EN PRIVÉ (In Private) is a new column sharing things to do, places to discover, and beautiful, useful objects that inspire.
I.
Sofia Coppola’s planner
I mentioned planners in my very first En Privé post, saying how much I loved those by Smythson, though they remained out of reach. I’m delighted to share a far more accessible alternative – just as desirable.
Sofia Coppola’s Important Flowers planner, named after her publishing house, is available in select bookshops or online. Simple, elegant, and beautifully understated, it almost makes you want to write rather than plan.
II.
Tissus choisis by Casa Lopez
Between Paris Design Week and Maison & Objet, I chose to step back and take my time discovering new fabrics from various editors.
Casa Lopez has two Paris boutiques, one entirely devoted to textiles. A warm, discreet address with a remarkable selection of houses I’m particularly fond of, including Décors Barbares, Rose Cummings, and others.
As I’m currently searching for fabrics for a few home projects I may take on this year, this is very much an address worth lingering over.
II.
The chic of Dice Kayek
A sharp, structured cut, beautiful weight, a timeless houndstooth… it doesn’t take much to stop me in my tracks – and that’s exactly what happened in front of the Dice Kayek window.
To me, this dress defines chic. A sleek bob, discreet jewellery, and nothing more is needed.
The price makes your eyes water(so we’ll pass) but why not be inspired by it?
IV.
Pierre Hermé x Julie Serre
Last weekend, while wandering through Paris, I stopped in front of one of the Pierre Hermé boutiques, beautifully dressed for Valentine’s Day.
The result of a collaboration with illustrator Julie Serre, the décor is full of charm and poetry. I took my time noticing every detail. It’s comforting to see such beauty against the backdrop of a grey Paris winter.
The illustrations also brought to mind Pierre Le-Tan, whose distinctive line I’ve always admired.
V.
Mariage Frères
I love gifting tea from Mariage Frères, particularly Marco Polo, one of the house’s great classics.
I’ve also recently discovered Boléro, with its fruity peach notes, as well as Earl Grey Impérial, both equally appealing.
A thoughtful gift for this lingering hibernation season. Ume Cha is also high on my list (especially the 2026 edition): a black tea delicately scented with blossoming plum trees, a quiet promise of spring.
VI.
Weekend reading
Ski season is in full swing. Although I haven’t worn skis in several years (a small absence I’m beginning to feel),I follow the slopes from afar.
I almost stumbled upon this special Monocle edition by chance: a newspaper-format Alpino issue. I’m easily tempted and this format always gets me.
Good paper, a weekend coffee, and a sense of escape without leaving the living room… or the bed!
VII.
Mimosa season
Some winters, I feel as though I exhaust florists by asking endlessly for mimosa.
This year, when I don’t need it, it seems to be everywhere in Paris as if the universe were gently teasing me.
It’s a pleasure nonetheless. It recalls winter holidays in the South of France. The yellow cuts through the city’s greyness, bringing a joyful energy into the home.
I like to place a few branches of mimosa in a small vase to mark the transition toward spring. Soon, daffodils will follow, along with deep violet hellebores, to create a beautifully balanced bouquet.
VIII.
A Victorian Valentine puzzle purse
Some time ago, I shared a tutorial on creating a Victorian-style love note for Valentine’s Day.
It’s a wonderfully creative exercise, with countless variations to explore. Even as the weather softens, it still invites us to stay warm at home.
This little note can also be reimagined as an original invitation.
(Re)discover the tutorial here.
IX.
A book by Deeda Blair
Deeda Blair was an iconic American hostess, a fixture of New York society, and one of the last famous “Swans.” She embodied a natural elegance rooted in taste, culture, and a keen sense of staging.
Her book Deeda Blair: Food, Flowers & Fashion has recently joined my library. It offers a glimpse into her world through entertaining, flowers, fashion, tables, and interiors. Everything is refined (though I personally prefer a little more colour and warmth) yet endlessly inspiring.
