• June 2026 •
My Weekend Chronicles is a monthly column conceived as a notebook of inspiration, where I share, in complete independence, my ideas for outings, places to discover, recipes to enjoy, as well as inspiring or useful objects found along the way during my weekends.
Plant fairs are always a wonderful source of inspiration, as here with this superb garden created for the occasion. I always take notes on details I like, such as this combination of just three colours, and the borders defining the flower beds in the spirit of a medieval garden. The idea of having a bucolic garden that is easy to maintain, although it never truly is, is rather appealing. I love this “jardin de curé” spirit, with a few flowers and, why not, some aromatic herbs tucked in here and there. Make the most of the season to discover, or rediscover, listed gardens near you, or beautiful rose gardens such as those at Bagatelle or Chaalis.
A magnificent rose bush running along the gate of a beautiful old house in pink brick… hidden treasures can be discovered on summer walks. This is the ideal season to see roses in bloom, and while some villages are known for them, sometimes all you need to do is step outside to come across beautiful varieties. And it is such a pleasure to enjoy the coolness of the evening after dinner. We often spontaneously decide to go out for a late walk, in that very special nocturnal atmosphere.
Here is Soie-Même, whose name I love, a very pretty Franco-Turkish brand, if I have understood correctly, of silk scarves with illustrations that truly feel like summer. I particularly like the scarf in rich blue tones, which could be worn just as beautifully in summer as in winter with a chic sweater, or tied nonchalantly to the handle of a handbag. A wardrobe essential.
Another book perfect for the summer season, taking us on a journey through superb Tuscan estates that reflect Italian elegance, another great source of inspiration. We speak more often of English or French gardens, and rather less of their Italian counterparts, which is a real shame. Or perhaps simply a well-kept secret.
In June, the garden is brimming with different varieties of flowers, a true source of energy and great happiness, which allow me to create very rustic bouquets: peonies, roses, pasque flowers, alliums, poppies… Each week, I make a joyful bouquet to decorate the kitchen table, a bedside table or my desk. There is nothing quite like it to put you in a good mood!
Checked tablecloths are an essential for any beautiful country table. Here is one in very elegant ochre tones, paired with floral and rustic tableware. A perfect and wonderfully cheerful combination. I love mixing different patterns, and I must admit I have a preference for colourful stripes in spring and summer, and rich-toned checks in autumn and winter. Even the simplest tableware is instantly enhanced by a characterful tablecloth and a few small bouquets of wild flowers. You can find similar tablecloths at Maison de Vacances. Maison de Vacances.
A typical weekend return from the bakery when we are all together in the countryside! Good butter, homemade strawberry or blackberry jam, two or three little coffees in a row, and before you know it, breakfast has lasted two hours…
For a recent event, I designed papers to wrap bouquets of flowers that were offered to the guests. A lovely gesture, always a pleasure to receive, and a reminder that every detail can matter.
There is nothing quite like creating little resting spots in different corners of the garden. All you need is a small table with two chairs, found at a flea market or online, a pretty trellis that you repaint yourself, I will recommend a few shades in another article, and there you have it! Here is a charming example spotted in the gardens of La Ballue in Brittany.
A simple recipe, with carrots, coriander, garlic and sesame oil, efficient and full of flavour, requiring very few ingredients and quick to prepare. Perfect for a summer buffet or as an accompaniment to a more autumnal dish.
PS. This post is in no way sponsored.
Soft, lightweight fabrics, subtle shades… the summer wardrobe is simple and poetic, with a little vintage touch. Zara Home offers some rather lovely outfits for the home.
Although I was a little disappointed by the photographs in his first book, but certainly not by the text, I did not hesitate to order Sean A. Pritchard’s second book, amusingly titled Atmosfloric! I love reading the advice and experiences of other amateur gardeners, especially English ones. This is a beautiful example. Other suggestions? Vita Sackville-West, Beth Chatto and Christopher Lloyd, among others!
Who has never been tempted to borrow beautiful pieces from a masculine wardrobe? When I came across this denim overshirt by Balibaris, I must admit I rather wanted to buy it… for myself!
If you are not going away this summer, head to Le Bon Marché to discover their pop-up store devoted to chilli peppers and the Basque Country, titled Muxu Bisous. It is a delightful change of scenery, and always a welcome alternative to museums during a heatwave.
I love finding new places to picnic, even though I do so less and less because of ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease. Still, there is something truly special about discovering a very bucolic, slightly secret spot, like the edge of this river, for example, which reminds me of school holidays when I would sometimes accompany my great-uncle when he went fishing.
