French Snippets

We are in true countdown mode here at Distant Francophile headquarters – it is less than two weeks now until we head to New York. To say we are looking forward to our first ever trip to the States really is a massive understatement.

With a trip to a new destination on the horizon, we’ve naturally been doing our fair share of internet exploration. Sights, restaurants, shopping – you name it, we’ve been checking it out.

Interestingly, despite the fact that we are headed in the opposite direction to our favourite travel destination, I’ve still been coming across quite a bit of French related fun. While Scott has been raising his eyebrows, potentially questioning how I’ve been spending my research time (both on and off line), I have found all sorts of French snippets to share here with all of you.

French Snippets

French Girl Hair

My quest for slightly better hair continues. After trying David Mallett products earlier this year (you can read the review here – for the record, I really liked the Volume Powder and will buy it again at some point) I’ve decided to test out the Christophe Robin Volumising range.

Like Mallett, Robin is high end Parisian hair stylist who has launched an extensive suite of products. Known especially for his skill with colour, his clientele includes names like Catherine Deneuve and Léa Seydoux.

It’s still too soon to share a full overview, however I can let you know that the rose fragrance is simply sensational. And so far, my hair seems to be happy with the products – especially the shampoo, which goes on as a paste and then transforms into a creamy lather. Only time will tell though.

While I am waiting to see how my hair responds to my investment in another relatively pricey French product range, I’ve been enjoying the educational videos and posts on his website.

And French Girl Make-Up

Not only have I been using videos to improve my hair styling skills but I’ve also been turning to them for make-up advice. No matter your age or experience, I firmly believe there are always fresh ideas to learn something from. My favourite ‘teacher’ for a little while now has been the very well known make-up artist Violette_Fr.

The videos I like best see Violette sharing her know-how outdoors, with Paris as the backdrop. Beautiful shots of Paris, make-up tips and a gorgeous French accent – so much to love!

Learning French

My education theme continues!

I am very excited to share that I am back at French lessons, with a goal of managing my trip to Paris next April entirely in French.

After ‘on again, off again’ stints of lessons and ‘recorded methods’ that have led to a jumble of words in my head but no real language skills, I’ve finally made a real commitment and taken the advice of Jo from frugal first class travel and decided to work one on one with a tutor via Skype.

Given how strongly I believe in coaching, it is ridiculous that I haven’t done it sooner. But I needed to find the right teacher – which thanks to Distant Francophile, I’ve managed to do.

I’m thrilled at how quickly I’m coming along. This is partly due to the fact that I have a patient, understanding and flexible tutor. And it is also attributable to my new found commitment to studying. I’m working much harder than I have in the past. And surprise, surprise, I’m getting results.

The ‘text book’ my tutor recommends is also really helpful. Clear explanations and easy to follow exercises, all at an unbeatable price. If you are looking to support your own French language skills, you might like to consider picking up a copy of Easy French Step-by-Step.

At Last. A Zip-Up Tote

I’m tipping that around half of you reading will have absolutely no interest in this update. This is due to the fact that, in terms of luxury brands, Louis Vuitton is incredibly polarising. If you are not a LV fan, then feel free to skip forward to the next heading.

If however, you happen to like Louis Vuitton bags, then you could be interested to learn that they have recently introduced a zip up tote to their range.

Named the All-In or the All-In-One, depending on where you live in the world, this classic tote bag is being marketed as a folding travel bag. It is not as stylish as the much coveted Neverfull tote, lacking both the detailing and the lovely interior. And it is only available in the monogram version.

But it does have the one thing that the Neverfull has always lacked. A zip.

While I know they are greatly loved by Louis Vuitton fans, I’ve never been able to reconcile the fact that the Neverfull couldn’t be secured. In chatting with the sales assistant, it seems I’m not the only one who appreciates the ability to stop her stuff from bouncing out of her bag. Apparently a zip-up tote was the number one request from would-be purchasers.

If you are looking to add a little practical luxury to your world, the new LV tote could be for you.

And Finally

I shared this on Facebook but just in case you missed it…Diane from Oui in France has expanded her on-line store to include some gorgeous new t-shirt designs. If you are a fan of quirky t-shirts featuring French words, you should definitely check out Diane’s creations.

Have you come across any French snippets worth sharing? If so, I’d for you to share them in the comments section below.

Until next time – au revoir.

Please note: This is an unsolicited post and no compensation of any kind has been received from the brands mentioned above.