Merry Christmas to all!
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Christmas in Paris
Christmas in Paris
What a great way to get in the Holiday spirit... check out this video that highlights Christmas in Paris...Joyeux Noel!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Top Christmas Events in Paris
Top Christmas Events in ParisLooking for great things to do in Paris during the Holiday season? Check out this list of fun activities during Christmas time! Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Ethinc Fashion Trends
Ethnic Fashion TrendsEthnic is in this year... however if you are a conservative, classic, suit wearing fashionista and you walk into the office party wearing the latest West African ensemble people will stare... and it may not be a good stare.
Knowing the trends and the latest A la mode is always a good thing... BUT knowing how to make it yours is better! Perhaps you might want to try a beautiful accessory in the latest trend... ethnic or otherwise. Say for example... a scarf.... a necklace... or a belt... that sets you apart from the crowd.
Remember LESS can be MORE... and knowing how to turn a little quiet number into a star quality fashion statement is priceless...
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Christmas in Paris
Christmas in Paris
One of my FAVORITE things to do in Paris during the Holiday season is to look at the window displays in the department stores... they are TRULY like nothing else I have ever seen. If you are one of the unlucky ones and can't make it to Paris this year, check out this video below to get a small glimpse into what Christmas is like in Paris!
Please ignore the mispronunciation of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette... of course not everyone can have the perfect French accent!
Monday, December 19, 2011
French Holiday Recipes
French Holiday Recipes Want to dazzle your guests with a great French recipe for the holidays? Check out this EASY and quick way to make Branade Canapes, ENJOY!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Holiday Gift Guide
Holiday Gift GuideNew York Times does a Holiday Gift Guide each year to point you in the right direction, check out their link and see if anything sparks your fancy!
Nothing you like? Take a step further and check out their "gift guides on the moment!"
Where do you go for ideas?!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Paris in the Spring Time
Paris in the Spring TimeEveryone LOVES Paris in the Spring time for a variety of reasons... so if you are one of the many planning a trip then and have absolutely NO idea what to wear, take a look at these photos and get some great ideas as to what will be HOT when you arrive in the City of Lights!
If you are like me, then being able to afford half the high end fashion in these photos is not realistic, so do what I do... find a few styles that you love, figure out why you love them... is it the color, the style, the accessories, the shoes... whatever it may be... then bargain shop and create your own look!
I love boutique shopping for this very reason, I get ideas in my head and mix and match a bunch of things until I feel comfortable enough to really OWN the outfit... whether I save up to spend the $200 on that great pair of shoes only to match it with a dress and bag I got on sale... or buy that AMAZING scarf that adds that extra panache... whatever it is, it's yours and you rock it!
Gotta love Paris in the Spring :)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
It Doesn't Fit
IT DOESN’T FIT….
No kidding…unless you are buying your clothes “sur mesure” or you are the universal clone size, some clothes that would be otherwise absolutely stunning won’t be without a tuck here, a dart there or some alteration.
Every designer and every woman who appreciates style knows not to underestimate the value of a good tailor.
REALLY, all kidding and cliché’s aside, I recently went shopping with my mother, yes mother. She tried on both a leather blazer and a suit that were nice but I was less than impressed…until she let the tailor (this store had one on site) take a look.
The result was transforming…. both to her appearance and my perspective. I never imagined the difference a few minor alterations could make, let alone the value of a timeless piece that becomes a style chameleon with an accessory or make up change.
In the photo she is wearing the blazer and the pants from the suit with one of our flea market treasures…. a Dries Van Noten scarf.
I am now a convert and from now on my “prêt a porter” finds will selectively come under the tailor’s scrutiny for that little extra transforming je ne sais quoi.
As to the accessory magic, more to come on that one…. stay tuned!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Midnight in Paris
Midnight in Paris
If you haven't yet seen the movie you are TRULY missing out! What better way to showcase the wonders of Paris... magnificent!
Even better.... if you love Hemingway and Paris in the 20's you MUST read The Paris Wife written from the voice of his first wife Hadley... not only could I not put the book down but it ties in perfectly with the movie...
I found this clip fitting for the rainy day that we are having... ENJOY!
Monday, December 5, 2011
Tis The Season
Tis The SeasonAre you thinking about your aching Blahnik’s or whether that Chanel velvet red is enough or too much for the party?
It may not be the most fashionable thing on everyone’s mind right now but how about considering cleaning out the closet and taking some very special items to those in need…the high school junior who can’t go to the holiday formal because dad got laid off and there is no money for a dress…
Or perhaps that blazer you really never will wear because it never will fit you and there is a young mom who just got her GED but has nothing to wear for an interview for a job that is hers for the asking...
Or someone with special needs who isn’t feeling very special at this time of year….
Or maybe even take a little of that cash you planned on burning for items that are going to be re gifted anyway and choose someone or some organization all by yourself and GIVE….Now that’s the holiday party spirit….
Here are a few organizations just for starters….you can find some on your own too!!
Women’s Way
The Devereux Foundation
Women to Work
Smile Train
Big Brothers/Big Sisters
Women Thrive
Girls Inc.
Homes for our Troops
Books for Soldiers
THE LIST IS ENDLESS….
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Cheap and Chic Shopping in Paris
Cheap and Chic Shopping in ParisCheck out our article in Main Line Media News! If you prefer the print version, it will appear next Wednesday in Main Line Times, Main Line Suburban Life, and King of Prussia Courier.
Enjoy!
Monday, November 28, 2011
World's Best Places to Visit
World's Best Places to VisitHave trouble believing why we love Paris so much? Our countless blogs have yet to convince you that Paris is a MUST VISIT city... movies don't have you hooked either? Here is just one more reason why you HAVE to go to Paris...
US News Travel does a list of the 25 best places to visit around the world and guess what is number one on that list.... ding ding ding, if you said Paris you are CORRECT! Check out the link to see more about Paris and the other cities that made it into the top 25...
What's your favorite place to go?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayFor those of you traveling during this upcoming holiday, be safe and happy travels!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Thanksgiving in Paris
Thanksgiving in ParisAre you in Paris this year for Thanksgiving and worried about how to celebrate the holiday... don't fret, we found some helpful tips for those Americans overseas for the holiday!
Check out this link for more information http://www.venere.com/blog/celebrate-thanksgiving-paris/
OR visit our facebook page to find out EVEN MORE! www.facebook.com/CJTours
Happy Turkey Day!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
NFL Women's Line
NFL Women's LineFor those of you women out there who enjoy football as much as me, then today's topic is right up your alley! Suzanne Johnson, wife of JETS coach Woody Johnson, has decided to help the NFL launch its revamped women's collection according to WWD. Johnson says "They could have taken a supermodel, who is going to look good in a paper bag. But we are the ones wearing the clothes when we cheer on our teams every week." SO TRUE!
She started by rounding up her pals and wearing green Jets jerseys to Badgley Mischka's runway show which got quite a positive response!
In addition to the NFL women's line, all 32 teams have pieces for college girls through the Victoria's Secret Pink collection. All gear is being sold through team stadium shops, select retailers such as Kohls, and through NFLshop.com.
According to WWD, as if that wasn't enough, fans can get fashion tips about how to show their team pride via NFL.com/women. They also explain that the NFL now has a 44% female fan base and about 350,000 women attending games each week... nice work sports fans!
This past Sunday, Suzanne Johnson hosted the first women's wear pop-up event before the Jets/Patriots game. "I have wanted a Jets jersey, and I have been wearing little boys' small for too many years."
She created a pregame Miami-nightclub-inspired shopping experience... where fans could browse racks of NFL-inspired apparel, handbags, footwear, and jewelry.
O wait.... THERE'S MORE! Besides an accessories collaboration, the NFL will most likely team up with Tiffany & Co. for the Super Bowl in 2014... I wonder what that could mean!!!
To find out more... check out WWD for the full story... or check out the clothes on NFLshop.com for yourself!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayInternational Student Identification Card... don't know what it is? Well I am about to tell you!
The ISIC card, as it is most frequently referred to, is basically your shot at countless discounts. Besides discounts... which let's be honest, what could be better?!?... it's easy to obtain and cheap! TRUST me on this one... I have used it MANY times and it's well worth it!
You can use it to take advantage of offers on travel, shopping, museums and more.
Who's able to get one of these cards? Any full time student from age 12- 102... full time being 15 hours per week and at least 12 weeks per year.
For those of you who are still under 26 or have children under the age of 26, but are no longer students... don't worry there is a card for you as well that provides similar discounts!
Teachers and professors... they didn't forget about you... you can obtain the International Teacher Card... phew!
The best part is that you can order your card online... or if you prefer to go into one of their many locations... this is an option as well!
I am sure I sound like a sales person for ISIC, but hopefully many of you can use this card to your benefit with friends and family... don't believe me?! Visit the site for yourself....
Safe Travels!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Versace for H&M
Versace for H&MYes Please! For those of you who LOVE Versace but can't afford it... it's your lucky day! As many people have been anticipating... Versace presented their line for H&M last night to a packed house in New York City.
According to the New York Times, Women's fashion section... "The collection, studded with gold medallions and covered in loud, tropical prints, gave a respectful nod to Versace’s 1980s self while simultaneously clocking a lot of what’s trending now, namely dynamic prints, minibags, head scarves, chokers and flouro pastels." Click the link below to see more pictures and read more about the line!
The collection will be available in select stores on Nov 19th... start counting down!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn MonroeThe name alone I'm sure evokes a number of reactions... for those of you who are fans of this fashion icon would be happy to know that from Nov 10-13 there will be a two day photo exhibition at New York's Milk Gallery. There they will show her "transformation from angelic teenager to the glamorous, sophisticated, platinum sexpot that became her visual legacy." Check out WWD to see the full story!
She managed to embrace scandalous innocence in a way that no other woman since has managed to accomplish. Whether you love to hate her, love her films, photographs, or hearing about the latest scandal, Marilyn Monroe had her own style that people to this day still emanate.
Dior has re-created this black dress which will also be part of an exhibition preview today and today only! A great quote from Staley of the Staley-Wise Gallery in New York, about Marilyn, accurately sums up her charm... "The key to it is that she has been so photographed, and was so photogenic that, in a way, people are drawn to her image even more than her movies."
If you are in and around New York, head over to Milk Gallery and have a look for yourself!
“I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” Marilyn Monroe
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayYou have to see it to believe it...
You hear things through the grapevine and of course who's to know what's real and what's fake... well after many years of testing this theory, it's safe to see this works!
For an unknown reason to me... if you have the answer PLEASE share I would be delighted to know... if you book a flight on Tuesday night it's always cheaper! I am sure you are thinking... this lady is crazy! But trust me I have tested this time and time again and each time it has proved to be correct.
So I dare you to take the challenge... look at flights tonight and then look again tomorrow and you will see no deals and an increase in price... or try Monday night and then look again Tuesday... no matter what it's always the same!
Safe Travels!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Fashion at a Glance
Fashion at a Glance
If you are like me, then some weeks you are sooo in your own world you miss everything that goes on around you. Well last week was one of those weeks... which now leaves me trying to catch up on what happened... in the next 5 minutes... hmph.
In trying to sift through my WWD's, I stumbled across "15 vital pieces of info you might have missed this week"... can we say PERFECT?!
Take a look and click stories that sound appealing to you... and skip over the rest that you can... well... leave for another day...
Happy Reading!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Bistros
BistrosDo you love the new trendy Paris bistro or the iconic Paris staples? No matter what you choose, the Paris Bistro, for me, is one of my guiltiest pleasures…more about a state of mind. Brasseries are great for on the go but a lovely Bistro is where you go to bask in the French experience, breathe in the perfumes of well cooked food and a great glass of wine.
Travel and Leisure has showcased a few this past month, both iconic and chic. They are predicting great things for Septime in the 11th arrondisment with its “farmer chic vibe” and “poetic…deliciousness”. As much as I have taken mental notes on this and other recommendations, I can’t always help myself from going back to a few favorites.
Chez l’Ami Jean is just around the corner from my resting place so you might say I go there for convenience sake…not true. Well maybe a wee little bit… but just thinking about the lingering meals with just the right wine and carefully packing dessert into the minutest of space left afterwards leaves me…well…not quite daintily drooling. Chez l’Ami Jean 27 rue Malar
I do venture out of the seventh though for one Bistro that really epitomizes the Bistro experience…. Bistro Paul Bert. The food, the atmosphere, the people, the food ….did I mention the food. All orchestrated by one of my heroes…I really like food, don’t I! Well, when in Paris who doesn’t.
Anyway, if you venture over to Paul Bert, one of our favorite shopping guides…Angela just might give you a wink and a smile and serve some of the best Bistro fare in Paris…at least according to me. Bistro Paul Bert 18 rue Paul Bert 11th.
Bon appétit!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayCheck out this handy link that provides a list of AWESOME travel tips... where to get the lowest airfare, getting the best seat in coach (who even knew there was a way to do that!), best days to fly, best credit cards for frequent flyer miles... and the list continues!
Enjoy! Safe Travels!
Friday, October 28, 2011
French Recipe Friday
French Recipe Friday
Mouth watering deliciousness... Coq au Vin... in its simplest terms is chicken in red wine sauce with vegetables... although that doesn't do this dish justice!
Coq au Vin is a very classic and traditional French recipe, there are a ton of ways to prepare it, but today I found a recipe for those of you who don't have time to spend the entire day in the kitchen preparing... I like to call it Speedy Coq au Vin!
My mouth is watering just thinking about it.... go ahead, try it!!
Bon Apetit!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Paris Is Always A Good Idea
Paris Is Always A Good IdeaI love Audrey Hepburn and the way she wore a little black dress and made it one of the most iconic fashion staples of the twentieth century. It is still a timeless wardrobe essential. Although you can trace the mystique of this little chameleon to the 1920’s and Coco Chanel and a more pragmatic direction through the 60’s... to Dior’s more dangerous appeal, it wasn’t until Ms. Hepburn wore it in Breakfast at Tiffany’s that the LBD came into it’s own.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s is one of my go to movies….whether I’m sad, frustrated, in a great mood, looking for inspiration, fashion or otherwise, it just works for me.
Not surprisingly, I love little black dresses too. I have my everyday little black dress, my special occasion little black dress, the get out of my way little black dress, the maybe so maybe not so innocent little one….it goes on for a while. Parisian women have learned how to take the LBD and spin it for all occasions. I’ve taken a lesson from them and from one of my favorite actresses and done the same.
So ladies, I began this little entry with one of her quotes and will end it with one as well….
“I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles.”
Monday, October 24, 2011
Fashion Thoughts
Fashion ThoughtsWhen I buy fashion magazines, I not only look at the obvious...fashion... but I love reading the articles that they choose to put in each month.
The November issue of Elle has a great article written by "Fashion know it all" Anne Slowey about her experience in fashion, relationship with her mother, obsession with her appearance, and her complete transformation once she gives birth to her first child... I'm sure many of you can relate! I was simply captivated from page to page... some things I could relate to, some I found completely ridiculous... but all in all I thought very well written.
Slowey explains "...to me, getting dressed is a creative act of imagining all of life's complex pleasures at the beginning of every day. The best of fashion- the joy of endless possibilities, choices, and attitudes of expression- is what has made me tick for more than 20 years in the business..."
Such a great quote!
What does fashion mean to you?
Friday, October 21, 2011
French Recipe Friday
French Recipe Friday
What better way to start the weekend then with a French Recipe! Today our focus is on Profiteroles... mmmm DELICIOUS!
If you've never had one, never heard of them, or have no idea what I am talking about... then take a look at this video and learn how to make them yourself! Wow your guests this weekend with an amazing dessert that will be SURE to knock their socks off!
Bon Apetit!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Fall Handbags
Fall Handbags
Looking for the perfect handbag, but need a little nudge in the right direction? Watch this quick video to get some ideas!
What I love about style and fashion is that you can make it your OWN. See a great bag, but can't afford it... NO PROBLEM! Pick the best qualities about the bag and find one similar at a much cheaper price.
There are tons of bargain websites now...outlets...department stores... you name it and you can find a place to purchase your dream bag at an affordable price!
My go to style is across the body... BUT with arm straps to make it versatile... what's yours?
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayHow many of you hear about friends who always get hotel upgrades and yet it still hasn't happened to you! What gives??
I stumbled upon this handy little article that should help you score a room upgrade the next time you travel... at least take a shot, what could you lose!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Anti-Aging Products
Anti-Aging Products
We’re back now and working on some new exciting additions to CJ Tours! We’ll be introducing them petit a petit, slowly slowly as they say in Paris.
For now though, I’d like to tell you a little about the news in skin care... Mary Anne attended a very prestigious conference while in Paris and learned about the LATEST developments from Switzerland, Germany, France and more... they are always ahead of the curve when it comes to Skin care.
She is totally immersed in her research of the most cutting edge, but natural skin care and anti-aging products as well as systems available globally. There is something coming soon from Switzerland that will blow our current options for beautiful faces right out of the water!
We all know the myriad of choices for potions and lotions as well as the injectables and fillers. The options that I am talking about are not just alternatives but work to regenerate and rejuvenate as well! Formidable!
More importantly, we have the connection right in our own backyard to a dynamic physician team, trained here and in Germany, who have formulated their own products. The products, as we have learned are formulated with technology and ultra pure ingredients similar to the Swiss innovators, but with a little something extra that made our European friends stand up and take notice.
The entire system will be available soon and we of course will keep you totally posted so that you can be the first to start purchasing!
Patientez!
A tres bientot
Thursday, October 13, 2011
French Recipe Thursday
French Recipe Thursday
How to make crepes! My absolute FAVORITE thing when I go to Paris is getting a crepe Nutella... my mouth is watering just thinking about it!!
For those of you who have never had a crepe you are seriously missing out! You can have a dessert crepe... with nutella, sugar, fruit, a combination of all three. A lunch crepe... my favorite comes with ham and cheese. Or really whatever comes to mind! They are delicious, easy to make, and definitely a French staple... ENJOY!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Fresh Fall Looks
Fresh Fall LooksIt's that time of year again... time to start pulling out the boots, spandex, jeans, and layers... it's Fall! One of the prettiest times of year, as the leaves begin to change colors and you are left surrounded by fields of greens, reds, yellows, and oranges... stunning!
One thing we noticed while in Paris is that Red and Green are back... thank goodness! I am a huge fan of colors and nothing excites me more than seeing cities filled with clothes other than black! Even if black is your color... you can always accessorize with a red or green scarf or even a nice piece of jewelry...let your imagination run wild!
While browsing the web, I found this handy little guide for 5 quick fall outfits that will be sure to catch people's eye...go ahead, take a look!
White...mismatching...edgy layering...ladylike sexy...and girly with a twist... LOVELY! Happy Fall :)
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Travel Tip Tuesday
Travel Tip TuesdayIf you've never been to Paris for the holidays... you are truly missing something special.
The Champs-Elysee sparkling all around you as you stroll towards the beautifully decorated shops and sample the luscious holiday treats... the department store windows, the unique wrapping when you buy a little present for that special someone or yourself, and the magic in the air...is just simply not to be missed.
Normally you think this would be one of the most expensive times to go... well this time you are wrong! There is a little Fare-War going on right now started by the Star Alliance carriers. It is fully expected that British Airways and others will quickly follow. But these bargains are just TOO good to pass up.
If you are an American Express holder contact your concierge or Cook travel, if not and you prefer to go through an agent get to one now, or go directly to the Star Alliance partners and start booking.
And don't forget when you are there, Pere Noel is very forgiving at Christmas...Have a blast!
Friday, October 7, 2011
On Voyage!
On Voyage!
In the meantime... when you are flying, don't forget to stay hydrated, take your travel moisturizer, pack light, and either keep those limbs moving or take your baby aspirin! Bon voyage et bon weekend!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Paris Department Stores
Paris Department StoresShould you...or shouldn't you?
Paris shopping covers a lot of territory. You can map out your boutique route, your Houte-Couture route, or your flea markets...that doesn't even take into account unique accessories and perfume made just for you!
If you have the time OR if you come to Paris often, then you should do all of those things. If you answered no to those two questions...the Paris department stores are your answer.
BHV for unique household accessories...it's jewelry for your kitchen cabinets, living room, lamps, and bedroom door pulls. Trust me on this one... go there. Metro hotel de ville.
Le Bon Marche- Chanel, Dior, Prada, Dries Van Noten, Balthazar, and on and on... PLUS the best selection of Wolford in one place that you will need for every season. Men or women, you will come out dressed, accessorized, smelling and feeling beautiful... fully equipped to take Paris by storm. Metro Sevres-Babylon.
Galeries Lafayette-they have everything, plus the most incredible selection of prepared foods as well as food gifts in any one place. Shop for yourself, friends, every holiday and birthday imaginable...it's all there. Metro Chaussée d'Antin La Fayette
The above three are speed shopping at its best...Enjoy mes amis (my friends)!
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