Little French Things + Inspiration

For Sunday favorites with Mary Ann and Cindy, I thought I would share some of our new, lovely items coming to the shop when we open on Tuesday at 9 a.m. I’ll also share some inspiration on how to incorporate vintage French finds into your home.

One of our most popular items in the shop is the vintage peg racks. We managed to find quite a few at the flea market in Avignon last month. There are two-peg racks, as well as three-, five-, and six-peg racks. The smaller one in my kitchen is perfect, the larger ones are great to add to an entryway or mudroom for coats.

Why vintage French?

I have loved France for years. I think many of us have, and so opening a shop is an extension of that love for a country and a way of life. It has always been about the little things, and combining them with more modern pieces in our home brings me immense joy.

Opening a shop is a way for me to share my love of vintage French items that make a home unique and warm.

Small items, such as bowls, plates, pitchers, small dishes, or even ashtrays, are versatile pieces that can be used in your kitchen, on a coffee table, or when creating a charcuterie board. A mix of old and new is always more interesting.

I still love shopping and buying new things on occasion, who doesn’t, right? But there is the argument that buying vintage is more sustainable. And we love that! Inspiration is everywhere, but let me share a few favorites from these designers!

Inspiration from Caitlin Flemming & Julie Goebel

Photos: Caitlin Flemming

Mother/daughter Julie Goebel and Caitlin Flemming are about to release their third book, The Essentials: The Art of Interior Design.

Follow Caitlin on Instagram @cailtinflemming and Julie @globalatelier

Photos: Caitlin Flemming

You may already have their first book, Travel Home, and their second book, A Sense of Place. They often use vintage French antiques in their shoots, and I’ve seen similar items in Caitlin’s home.

Photos: Caitlin Flemming

Inspiration from Carol Estes

Carol is from San Diego, but has recently renovated an apartment in Paris. I’ve loved following along as she finds pieces to furnish and decorate her city apartment. She loves a good flea market, and I’m hoping to bump into her one of these days at this one.

photos: Carol Estes

Carol said when she was looking for an apartment in Paris, a Haussmann mantle was a non-negotiable requirement. She frequently arranges the mantle with flea market finds, art, and fresh flowers. Follow Carol on Instagram @cestesdesign.

Movies that provide inspiration

Ahhh, there are so many movies I watch over and over to soak up the scenes. I always watch Julie & Julia on a flight. Most airlines seem to show it, but sadly, Netflix removed it.

It’s Complicated – Nancy Meyers’ movies are great for the beautiful sets, but the kitchen in Meryl Streep’s character, Jane Adler, is warm, layered, and so inviting.

Charlotte of Tin Coast Design, whom I wrote about here, was telling me about the drama mini series, The Perfect Couple. She says she watches for the sets…have you seen it?

Sneak peek at some items that will be arriving in the shop, set to open Tuesday at 9 a.m.

You can access the shop on Tuesday at 9 a.m. by clicking here! (You won’t be able to access it until we reopen on Tuesday.)

More Sunday favorites

Suzon Jacket (vest) from Sézane

A new favorite piece I’ve added to my wardrobe is the Suzon Jacket (or vest). It’s an easy piece to layer over just about anything. A white or black Big Shirt from Gap. (Oversized fit, but runs true to size). Or a cashmere crewneck sweater from Quince, or a thick, long-sleeve black or cream tee from Kule.

100% Wool Coats from Quince

I just had a conversation with my daughter about winter coats. She was telling me she wanted a 100% wool coat that she would have forever. We looked at several at Nordstrom, and most were in the $1,500-$2,000 range. Several coats were more reasonable, but they were only 50% wool or less. I like the idea that she wants a coat she’ll wear for years, but she’s not really sure if she’s ready to spend that much.

Then I had the idea to look at Quince, and they have a few options for 100% wool coats that are around $500. This is actually one of their more expensive clothing pieces. The great thing about Quince is that you can order and try on at home. And if you are not happy, return it for free. You have up to one year! So there is minimal risk in ordering a coat or two.

We ordered the 100% Mongolian Cashmere Double-Faced Wrap Coat for Madeline, and I am waiting until the men’s small is available in the 100% Mongolian Cashmere Double-Faced Overcoat. I love men’s wear, and recently I saw Linda V. Wright discussing her new men’s gabardine coat from The Row. It’s very oversized, but of course, she looks fabulous.

BOGO Sale on Eby Bras

I just heard EBY bras are on sale. I talked about them several Sundays ago and have not worn another bra since. So the Buy One Get One Sale is perfect timing. Not only are they more comfortable than wire bras, but when wearing a t-shirt or sweater, you don’t see the outline of your bra as you do with a wire. I like the Relief Bras, but I am also going to try the T-Shirt Bra.

Now let’s check in with Cindy & Mary Ann!

Cindy Hattersely Design

You can read Cindy’s Sunday post here.

Classic Casual Home

Read Mary Ann’s Sunday post here.