My Modern Darcy

Dear readers, one of the most intriguing discoveries I made in Paris this summer was not only the refined menswear and shoes crafted by remarkable French artisans, the exquisite perfumes from niche houses, or the vintage books hidden in famous flea markets and historic Parisian passages, but also a beautiful French tableware tradition known as “Terre de Fer”. The term translates roughly as “French ironstone”, it belongs to the broader family of traditional French earthenware

Dear readers, beyond celebrated institutions such as the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, Paris is home to a constellation of historic and cultural museums scattered throughout the city. Some occupy grand, monumental buildings; others are considerably more intimate; yet each offers its own distinctive collection, atmosphere, and story, often shaped by the former owners and occupants of the premises. For visitors who find the scale of Paris’ larger museums somewhat overwhelming

Dear readers, when discussing Parisian tailoring and French presidential style, there is another menswear maison I have to talk about — one that gave my recent trip to Paris an added sense of purpose, in particular, Parisian men’s style and refined menswear. Some time ago, I wrote a blog about a Parisian tailoring house whose suits were worn by President Emmanuel Macron during the early years of his presidency. This time, I visited another Parisian name associated with his

Dear readers, as contemporary life continues to evolve — and as technology-driven industries and new professions shape the way we work and live — simplicity and comfort have gradually become the default language of day-to-day menswear. Traditional soft accessories such as neckties, pocket squares, and silk scarves appear less frequently in the modern wardrobe, raising the question of whether these once-essential details, so familiar to our fathers’ and grandfathers’ generati

Dear readers, summer holidays may be over, yet many of us still carry a lingering sense of them in our memories — a favourite restaurant, a remarkable meal, a beautiful resort, or a friend’s tasteful vacation home. These fragments of experience often stay with us and quietly inspire our thoughts about the next escape. At the same time, the setting itself is always part of the memory, and a stylish interior can become just as memorable as the destination. Perhaps that is wh

Dear readers, visiting Grasse — a small town in the south of France — may not be the first choice for certain travellers seeking the glamour of the French Riviera; the region offers plenty of more obvious destinations, from the grand hotels of Cannes to the sunlit elegance of Saint-Tropez. Yet for perfume lovers and connoisseurs, Grasse possesses an almost sacred significance. Recognised as an historic centre of French perfumery, Grasse is celebrated for its centuries-old ex

Dear readers, appreciating a gourmet meal is one of life’s most delightful indulgences. It provides a euphoric pleasure to the palate, brought to life by the freshness of ingredients, the complexity of spice, and the thoughtful artistry of presentation across various cuisines and occasions. However, there is one more essential element that elevates the experience: the atmosphere. Just as a memorable meal in a refined restaurant depends on impeccable service, elegant table s

Dear readers, about a year ago, I came across a captivating video about the distinguished French tableware designer, Grande Dame Marie Daâge; that video stayed with me for months, and even now, it continues to fascinate me. What drew me in was not only the beauty of her creations — from dinner plates for every course to delicate cups and saucers for elegant tea service — but also the way her work reflects a deep understanding of home entertaining and interior style. Each pi

Dear readers, among the many trips I have taken to France over the years, summer 2017 was particularly memorable for a series of “firsts” in my life. It was my first visit to Grasse, the world capital of perfume in France; my first visit to Château de Compiègne, where I marveled at the grandeur of French architecture and court life; my first close encounter with the legendary “Le Bar” suit by the legendary late French couturier, Christian Dior, at the spectacular exhibition

Dear readers, when in Paris, how could one leave without indulging in the city’s famed gastronomic pleasures? Especially when it comes to those elegant, couture-inspired pastries that tempt us at first glance and invite us back for more. Paris is indeed the home to countless celebrated pastry maisons, but if one wishes to enjoy such exquisite treats in a setting that is equally sumptuous, a classic Parisian afternoon tea is one of the loveliest ways to experience the city.