It was so lovely to spend a weekend in Paris with Susan (Une femme d’un certain âge).  I had met Susan last year when she visited Amsterdam. That was a cold and rainy day and our plans to cruise through the canals of Amsterdam and have a picknick, were totally ruined. Nevertheless we had time to get to know each other. Susan is a wonderful woman with strength and power and a good sense of humour. When she planned her week in Paris this December, she contacted me to see whether I could join her. Yay, of course! Really the perks of blogging: meeting fellow bloggers. They are all so nice and my heart is big. I can love them all.
So last Saturday I hopped on the train in Amsterdam and was in Paris 3 1/2 hours later. A quick metro ride to the hotel where Susan was staying as well and we were on our way to be dazzled by Paris. Susan had already explored the neighbourhood and took me to a lovely Paris café for lunch.
Below: Susan with her beloved puffer jacket, which turned out to be perfect for the weather: not too warm and not too cold. Lightweight and you can roll it up into a small packet.
Below: I followed Susan’s smart travel wardrobe and dressed in a pair of black trousers and black booties. Variations at the top. This first day, my green leather jacket. The big bag contained my normal stuff and my camera. The colour of the bag is reflected in specks in the scarf (and in my gloves). It was a little bit windy that Saturday but not much. Cloudy but no rain. Good enough for me.
Below: this lady walked into the café and I couldn’t resist asking if I could take her picture. That coat was sooo good. Of course I thought she was a Parisian. Nope. American.
After lunch it was time for shopping. Plenty of lovely shops near the Boulevard Saint Germain. Every shop was temptation and if I just looked in the window and said “oh how lovely”, Susan responded with “Do you want to go in?” Usually followed by her opening the door and stepping in. Fashion bloggers… such enablers. 😆
Below: like this small jewellery shop Cécile Jeanne. I think we were in their shop at 16 Rue du Cherche-Midi, but they have more shops and also sell online. Amazing stuff.
Below: I bought these red earrings but changed them 15 minutes later for the same ones in fuchsia. If you look at their collection I bet you will agree it is very good of me to walk out with only one pair of earrings. I could have bought half the shop.
After being in and out of a couple of shops, Susan showed me the shop of Hermès in Saint Germain des Pres. Which is in a former swimming pool.
Below: they had done the decorations so well. It was jaw dropping. You can see more pictures of the shop here (with no customers).
After that it went bad…. We saw gloves in a window display. And I wanted a pair of long black leather gloves to go with my kimono jacket. So in we went. The shop is called Alexandra Sojfer, 218, Boulevard Saint Germain and specializes in umbrellas, gloves, etc etc. Little did we know. The sales lady was so good that I left the shop with expensive gloves (soft as butter though and very beautiful) and… a rather expensive necklace. (Susan bought the same necklace in a different colour combination.) Did I need another necklace? Hell no, I have so many necklaces I never need to buy any more. Did I have any money left after all my shopping in the past months? Hell no. The good thing is, I get many compliments on this necklace. I wore it twice to the office this week and it really attracts people’s attention.
Saturday night we went to diner at Le Comptoir, 5 Carrefour de l’Odéon. We went early (half past six) as we knew there would be a queue if we came later.
Below: Susan at Le Comptoir. Dinner was excellent, staff was kind, friendly and quick, prices were very, very reasonable.
The next day we decided to take more pictures of Paris. We went off early (9.15). I said to Susan: let’s take pictures of ourselves early and then be done with it. Because my hair will look worse and worse as the day progresses. 😆
Below: me against a lovely green door, wearing my beloved charcoal kimono. And yes the belt is the same material but blue.
Below: Susan. I think the sign says: “will there be room for you”, but I am not sure. We both did the legs cross-over look. 😎
Below: always nice these little water things.
Below: 2 pretty buildings.
Below: look at these tutus for the little ones. Aren’t they cute?
Below: on our way to the Eiffel tower we passed the Place des Invalides.
Below: Susan photographing a Jugenstil Metro sign.
Below: this lovely little pug reminded me of Suzanne Carillo‘s dog. Then, just as I was taking the picture, the pug went from CUTE to “WHAT?! WHAT?! Did I say yes to being photographed? Did you ask?”
We arrived at Rue Cler, which is said to be a lovely market street (see here). It was indeed lovely but it was Sunday, winter and early in the day, so I don’t think we have seen the max of this street. Still lovely though. Nice boutiques like the shop of the French brand La Fee Maraboutee. We sat down for a coffee at a lovely little place; l’Éclair (below).
Below: Susan looking naughty (she decided to take a chocolate croissant). Also see the top picture of this post. That was taken a few minutes later by the waiter. I think that 20% of the waiter’s time is spent on taking stupid holiday pictures haha.
Below: chocolate croissant for Susan and a mocha éclair for me. Plus coffee of course.
Below: at the end of the street, we saw there had been a party the evening before……
Below: on our way to the metro, near the Seine we noticed this green building: Le Mur Vegetal of Musée du Quai Branly. (More pictures here.)
Below: to round off a lovely weekend, we had a fabulous lunch at Le Bon Marché. I had the best salad I ever ate.
Below: the window display of Le Bon Marché. Their theme this year was “It snows”. These snow balls were moving. Great to see.
Below: OK, one big photo of the Eiffel tower. If you want to read more, do visit Susan’s post about our weekend.
When I came home I gave all my credit cards and debit cards (but one) to Ron and asked him to check my bank balance each week to see whether I am keeping my promise not to buy anything until April (at least). He doesn’t particularly like this task as he prefers me to have more self-control. But this is all the self-control I can muster up. Ron is afraid that in April he might have forgotten where my cards are hidden. So he put them in a bowl with water …… in the freezer. My accounts are literally frozen haha.
Fortunally I have some more outfits in stock, so I think I can keep the posts up till April.
Greetje
Linking up as usual with:
- Not Dressed as Lamb’s I will wear what I like. Loads of great outfits there.
- Not Dead Yet Style’s Visible Monday, where 40+ bloggers show the world what we are worth.
I could not do your trick of freezing my credit card as that is what I pay my gas and groceries with. I’d starve! LOL.
What a great couple of days you two had!
You both look wonderful.
I’m lucky as I am pretty much never tempted by jewellery. I make my own or it’s normally just not my thing. Which is good…because everything else is! Mind you, thrifting is MUCH cheaper.
I squealed a little bit at the adorable pug puppy! My dog is very polite and charming in comparison. She’ll sit around for all kinds of photos. You’ll meet her when you come for a visit to Toronto…hint hint!
bisous
Suzanne
Hahaha, hint hint. You never know. I am getting the hang of this travelling thing. Although I am very much inclined to go to New York in 2017 and meet you and Sylvia and Melanie and Elle etc. there. Idea? Oh and I kept one debit card for groceries etc. I asked Ron to check my bank account to prevent me from being naughty. I can instigate such a severe control system but that only when there are no shops around and I am in disgust with myself. Show me a shop window, and I am game again. Is this what they mean with being addicted haha?
Thanks for sharing your Paris visit!
Of course, it is my pleasure entirely. Blogging about a trip and things I have been doing is so nice.
What a terrific post, a real December Sunday in Paris. Now let’s see that necklace.
Hahaha, you will have to wait a while for the necklace. I did wear it three times last week and it got good reviews. Now I need a photographer.
Hello Greetje! I’ve popped over from Susan’s blog. I must say, I love your green leather jacket and wool cape. You look so polished and elegant. Perfectly accessorized!
It was fun to here of your adventures together. Just two friends hanging out. Lovely!
I love having girlfriends to hang out with. They are the salt of the earth. Next week I am doing a post about a group of 6 friends. We know each other more than 20 years. Thank you for popping over to my blog and commenting. I am secretly hoping you will do it again (big grin).
Lovely post Greetje with you and Susan, and I agree that coat is a great staple in your wardrobe, it will never go out of fashion. It does scream to have some lovely long leather gloves added for the dramatic effect. Good thing you thought about that:) I can’t wait to see the post with them.
Those earrings are also lovely on you. Cherish the girlfriend time, I am finally making some lovely friends here now that I am settled down in one place. My German girlfriend and I have what we call marathon breakfasts:) We start at about 11 and next thing you know her boyfriend is calling her asking if she is coming home. (he calls her when he gets home from work at 6 p.m.) hahahaha!
I am afraid I get a little wild around Christmas time spending, suddenly I want this present and that one. This year was an expensive one because of all the house projects, but finally done and it looks so pretty! Very happy to wake up in my little apartment, so it was worth it. Anyway I haven’t had the guts to freeze them yet, but I like you have to pay things off and save up for April or I won’t be going on that Spain vacation if I don’t!
Yes, we haven’t got a money tree in the back yard. There is a time to stop spending. Glad your apartment turned out the way you wanted it to be. My home is my castle right?
Next week you will see some friends of mine with whom I have the same marathon days. Lovely and priceless.
It’s been 10 years since I made my first and only visit to Paris – I adored it, and this post brings back happy memories. I’m afraid that like you, I have very little self-control when it comes to shopping, but this is why I avoid going in retail stores and stick to thrifting, as the damage is usually much less ;).
All those empty bottles! That must have been quite a party!
Thrift shopping in The Netherlands is no fun. Very few shops, little stock and usually mostly rubbish. Probably has a lot to do with the Dutch being very economical (tight??). Wearing everything till it is threadbare haha.
Hi Grethe, I look forward to ever Sunday for your blog. I love your individual style and great sense of humor. I am retiring next year and have always wanted to do a blog, I would love the opportunity to meet you when I am in the Netherlands next year. I have been in the Corporate world all my life, but have a small fashion business on the side, which is my passion. Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. With warmest regards, Gitte
No problem Gitte, give me an email (tab Contact at the top navigation of my blog) when you are in The Netherands. Blogging needs a passion and you already have that for fashion. Sounds good to me.
What a fun and exciting trip! I almost felt I was along with you both. Can we get to see the imfamous necklace and gloves??
Of course you get to see the necklace and gloves. It just takes some time to get my husband to photograph them. And my party outfit needs to be photographed first. And I have a visit to the Givenchy exhibition scheduled as next post.
Thank you for sharing your trip ….. love the photos …. partial to the adorable pug!
Love the “frozen” accounts idea!
It was my pleasure entirely. I love making these posts. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Fabulous post, Greetje. I’m SO annoyed I couldn’t come and join you two. I laughed out loud about your credit cards now sitting in a bowl of ice; that is genius.
I know a few of these stores very well; Cecile Jean always has some fabulous things. One of my favourite necklaces is from there.
I’m so pleased you and Susan had such a good time, and I look forward to the next instalment! I also can’t wait to see the gloves with your kimono coat. xxx
I think Susan told me that Alexandra Sojfer was on the list of Ines de la Fresange of good Paris shops. Yes, I’ll bet it is. Cecile Jean is not in The Netherlands fortunately.. my cards would be on ice permanently. And yes, it was a shame you couldn’t join. But life can throw you curveballs sometimes.
Girlfriends and Paris sound like a bit of heaven to me! How wonderful to be close and convenient enough to the hub of fashion. Once again I could almost smell the coffee! What a fun post Greetje!
I’m curious… any chance you’ll have snow in Amsterdam for Christmas?
Yes, I do like Europe for such reasons and for the lovely old architecture. But I suppose you love what you are raised with. Snow at Christmas? No, not a chance.
LOVE reading your posts! I also try to keep up with Susan’s posts. It was so nice to read about you two exploring Paris together. I was just in Holland a week ago and the weather was not too cold. Caught up on fashion trends (even in Holland!). Thanks, Greetje for your wonderful blog! Joke B.
Ahh, how sweet of you to say. Thank you very much. Yes, temperatures in The Netherlands are getting milder in winter. Klimate change I suppoost. I presume you are Dutch?
I’m giggling at your truly-frozen credit cards 😉
And oh those tu-tus!!! How adorable!
Hugs and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year!
Thank you Anne, I am glad I made you giggle. Smile, giggle, laugh… it is all good. My main goal with this blog. And a Merry Christmas to you too.
Oh, that was a fun post. I love Susan too and to see your weekend and read your words was such a nice way to spend my Sunday morning. Thank you! Julia
hahahaha…Ron’s method of freezing your accounts has my husband and I in stitches! That is so funny!
What can I say….another great post that now has me itching to visit Paris. I’ve been once before, but it was many years ago.
Paris is always a good idea. It is a lovely old town, but I think you saw the best when you visited Italy.
I admit it, I admit it – I read this post a couple of times already and didn’t comment. It’s just the perfect situation. I wish sooo bad I was there. I love Susan, although we haven’t met, and you of course and I can imagine how you two clicked well with shopping, humour, and digging into great food and drink. What a wonderful time you guys had. The frozen card cracked me up. Long gloves – oh yeees, I would have a weakness for those. I do hope we are able to see each other in 2017 at some point.
And don’t worry about replying – I know you usually do. I am too late, but I just wanted to let you know I’m not ignoring you! heh. I always love your posts.
What is it with “fashion” bloggers? How come they are all so nice, so easy to get along with? Does it take a certain personality? No, I don’t think so, we are all so different. Still, there might be one or two things we share. I hope to meet you August/September when Sylvia is planning to come to New York. I am thinking about that too.
Oh and the gloves are butter soft.
Greetje, a bit of advice about those credit cards!
Make sure you plan ahead several days for thawing. Mine did not thaw fast enough and I needed one of them right away. So I had the “great” idea of putting it in the microwave. I had forgotten about the magnetic strip and oh, the fireworks through the ice! I was quick to hit the stop button but the microwave broke down a little while after that. Coincidence? Hmmmm.
Happy Christmas.
Hahaha Carol. I am sorry but this really made me laugh. I have a vivid imagination and I saw the flames in the microwave. It also made me realize there are more nutcases who put their creditcare in the freezer haha.
Don’t worry, I am very doubtful whether they will work at all after three/four months in the freezer. And I will take plenty of time to let them thaw on their own pace.
I intended for you to enjoy the story for I think you and I may have a similar sense of humor!
I agree.. Big Grin.
A Very Merry Christmas Greetje, and a Happy New Year. I have been meaning to contact you to say thanks for your help on our trip,which was great, btw, and Northern Lights too! We were very lucky. Your trip to Paris looks great fun, and the festive lights and decorations are amazing. Sorry to hear your accounts have now been frozen! ? But I’m sure you’ll overcome this with your usual style and panache, and show us lots of amazing sights and sites… in the New Year. Thank you for your always wonderful blog, kind regards, Trish
It was my pleasure entirely Trish. If you look on my Instagram account (no_fear_of_fashion) you can see 10 videos/photos of the Amsterdam Light Festival. I bet you’ll like that. And don’t worry about the blogposts, I still have plenty of outfits to show you.
Great post. Nice clothes, interesting locations, even a pug! Good work.
I am glad you liked it. As you know it is such fun to create a post. But even better when people say they enjoyed it.
Lovely post and pictures! A weekend in Paris with your friend was a sooooo nice idea…of course visit the city and save money don’ t really match together!!
But…it seems that Ron has found the right solution… 🙂
I had to ask Ron for help. You know me, just no self control when it comes to shops and lovely things. And I had crossed a line (or even two). Severe measurements had to be taken. Now I am hoping of winning something in the lottery. Which is what all people do when they are broke haha.
You’re going to have to bash the cards out with a shoe and melt the ice with a hairdryer like in the film shopaholic 😛 you captured that pug attitude so well. And mocha eclairs are the best, I have yet to persuade anyone of that yet but I know the truth
Ron never saw that film, he thought of this himself haha. I wonder whether these cards will still work after 4 months in the freezer. We’ll see.
I will be your friend to eat mocha eclairs with, soooo nice.
Oh goodness Greetje – that is so funny about your credit cards being in a bowl of water in the freezer….
Looking at this post soooo made me want to be in Paris with you…how about coming with me during Fashion week?
xo Yvonne
http://www.funkyforty.com
Talking about temptation!!!! I would love to, but that might be too soon and too expensive. I might pop over though for a weekend. When is Fashion Week (sorry, I should know this, shouldn’t I)?
End February normally 😉
I always try to do on a real budget as so far have not earnt a penny for it – would love to find someone interested in my street style pics though…in case you had any ideas 😉
xo Yvonne
I love this!! I saw all the pictures you both shared on IG and love it. What a great idea and you both looks super chic. I especially love your belted wrap coat. Hope you have a wonderful holiday season Greetje!
Nora
http://www.jacketsociety.com
Thank you Nora. That kimono coat turns out to be a staple piece. Wasn’t so sure about that when I bought it. I never know in advance. Susan and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in Paris.
And I wish you a very Merry Christmas too.
Your pics are fabulous Greetje, I adore France but haven’t been to Paris for years. So much temptation! I love the jewellery in that swanky shop! I’m more of a charity shopper myself…it’s a lot easier on the purse. So true about taking pics whilst hair is behaving, in my last post my hair looked so awful I cropped myself out of the photo!
Merry xmas.
Hahaha, you cropped yourself out of the photo? Hilarious. I would have done another shoot. Charity shopping is no fun in The Netherlands. There are hardly any thrift shops and if there are, the stock isn’t much to write home about. I did have 4 good thrift purchases in three years. Doesn’t satisfy my “needs”.
Oh Greetje, how I love your posts!
You assets are frozen, literally! Only you.
I love our polished look , cape, and big, but very chic bag,
I also loved Susan’s look, causal and relaxed,with that gorgeous scarf.
Favorite photos: the tutus, and the after party of bottles standing proudly,
In NYC it would have been a terrible mess !
I love where you live, such an ideal place, and only 3 &1/2 hours to Paris, I would also have to freeze my credit cards! ( New York is hard too, but my favorite shopping place is too crowded because of Trump)
Great post of you and Susan, and I agree that pug does like like Suzanne’s!
xx, Elle
http://www.theellediaries.com/blog/
Oh I would have to freeze my cards from time to time when I lived in New York too. That city has so mych to offer. Maybe 2017? I am toying with the idea.
Yes yes YES, I will give you the best places to shop and it will not be too expensive . I would so love or meet you !
Xx, Elle
I will have to save a little longer then ?.
LOL! What a fun trip that sounds like. I really enjoyed your lovely post and pictures and meeting you here. I’ve been following Susan’s trip posts as well. And yes, Paris in December sounds parfait! Will do that next year.
Well, as Audrey Hepburn said: “Paris is always a good idea”. April, June, September.. all lovely. And you are very welcome on my little blog. I hope you will come back.
YOU DO GET AROUND!LOVE YOUR NOT SPENDING IDEA…………..GOOD LUCK!
Get over to my SITE and see the GARB I AM STRUTTING!!!!!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS YOU ALWAYS SO CHIC WOMAN!!!!!!!
XX
I am over to your blog in a shot, dear. And now that I cannot spend anything anymore, it is not so difficult. It is so much easier than being tempted and thinking “I can start saving again next month, but now I want this” haha.
First, Greetje, I can totally relate to the credit card freeze…it was my birthday this month so I went a little crazy. I was just thinking that I need to curtail myself for January (although your idea for doing it until April is much smarter)!
And, it was great to hear the story behind the gloves—-at least you’ll wear them and love them!! No regrets, right? It won’t help at all!!
How absolutely delightful to meet up with Susan! I was just admiring her pink glasses, because I have a pair, and am never sure if I love them. But after seeing them on her…I think I’ll give them another shot!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Those glasses indeed look good on Susan, very chic. So yes give them another try.
Why did you spend so much for your birthday? Isn’t that against the whole idea of GETTING presents? And no, I have no regrets. Both the gloves and the necklace prove to be stellar (I think the expression is). But I did dip into several saving accounts these past months, so no spending till April at least.
It was so much fun to see you and explore more of Paris with you! Thanks again for a lovely weekend!
We will not wait another 2 years to meet. Too nice to see each other. I am thinking of New York next year. How about that?
That would be fun!!
Oh, that was a fun post. I love Susan too and to see your weekend and read your words was such a nice way to spend my Sunday morning. Thank you! Julia
I admit it, I admit it – I read this post a couple of times already and didn’t comment. It’s just the perfect situation. I wish sooo bad I was there. I love Susan, although we haven’t met, and you of course and I can imagine how you two clicked well with shopping, humour, and digging into great food and drink. What a wonderful time you guys had. The frozen card cracked me up. Long gloves – oh yeees, I would have a weakness for those. I do hope we are able to see each other in 2017 at some point.
And don’t worry about replying – I know you usually do. I am too late, but I just wanted to let you know I’m not ignoring you! heh. I always love your posts.
What is it with “fashion” bloggers? How come they are all so nice, so easy to get along with? Does it take a certain personality? No, I don’t think so, we are all so different. Still, there might be one or two things we share. I hope to meet you August/September when Sylvia is planning to come to New York. I am thinking about that too.
Oh and the gloves are butter soft.
hahahaha…Ron’s method of freezing your accounts has my husband and I in stitches! That is so funny!
What can I say….another great post that now has me itching to visit Paris. I’ve been once before, but it was many years ago.
Paris is always a good idea. It is a lovely old town, but I think you saw the best when you visited Italy.
Greetje, a bit of advice about those credit cards!
Make sure you plan ahead several days for thawing. Mine did not thaw fast enough and I needed one of them right away. So I had the “great” idea of putting it in the microwave. I had forgotten about the magnetic strip and oh, the fireworks through the ice! I was quick to hit the stop button but the microwave broke down a little while after that. Coincidence? Hmmmm.
Happy Christmas.
Hahaha Carol. I am sorry but this really made me laugh. I have a vivid imagination and I saw the flames in the microwave. It also made me realize there are more nutcases who put their creditcare in the freezer haha.
Don’t worry, I am very doubtful whether they will work at all after three/four months in the freezer. And I will take plenty of time to let them thaw on their own pace.
I intended for you to enjoy the story for I think you and I may have a similar sense of humor!
I agree.. Big Grin.
A Very Merry Christmas Greetje, and a Happy New Year. I have been meaning to contact you to say thanks for your help on our trip,which was great, btw, and Northern Lights too! We were very lucky. Your trip to Paris looks great fun, and the festive lights and decorations are amazing. Sorry to hear your accounts have now been frozen! ? But I’m sure you’ll overcome this with your usual style and panache, and show us lots of amazing sights and sites… in the New Year. Thank you for your always wonderful blog, kind regards, Trish
It was my pleasure entirely Trish. If you look on my Instagram account (no_fear_of_fashion) you can see 10 videos/photos of the Amsterdam Light Festival. I bet you’ll like that. And don’t worry about the blogposts, I still have plenty of outfits to show you.
I’m following your blog now so you will most likely hear from me again. Although, most of the time I just enjoy.
Feel free to do whatever you want. I will do my utmost to keep you entertained.
I’m following your blog now so you will most likely hear from me again. Although, most of the time I just enjoy.
Feel free to do whatever you want. I will do my utmost to keep you entertained.
Hello Greetje! I’ve popped over from Susan’s blog. I must say, I love your green leather jacket and wool cape. You look so polished and elegant. Perfectly accessorized!
It was fun to here of your adventures together. Just two friends hanging out. Lovely!
I love having girlfriends to hang out with. They are the salt of the earth. Next week I am doing a post about a group of 6 friends. We know each other more than 20 years. Thank you for popping over to my blog and commenting. I am secretly hoping you will do it again (big grin).
Lovely post Greetje with you and Susan, and I agree that coat is a great staple in your wardrobe, it will never go out of fashion. It does scream to have some lovely long leather gloves added for the dramatic effect. Good thing you thought about that:) I can’t wait to see the post with them.
Those earrings are also lovely on you. Cherish the girlfriend time, I am finally making some lovely friends here now that I am settled down in one place. My German girlfriend and I have what we call marathon breakfasts:) We start at about 11 and next thing you know her boyfriend is calling her asking if she is coming home. (he calls her when he gets home from work at 6 p.m.) hahahaha!
I am afraid I get a little wild around Christmas time spending, suddenly I want this present and that one. This year was an expensive one because of all the house projects, but finally done and it looks so pretty! Very happy to wake up in my little apartment, so it was worth it. Anyway I haven’t had the guts to freeze them yet, but I like you have to pay things off and save up for April or I won’t be going on that Spain vacation if I don’t!
Yes, we haven’t got a money tree in the back yard. There is a time to stop spending. Glad your apartment turned out the way you wanted it to be. My home is my castle right?
Next week you will see some friends of mine with whom I have the same marathon days. Lovely and priceless.
Oh Greetje, how I love your posts!
You assets are frozen, literally! Only you.
I love our polished look , cape, and big, but very chic bag,
I also loved Susan’s look, causal and relaxed,with that gorgeous scarf.
Favorite photos: the tutus, and the after party of bottles standing proudly,
In NYC it would have been a terrible mess !
I love where you live, such an ideal place, and only 3 &1/2 hours to Paris, I would also have to freeze my credit cards! ( New York is hard too, but my favorite shopping place is too crowded because of Trump)
Great post of you and Susan, and I agree that pug does like like Suzanne’s!
xx, Elle
http://www.theellediaries.com/blog/
Oh I would have to freeze my cards from time to time when I lived in New York too. That city has so mych to offer. Maybe 2017? I am toying with the idea.
Yes yes YES, I will give you the best places to shop and it will not be too expensive . I would so love or meet you !
Xx, Elle
I will have to save a little longer then ?.
I love this!! I saw all the pictures you both shared on IG and love it. What a great idea and you both looks super chic. I especially love your belted wrap coat. Hope you have a wonderful holiday season Greetje!
Nora
http://www.jacketsociety.com
Thank you Nora. That kimono coat turns out to be a staple piece. Wasn’t so sure about that when I bought it. I never know in advance. Susan and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in Paris.
And I wish you a very Merry Christmas too.
Your pics are fabulous Greetje, I adore France but haven’t been to Paris for years. So much temptation! I love the jewellery in that swanky shop! I’m more of a charity shopper myself…it’s a lot easier on the purse. So true about taking pics whilst hair is behaving, in my last post my hair looked so awful I cropped myself out of the photo!
Merry xmas.
Hahaha, you cropped yourself out of the photo? Hilarious. I would have done another shoot. Charity shopping is no fun in The Netherlands. There are hardly any thrift shops and if there are, the stock isn’t much to write home about. I did have 4 good thrift purchases in three years. Doesn’t satisfy my “needs”.
It’s been 10 years since I made my first and only visit to Paris – I adored it, and this post brings back happy memories. I’m afraid that like you, I have very little self-control when it comes to shopping, but this is why I avoid going in retail stores and stick to thrifting, as the damage is usually much less ;).
All those empty bottles! That must have been quite a party!
Thrift shopping in The Netherlands is no fun. Very few shops, little stock and usually mostly rubbish. Probably has a lot to do with the Dutch being very economical (tight??). Wearing everything till it is threadbare haha.
Loved this account of your weekend in Paris. What a beautiful, fascinating city. And how great to spend time with Susan. And yes, we all want to see your new necklace : >
xo
http://notdeadyetstyle.com
The necklace photos might take a while. Photos need to be taken and as I always take a difficult road with that…
Loved this account of your weekend in Paris. What a beautiful, fascinating city. And how great to spend time with Susan. And yes, we all want to see your new necklace : >
xo
http://notdeadyetstyle.com
The necklace photos might take a while. Photos need to be taken and as I always take a difficult road with that…
Great post. Nice clothes, interesting locations, even a pug! Good work.
I am glad you liked it. As you know it is such fun to create a post. But even better when people say they enjoyed it.
What a terrific post, a real December Sunday in Paris. Now let’s see that necklace.
Hahaha, you will have to wait a while for the necklace. I did wear it three times last week and it got good reviews. Now I need a photographer.
You’re going to have to bash the cards out with a shoe and melt the ice with a hairdryer like in the film shopaholic 😛 you captured that pug attitude so well. And mocha eclairs are the best, I have yet to persuade anyone of that yet but I know the truth
Ron never saw that film, he thought of this himself haha. I wonder whether these cards will still work after 4 months in the freezer. We’ll see.
I will be your friend to eat mocha eclairs with, soooo nice.
Lovely post and pictures! A weekend in Paris with your friend was a sooooo nice idea…of course visit the city and save money don’ t really match together!!
But…it seems that Ron has found the right solution… 🙂
I had to ask Ron for help. You know me, just no self control when it comes to shops and lovely things. And I had crossed a line (or even two). Severe measurements had to be taken. Now I am hoping of winning something in the lottery. Which is what all people do when they are broke haha.
Oh goodness Greetje – that is so funny about your credit cards being in a bowl of water in the freezer….
Looking at this post soooo made me want to be in Paris with you…how about coming with me during Fashion week?
xo Yvonne
http://www.funkyforty.com
Talking about temptation!!!! I would love to, but that might be too soon and too expensive. I might pop over though for a weekend. When is Fashion Week (sorry, I should know this, shouldn’t I)?
End February normally 😉
I always try to do on a real budget as so far have not earnt a penny for it – would love to find someone interested in my street style pics though…in case you had any ideas 😉
xo Yvonne
Hi Grethe, I look forward to ever Sunday for your blog. I love your individual style and great sense of humor. I am retiring next year and have always wanted to do a blog, I would love the opportunity to meet you when I am in the Netherlands next year. I have been in the Corporate world all my life, but have a small fashion business on the side, which is my passion. Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. With warmest regards, Gitte
No problem Gitte, give me an email (tab Contact at the top navigation of my blog) when you are in The Netherands. Blogging needs a passion and you already have that for fashion. Sounds good to me.
What a fun and exciting trip! I almost felt I was along with you both. Can we get to see the imfamous necklace and gloves??
Of course you get to see the necklace and gloves. It just takes some time to get my husband to photograph them. And my party outfit needs to be photographed first. And I have a visit to the Givenchy exhibition scheduled as next post.
Thank you for sharing your trip ….. love the photos …. partial to the adorable pug!
Love the “frozen” accounts idea!
It was my pleasure entirely. I love making these posts. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Fabulous post, Greetje. I’m SO annoyed I couldn’t come and join you two. I laughed out loud about your credit cards now sitting in a bowl of ice; that is genius.
I know a few of these stores very well; Cecile Jean always has some fabulous things. One of my favourite necklaces is from there.
I’m so pleased you and Susan had such a good time, and I look forward to the next instalment! I also can’t wait to see the gloves with your kimono coat. xxx
I think Susan told me that Alexandra Sojfer was on the list of Ines de la Fresange of good Paris shops. Yes, I’ll bet it is. Cecile Jean is not in The Netherlands fortunately.. my cards would be on ice permanently. And yes, it was a shame you couldn’t join. But life can throw you curveballs sometimes.
Girlfriends and Paris sound like a bit of heaven to me! How wonderful to be close and convenient enough to the hub of fashion. Once again I could almost smell the coffee! What a fun post Greetje!
I’m curious… any chance you’ll have snow in Amsterdam for Christmas?
Yes, I do like Europe for such reasons and for the lovely old architecture. But I suppose you love what you are raised with. Snow at Christmas? No, not a chance.
LOVE reading your posts! I also try to keep up with Susan’s posts. It was so nice to read about you two exploring Paris together. I was just in Holland a week ago and the weather was not too cold. Caught up on fashion trends (even in Holland!). Thanks, Greetje for your wonderful blog! Joke B.
Ahh, how sweet of you to say. Thank you very much. Yes, temperatures in The Netherlands are getting milder in winter. Klimate change I suppoost. I presume you are Dutch?
I’m giggling at your truly-frozen credit cards 😉
And oh those tu-tus!!! How adorable!
Hugs and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year!
Thank you Anne, I am glad I made you giggle. Smile, giggle, laugh… it is all good. My main goal with this blog. And a Merry Christmas to you too.
Thanks for sharing your Paris visit!
Of course, it is my pleasure entirely. Blogging about a trip and things I have been doing is so nice.
I could not do your trick of freezing my credit card as that is what I pay my gas and groceries with. I’d starve! LOL.
What a great couple of days you two had!
You both look wonderful.
I’m lucky as I am pretty much never tempted by jewellery. I make my own or it’s normally just not my thing. Which is good…because everything else is! Mind you, thrifting is MUCH cheaper.
I squealed a little bit at the adorable pug puppy! My dog is very polite and charming in comparison. She’ll sit around for all kinds of photos. You’ll meet her when you come for a visit to Toronto…hint hint!
bisous
Suzanne
Hahaha, hint hint. You never know. I am getting the hang of this travelling thing. Although I am very much inclined to go to New York in 2017 and meet you and Sylvia and Melanie and Elle etc. there. Idea? Oh and I kept one debit card for groceries etc. I asked Ron to check my bank account to prevent me from being naughty. I can instigate such a severe control system but that only when there are no shops around and I am in disgust with myself. Show me a shop window, and I am game again. Is this what they mean with being addicted haha?
YOU DO GET AROUND!LOVE YOUR NOT SPENDING IDEA…………..GOOD LUCK!
Get over to my SITE and see the GARB I AM STRUTTING!!!!!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS YOU ALWAYS SO CHIC WOMAN!!!!!!!
XX
I am over to your blog in a shot, dear. And now that I cannot spend anything anymore, it is not so difficult. It is so much easier than being tempted and thinking “I can start saving again next month, but now I want this” haha.
LOL! What a fun trip that sounds like. I really enjoyed your lovely post and pictures and meeting you here. I’ve been following Susan’s trip posts as well. And yes, Paris in December sounds parfait! Will do that next year.
Well, as Audrey Hepburn said: “Paris is always a good idea”. April, June, September.. all lovely. And you are very welcome on my little blog. I hope you will come back.
First, Greetje, I can totally relate to the credit card freeze…it was my birthday this month so I went a little crazy. I was just thinking that I need to curtail myself for January (although your idea for doing it until April is much smarter)!
And, it was great to hear the story behind the gloves—-at least you’ll wear them and love them!! No regrets, right? It won’t help at all!!
How absolutely delightful to meet up with Susan! I was just admiring her pink glasses, because I have a pair, and am never sure if I love them. But after seeing them on her…I think I’ll give them another shot!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Those glasses indeed look good on Susan, very chic. So yes give them another try.
Why did you spend so much for your birthday? Isn’t that against the whole idea of GETTING presents? And no, I have no regrets. Both the gloves and the necklace prove to be stellar (I think the expression is). But I did dip into several saving accounts these past months, so no spending till April at least.
It was so much fun to see you and explore more of Paris with you! Thanks again for a lovely weekend!
We will not wait another 2 years to meet. Too nice to see each other. I am thinking of New York next year. How about that?
That would be fun!!