topic Re: Madame Chic books in Fashion

Madame Chic books

Happy In the South — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 22:40:20 GMT

Cultivating a meaningful, luxurious life appeals to me! I've enjoyed reading the books by Jennifer L. Scott based on her time in France as a student. She stayed with a well-to-do family and gleaned life lessons for a richer, more enjoyable life. The first book is Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris, and the second is At Home with Madame Chic. The author also has a great blog, The Daily Connoisseur.

She learned things like slowing down to enjoy the moment, creating a capsule wardrobe of good quality clothing, maintaining a clutter-free home, taking time to enjoy the arts, etc. There are many other great books and blogs on similar topics.

It's about figuring out the kind of life you want and then taking steps to make it happen. I'm enjoying the journey! How do you cultivate a good life?

Re: Madame Chic books

maddiecat — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 00:34:26 GMT

Hi, SouthernLady,

Just wanted to say that I too enjoyed Jennifer's books. I also follow her blog.

Your last question will require some thought. I'm still working on the cultivating process!

Re: Madame Chic books

Happy In the South — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 06:37:22 GMT

It's a work in progress for me, too. One that I'm enjoying. I'd love to hear your perspective. Lately, I've concentrated on seeking out art shows, classical music concerts in my community and turning off the tv more and playing relaxing music. It helps me slow down and not feel so rushed. By the way, I enjoy your posts!

Re: Madame Chic books

AstridDrey — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 07:50:22 GMT

I also follow Jennifer's blog and read her first book. I hope to get her new book soon. I love her ideas and the French philosophy of living simply, but well.

Cultivating a good life is something I work at all the time. One of my goals this winter was to spend more time reading books, less time on the computer and watching news. I'm still working on that, but I'm better. Jennifer inspired me to create a capsule wardrobe this winter. I did not go so far as to actually get rid of a lot of clothes, but I chose the clothes I wanted to wear, and have been wearing those clothes only. Mostly blues and grays. I feel more organized and happy.

Re: Madame Chic books

magicmoodz — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 14:08:09 GMT

I enjoy Jennifer's blog and while my desire to live a more minimalistic lifestyle began before being introduced to her (figuratively), her philosophy definitely keeps me motivated.

Re: Madame Chic books

Happy In the South — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 19:12:12 GMT

I'm trying to incorporate the capsule wardrobe idea, too. I'm finding that by decreasing the number of items, it means the ones I do choose to keep or buy need to flatter! Which is why I sometimes struggle with silhouettes and finding the right shape for my shape.

Re: Madame Chic books

MissBetsyW — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 00:21:55 GMT

SouthernLady, thank you so very much for your post! Prior to reading what you wrote, I had not heard of Madame Chic nor Jennifer L. Scott. I went to the Amazon website, purchased her books and also subscribed to her blog. I thoroughly enjoyed watching three of her tutorials on YouTube. I am attempting to change my life and found her materials to be uplifting and inspiring as well as informative. Again, I can't tell you how much I appreciate you making me aware of this author!

Re: Madame Chic books

Happy In the South — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 16:27:49 GMT

MissBetsyW, I'm glad you are enjoying her work! You're right, she is inspiring. I'm reading a book on a related topic, it's called The Simply Luxurious Life. I haven't finished it yet due to the busy holiday season, but I can tell it's a keeper. Please let us know what you think as you read her books. I'd love to know how others are improving their lifestyles. Have a great day!

Re: Madame Chic books

Chrystaltree2 — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 17:08:28 GMT

Never heard of the lady or the books or her blog. But I've never been the "self help book" type. I also haven't had any problems cultivating a meaningful life. I must say that "meaningful" changes as I change. I'm fortunate in that I have had and still have marvelous female role models in my lives. They are my inspiration and my teachers. I live in the Boston area, so "culture" is in the very air we breathe. From the time I was in grade school; my Mom and my grandmother and my great aunt took us to museums, galleries, concerts, plays. Of course, such things were quite affordable back then. Manners, grace; those aren't things I have to learn at this late date or read about. I learned those life lessons when I was young. I'm already living the life I want to live. My "quality" life. Not someone else's. Although, at 54, I'm still growing and evolving.

Re: Madame Chic books

Meeras — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 18:05:13 GMT

well glad to know you enjoying her work

Re: Madame Chic books

maddiecat — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 00:18:44 GMT

SouthernLady,

You recently asked how to cultivate a good life. After giving it some thought, I realized that surrounding myself with good friends is a BIG part of it. Having friends to share meals with, to laugh/cry/vent with is VERY important to me. I care about them and they care about me.

I am also a fan of cultural events and places. My Sweetie and I enjoy going to museums, the theater, musicals and the opera. We both love to read and keep up with current events.

I also think part of cultivating a good life is the ability to be happy at home. I love to curl up in a chair with my cat and a book or some magazines. Lately I find myself really craving this time and appreciating it when I have the opportunity. I think of it as "taking care of me."

I appreciate your kind words about my posts.

Re: Madame Chic books

ECBG — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 01:09:03 GMT

Thank you. Very interesting!