fan Club" by Ruth Hogben. The film is a dream!

Have a wonderful weekend!

~ Dreams Come True ~

2012-02-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

Hello My Friends,

Paris Atelier

I have been thinking of you all very much and visiting your sites for inspiration. However, I
miss you. I miss the interaction with my special friends that I have met through this journey of a blog and I have to tell you, life is busy, so busy that I chose to focus on my family, career, and other priorities. I let the blog slip for quite some time now but I just can't stay away from you! So, I am going to try my hardest to make time for some of the things I love most and one of those things is my beloved Paris Atelier.

Paris Atelier

My best friend, Michelle, and I just booked a trip to London, Rome, and of course, Paris for the Summer and I cannot process it in my head yet. I am so excited and inspired. Dreams really do come true. It has been over eight years since my last visit to that magical city of Paris and that was also the last trip I took with my Mom. I can't wait to go back for what I'm sure will be a memorable, emotional, full of wonder and laughter voyage.

Paris Atelier

I hope you will join me in the next few months as I plan, dream, and prepare for this special trip. I would love nothing more than to share it all with you and hear about special dreams you've made come true!

Bien des choses à tous,
Judith

All Photos ~ Paris Atelier
Please feel free to use, pin, blog, etc. with a link back to the original source. Merci!

Laurel Corona Guest Post Finding Emilie

2011-05-03T01:20:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have the incredibly talented and amazing author Laurel Corona as a guest on Paris Atelier today. She is one of my favorite authors and her talent is boundless! Laurel has just released Finding Emilie, this novel is beyond amazing. I just finished reading it today and I highly recommend it! I love everything about it, the details, the history, the elegance, everything French about it. Laurel has written some wonderful novels, Penelope's Daughter has long been another favorite of mine as well. A giant Thank you to Laurel COrona for this beautiful guest post! I hope you all enjoy it!

Atelier Paris Guest Blog Post

for

FINDING EMILIE

(Simon&Schuster/Gallery Books, April 2011)

Laurel Corona

Renaming Paris: The Place Royale and the Jardin de Roi

During the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, Paris took on a new look. Gone were the statues of aristocrats and royals in the squares, gone even were the heads of many of the stone saints in Notre Dame and other churches. Gone too was the Bastille, the place most associated with the oppression of the past. Streets and buildings were renamed, and even the calendar was rewritten to celebrate the triumph of the people over the tyranny of the Ancien Régime.

Anything with the word “roi” or “royale” in it had to go, including two of the places most familiar to the heroine of my new novel, FINDING EMILIE. Lili, the daughter of the real-life mathematician and physicist Emilie du Châtelet, who died shortly after giving birth to her, grew up in one of the elegant townhouses lining what she knew as the Place Royale. At its center was a grand statue of Louis XIII, which was, as one might expect pulled down and melted for its bronze after the revolution. The square was renamed the Place de Vosges, and eventually, after the furor died down, a replacement statue was erected (an error in my book has it as a statue of Louis XIV--I hate it when that happens!)

Place de Vosges

The Place Royale, with its matching red-brick facades and vaulted arcades, was the model for future residential squares in Paris and other European cities. Meant to be a quiet and dignified place, then on the outskirts of Paris, for the well-to-do to live, it is still one of the most elegant spots in the city. Cafes look out on a tree-shaded square where in summer people lounge on park benches and picnickers play games on the grass. Turgot’s 1739 map of Paris shows what it looked like at the time my book is set, although the shade trees I include are a later addition.

Here’s the quick description I offer of this urban oasis in FINDING EMILIE:

The Place Royale, home to Hôtel Bercy, was one of the few places in Paris fit for a stroll. Even the gardens of the Tuileries were thick with the stench of garbage, and haunted by beggars and thieves. On dry and pleasant afternoons, those who lived behind the harmonious, arcaded mansions ringing the four sides of the Place Royale could leave behind the sedan chairs they used for calling on their neighbors elsewhere in town, and cross the quiet garden on foot.

Several key scenes occur in this garden, including Lili’s awakening to the cruel social realities of Parisian life, and the awakening of love between Lili’s best friend Delphine, with whom she was raised like a sister, and the future Comte d’Étoges.

For Lili, love blossoms on the other side of the Seine, at what was then known as the Jardin de Roi, today known as the Jardin des Plantes. The site looks quite different today, housing several museums and the Paris zoo along its perimeter. It retains vestiges of one of its primary purposes in the era before the revolution when my novel is set. It was the center of research into botany and zoology, and its head, George Louis LeClerc, the Comte de Buffon, was one of the most important scientific figures of his time.

Place Royale

The Jardin de Roi first appears in FINDING EMILIE when Lili is invited by the Comte de Buffon to spend an afternoon with him. In the greenhouse, Lili is astonished by a pale pink mantis, perfectly camouflaged on a stem of orchids, and the count explains, using evolutionary thinking he developed a century before Darwin.

“You see,” he said, taking Lili’s arm to go to the house for dinner. [...] “I don’t believe for a moment that God said during the creation, ‘Let there be orchids as well as mantises that look just like them.’ I believe instead that different types of plants and animals came into the world and thrived where they were put.”

The great man stopped for a moment once they had crossed the terrace in front of the greenhouse. They were standing in the middle of a grand walkway so long it disappeared from sight before reaching the end of the garden. Lost in thought, Buffon’s hands were clasped as he looked up at the plane trees lining the walk. Close to the house, gardeners trimmed the hedges of the formal garden, but farther away, the formal grounds meant for pleasant strolls gave way to the densely packed landscape of trees and medicinal plants in the working laboratory of the Jardin de Roi.

Jardin du Roi

“Things alter over time,” he said, picking up the subject as if his thoughts hadn’t strayed at all. [...] “The climate might get hotter or colder, or wetter or drier, and the perfect fit isn’t so perfect any more. So a plant might change colors or an animal grow spots, or more hair, or a tougher hide in order to adapt. Perhaps this poor little mantis was no good at capturing insects. He adapted to look like something the insects are attracted to, and voilà!”

Although broad expanses of lawn (forbidden to human feet) have replaced much of the formal gardens, strolling in the Jardin des Plantes today it is easy to get the feel for its former existence. A small garden of medicinal herbs honors its erstwhile scientific function, and promenades evoke a time when a walk here would have been the height of fashion. Just the place to put on a wig and panniers and pretend for a while--or maybe just get an ice cream and go to the zoo!

Thank you so much Laurel! Below are links to some of my favorite Laurel Corona books and the much anticipated and highly praised Finding Emilie.

Wishes

2011-04-20T01:01:00.000-07:00

Kashgar Travel Journal by Laura West ~ Reverie Daydream Artisan Boutique

Hello! I am so honored to be a guest on the most lovely blog Reverie Daydream today. If you have visited Reverie, then I'm sure you have been enchanted and mesmerized by the lovely Melissa and her magical world. I am truly humbled and honored to have been asked by her to guest on her series Wishful Thinking. Over the years Melissa's words have been a constant source of inspiration and her blog a special place to revive my soul.

Beloved Letterpress Card ~ Reverie Daydream Artisan Boutique

Melissa is the owner of Reverie Daydream an artisan boutique that offers beautiful, carefully crafted, ethically and environmentally conscious goods.

Thank you so much to Melissa for allowing me to share a tiny place on her blog and world.

Enjoy the post as well as the talented and wonderful bloggers in the Wishful Thinking series.

Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend

2011-04-11T01:53:00.000-07:00

"Beneath the makeup and behind the smile I am just a girl who wishes for the world."
— Marilyn Monroe

Rhinestone accessories worn by Marilyn

Salut Mes Amis! I hope you had a fantastic weekend. I posted (here) this weekend about my visit to historic Max Factor Building a few weeks ago. I went to see the Jean Harlow exhibit that is currently showing there. Little did I know that the museum holds a very large collection of Marilyn Monroe memorabilia. The collection is so large and so diverse, I just couldn't believe what I had stumbled upon! I have been a huge Marilyn Monroe fan since I was in Fourth grade, sick and at home from school, my Mother and I sat down to watch Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. I will never forget sitting in front of that TV and wanting to be just like her. She was pure magic on the screen and thus the obsession with old movies, vintage, and glamour began...

Marilyn's bustier from How to Marry A Millionaire

As I mentioned in the last post Mr. Max Factor had four different celebrity make-up rooms dedicated to the stars and designed to enhance a persons beauty by using his theory of Color Harmony. The first room we entered was the "For Redheads only" room. The room is done is shades of Mint Green and had Lucille Ball's personal items as well as Rita Hayworth's. I couldn't have been more excited...or so I thought! The next room was the "For Blondes Only" room. To my excitement and surprise, the entire room was Marilyn! Done in soft shades of Blue, the room contained so many incredible items that had belonged to THE Blonde herself.

Actual prescription medication belonging to Marilyn Monroe (Wow)!

There in the cases of that gorgeous Blue room (which by the way is not an attractive hue for this Brunette) are studio contracts, handwritten notes, photos, gloves, jewelry, receipts, and so much more, all belonging to that famous blonde Marilyn. There is another large case with one of her dresses and a pair of shoes, and yet another case full of newspapers from the day she died, the prescription medication above, a certified copy of her autopsy, photos from the scene the police found that day, etc.

The entire makeup table set up with Marilyn's own personal (used) make-up

Her famous makeup case

As I walked out of the room, I thought "Wow, that was amazing, I can't believe I just saw all of those items. I'm so lucky". We walked up the stairs to the first exhibit level and it was more Marilyn! They had her 1961 Cadillac Fleetwood Limousine given to her by the studio. Mr. Zanuck presented Marilyn with a Silver Tiffany key chain engraved with her initials. In the back seat they had her pillow used in the limo and a pair of gloves. They also had an original nude calendar, hundreds of photos and magazine covers, personal notes and multiple checks and receipts (lots for vodka, bourbon, and champagne) including the very last check she wrote (it was to her housekeeper).

Her 1961 Cadillac Fleetwood Limousine

The collection is so extensive and so interesting, I could not possibly write about it all here. It was so interesting to see and so incredible to be in the presence of all of this Hollywood glamour! Of course in addition to all of the Marilyn they had Jean Harlow, Clara Bow, Joan Crawford, Elvis, Judy Garland, Desi and Lucy, Mae West, Rudolph Valentino (another fave of mine), Doris Day, Lana Turner, the list is endless.

The stockings she wore in this famous photo shoot

I wish I could fit all of the photos from the exhibit here but the post would go on for days.

Her famous Korea/Honeymoon dress

Have a wonderful week!

XOXO

Glamorous Hollywood

2011-04-09T02:48:00.000-07:00

~~"Want to be an actor? Call Mr. Factor!" ~Original lyrics from the song Hooray for Hollywood~~

~This photo from the Hollywood Museum website *The lobby~

Hello! As usual, I have been missing you all! I am so excited about sharing this post with you. A few weeks ago I was fortunate enough to go to the Hollywood Museum with my Best Friend. I specifically wanted to go for a Jean Harlow exhibit that is on display there celebrating what would be her 100th birthday, little did I know what gold lies inside those doors. The museum is located in the historic Max Factor Building and I was awestruck from the moment I set foot in there!

The Max factor building is a gem that sits right off of Hollywood Blvd. just steps away from amazing places like the Roosevelt, El Capitan, and those famous footprints in the forecourt of Sid Grauman's Chinese theatre. Stepping through the heavily marbled entryway and into this historic building was like stepping back in time to the 1930's and that glorious Golden Age of Hollywood.

~The "Brownettes" Soft Peach colored room. Judy Garland is featured here~

The lobby is basically unchanged from those golden days. It is a polished Art Deco jewel, a rose colored oasis of endless lavish marble, crystal chandeliers, soft hues, and tropical palms. The Max Factor studio contains four special celebrity make-up rooms, each designed to bring out the best in women of a particular hair color: The first is marked "For Blondes Only" (and is done in shades of blue); another for redheads (in mint green), for brunettes (rose pink), and the brownettes (pale peach). These special rooms have been painstakingly preserved, and are complete with the original make-up chairs, lighting, furnishings, and multi-angled mirrors. They are also outfitted with display cases full of notable clients personal make-up and personal belongings. Some of the legendary clients featured are Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Rudolph Valentino, Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow, Lucille Ball, Claudette Colbert, Norma Shearer, and Bette Davis. I was inches away from Joan Crawford's false eyelashes (used!) Marilyn Monroe's bustier, and Elizabeth Taylor's belongings.

Sitting in the makeup chair

It is said that Jean Harlow's hair was first dyed platinum in these rooms and that the color was created specifically for her, as is the story with Marilyn's hair, Joan Crawford, and Claudette Colbert.

One of Judy Garlands pairs of Ruby Red Slippers from the Wizard of Oz

I cannot even begin to scratch the surface of what this incredible museum contains and the history behind Mr. Factor and his empire. There are endless incredible pieces of Hollywood history here. The Marilyn Monroe collection alone is worth it. I am going to do a separate post just on her memorabilia at the museum tomorrow. They have a Mae West collection, Elvis items, Lucy and Desi, Shirley Temple, Clara Bow, Carey Grants Rolls Royce....Really it is endless! So, instead of boring you with more photos and my rambling I will leave you photo from the Jean Harlow exhibit I originally went to see. Until tomorrow! XOXO!

~~~All photos taken by me and property of Paris Atelier unless otherwise noted~~~

For Japan With Love

2011-03-14T23:32:00.000-07:00

2011-03-11T03:41:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,

Just a quick post to send out prayers to all of those affected by the devastating earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. To all of those in the world who have been touched by this, my prayers and my thoughts are with you today. Watching the news and reading about the horrific events that have unfolded are heart wrenching.

A reminder to us to hold our loved ones closer and give our little ones an extra kiss. My heart goes out to these people who are searching for loved ones, are trapped, or have lost family. To understand the fragility of life and how in an instant our worlds can be turned inside out is such a horrifying thought.

I can't help but feel so incredibly blessed at this moment. Wishing you all a good night and a safe weekend.

Francophile

2011-02-28T22:54:00.000-08:00

Via Ciaoeli Tumblr

Hello Lovelies! I have been aching for Paris this last week or so and the feeling just won't go away! Maybe because Spring is approaching and there is no place in the world more beautiful in the Springtime. Maybe because I have been brushing up on my French while teaching the little Little Prince to speak it...Maybe, it is because I left my heart there the last time I left. Whatever the reason, here is a tiny dose of Paris and some interesting little tidbits to tide us over.

Via Tumblr

~ In Paris you are never more that 400 meters from a subway station.

~ The Marseillaise, the French national anthem, was first sung in Strasbourg, not Marseille.

~ The novel La Disparition by Georges Perec, in its original French does not use the letter 'e'.

~Via Tumblr~

~ In French two weeks is in fact 15 days, quinze jours.

~ French politicians can simultaneously hold more than one elected office.

~ Lefevre is the most popular last name in France.

~ There are 27 wine regions in France.

~Via Tumblr~

~ Comté cheese is best eaten 30 months after it is made.

~ Alsacien type homes are not considered immobilier, the French term for real estate that also means non-moveable, but in fact mobilier because they are demountable and thus can be moved. Alsacien type homes were built this way so that homes could be part of dowries.

Flickr

~Facts via Americans In France~

Ziegfeld Follies

2011-02-17T00:28:00.000-08:00

"Fred Astaire: Here's to the beautiful ladies, Here's to those wonderful girls, Adele's and Molly's, Lucille's and Polly's. You'll find them all at the Ziegfeld Follies."

Cyd Charisse in the 1945 Hollywood musical ~ Ziegfeld Follies

Bonjour chéris! I just finished watching that amazing movie Ziegfeld Follies. I am still trying to catch my breath! The costumes, the dance routines, the stars...Oh my!

Dolores Costello ~ Ziegfeld Girl

The Ziegfeld Follies were a series of elaborate theatrical productions, inspired by the Folies Bergéres of Paris, on Broadway in from 1907 through 1931.

Ziegfeld Girl

The Follies were extremely lavish revues that included many of the days most popular performers. The Follies may have been most known for the beautiful girls that graced the stage.

Lilyan Tashman ~ Ziegfeld Girl

These girls were known for always being decked out in the most elaborate and beautiful costumes. The costumes were often made by designers such as Erté, Lady Duff Gordon, and Ben Ali Haggi. The next morning the talk of New York would always be the ensembles.

The glorious Louise Brooks ~ She was a featured dancer for the Follies in 1925

I love that the movie includes some actual numbers from the original Follies shows on Broadway and showcases so many of Hollywood's brightest stars of the time. It is such an over the top spectacle that it just makes you feel like dancing!

Stay tuned for an incredible giveaway in the next few weeks and a post about my first trip to an auction & the goodies I brought home. I can't wait!

Old Hollywood Glamour

2011-02-15T16:39:00.000-08:00

Ditas collection of pointe shoes used in her performances

Bonjour! I had so much fun with the last post filled with corsets and feminine frills that I decided to post about the Queen of corsets and femininity...Dita Von Teese.

An outfit used in her carousel horse act as displayed in her home

I thoroughly enjoyed the Dita feature in February's In Style showcasing her home. I love the way she lives and enjoys all of her vintage treasures daily. She really is a throwback to that glamorous age in Hollywood. She is rarely without her pinup Red lips and stockings.

The article was fascinating and the photos were glorious! If you have not seen it I highly encourage you to check out the pictures. They just ooze glamour, vintage swank, and retro beauty.

A small portion of Ditas vintage hat collection. She owns more than 300!

After that Jean Harlow~esque spread in In Style I searched for more photos of her "Old Hollywood" home. Unfortunately, these were all of the photos I could find.

Ditavonteesefan.net

I recently purchased her Burlesque book on Amazon and I have to tell you, it's gorgeous. The photos are over the top glamour and luxury. The content is well written and had me enthralled.

Confectionery Delights

2011-02-10T17:37:00.000-08:00

~Cherry Blue Corset~

Maya Hansen Corsetry has won my heart! What girl (or guy) wouldn't love these confections?

~Calippo Corset~

Madrid born Maya Hansen dreamt up this incredible cake collection. Cakes and candies inspired this frivolous and whimsical collection. Colorful brocades and supple suede combine to make an incredible statement. A colorful bang of trimmings and patterns that evoke the fantastical and lavish court of Versailles.

~The Marie Antoinette~

I dream of a Lingerie closet full of the most decadent and beautiful pieces...Just like these. A little piece of heaven!

~Mint & Chocolate Corset~

HappyValentine's Day!

All images via Maya Hansen Corsetry

Lanvin...Another Favorite

2010-12-28T02:33:00.000-08:00

"In Florence, Jeanne Lanvin gazed, transfixed, upon a Fra Angelico fresco. Its remarkably intense quattrocento Blue was to become her pet shade" ~Lanvin

~Lanvin 2011~

Jeanne Lanvin set up a Milliners boutique on the corner of rue Boissy D'Anglas and rue Du Faubourg St Honoré. She later opened her own House at the same location.

She began by making beautiful little fashions for her young daughter and muse, Marguerite Marie Blanche. These creations became so popular among the parents of her daughters friends, Jeanne created a Childrens department in 1908 and a year later became a full fledged fashion house.

~Lanvin Pearl and Grosgrain Necklace Via Harvey Nichols~

In 1911 Lanvin began creating wedding gowns and in 1926 she created Lanvin Fourrure and Lanvin Lingerie. The same year she was also named Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur.

In 1946 Jeanne Lanvin passed away after starting the perfume and Lanvin Decoration departments with great success (Santa left me a little vintage Lanvin present under the tree this year ~sigh~)

Today, Alber Elbaz is the art director for the House of Lanvin and he is pure genius! I look forward to every feminine collection and the details are always exquisite.

A bit of vintage Lanvin for you~ A Gold embroidered Lanvin-Castillo dress modeled in the Theatre of Louis the XV in Versailles.

Best Wishes to you all for a happy, joyful, and successful New Year~ Cheers!

Chanel...I Love You!

2010-12-20T01:21:00.000-08:00

I adore this photo but have no idea where it is from...If it is yours, please let me know!

I'm thinking of doing a week of my favorite designers. Not surprisingly, three out of the four are French! The first is a bit of dreamy Chanel to kick off this glorious holiday week.

I am in LOVE with these little Chanel booties, I have the perfect vintage Dior cocktail dress to wear with them (am I the only one that selects the shoes and then builds the outfit?)

Chanel

Oh my, oh my!!! This is too stunning! I'm not really one to wear brooches, however, I can surely find a spot for this little lovely! Perhaps I can tuck it into a messy bun, thread it through a shoe strap, or secure a scarf with it. Hmmm...

Paris Parfait

Tulle, Aqua, quilted strappy wedges...This can only be a Chanel vitrine in Paris! What a dream.

Elena Glurdjidze, dancing The Dying Swan for Lagerfeld during her final fitting at Chanel

I think I have posted this image before, but it is just too gorgeous. It combines my love of ballet and my love of Karl Lagerfeld...perfection.

Chanel

Finally, for all of you out there in the middle of a storm a Chanel umbrella. It has been raining for days here in Southern California and I love it! I love that the rain waters the plants and cleans the roads. I love the sound of the rain and the snuggling near the fireplace. Try to stay dry while out there shopping and prepping for this special weekend!

À la prochaine

Celebrating Magic

2010-12-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

Wishing you the Happiest of Holidays!

All Things Heart and Home

Hello! I have been enjoying every second of this beautiful holiday season and just wanted to pop in to say hello and I miss YOU!

Attik72 Window Decal

Our holidays are generally very busy (as I'm sure most are). My husbands birthday comes just after Thanksgiving and my Little Prince's birthday is actually Christmas day so we throw him a big party every year at the beginning of December to make sure he has his own special day. I can't believe my Precious is already turning Three!

The decorating has been done, the gifts have been carefully chosen, and now I have to wrap my heart out (Í chose a Kraft paper and muted toned ribbon with some glitz for the packaging) and bake, bake, bake! I've decided to attempt to make Croquembouche! I'll let you know how that goes...

The legendary Ceil Chapman ~ Vintage

So, I am looking forward to the holiday parties, the cookie exchange with my friends, the traditional trip to see the Christmas lights, Caroling...and...a big surprise from my Best Friend...Dinner at the legendary Club 33 inside of the Disneyland park! I am so excited! The best part of the season is of course, spending time with the family and watching the little Prince play with his cousins and thoroughly experience the magic that is...Christmas.

Wishing you Magic this season!

Colette

2010-11-17T01:29:00.000-08:00

If I can't have too many truffles, I'll do without truffles.
Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

Bonjour mes amis, what a chaotic and busy time it has been. I love to grab a great book and a cup of tea to unwid a bit in the evenings when the baby is asleep and the husband has gone to bed. Lately, I have found myself immersed in novels by that racy and saucy author Colette (Best known for writing Gigi).

I just finished reading a number of the Claudine books, I'm starting Chéri when I finish this post, and I can't wait to get my hands on La Naissance du Jour. I find myself getting lost in this Belle Epoque world she writes about so vividly and so wonderfully! It makes me even more excited to know that she wrote about personal experiences and the people around her so these amazing, larger than life characters could have at one point been living, breathing, people.

Her life was very racy and very interesting. Her marriages and lovers were often scandalous and salacious. A woman before her time and a wonderful writer.

You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm.
Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

Another Time...

2010-11-07T01:14:00.000-07:00

BaroqueAndRoll on Etsy

I've been loving the series Boardwalk Empire on HBO. It makes me dream of another time and world. Here are some Etsy finds inspired by those fabulous roaring 20's!

LillyLange on Etsy

The series Boardwalk Empire was inspired by a book based on a true story. It is set in Atlantic city at the dawn of the prohibition.

Maclancy on Etsy

The sets are incredible and the fashions are amazing! It's hard to believe that this story is bases on true events. It's riveting.

Piperewan on Etsy

You can catch it on Sunday nights on HBO. Have a great weekend mes amis!

Spooktacular!

2010-10-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a happy weekend and a spooktacular Halloween!

Tim Walker photo

Dior Haute Couture’s handpainted and embroidered silk taffeta dress. John Rocha socks, Louis Vuitton shoes with Mokuba ribbons.

Exquisite Finery

2010-10-22T01:35:00.000-07:00

Blue Silk Ballgown and Red SIlk womens stockings, with Gold thread embroidery

Bonjour Mes Amis! Recently I wrote a post (here) about visiting the new Resnick Pavilion in Los Angeles for the opening weekend. I was in awe of all of the beauty and history surrounding me. It was a spectacular experience and I am so excited to share these pics with you.

Edwardian Lace dress and kidskin gloves/A stunning uncut pattern on Silk

The first of the three exhibits that we visited was this amazing journey through time, "Fashioning Fashion" European dress through the ages. I cannot tell you just how incredible these items were in person.

L. Blue Mademoiselles Giroux Dress c. 1880 made in LImoges France made in the Princess Line, named after Princess Alexandria of Whales.

This stunning display exhibits European Dress from 1700~1915. All of the very most romantic eras are represented here and one could get lost in the glamour and the romance of it all.

I apologize for the hefty amout of photos in this post, I had a really hard time editing some out. I have loads more but decided to spare you! My best friend had my camera so I took these with my phone but you just can't hide the fact that the fashion was divine!

Fashion from some of the most famous and luxurious fashion houses and designers in history are on display: The House of Rouff, Émile Pingat, Giroux, and so many more. The above Pink gown is from the 1830's and is decorated with a sea of faux pearls that would weigh down the sheer overlay and make a delightful clinking noise when the lucky wearer would move. The faux pearls are glass filled with a mixture of fish scales and glue. The story behind this is remarkable, I could do an entire post over the discovery of this process by a French rosary maker.

I wish I could write about each of these pieces, however, I think I would both bore you and take hours to write. Each piece has a truly remarkable history and the process of creating these works of art are incredible.

The contents of these Silk~Velvet lined boxes are amazing! The larger box contains jeweled buttons for a mens suit from the 1700's, the missing ones are on display on the suit next to this box. The smaller boxes contain jeweled shoe buckles! If I could only just hold one for a moment! Too beautiful!!!

I have been holding back writing that "this photo is my favorite"because it feels like they all are but I really do think this one is my favorite. Those bustles are fantastic and the colors! Oh my!

18th century Robe à la Française. Cream Silk with Handpainted details. The colorful florals are woven in to the fabric but the Green/Yellow leaves and bows are handpainted. Just amazing!

The thing that struck me most about everysingle piece I saw was the detail, the hadmade aspect of everything, the fact that every pleat, bead, ruffle, and delicious piece of golden passementerie, has been perfectly placed is mind blowing. Seeing gowns and suits worn at the most luxurious courts in Europe was a special and treasured treat. The true luxury of the textiles, lush trimmings, and artistry of each piece is intoxicating.

All of these pieces and so much more (a vest from the Revolution in France, children's clothing, capes lined in ostrich feathers, etc) are currently on display at LACMA in Los Angeles until March.

All Photos ~ Paris Atelier

My, Oh My!

2010-10-14T23:15:00.000-07:00

Photo~SwankUnderpinnings on Etsy

Bonjour! Sending out wonderful wishes for a beautiful weekend to YOU all!

Image via Bubble Wrap My Heart

I plan on stealing away a moment to read a good book...

Image Via Tumblr

and kick off my shoes! Happy weekend!!!!

I have two exciting posts in the wings! Stay tuned!!!

A Most Romantic Discovery

2010-10-06T18:36:00.000-07:00

Getty Images

Can you just imagine turning the key in the keyhole of a beautiful old building in Paris to enter an apartment that for over 70 years lay untouched. With the rent faithfully paid, the doors locked, and an incredible treasure trove hiding inside, this apartment remained a secret. That is, until the apartments last occupant recently passed away at the age of 91. She shut the apartment up just before the outbreak of World War II to go live in the south of France and she never returned. The dust filled romantic rooms of treasure were discovered by an auctioneer sent to inventory her belongings.

That is only part of the romantic story of the apartment of the granddaughter of Marthe de Florian, a beautiful actress of the early screen. When this lucky auctioneer entered the dust-covered Parisian apartment to take inventory of the possessions, he was quoted saying that he "had the impression of creeping into Sleeping Beauty’s castle where time had stood still". In the beautiful decaying apartment he came across a painting, which had hung in the living room, of an actress of exceptional beauty who went by the name of Marthe de Florian, enshrouded in a pale pink mousseline evening dress. The real story here is that this portrait was painted by one of 19-century Paris’ most prized portrait artists, Italian Giovanni Boldini.

Image via Yahoo news

The auctioneer had a hunch that this painting was made by the famous Boldini but could not find any record of the painting, it was not in any reference books and it had never been exhibited. After extensive research he found one of Boldini’s calling cards in the apartment with a love message by the painter written to de Florian. Knowing this was the link, he continued his search and found proof that this painting was indeed a Boldini after finding mention of it in a book belonging to the painters widow.

Amazing Stuffed Ostrich via Telegraph.co.uk

Marthe de Florian had hosted her many admirers in the apartment where “she kept letters from her lovers in little packages wrapped up with ribbons of different colors,” according to one of the people who worked on the inventory. The calling cards of senior statesmen from the period were found tucked away in drawers.

This week, the painting, painted in 1898 when de Florian was 24 years old, went up for auction in Paris. Ten bidders fought to own the piece, the final price came to an astonishing €2.1 million, the highest price of any Boldini piece. "It was a magic moment. One could see that the buyer loved the painting; he paid the price of passion,” art specialist Marc Ottavi was quoted by The Telegraph

Art, Fashion, and The Resnick

2010-09-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

"As our lives become even more virtual and fleeting, it's imperative that we have art as an anchor, and after the daily electronic recounting of the real-time horrors of people doing terrible things to one another, we can renew our faith in mankind while viewing man's highest achievements on display at a museum like LACMA." ~Lynda Resnick

Image via Sarahreports.com

The much anticipated and much talked about Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion opens to the public on Oct. 2. It is the second gallery building on the LACMA campus and designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano, one of the world's most sought-after museum architects. Funded by billionaire philanthropists Lynda and Stewart Resnick (they own POM juice drink and Fiji Water), this $54 million exhibiion hall will serve as a stunning place to showcase rotating and traveling art exhibits.

Image from the NY Times

The grand opening will feature three exhibits: Olmec: Colossal Masterworks of Ancient Mexico, Eye for the Sensual: Selections from the Resnick Collection, and Fashioning Fashion: European Dress in Detail, 1700-1915.

I am, of course, most excited to see Eye for the Sensual which includes eighty-five European paintings and sculptures from the personal collection of Stewart and Lynda Resnick (I could dedicate an entire post to this amazing woman, she is fabulous and so remarkable). I am so anxious to see its important eighteenth-century French paintings—including works by François Boucher, Élisabeth-Louise Vigée-Lebrun (she has the portrait of Marie~Antoinette with the Rose, Versailles houses a later version of this portrait), Jean-Honoré Fragonard (my fave), Nicolas Lancret, and Hubert Robert. I am also looking forward to seeing the fashion exhibit.

"The exhibition will tell the story of fashion's aesthetic and technical development from the Age of Enlightenment to World War I. It will examine the sweeping changes that occurred in fashionable dress spanning a period of over two hundred years, with a fascinating look at the details of luxurious textiles, exacting tailoring techniques, and lush trimmings. Highlights will include an eighteenth-century man's vest intricately embroidered with powerful symbolic messages relevant to the French Revolution; an evening mantle with silk embroidery, glass beads, and ostrich feathers designed by French couturier Émile Pingat (active 1860-96); and spectacular three-piece suits and gowns worn at the royal courts of Europe." LACMA

I feel so honored and lucky to have aquired tickets to the opening weekend andI am so looking forward to going and being part of a historic moment for art in Los Angeles. My husband and I are taking the little Prince and the countdown begins!

If you are interested in going LACMA is hosting community days where you can get free tickets online.

Weekend Love

2010-09-24T23:44:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a happy and carefree weekend!

via Clevernettle.com on Pinterest

I'm so excited to be back in the swing of posting and listing on Etsy. Most of all, I'm excited to reconnect with YOU!

Sending wonderful thoughts your way this weekend.

xoxo

Beautiful Kodak 1922 Kodachrome Film Test

2010-08-26T01:22:00.000-07:00

This Film Test is so neat! I just love the rich, beautiful colors and the fashion! I am loving that fabulous hat with the hanging accents. Enjoy!

Theurel & Thomas

2010-07-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends, or should I say Hola!?! I wanted to share this little decadent treat with you today. Theurel & Thomas is a beautiful and visually stunning little French macaron shop in Mexico! That's right, Mexicos first macaron shop is located in the ritzy suburb of San Pedro.

I'm not quite sure if my mouth is watering over the decor or the little pastries...it must be both.

All of the interiors and branding were done by Anagrama. I love the stark White decor that contrasts and showcases the macarons.

Just gorgeous!

I could find some bliss in an office like this one...again, not sure if it's the decor or the macarons...

I am tempted to start filling lovely White vessels with macarons and adding them as decorative accents in my home, everywhere in my home!

Enjoy your week!

All images via Anagrama

Keys To The Fleas: Paris

2010-07-13T01:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! I am so excited to write this post today. Today on my Facebook I saw the most wonderful post from the legendary Claudia from The Paris Apartment. She has just launched the most delicious and incredible App on iTunes!!! The app, Keys To The Fleas: Paris showcases Claudia's years of research and passion for all things Brocante and Paris Flea Market. This exciting app is just dreamy and includes amazing illustrations by Elaine Biss.

This fabulous new App is available for iTunes, iPhone, and iPad. I just spent the last few minutes browsing through it and I am literally swooning over the photo gallery and the illustrations. I can't wait to plan my next trip to Paris with this handy tool in hand. Even if a trip to Paris is not in your immediate future this app makes you feel like you just had a whirlwind trip throught the heart of the Paris fleas. Congratulations Claudia!!!

Claudia is celebrating with a giveaway so head on over to The Paris Apartment to enter for your chance at a free Keys To The Fleas: Paris app. If you can't wait for the contest, you can have it right now! Head on over to iTunes right here to download the app

http://ax.itunes.apple.com/us/app/keys-to-the-fleas/id380432477?mt=8

and her fabulous book that has become a Decorating/Lifestyle bible for so many!

The Paris Apartment: Romantic Decor on a Flea-Market Budget

Little Edie...

2010-07-07T01:02:00.000-07:00

Image from the Grey Garden's Collection

Bonjour Mes Amis! Sorry for another book post, however, I am just so excited for this special little book to come out!

The Diary of little Edie Beale written everyday for the year 1928 when she was just 11 years old is being published and comes out on August 1st.

From the Everette Collection

I can just imagine the glitz, glamour, and exclusive lifestyle she led at that age. Very excited!

The Perfect Summer Day...

2010-06-28T01:11:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Mes Amis! I'm a California girl and I love this beautiful, warm, Summer weather. It's been just gorgeous over here and I just spent the perfect Summer Sunday with my boys. What is my idea of a perfect Summer day you ask? A warm sunny day, my amazing husband and beautiful son, the pool, a bowl of fruit, a glass of champagne, and a good book (all of this after watching my Argentina play in the World Cup of course). That's exactly how I spent the day and I couldn't be happier.

The book I read today was so good! The perfect light, fun, Summer reading. I really enjoyed it and just couldn't put it down. Summer at Tiffany, a memoir by Marjorie Hart is a book right up my alley!

Imagine New York City circa 1945.Two young girls Marjorie and her best friend, Marty, arrive in New York to find summer positions as shopgirls. These lucky girls find jobs as pages at Tiffany & Co. and become the first women to ever work on the sales floor! A fun book filled with tales of a diamond-filled job that includes Tiffany blue shirtwaist dresses from Bonwit Teller's. What an experience, what a time period, what a story! I just loved it.

Happy Summer days to you! I can't wait for the weekend again!

~To Catch A Thief~

2010-05-23T21:48:00.000-07:00

Last week in Paris a thief is believed to have carried out one of the largest and most brazen art heists in history. The thief broke into The Musuem of Modern Art through a window that had a faulty alarm system and was awaiting repair.

Source Unknown

He made off with works by Picasso, Matisse, and Modigliani. The stolen masterpieces (including 'Le Pigeon aux petit pois' by Picasso, Henri Matisse’s "Pastoral," Georges Braque’s "Olive Tree Near Estaque," Fernand Léger’s "Still Life With Chandeliers,'' and Amedeo Modigliani’s ''Woman With Fan').

Paris mayor Bertrand Delanoe confirmed that the raid was the most costly in the history of French art and called it ‘an intolerable attack on Paris’s universal cultural heritage’. According to The Art Loss Register, only 12-15% of stolen art is ever recovered. They also state that Picasso is the most stolen artist in the world with 660 (including the most recent one stolen in Paris) missing works of art by the artist.

GarenT Photography

Art thieves have struck again in France this weekend by stealing five pictures from the home of an art collector in Marseille only a day after the major heist in Paris, the stolen pictures include a Picasso lithograph.
French police said Saturday the owner was beaten up at his home in southern France on Friday and the art stolen.

Cary Grant in To Catch A Thief

~Biggest Art Heists in History~
May 2010: A lone thief stole five paintings possibly worth hundreds of millions of euros, including works by Picasso and Matisse, in a brazen overnight heist at a Paris modern art museum.

February 2008: Armed robbers stole four paintings by Cezanne, Degas, van Gogh and Monet worth $163.2 million from the E.G. Buehrle Collection, a private museum in Zurich, Switzerland. The van Gogh and Monet paintings were recovered.

December 2007: A painting by Pablo Picasso valued at about $50 million, along with one by Brazilian artist Candido Portinari valued at $5 million to $6 million, were stolen from the Sao Paulo Museum of Art in Brazil, by three burglars using a crowbar and a car jack. The paintings were later found.

February 2007: Two Picasso paintings, worth nearly $66 million, and a drawing were stolen from the Paris, France home of the artist's granddaughter in an overnight robbery. Police later recovered the art when the thieves tried to sell it.

February 2006: Around 300 museum-grade artifacts worth an estimated $142 million, including paintings, clocks and silver, were stolen from a 17th-century manor house at Ramsbury in southern England, the largest property theft in British history, according to reports.

February 2006: Four works of art and other objects, including paintings by Matisse, Picasso, Monet and Salvador Dali, were stolen from the Museu Chacara do Ceu, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by four armed men during a Carnival parade. Local media estimated the paintings' worth at around $50 million.

August 2004: Two paintings by Edvard Munch, The Scream and Madonna, insured for $141 million, were stolen from the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway by three men in a daylight raid. The paintings were recovered nearly two years later.

August 2003: A $65 million Leonardo da Vinci painting was stolen from Drumlanrig Castle in southern Scotland after two men joined a public tour and overpowered a guide. It was recovered four years later.

May 2003: A 16th-century gold-plated Saliera, or salt cellar, by Florentine master Benvenuto Cellini, valued at $69.3 million, was stolen from Vienna's Art History Museum by a single thief when guards discounted a burglar alarm. The figurine was later recovered.

December 2002: Two thieves broke in through the roof of the Vincent Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and stole two paintings by Van Gogh valued at $30 million. Dutch police convicted two men in December 2003, but did not recover the paintings.

December 2000: Hooded thieves stole a self-portrait by Rembrandt and two Renoir paintings worth an estimated $36 million from Stockholm's waterfront National Museum, using a motorboat in their escape. All paintings were recovered.

October 1994: Seven Picasso paintings worth an estimated $44 million were stolen from a gallery in Zurich, Switzerland. They were recovered in 2000.

April 1991: Two masked armed men took 20 paintings - worth at least $10 million each at the time - from Amsterdam's Van Gogh Museum. The paintings were found in the getaway car less than an hour later.

March 1990: In the biggest art theft in U.S. history, $300 million in art, including works by Vermeer, Rembrandt and Manet, was stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, Massachusetts, by two men in police uniforms.

December 1988: Thieves stole three paintings by van Gogh, with an estimated value of $72 million to $90 million, from the Kroeller-Mueller Museum in a remote section of the Netherlands. Police later recovered all three paintings.

May 1986: A Vermeer painting, Lady Writing a Letter with her Maid, is among 18 paintings worth $40 million stolen from Russborough House in Blessington, Ireland. Some of the paintings are later recovered.

August 1911: Perhaps the most famous case of art theft occurred when the Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre by employee Vinczo Peruggia, who was caught two years later.

~Art Heist History, The Daily Mail-UK

Douce-amère

2010-05-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

Hello and Happy Weekend!!!

Wishing all of you a very treasured and special Mother's Day!

Sunday will be bittersweet for me. Bitter because I will miss celebrating such a special day with my own amazing Mother. It has been almost seven years since she lost her long, difficult battle with cancer but it feels like yesterday that I last held her hand or heard her voice. She was such a special person and there will never be another like her. She gave me so many special gifts. I recieved the love of family, travel and culture, art, nature, quality, and books from her. I learned what it is to be giving, a good person, and the importance of beauty and laughter. These, among so many more, she taught me.

I am going to celebrate her life and the fact that my Mom was also my best friend, that our relationship was so close and that I was chosen to be her daughter. An honor that I will never let go ofor take for granted.

The day is also sweet for me because I can celebrate another spectacular gift I have been given, my son. My little Prince is the most incredible miracle I have ever witnessed. Everyday he reminds me of what I truly believe in and he gives me purpose and a reason to be better with every second that ticks by. I felt as though I was born the same day he was.

So, let the celebrations begin! Celebrate those that are with us and those that have left us, the future and the past. After all that is the fiber we are all made of.

~Wishing you all a truly beautiful weekend~

.All images via Flickr.

Laduree...You Never Disappoint!

2010-05-05T00:42:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends~
Follow my blog with bloglovin

Image Via Bardot in Blue

Laduree never disappoints! It's been one of those weeks, who am I kidding, it's been one of those months and I needed a bit of a pick me up today. Luckily the month has just begun and everyday is a new day with a fresh new start. So, Cheers to you and to a new day!

Of course a quick trip through your blogs has lifted my spirits to no end. I of course started daydreaming of Paris, which led me to daydream of a macaron, which led me to Laduree, which led me here to these amazing libations! Ooh La La!!

Enjoy!

~All other images from Laduree~

To Walk A Mile In These Shoes...

2010-04-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

The Eila ~ Manolo's ~ Sigh

Bonjour My Friends, I have been reading so many amazing posts by all of you who are either in Paris or just home from a visit there. I have to say that the photos, the stories, and the images of the food and people have me longing to go back more than ever! Oh how I wish I was in Paris!

Jimmy Choo ~ Super sparkly, super delicious

So, thinking of Paris made me think up a faux itinerary in my head. Where would we (my bestie and I) eat, where would we shop, how many days would we spend in the country, how many in Versailles, how many gorgeous French men would we have to turn down for dinner dates.

~Donna Karan~

And of course...how many pairs of shoes would I need to pack!?! I know, I know, these are hardly practical to go meandering around the cobblestone streets with and hardly as chic as the Converse that everybody is wearing around town right now, but they are gorgeous.

Valentino~ Need I say more?

After all a girl needs to have tea at the Ritz and visit the ballet. Besides, doesn't a macaron taste even more delicious in a pair of Louboutins?

Another Adventure

2010-04-22T22:05:00.000-07:00

Image from Sweet as Candy (A huge favorite of mine!)

Bonjour Mes Amis! If you have read my last post you know that I have been bitten by the entrepeneurial bug. I have always dreamed of owning a brick~and~mortar store and now is the time. A lot has changed since that last post that seems like it was ages ago but really it's only been a couple of weeks. We have found a new space and a new name that better fits our passion for this dream we are making a reality!

Source unknown: If it is yours please let me know so I can add a link and tag it properly. It is just too delicious to pass up!

After some new developments, some gorgeous, ornate doors have opened for me. I am partnering up with the amazing Ebony from Mahogany Maddison to open a different kind of boutique experience. I am very excited to say that our opening date has been pushed back just a bit in order to prepare our new space. We are so excited with this adventure. I so appreciate all of the amazing and encouraging comments and if you were planning to attend, please sit tight and I promise, it will be worth the wait.

We are planning so many exciting things and I can't wait to share it all with you! I will keep you posted and I am so grateful for you and excited to take this giant leap with all of you by my side. After all it is because of you that I've been inspired and motivated.

My search led me to...you

2010-04-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

I just fell in love with this image from {This is Glamorous} One of the most beautiful blogs I have ever laid eyes on and a long time fave!

Bonjour Mes Amis! Profuse apologies for not posting more often! I have been so busy with a very special project. I've been holding back sharing the news but I think now is the time to "let the cat out of the bag" so to speak.

I am so excited to announce that I have teamed up with the incredible Ebony from Mahogany Maddison and Paris Atelier furniture and accessories are going to be featured in her new boutique!

This is a stunning boutique in a French/Shabby Chic style. The brick and mortar shop is located in Historic Downtown Upland in California and it is going to be beautiful! I am so excited. I would love to see you there if you are in the area.

Source: http://frenchlarkspur.blogspot.com/

Even more exciting news: We are looking for unique and talented vendors to feature and would love to hear from you amazing bloggers out there. I think some of the most incredible talent is right here in the blogosphere. Please feel free to E~mail me with info, photos, and ideas at Atelierparis@Gmail.com

I will keep you posed with news from this fabulous adventure and miss you all so much! I am off to explore what I have been missing in your amazing post over the last few weeks. Merci!!!

April Food Day

2010-04-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

APRIL FOOD DAY SUPPORTS FEEDING AMERICA

More and more people in our country are going hungry because they have lost their jobs, their benefits have ended, they can’t find a job and have no place left to turn but to their local food bank. But the nation’s food banks are stretched to the limit because of the increased number of people needing their services.

You might think that none of your friends are going hungry, but I read a comment on a piece NPR did about a photography exhibit about hunger in America, and think it could apply to any one of us:

…a dear friend and community member crossed over. At his one year crossing remembrance, stories began to come out and I realized with great sorrow, our friend went hungry. I feel sad when I think of it, that our dear friend who gave so much and was so generous in spirit and friendship was hungry and we never knew that. How did we not make it our business to know how it was with him we loved so?

Please make a donation to Feeding America, or your local food bank, and count yourself as one of the lucky ones if you’re not going to bed hungry every night. Feeding America has set up a special URL for April Food Day so they can see how much we’ve donated.

If you’re a blogger, tweeter, facebooker or have an e-mail list, please share this address. Let me know if you’ve posted about April Food Day, and we will add you to the list of participants on the April Food Day site.

Thank you very much

Meg Fairfax

Chris

~Food banks are getting depleted, but are a vital source for those in need. Today is April Food Day in the blogging community and if you'd like to help, you can contribute here.

Thanks so much for your consideration!!

Obsessing Over...

2010-03-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

I'm loving Douglas Friedman right now! I've always been a fan but lately have a renewed interest in his work.

He is a genius! I am always so in awe of such incredible talent. The images, the whimsical and lavish subjects, they all make my heart skip a beat.

Could you just imagine waking up to this!?! Hmmm....decisions, decisions!

His portraits never disappoint.

and the celebrity homes he photographs are incredible!

He has done a lot of shots for In Style magazine, including the Christina Aguilera and Fergie shoots that had everybody buzzing. A girl could get lost in his imaginative and vivid world!

~Spring is in the Air~

2010-03-12T21:59:00.000-08:00

Soon to be listed

C'est le printemps!!! Spring is in the air and the Paris Atelier Etsy shop is having a sale! Take a look here

Amazing Tiara Headband ~ Uber Feminine and Glamorous!

Take 10% off ANYTHING in the Paris Atelier Shop!

Ultra Luxurious Pink Satin Bedspread with avaliable valance in thick, rich, satin. Brought to you straight from Paris

The sale starts now and ends March 20th. Visit Paris Atelier here.

Silver filagree miniature chair under glass~ Amazing!

Thank you all so much for all of your support, comments, and friendship. You all keep me going even during the hardest times! I adore you!!!

"Eye" Love You!

2010-03-11T02:23:00.000-08:00

Photo from the V&A ~Notice the diamnd teardrop~

I've fallen hard for these incredible pieces of jewelry. I love the intrigue and meaning behind them as well as thier beauty. Here's some backstory about these gorgeous Lover's eye miniatures.

Photo ~The Philadelphia Museum of Art~

In the late 1700s, while his father George III was losing the Revolutionary War in America, George IV of England was losing his heart to a young girl, who happened to be a commoner. The young prince's lover gave him a locket with a miniature painting of her eye; her anonymity was preserved while eye contact was maintained. The idea caught on and, for about 30 years, these Georgian miniatures became fiercely popular among the upper classes throughout Europe and have become a very rare and sought out genre of antique jewelry today.

Photo ~The Philadelphia Museum of Art~

Painted by miniaturists, portrait painters who specialized in small, detailed images. They focused on only the eye, often represented with eyebrow and lashes. Sometimes showcasing a wisp of hair or the suggestion of a sideburn or the bridge of a nose would hint at the owner's identity but never reveal it, how romantic! Adding to the mystery of it all the miniaturist often added a delicate border of clouds around the eye.
These amazing little love tokens appeared between the 1790s and 1820s in the courts and upper crust households of England, Russia, France.

Photo ~The Philadelphia Museum of Art~

Eventually, the idea caught on for use as mourning jewelry. Mourning pieces contained the eye of a departed loved one, sometimes set in a frame of pearls which symbolized tears.

Photo ~The Philadelphia Museum of Art~

Most eyes are unidentifiable, however, there is one diamond-studded example marked with an Imperial Crown and initials "J.B." This piece can be traced back to Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's ne'er-do-well brother who was once the Emperor of Spain! So incredible!!

Photo~Te Lenore Dailey Collection~

“When full dressed she wore around her neck the barrenest of lockets, representing a fishy old eye, with no approach to speculation in it” – Charles Dickens, 1848

Photo ~Flickr~

Such gorgeous pieces! How I would love to add one to my collection of portrait jewelry, a girl can dream can't she!?!

Bardot in Blue

2010-02-23T15:41:00.000-08:00

Bonjour!!! I know I just did a post featuring this amazing new blog Bardot in Blue but you have to check out this post on the Alice in Wonderland (one of my favorites) inspired windows in Paris. Be careful, you will fall down a rabbit hole in her blog to a place of wonder, enchantment, and beauty....

Saving Hollywoodland....

2010-02-22T22:15:00.000-08:00

Size: 138 acres

Location: Between the Los Angeles Basin and the San Fernando Valley See map

Recreation Value: bordered by Griffith Park and frequented by hikers and other lovers of sweeping LA basin views.

Habitat Value: rare ecosystem, home to butterflies, the coast horned lizard, and the Plummer's mariposa lily.

Best-known human feature: The Hollywood Sign

That Cahuenga Peak has remained undeveloped to this day is a lucky result of Howard Hughes' difficulty with women. A remnant open space in a spreading sea of development, the peak had already become famous as a backdrop for the Hollywood Sign when the famed industrialist, aviator, and film producer bought it in 1940. Hughes planned to build a mansion for his girlfriend, famed film star Ginger Rogers, whom he intended to marry.

But the relationship failed before the house got built. The reason for the breakup was Hughes’s indiscreet infidelity. Rogers dumped Hughes as he lay in a hospital bed after a serious car crash. She returned all of his gifts of jewelry in a basket before hurling her emerald engagement ring at him.

Huges died in 1976, and the land remained in his estate for another 20 years. In all that time--sixty years total-- hikers drifted over from Griffith Park, butterflies bred in the chamise, and lizards scuttled beneath the chaparral. The city expanded to the edge of the peak, making it even more valuable as a rare close-to-home open space. And the Hollywood Sign and its undeveloped backdrop became a symbol of fame, fortune, and infinite opportunity--the Hollywood Dream.

In 2002, the Hughes estate put 138-acre Cahuenga Peak on the market, presenting a rare opportunity to protect a large, iconic open space in the heart of the nation's most densely settled region. The City of Los Angeles hoped to purchase the land as a natural extension of Griffith Park. But at the height of the real estate market, fundraising fell short, and a development group from Chicago scooped up the property and secured rights to build several estates along the ridgeline.

With the land subdivided, it was again listed for sale in 2008 for $22 million--and once again it seemed that there might be a chance to protect it. In April 2009, The Trust for Public Land secured a one-year option to purchase the property with the hopes of preserving it for generations to come. And because of the falling real estate market, this second chance comes at a very reasonable price of $12.5 million, a little more than half of what the land was listed for in 2008.

Visit back tomorrow for a fun post about the history of the sign and some amazing pics. Thank you!

For more information about the campaign and how to help, please visit SaveHollywoodland.org

This is the listing for the property, pretty incredible.

Reblogged Via SaveHollywoodLand.org

Boundless Beauty

2010-02-21T15:12:00.000-08:00

Bonjour Mes Amis!

What a whirlwind month it has been and it shows no sign of slowing down soon. I have so many ideas and so many new things I would like to add to the blog and share with you, so many ideas and so little time.

As I have been gathering my thoughts and visiting your amazing blogs for inspiration and motivation I have run into so many new and amazing sites. I just wanted to share some of them here with you today. Just when I think I couldn't possibly see anymore beauty or new discoveries, I do! Isn't that a wonderful thought? Beauty is never ending and bountiful, it's literally behind every corner. Enjoy!

I am loving Bardot in Blue this blog is a dream! A decadent site about a girl from California living in Paris. She is truly chic and her style is flawless.

A peek into her apartment will capture your Paris loving heart. Her endless soirees and stunning photography will leave you inspired and ready to sell your belonging and move to Paris! Just gorgeous!!!!

Mahogany Maddison is my new favorite addiction. I am loving this blog! The author Ebony is amazing! She is writing two books, writing two blogs, managing two facebook pages, running a cupcake business and opening a Shabby Chic pop-up shop! Whew, that's a lot of work. Her site is fun, flirty, and fabulous!!! Just be careful if you visit her other blog Mrs. Robinson's Cupcakes you might gain ten pounds looking at her divine confections! Yummy!

Cashon & Co is an amazing blog and website. I love everything about this gorgeous blog. It is inspiring, thought provoking, beautiful, and uplifting.

I'm obsessed with this post in particular. I can't wait to read all of the posts I'm behind on. Everytime I log on I always leave with something unexpected and beautiful. She also has a design firm and the website is exquisite.

I'll leave you with these words from her blog. I read this from her sidebar with every visit,

Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

Your job won't take care of you when you are sick; your friends and parents will: stay in touch.

You don't have to win every argument; agree to disagree.

Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

Don't compare your life to others; you have no idea what their journey is all about.

Over prepare, and then go with the flow.

Be eccentric now, don't wait for old age to wear purple.

Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

What other people think of you is none of your business.

Your children only get one childhood.

If we threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Regina Brett, 90 years old

It's Raining, It's Pouring...

2010-02-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

Image via Life.com

Bonjour Mes Amis! The weather outside is dreary and wet to say the least here in California and across much of the Nation. The perfect opportunity to cuddle up with the Boys and drink some hot cider. I can't wait to run up to the mountains for a snow day! I love this weather.

Image: Source Unknown

Here are some pics of The Eiffel Tower in bad weather. Isn't she grand and beautiful no matter what the weather!?!

Image via Flickr

To all of you in this wet and snowy weather, please stay safe and warm. It's the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely day to cuddle up with the ones you love and enjoy a little rest and enjoy the storm! Best wishes to you all!

Dreaming of Paris...

2010-01-18T23:55:00.000-08:00

Image via Such Pretty Things ~ Flickr ~ The Fleas

Bonjour Mes Amis! I was just enjoying a cup of tea and dreaming of Paris! My friend Julio from Beaux Mondes Designs is there now and he took his toddler son with them. His posts are just lovely and are making me miss Paris dreadfully! I can't wait to take my Baby J there :)

Image via Inspiring Things ~ The Storefronts

From the Fleas, the shops. to the storefronts, these images are causing a little pang in my heart.

Via Flickr

A favorite thing of mine to do was to visit the Marché aux Fleurs and Marché aux oiseaux. Just strolling around and seeing all of the sites and smelling the flowers (not the birds) is a perfect little break in the city.

I could never get over the flower stalls piled high with beautiful fragrant blooms. Like walls of blossoms on each side. It's truly beautiful. I always had fresh flowers in the apartment.

Via Flickr

The best bookstores in the world I do believeare in Paris! They are amazing. What I wouldn't do to be there now.

Via Flickr

I love this image of the Bouquiniste along the Seine. It brings back so many wonderful memories of Paris! Leisurely breaks reading along the Siene and views of the Conciergerie. Life doesn't get much better than that! What a wonderful stroll down memory lane for me tonight. I'm off to bed with visions of Laduree and Les Printemps dancing in my head.
Bonne Nuit!

I took a fabulous trip to Hollywood with some friends and I can't wait to post about the fantastic Golden Age of Hollywood sites I saw...Until then!

With a Heavy Heart for Haiti

2010-01-15T23:05:00.000-08:00

Bonjour Mes Amis. I was all ready to sit down and write a fun Paris post but I just can't bring myself to do that. It is with such a heavy heart that I sit at the computer tonight.

After watching the news for last few days and seeing all of the sadness, horror, destruction, and loss, I can't seem to think about much else than the people of Haiti. I am holding my son and husband extra close and tight tonight and can't look at my son without feeling a huge wave of emotion. I feel so grateful and so blessed to have him home and safe in my arms. I can't imagine what all of those mothers are going through right now.

I have been on Facebook and browsing the blogs and there isn't much being said. Not like I thought there would be. People don't seem to care, I keep reading about how much traffic sucks and what's for dinner??? How do we look at those images and do nothing!?! I know what an incredible group of bloggers we all are and what presence and voice we have. Let's do something! Anything! Any ideas???

These people have less than nothing and have witnessed things that are unspeakable and unimaginable, the worst isn't over. If you know of anything we can do as a community please share.

Here are some things you can do if you are interested in helping out:

Pray

Text the word "HAITI" to 90999 to make your $10 donation. 100% of your $10 donation passes thru to The Red Cross for Haiti relief! Your mobile carrier keeps nothing. That's two trips to Starbucks for people who have less than nothing. Let's give them some hope. It takes only a minute.

all 55 Sports Chalet stores will be accepting gently worn men's, women's & kids shoes until Sunday, January 31st. All the shoes collected will be sent directly to Soles4Souls for distribution to the Haitian people - along with necessities such as food, bottled water, medical supplies and baby products. Spread the word! For more info click this link.

Support the American Red Cross. Even small donations add up. Here is the link

This is a great link with some organizations specifically helping Haiti. Here is the link

Talk about it, spread the word, have a fundraiser, be aware, and most importantly hold out hope for these people.

Sorry for the sad post tonight, but this is their reality right now and we can raise awareness and do what we can even if it's a little bit. So, hold your loved ones close tonight, give the kids an extra kiss and I love you, and when you get mad because traffic is bad or your stressing out, just think of these people and breath a sigh of relief as you count your blessings.

Please leave any additional info, ideas, or ways to help. Feel free to link up or share.

Goodnight my friends!

A New Year, A New Resolution

2010-01-05T22:21:00.000-08:00

Photo via Alphabetical Life

Bonjour Mes Amis!

I just wanted to say hello to you all and wish you a very happy, healthy, fabulous, New Year!

I anticipate 2010 to be a fantastic year!!!

I resolve to get back to blogging, even if it means lack of sleep. I miss you all and I hope that I can reconnect with my beautiful blogging friends after my petite haitus.

~Cheers~

Merci Mandy!

2009-11-25T22:59:00.000-08:00

Bonjour Mes Amis!

I have been in a blogging "rut" as of late and have been needing something or someone to inspire me and bring me back to these moments in front of the computer that preserve my sanity and keep me connected to you~ It is in reading your posts and seeing the incredible talent and creativity you share with us that I too get inspired and refreshed.

Well, I decided to change the look and feel of my site to aid me in this task and could think of no better person to ask for help than Mandy at A la Parisienne ~ Une Ville Romantique Un Style Romantique ~

In keeping with the spirit of gratitude this week I have to extend a huge, resounding, heartfelt, THANK YOU to Mandy. She did an absolutely incredible job with Paris Atelier and brought such lux beauty and grandeur to the blog. I adore it and I hope you do as well. If you are planning a blog or Etsy overhaul, I encourage you to check out the other beautiful sites that Mandy has created and head over to Mandy's Etsy shop here. She is true talent and her creativity astounds me.

I am so lucky that Mandy accepted the challenge of revamping Paris Atelier for me, I'm afraid I was a tough customer. I could not come up with anything, I knew what I wanted but had no clear vision of the final outcome. In other words...I wasn't much help!

Mandy produced the most exquisite and glamorous site I have ever seen and I adore it! It is more than I could have imagined. I love my old banner so much but I needed a change after so long.

Mandy is such an amazing Blogging Friend, she is kind, helpful, honest, and pure. A soul so kind and genuine. I feel lucky to be able to call her a friend. I am so grateful for all of the beauty she has brought into my life.

This is just a taste of the exquisite beauty you will find in Mandy's shop

I hope you love the new blog as much as I do, it is everything I want Paris Atelier to be and more, glamour, sophistication, inspiration, and luxury all wrapped up in a perfect little package by Mandy for me!

Mandy has also started creating the most beautiful accessories for her Etsy shop. The brooches that she has created are breathtaking and decadent. Her blooms are so glamorous and versatile. She uses the finest materials and the quality is evident. Take a look at some of her feminine and gorgeous brooches here.

All Images are from A la Parisienne

Thank you Mandy for all that you have done for me and for your remarkable friendship. Your talent astounds me and your creativity is boundless.

And to you, my friends, I am so grateful for you and the inspiration and friendship we share with each other in this virtual world. It's a beautiful place to escape to, a wonderful place to recharge and get ideas to make my life more beautiful. I am a better mother, wife, friend, and interior decorator because of all of you!!! :) It sounds crazy but it's true!

Thank you and have a beautiful weekend. Happy Thanksgiving to my friends celebrating stateside

Xoxo

~Judith~

More Modern Marie

2009-11-13T00:12:00.000-08:00

Lee Junghyun

Bonjour Mes Amis!

I have been poking around some old images I have on the desktop and just wanted to share a little bit more "Modern Marie" inspired images with you. You can see the first Modern Marie post here if you would like.

Enjoy!!!

This is a gorgeous Marie worthy room from Loft Life Magazine. I can't get past that enormous dripping chandelier (my ultimate weakness)!

Dior dresses on the steps of Versailles. Could you just imagine Marie and her companions the Duchesse de Polignac and the Princesse de Lamballe lazing away the days in these couture confections!?! Oh my!

This image from La La Lovely is just too pretty for words. The soft Pink bound books, the simple stark colors, the clean glass bottles, it's perfect.

Source Unknown

This image via Simply Seductive blog is breathtaking! I could waste the day away on this
canapé while tasting a macaron or two. Could you think of a prettier place to rest your gorgiously coiffed head?

Finally, my favorite part...the Louboutins! These are chic and Marie all at once. They are the Lady Page Loubou's and they are delicious!

Have a great weekend my friends. Please visit again as I have a special post demain about a special friend who has made my blog somptueux!!!

à bientôt!

Vintage: The Way Only Paris Can Do It!

2009-10-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

Free'P'Star another great stop on your hunt for vintage fashion

Image from store website

Bonjour Friends! I have been aching to shop in Paris and I have been dreaming of a classic Chanel piece of jewelry. One from the time when Chanel herself ran things. *sigh*

For now it is a only a dream but someday! For now I am content visiting some amazing vintage shops in Paris. I hope you enjoy then as much as I have.

Mamz'Elle Swing Image from Allure.blogspot.com

Mamz'Elle Swing on the rue du Roi de Sicile is a favorite. I love the storefront and the owner is a wonderful lady. If you get lucky you may run into vintage Hermes, Dior, and Chanel here. A definite stop for any vintage gal.

Wochdom Image from ParisNY.com

Wochdom is one of the coolest stores I've been in. It has a dark club kind of atmosphere with dark walls and boutique merchandising. It a gorgeous place to shop. It really sets the mood for finding clothes with a history. the downstairs is amazing and huge!!! This shop is great you can find vintage Lanvin (one of my faves) mixed with ready to wear vintage, fabulous!!! Across the street you can find another Wochdom that specializes in shoes and accessories...heaven!!!

Quidam de Revel Image via Lucky magazine

Quidam de Revel is an incredible by appointment only vintage shop specializing in clothing from Roger Vivier, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Hermes, Pucci, Dior, Lanvin, Biba, and Ossie Clarck. If you can get in the door you are in for a sublime treat!

Yukiko is an absolutely incredible shop. I saved the best for last. The owner Yukiko selects only the finest vintage for her beautiful shop. The place is dreamy, girly and sophisticated all at once. Making you think Grace Kelly is about to walk in at any moment. I didn't want to leave, seriously, I was forced by my companion to leave! Yukiko also produces her own line of very feminine furs and slinky pieces. The owner/designer has started an Eshop called Vintage Paris and it is fantastic! I drool every time I stop in for a peek! I'm about to go look now, I might just find my dream Chanel piece.

All Yukiko Images from Yukiko site

Have a lovely weekend my friends! à bientôt!

XOXO

Halloween...Old Hollywood Style

2009-10-26T23:42:00.000-07:00

Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow at Truman Capote's famous Black and White Masked Ball

Image via Berkley Library

Hello Friends!!! With Halloween (it is one of my very favorite holidays) swiftly approaching I thought it would be fitting to do a post on some of the glamorous stars of Hollywood dressed up in costume.

I adore this image of Cary Grant, Mary Pickford, Countess de Frasso, and Trullio Carminati at the Vendome Cafe in Hollywood for a costume party

Image via Corbis Images

I would imagine that after dressing in costume all day long for a movie the last thing I would want to do is dress up for a party, well not these fabulous stars! Here are some great images of some of Hollywood's brightest stars in disguise, enjoy!

Clark Gable, Carol Lombard, and WR Hearst

Image via Friends of 415

It seems as though Marion Davies (lover to WR Hearst, that is another post altogether!) threw some of Hollywood's most lavish and exquisite parties! Oh to be a fly on the wall at one of those extravaganzas! Only the most elite and powerful in Hollywood and the publishing business were allowed access to these amazing (often costume) events.

Gloria Swanson, Marion Davies, Constance Bennett, and Jean Harlow at a party at the Marion Davies Beach House in the early 1930's

Image via Robin Chapman News

They say that Marion threw over 100 of these lavish parties over the course of her famous relationship with the newspaper magnate.

Janet Gaynor decked out at a costume fete
Image via Give me the Good Old Days

One of my faves, Lucille Ball at a costume gala
Source unknown

The adorable Claudette Colbert dressed as Scarlett O'Hara!

Image via Classic Movie Favorites

Could you just imagine getting a gorgeous invitation to a fabulous Hollywood costume party and then prancing over to your favorite wardrobe department to request an outfit! Heaven!

My all time favorite "Tramp" Charlie Chaplin dressed as Napoleon for a WR Hearst party
Via Wikipedia

I am so in the mood for Halloween now! I can't wait to don my 40's glamour girl costume (seriously that's my costume this year) and paint the town Red, after I take my little Prince Trick-or-Treating that is. I have my vintage jewelry, vintage shoes, a satin evening gown, vintage opera gloves, and instructions for a fabulous hair do ready to go!

Joan Crawford all gussied up for a party

Source Unknown

For those of you celebrating Halloween this year Be safe and Be Glamorous!

Thank you so much for the always too sweet comments, and support, you are the best!!!!

XOXO

Judith~

The Rose Bowl

2009-10-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends!!! Here is my (long overdue) follow up to my previous Rose Bowl post. Last month I went to the Rose Bowl as a vendor for the very first time! It was so fun and exciting. I had an amazing time and I just wanted to say thank you for all of the support and well wishes from you all!!! Thank you!

I have never done anything like this before! I have gone many, many times as a consumer but never as a vendor. I had no idea what was in store for me! Everybody repeatedly told me it was so hard and the day drags on but I found it to be exciting and fun!

My Mother~In~Law went with me to lend me a hand (thank goodness for her) and lots of friends stopped in to say hello! It was all so exciting. The day started very early (ahem, 3:30am) and off we went with our truck loads of antiques and vintage furniture. My Mother~In~Law didn't wake up and I thought "Oh no, I hope we make it". Then on the way there we were stopped on the freeway for quite some time because the freeway was shut down due to an accident, I thought again "Oh no"! We finally arrived a little later than I had anticipated and maneuvering through the crowds of people and the trucks and vans unloading was a nightmare! It was so crazy! It was dark and crowded and tons of people were walking around with their flashlights looking for deals! So fun!

Well, we finally got situated and unloaded and set up the canopy and I had so much fun trying to make everything look pretty! I couldn't help to wonder, maybe I should own a shop!?! I have to tell you I had an amazing time! I met some of the most fabulous people and had a blast doing it!

I didn't have a ton of luck getting rid of some of my bigger pieces but secretly I didn't want to let them go either! How terrible of me!!! I have some beautiful things left like the gorgeous White Iron daybed with Rosebud fabric covered pillows, if anybody is interested :) But I learned a lot from the experience and I can't wait to go out and do it again!!!

All of these pics are from my booth. I am not the best photographer but I think the idea comes across. I had/have gorgeous market baskets, steamer trunks, coat racks, a beautiful old fireplace mantle, and antique window rescued from a church in Paris and hand carried all the way home!
I really enjoyed seeing how much people liked looking at everything and I made so many new friends. What a wonderful experience! I will definitely be back!!!

Xoxo,

Judith~

Beyond Excited!!!

2009-09-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends! I am beyond excited right now! Tomorrow morning I am going to be a vendor at the Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market!!! I can't contain myself! It is my first time as a vendor and I have been prepping for quite some time now.

I have gone faithfully to the Rose Bowl for years now but only as a consumer, and now I get to see the other side of it all!!

I would LOVE to get a chance to meet some of you if you will be there tomorrow, come on by!

Photos via Flickr

Of course, I may still find some time to do some shopping of my own ;)

Wish me luck! I will post the pics as soon as I get home!

XOXO
~Judith~

2009-09-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! As promised the fabulous Annie Leibovitz images from the infamous "Killers Kill, Dead Men Die". movie that Leibovitz captured for the 2007 Vanity Fair Hollywood issue. They may have already been around the blog world and they may be a few years old, but I believe they are so beautiful and relevant that I had to share them again. Enjoy! I added some great print from the Vanity Fair issue about the original idea and film below...P.S. I am dying over the gorgeous wallpaper in the above photo!

*Sigh* a smokey nightclub filled with gorgeous and mysterious characters. The slinky gowns and a cigarette girl, and men in tuxs! What more could you ask for!?!

"A clean print of the lost film noir classic Killers Kill, Dead Men Die was miraculously discovered at a Mulholland Drive lawn sale last month, resolving a mystery that has transfixed noir fans for decades. Little was known about the film for certain, though it has been the subject of wild rumors ever since the screenplay was written, probably in 1942, by Raymond Chandler (based on “The Big Blood,” a story by James M. Cain, and later revised, as No Orchids for Oscar, by Dashiell Hammett and William Faulkner).

It is believed that Humphrey Bogart and Robert Mitchum were originally cast in the roles of private detectives Oscar Slade and Dan O’Bannion, only to be replaced, several years later, by Sterling Hayden and Glenn Ford, and then—most intriguingly—by Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet. We know that Lauren Bacall loved the original script. But she passed her troubled-heiress role to Barbara Stanwyck when Fritz Lang replaced John Huston as director. (Lang later ceded to Stanley Kubrick, who let Joseph Losey take over when RKO sold the project to Republic Studios.) It is suspected that additional scenes were shot with Joan Crawford, Richard Widmark, Gene Tierney, Lee Marvin, Gloria Grahame, Ida Lupino, and Jimmy Stewart throughout the 1950s, when the picture was known by its two shooting titles, Dame Danger and He Died by Murder. After acquiring the Republic library in the 1980s, Ted Turner reportedly planned a colorized version of the film, which, curiously, is one of the few noirs actually shot in color. In this period certain scenes are also thought to have been reshot with Kathleen Turner, William Hurt, Melanie Griffith, and Michael Paré, under the direction of Brian De Palma. Based on a close examination of the newly discovered film stock (and the movie’s credit sequence, opposite), several noir scholars have even gone as far as to suggest that the picture was not completed until this year.It’s too bad, since this delay has deprived us of viewing an undeniable film noir classic. Every element of the genre is here: The Femme Fatale, sultry, scheming, and doped up on tranquilizers; The Private Dick, crawling through the gutter in search of a diamond garter; The Chanteuse and The Champ; The Doll and The Aristocrat; The Spy who knows too little and The Moll who knows too much; mistaken identity and double indemnity; high life and low society; shocking—though possibly nonsensical—plot turns; despair, lust, blood violence, and the cruel fist of fate. Finally, lurking in the shadows behind all this is the menacing figure of The Killer. And what does he do? Why, he does what all killers do: he kills.

~Excerpt from Vanity Fair

The Dressing Room

2009-08-31T15:56:00.000-07:00

Alleycatscratch.com Publicity stills for the King Kong Movie

Hello Friends!

I've been catching up on all of your blog posts and I am overwhelmed with the creativity and beauty you bring into my life!

Joan Crawford preparing for a scene

I have been so inspired and I am now obsessing over glamorous dressing rooms and the fabulous backstage life in theatre, Opera, Ballet, and movies.

I stumbled upon a picture of Marilyn Monroe getting ready in her dressing room, and I fell into the rabbit hole searching for more backstage images. So here are some of my favorites to share with you...Enjoy!

Penelope Cruz in part of an incredible photo shoot by Annie Leibovitz. I will do a post on the entire Film Noir shoot tomorrow...stay tuned!

The beautiful Betty Grable and her famous legs Backstage in her dressing room photographed by LIFE magazine.

A ballerina in her dressing room by William K Daby. Just breath taking!

Artisticcostumes.com

Backstage at the Phantom

New Glamour! the dressing room of Kylie Minogue on her world tour. Fabulous!!!

TheWinger.com

A gorgeous ballerina backstage on the final night of the Nutcracker Ballet.

That's all for today! I want to set my powder room up to look like a glamorous Old Hollywood dressing room now! I can't wait for tomorrow's film Noir post. Have a fantastic day and a great week!!!

I Miss You!

2009-08-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

Photo from Faerieenchantment.blogspot

Bonjour My Dear Friends! I have been absent for so long and I miss you! Life has been a bit of whirlwind lately. Life made me prioritize my responsibilities and blogging had to take a back seat. However, I'm back!!!! I've missed you dearly and I've missed posting so much. I realize it is so therapeutic for me. I can't wait to catch up with all of you. I've been incognito reading your glorious posts and trying to stay up to date. So as I try to catch up I will leave you with some of the things I'm loving right now....

Photo from ReeseandMarie.blogspot

I am obsessing over anything apothecary right now! I love it all and I think I need to start collecting some beautiful vintage apothecary jars. I love the above image. It's just the inspiration I need :)

Gorgeous little cherubs frolicking in the fountains of Versailles via Flickr

I adore this indescribable French Aqua (?) color. What is it called anyway!?! I love it. All shades of it! From the Laduree signature color to the stunning patina on the fountains in Paris. I'm in love!

Photo via Flickr

I am on the hunt for a beautiful antique Absinthe Fountain. Ever since seeing a post that Lisa from Lisa Golightly's blog with her Absinthe fountain in her bathroom, I can't stop thinking of finding one. Incidentally Lisa has the most incredible items on her website Lisa Golightly. Her creations are spun from wishes and dreams!!!

Top hat from an auction

I found a gorgeous Victorian Beaver Top Hat at the flea market with the original leather case and I adore it.

Mary Poppins!!!! We are going to see the musical in November and I can't wait!!! I think I'll pop in the DVD tomorrow night and enjoy a bit of nostalgia from my childhood. My Mom and I used to love watching this movie together. Great memories.

Photo Via Flickr

I am still really into the vintage circus theme and I'm thinking that my son's birthday party needs to be this theme. If you have any idea or suggestions I would love to hear them!

French Military Shako

I ADORE military and band Shako right now. The pomp, the feathers, the decorations! I'm in heaven!

That's all for tonight but I will be back to my blogging now. I so appreciate all of your lovely comments and all of my blogging buddies. It all means so much to me. You have been such a great source of support and escape for me...Thank you!!!

XOXO
Judith~

Let's Dance!

2009-07-23T22:03:00.000-07:00

Bonjour My Friends! It's been a long fabulous day and I have been looking forward to sitting down to write a post all day. I have so many incredible blogs to post about and awards to acknowledge and pass along, as well as friends shops and fun new ideas to write about. I can't lie, I feel a little bit overwhelmed :) So, while I get my thoughts together and plan out some beautiful posts for you I will sit and reminisce about a favorite little shop in Paris.

~Repetto~

Most of you have probably heard of it and some have probably shopped there. Maybe you have been, like me, drooling in front of the vitrine, or maybe it is new to you. Either way, once you have experienced it, you will agree, there is nothing quite like it!

This gorgeous little gem is one of my favorite haunts in Paris. The windows are always glorious little pieces of heaven and the ballet flats are any chic girls' best fashion accessory. I've worn out plenty of pairs on the streets of Paris! :)

When I was younger I was a ballet dancer. Mostly, because my Mom really wanted me to be. I loved it but as I grew up, I stopped dancing altogether. Every time I visit Repetto, I think to myself how I would have loved to dance and always dreamed of dancing with Mikhail Baryshnikov (I had an insane crush on the man for years)!

Here is a little bit about the brand and the woman behind it.

Rose Repetto created her first ballet shoe in a tiny little workshop practically next door to the National Opera of Paris for her son Roland Petit in 1947. Nearly a decade later Brigitte Bardot requested a pair. Rose then created the "Cendrillon" ballerina and dedicated t to Brigitte.

Two years later Rose opens her first shop at 22 rue de la Paix. It didn't take long to become the ultimate destination for the famous ballerinas all over the world. Rose then established a factory in Saint Medard d'Excideuil in Dordogne. Where the "stitched and returned" method was perfected for the pointes and ballerinas and is still in use.

In 1999 Jean-Marc Gaucher takes over Repetto and strives to breath new life into it.

Since then, Repetto has partnered with many brands and in 2005 made their One Millionth pair of ballerinas.

In 2007 Repetto celebrated their 60th Anniversary with much fanfare and are known worldwide. They can still be found at the original address...

22 rue de la Paix.

The website is just gorgeous and showcases the beautiful items available for purchase. It also gives advice to dancers on how to sew their ribbons and so much more. The photos alone are worth the visit.

If you are ever in the vicinity of a Repetto shop I would take a peak at the incredible window displays. They are always breath taking and inspiring.

This photo is a close up of a tutu in the window. How dreamy and frothy!

I'm off to work on my Battement frappé, Chassé, and Glissade moves!

Have a fabulous weekend!

XOXO,

Judith~

~All Images Via Flickr~

A Little Bit of Pretty....

2009-07-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

Image via Flickr ~ Juicy Couture chair

Bonjour! I have been a bit MIA lately, so sorry! I have been potty training my little Prince and it has been quite a chore. If you Moms and Dads out there have any advice, I would love to hear :)

Vogue ~ Romeo & Juliet spread

I just needed a little bit of pretty today, so I'm posting some pics I've saved just because they were pretty. Enjoy!

Image via Flickr

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this picture. It is perfect! I adore the colors.

Via Flickr

Backstage at the Dior fashion show

Flickr

This is the cutest cupcake I have ever seen! A Cancan dancer and a sweet treat! CUTE! ;)

The above pic is from a fabulous blog A Paris Dasant. Her photos are heavenly!

And, of course a dose of Laduree. I know I feel better now! :) A bit of Paris always has that effect on me! Have a lovely weekend my friends and I'll be back on Monday!

XOXO

Judith~

2009-07-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends,

Whew! What an incredibly busy (but great) week, it is so good to get back to the blogging world. I have been just aching for Paris lately (what's new, right)! I always get a pang to go when I read your beautiful blogs, see gorgeous photos, and look at fine art.

During a conversation with my husband over dinner tonight, I thought a lot about the painter Jean Beraud and his subtle and elegant paintings. Here is a little bit about him and some of his work. Enjoy!

La Soiree

Born in St Petersburg in 1849, the son of a French Sculptor, Béraud moved to Paris to complete his law studies at the Lycée Bonaparte. Béraud exhibited his paintings at the Salon for the first time in 1872. However, he did not gain much recognition until 1876.

Béraud's work was greeted with great enthusiasm and he was welcomed into Parisian society receiving many commissions for portraits from famous figures such as the Prince d'Orleans and Prince Troubetskoy. He attended many of the evening soirees arranged by the popular hostesses of the time and frequently depicted these scenes in his paintings.

He frequented the same cafés, restaurants and theatres as Dégas, Renoir and Toulouse-Lautrec and was close friends with Manet.

La Modiste Sur La Champs Elysees

He exhibited with the Society of French Watercolorists at the 1889 World's Fair in Paris. He painted many scenes of Parisian daily life during the Belle Époque in a style that stands in between the academic art of the Salon and that of the Impressionists.

He received the Légion d'honneur in 1894.

Béraud's paintings often included truth-based humour and mockery of late 19th century Parisian life.

Towards the end of the 19th century, Béraud dedicated less time to his own painting but worked on numerous exhibition committees, including the Salon de la Société Nationale.

Béraud never married and had no children. He is buried in Montparnasse Cemetery beside his mother.

La Bal Mabile

The work of Jean Béraud is represented in museums in Liège, Lille, Tours and Troyes, France.

Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

XOXO

Judith~

And the Winner Is...

2009-06-25T13:05:00.001-07:00

Galliano

A Big Congratulations to.....

Dior

Anita from Castles Crowns and Cottages!!!!

I am very excited to announce Anita as the winner of my second giveaway! She is one of the sweetest and nicest bloggers out there! It is an honor to send her this little gift.

Lacroix

She has a lovely blog and her images and her fun positive energy is contagious! I love her posts on crowns and all things French. Her love of music and life are uplifting and each visit to her site enriches my soul! Thank you Anita, I am so happy that you won!!!

A big Thank you to all of you who entered, who read my posts, and to all of you who have shown me so much support!
XOXO

Judith~

Getting It All Done...

2009-06-24T22:19:00.000-07:00

I believe these images are from Harpers

Hi Everybody!

I sat with some friends this morning at "The Corner Bakery" and had a wonderful discussion over oatmeal and tea. The topic was...

How do we do it all!?!

All of us sitting there with our children in their various "stages"... Terrible Two's, teething, Teen, colicky, & newborn (they sound like 5 of Snow White's dwarfs). We all had the same question...How do we do it all?

My answer was simple, I don't!

Life can be a balancing act. There is so much on our shoulders. For me it is Husband, child, family, home, work, friends, Etsy, blog, errands, cooking, cleaning, bills, etc, etc. I won't lie, sometimes I just can't do it all. It was strange but everybody looked at me as though I was crazy when I said this. Did I utter the most taboo words in the English language? I felt like an animal at the zoo the way they were looking at me! Am I the only one who doesn't get it all done all of the time!?!

I used to pretend that I was perfect. My perfect home, my perfect never messy baby, my perfectly precision cut hair and always manicured perfect nails, my perfectly pressed fresh from the dry cleaners business attire, my perfectly detailed Mercedes, my perfect everything. I was insane! Nobody is perfect all of the time.

Well, friends, times have changed and while I still try to get it all done, I know now that realistically about 70-80% of my list gets checked off daily, and I'm okay with that.

Now at the end of the day when I've spent good solid quality time with my son and husband, I've achieved perfection :)

Here's to you! Getting it all done...

Missing Paris...

2009-06-19T22:16:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends! It's been a busy, hectic, great week and it feels great to get back on the blog. It's an even better feeling to get out there and read some of the posts by all of you that I have been missing :)

It is no secret that I love Paris and miss it everyday. I have been missing one very strange thing the most lately, a baguette!

I know, I know, I can go to the store and just buy one, but for some reason it is just not the same for me.

I miss that scrumptious smell as you walk by, the inviting bread all stacked up calling you to come inside, I even miss waiting in line to buy my bread! It's true! :)

I miss the taste of those delicious, mouthwatering, croissants. I miss breaking bread with good friends over a bottle of wine and fantastic conversation. I miss the whole ritual of it.

It all just tastes better in Paris, yes... even the bread.

Okay, the above picture is not an actual Boulangerie but it is very pretty.

All of these beautiful images are via Flickr

So incredibly worth a trip to Paris! I can't wait to get back.

Have a fabulous weekend and thank you all for all of your support and friendship!!!

XOXO

Judith~

A Thank You, A Winner, and Another Chance!

2009-06-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Friends! Today is the day to announce the winner of Paris Atelier's first give away to celebrate the opening of my new Etsy shop!

First, I would like to give a special Thank you to Mandy at A La Parisienne

She gave me the beautiful button for my new Etsy shop that you see above. It's so perfect and so pretty! I knew she was talented but I had no idea! A visit to her blog is sheer joy! Her images are remarkable and she is such a talented, warm, and genuine person. Thank you Mandy!!!!

I would also like to say a big Congratulations to.....

Janet at FrenchBlue

Janet is the winner of the first give away! Congratulation!

Janet has the most beautiful blog over at FrenchBlue
If you have not yet stopped in please take a moment to sit back and take a peek. She has an incredible eye for style and her taste is flawless! Janet has been a huge source of support and friendship and I can't thank her enough! She also has the most remarkable store

FrenchBlue&Co

which carries some of the most heavenly items, take a look but make sure you have some time set aside, you might get lost in there, it is too pretty to leave!

I am just about to list some pretty Satin Vintage Drapery and the most delicious Satin Bedspread in the Etsy store. They are all one set and they are from the 40's. I almost can't stomach parting with them :( They have just been sitting for years not being appreciated. I can't bring myself to put them out to brave the elements. I have had them wrapped in acid free paper and sealed for almost a decade. What a shame, they should be looked at and often! :) If they are not up tonight they will be tomorrow so be sure to check in.

And now....My second giveaway (pictured above and below)!

To enter just pop into the new Paris Atelier Etsy shop and then come back here to leave a comment, that's it :)

Good Luck!

XOXO

Judith~

The Rose Bowl

2009-06-10T03:14:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am so excited that you are all enjoying the new Etsy shop! Thank you all for your kind words of encouragement and support!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway by leaving a comment here. I will be drawing a winner on Monday and doing one more giveaway starting Friday. Don't forget to check back in for more details :)

I just thought I would share one of my guilty pleasures with you. I'm gearing up for the Pasadena Rose Bowl on Sunday! I love, love, love spending the morning there and I can't believe that it is already time to go again! It happens every 2nd Sunday if each month and the last one happened to fall on Mother's Day. It seems like it was last weekend! Where did May go!?!

I really enjoy getting up early, leaving the Baby and Husband sleeping soundly, grabbing a cup of tea from the Coffee Bean and heading out to Pasadena. I usually meet up with some of my close girlfriends for a day of treasure hunting, good conversation, and a petite break from Mommy duties.

Paris it is not, however, still a fun and relaxing day! It is incredible how different our wares are here in America from the fleas in Europe.

Images from Rose Bowl via Flickr

So, it's off to the Rose Bowl this Sunday and I can't wait! I am meeting up with my best friend and kindred spirit! I have in mind some little treasures I would like to find to complete my newly redecorated office at home. Will any of you be there!?! Let's meet up! I'll bring the tea and we can browse the chandies!

Don't forget to enter for the giveaway here.