by Laurie Ferraro | Sep 15, 2024 | Travel, TRAVEL GUIDE
DRESS
Ah, Paris. No matter how many times I visit, I am always just as excited to be back. It serves the same kind of energy as New York – you feel inspired and energized just by being there – the quaint little cafés spilling onto cobblestone streets, art woven into the fabric of daily life. Paris has a way of making everything feel a little more magical, a little more cinematic. Somehow the city makes even the most mundane moments feel poetic. Every time I go I find a new spot to love and add it to my list of recs. So here we go below:
Stay: Charming AirBnB Studio In Montmarte
If you’re heading to Paris, this Airbnb is such a great find. It’s cozy, cute, and perfectly tucked away, giving you a genuine Parisian vibe. The decor is simple but stylish, and the location couldn’t be better—quiet enough to relax, but close to all the action. Estelle, the host, is so lovely and has thought of everything to make the space more than comfortable. Whether you’re traveling solo or as a couple, this spot is definitely worth saving for your next trip to Paris.
Eat/Drink: My Fav Recs
COAT | SWEATER | SKIRT | BOOTS (SIMILAR)
La Palette
This brasserie in the 5th is all about the scene, not the food. It’s where locals gather, so grab a seat outside, order a coffee or glass of wine, and enjoy some top-tier people-watching. It’s Paris at its most relaxed.
Prescription Cocktail Club
Just a short walk from La Palette, this cocktail spot is chic and intimate. The vibe is cool, the lighting’s low, and the cocktails are some of the best in the city. Perfect for a post-dinner drink.
Lolo Cave à Manger
In the 9th, this organic wine bar serves up amazing small share plates. It’s got a trendy, “cool kids” feel without being pretentious. Come here for a glass of wine and stay for the effortlessly cool atmosphere.
Le Progrès Marais
This hipster brasserie in Le Marais is a go-to for a casual hangout. The local vibe makes it great for a mid-day break with coffee or wine. Ideal for people-watching and soaking in that Parisian charm.
Carboni’s
If you’re craving Italian, Carboni’s has you. It’s intimate, cozy, and serves up great pasta. Perfect for a date night or when you just need a break from all the French cuisine.
La Petite Place
This cute boutique restaurant is one of my favorite date night spots in Paris. The ambiance is intimate, the food’s delicious, and it has that tucked-away vibe that makes you feel like you’ve found a hidden gem.
Chez Julian
Featured in Emily in Paris, this place is still under the radar (thankfully). It’s classic Paris—elegant, cozy, and with delicious French fare. Great for a fine dining experience without being overly formal.
Peppe Pizzeria Martyrs
If you’re in Pigalle, this is where you go for pizza. The lines are long, but the pizza is worth it. Casual, delicious, and a great stop after wandering the neighborhood.
Bouillon Pigalle
A super French spot known for steak and fries, but be prepared for a wait since they don’t take reservations. It’s worth it if you can get in—authentic French food in a lively atmosphere.
Dirty Dick
This cocktail bar in Pigalle has a fun tiki vibe. It’s a bit quirky but in the best way. The drinks are strong, the crowd is lively, and it’s just a great time.
COAT | T-SHIRT | JEANS | BOOTS
Le Lipstick
Right across from Dirty Dick, Le Lipstick is another Pigalle spot that’s perfect for cocktails. It’s more low-key but has that same fun, energetic vibe. Ideal for a night of bar-hopping.
Bonus Coffee & Bakery Recs:
KB Café is my favorite coffee spot in Paris. Chill atmosphere, amazing coffee. A few steps away, Babka Zana has the best babka, and Mamiche—just up the street—might be the best bakery in town. Expect lines, but it’s worth the wait.
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by Laurie Ferraro | Sep 8, 2024 | Beauty
Ah, the quest for thicker hair—the ultimate wild goose chase. It starts innocently enough: you Google “how to make thin hair grow thicker,” which swiftly leads to an online shopping spree where every product promises you a genetic makeover by next Tuesday. You pretty quickly accumulate a small pharmacy of serums infused with some magical plant from the Andes, or regenerative powers of snail slime (true story) but mostly you find yourself applying scalp oils and taking vitamins that could fuel a horse. It feels like no matter how many miracle products you slather on, your hair remains as thin and straggly as ever, clinging to your scalp like it’s in a permanent state of existential crisis. Meanwhile, you’re left with an emptier wallet and the sinking realization that maybe you’re just destined for a lifetime of ponytails that look like afterthoughts.
I’ve been there. But there is hope. As someone who has been a loyal member of both the thin and breakage club, let me walk you through what I’ve found works for me.
1. Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner Set I wash my hair every 2-3 days. For a while I was attempting to “train” my hair to be less oily by going as long as possible between washes but it didn’t work and the slick rick look is not for me. Having to keep my hair pulled back in a pony for multiple days in a row was also doing more damage than good, so we’re back to every 2-3 days. ALSO, as a side note, wtf is happening with the 180 over on Hair-Tok where people are now saying you need to wash your hair every day to keep bacteria out of the follicles otherwise you will go bald and lose your first born child – its honestly insane the inconsistencies with advice. Everyone’s just spent a decade walking around with greasy hair and now this again????
Anyways, I’m digressing. This is the shampoo and conditioner that I use. About once or twice a week I also skip on the conditioner and apply the K18 leave in molecular repair mask instead. Especially if I’m styling my hair that day. This is a game changer.
2. Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil My hair drinks this stuff and its made a big difference with my frizz and adding moisture back in after I’ve styled my hair. I will also put a healthy amount of it in my hair before I braid it for bed.
3. Gisou Honey Infused Hydrating Hair Mask I use this mask once a week in the shower. I put it in after shampooing and leave it for 5+ minutes then rinse it out and follow with my conditioner. Sometimes Ill put a couple drops of the oil in with is as well.
4. Honey Infused Hair Repair Serum This is a new serum of theirs that I’ve started using almost everyday. I put a drop of it in my palms and then gently work it through the bottom half of my hair.
5. Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum This is the growth serum I’ve been using for well over a year now. Its worked well for me but I have been very, very consistent with using it everyday. This is key. It doesn’t grease up your hair at all so you can put it in morning or night. I’ve seen the biggest difference around my temples where I pretty much just had bald spots before.
So there you have it. But just remember you can’t change your genetic makeup with potions, so you need to have realistic expectations for results. And while the beauty industry keeps screaming that we need thick, luscious hair or we’ll have to sleep outside, thin hair has its perks. It dries quickly and won’t leave you with neck pain on a humid day.
by Laurie Ferraro | Sep 1, 2024 | Fashion, Outfits, Shopping
Ah, Fall 2024—what a season we have ahead of us. It’s the time of year when the air gets that crisp edge, and you can feel a collective sigh of relief as we finally start to swap out our summer wardrobes for something more substantial. This autumn, there are a bunch of new trends floating around, some I’m excited for, some I’ll be passing up. So let’s dive in.
First, let’s talk about ‘Tall Boot Fall.’ There’s a sense of commitment to the boot this season that feels almost matrimonial. We’re seeing biker boots make a return – though I’ve yet to find a pair that hit my calf in the right place. They all seem to just be kind of cankle-y on me. Instead I’m leaning more into the Western boot and the classic knee-high, with and without a heel. Suede, smooth leather, brown, burgundy, tan, black. Thats the brief.
The palette for Fall 2024… Burgundy is having a moment and brown is solidly back for a second season. Dark grey marl is also in the mix. I’m a firm believer in re-wearing what you already have, so I’ll be reviving the brighter red pieces from last year and keeping with my usual neutrals. My beloved red mini is not going anywhere. Some things are sacred. Butter yellow is also on the radar this season, though I’ll politely be declining as it usually makes me look like I am suffering cholera.
Moving onto items of clothing. The mini skirt. I’m thrilled. Nothing I love more than a big old knit paired back with a tiny little skirt. Long denim or suede skirts are back again, though it’s another trend I’m passing on. Then we have the long short standing its ground from summer. I love this look with a knee high boot, there is something very effortless about it.
And then, we arrive at the pièce de résistance: the trench coat. I am religiously devoted to a good trench. It’s the wardrobe staple that, quite frankly, should be in everyones closet – man, woman or unicorn. Sézane has come through once again with a great tan version that I’ve purchased and am impatiently awaiting the arrival of but there’s a whole host of good options out there. Look for structure, cuff details and linings.
So, there you have it—Fall 2024 in a nutshell. It’s a season that promises warmth, comfort, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Get your boots on.
Follow me on Instagram for more Fall looks.
SWEATER (SIMILAR) | SKIRT
Mini Skirts: The Fall Essential
Mini skirts are here to stay, and they’re the perfect way to incorporate the season’s trending colors and textures. A cornerstone of your fall wardrobe, if you will.
Shona Joy Irena Wrap Mini Skirt
Reformation (Global) Veranda Linen Skirt
& Other Stories Tailored Mini Wrap Skirt
& Other Stories Asymmetric Wrap Mini Skirt
Reformation – Veda Carla Low Waist Leather Skirt
& Other Stories Tweed Wool-Blend Mini
Knee-High Boots: Tall Boot Fall
Welcome to “Tall Boot Fall,” where knee-high boots take center stage. Whether you’re into the biker boot revival or more classic styles, there’s a pair for every preference. Here’s what I’m loving:
Sezane Paris – Bridget Low Boots
& Other Stories – Leather Riding Boots
Revolve – Jeffrey Campbell Sincerely Boots
AllSaints – Maeve Leather Boots Black
ASOS (Global) – Stradivarius buckle biker boot in grey
Reformation (Global) – Frances Knee High Boot
Reformation (Global) – Raven Knee Boot
Long Shorts: The Mini Skirt’s Cousin
Long shorts are making a strong case as a transitional piece this season. Elevate them with a pair of knee-high boots.
Levi’s UK – Pleated Trouser Shorts
& Other Stories US – Tailored Shorts
Madewell – Slouchy Shorts in Drapey Twill
Trench Coats: The Ultimate Fall Staple
No fall wardrobe is complete without a trench coat. It’s the piece that will carry you through the season with style and grace. Here are my top picks:
Sezane Paris – Clyde Trench Coat
& Other Stories – Relaxed Trench Coat
& Other Stories – Linen Trench Coat
Reformation – Matteo Trench
Nobody’s Child – Brown Double Breasted Trench Coat
by Laurie Ferraro | Aug 25, 2024 | Fashion, Outfits, Shopping
Wedding season is in full swing, and I’ve got two on the horizon this September. Both promise to be stunning, but they come with very different vibes. One is a dreamy affair at a château in Northern France, and the other is set against the sun-soaked backdrop of Estepona on Spain’s southern coast. Naturally, this means dresses—and I’ve been looking into the top wedding guest dress trends for 2024, to find something that matches my style but also is on trend for the season. Here’s what I’m wearing and what you should be looking for if you have a wedding coming up.
DRESS
For the French wedding, I’m going with the SHONA JOY LA LUNE Strapless Column Maxi Dress in Powder Blue. It’s got that effortless, sleek vibe with a soft color that works perfectly for a château setting. The strapless design keeps it clean and modern, while the overall look is timeless without trying too hard. It’s the kind of dress that makes a statement just by being understated.
Get the Look: Similar Dresses
Shona Joy LA LUNE PLUNGED OPEN BACK HALTER MAXI DRESS
Alani Gown Lovers and Friends from Revolve
NBD June Gown in Baby Blue from Revolve
Katie May Surreal Dress in Deep Sea from Revolve
For the wedding in Estepona, I’m still deciding, but a few dresses have definitely caught my eye. They’re all about the top trends for September 2024 weddings—think sleek silhouettes, soft hues, and light, flowy fabrics that are perfect for a warm, coastal setting. Here are the top contenders so far:
On-Trend Dresses for September Weddings: My Top Picks
Shona Joy Elia Plunged Open Back Halter Maxi Dress
Shona Joy La Lune Plunged Halter Midi Dress
Shona Joy Oliviera Twist Front Midi Dress in Taffy
La Lune Plunged Cross Back Maxi Dress Shona Joy
Helsa Ianli Knit Dress in Black from Revolve
Daniela Silk Dress from Reformation
Alani Gown Lovers and Friends from Revolve
I hope these dress picks inspire your own wedding guest style this season! Sign up for my newsletter to get all the details on how I style my choices, plus more fashion tips and exclusive content straight to your inbox.
by Laurie Ferraro | Aug 18, 2024 | Travel, TRAVEL GUIDE
Alright, friends, if you find yourself cruising the French Riviera, Antibes should be on your hit list. It’s that perfect blend of sun, history, and that je ne sais quoi that makes you want to move there forever. I’ve gathered my thoughts, spilled some tea, and here’s what you need to know.
When it comes to a place to rest your sun-kissed head, Villa Fabulite is where you want to be. It’s cozy, it’s chic, and you’ll feel like you’re living in your own little Mediterranean oasis. Think laid-back luxury with all the character you want from a French stay. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill hotel, it’s more of an experience, made so by the incredible staff and the intimate setting of twelve rooms, a communal pool and gorgeous little terrace for breakfast and lunch.
Eat/Drink: Where the Magic Happens
TANK | SHORTS
Eden-Roc Restaurant
At the iconic Eden-Roc Hotel, this spot is everything. Yes, it’s pricey, and the dress code is real, but the views and vibes are totally worth it. Perfect for that sunset drink you romanticize. I of course didn’t take a single photo while we were there but thats always a sign of a great night for me.
Plage Keller Restaurant
So, I didn’t get a chance to try this one myself, but everyone in town raved about it. Beach club, restaurant, and the perfect day spot. Next time I’m in Antibes, I’ll be making a beeline here for a beach chair and rosé.
TOP | SKIRT
Belle Rives
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s summer house? Yes, please! It’s beautiful, it’s historic, and it’s right on the water’s edge. If you’re into old-world charm and imagining you’re living in a Gatsby novel, this is your place.
Le Cafe Brun
This little spot in the old town is perfect for an afternoon drink. Sit down, sip your Rosé and people watch for hours. Its also a very budget friendly spot compared to its counterpoints above.
Restaurant L’Arazur
Pro tip: Book in advance. I didn’t, so we didn’t get a table and I’m very disappointed in myself. Its another place that was recommended to us. It was also recommended that I book well in advance, but I never have listened to instructions well.
La Crique
This is a great little bar on the beach to watch the sunset from. It’s very relaxed, super easy on the wallet and filled mostly with locals.
Boulangerie Veziano
In my humble opinion, this is the best bakery in town and I do the leg work on bakery recommendations.
NOMADS Coffee
The coffee is great and they don’t look like you’ve just personally offended them for ordering an Oat Latte.
DRESS
Do: Explore and Enjoy
DRESS (SIMILAR) | BAG | SHOES
Marché Provençal
Get up early and hit the markets. They’re open from 6 am every day except Monday, and they’re so worth the early start. Grab some fresh fruit, maybe a pastry (or three), and you’re set for a beach day.
Rue du Haut Castelet
One of the prettiest streets in town, and at golden hour it was made for Instagram.
Coastal Walks Around Cap d’Antibes
For my fellow walkers, Antibes has two coastal trails that are a must.
- Sentier du Brigadiers: An easier walk with stunning views.
- Sentier des Douaniers: A bit more challenging, but equally breathtaking. Perfect for when you need to soak in that Riviera beauty.
DRESS
Visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque medieval village perched on a hill in the Provence-Alpes-Côte – about a 45 minute drive from Antibes. It is incredibly cute with it’s narrow cobblestone streets and well preserved medieval-architecture. Picasso and Henri Matisse helped put Saint-Paul-de-Vence on the map as they were “inspired by its beauty and tranquil atmosphere”. Now-a-days it’s established as an important center for art and home to a ton of great little art galleries.
Visit Château Sainte Roseline
And pick up a large bottles of their Rosé. Château Sainte Roseline is a historic winery about an hours drive from Antibes. The estate itself is incredibly beautiful and the wine is elite. Sainte Roseline herself is still there too, enshrined in the chapel, which I get cause if I was her I’d never leave either.
Antibes is all about the perfect mix of laid-back luxury and historical charm, so whether you’re eating, drinking, walking, or just lounging by the sea, you’re going to want to savor every moment.
