A New Look at Sézane, Fall Travel Plans & What I’ve Been Reading
Today’s post is a bit of a grab bag, with a few things I’ve been meaning to share that didn’t quite warrant posts of their own. I’m taking a look at a popular brand’s new style direction, sharing my fall travel plans, and catching you up on some of the books I’ve enjoyed lately. So, here’s a little of what’s new…
Sézane’s New Style Direction for Fall
If there’s a brand that’s become almost synonymous with “French girl style” in many people’s minds, it’s probably Sézane. They’ve developed a real following, and have even opened a few boutiques here in the U.S. The founder, Morgane Sézalory, has decided to take the brand in a new direction not only with bolder designs, but by slowing down the introduction of new pieces and focusing on fabric quality.
The first round of the fall collection dropped on the website last week, and the reaction has been…divided, to say the least. Fans of the more girly, ruffly pieces are not happy, but those with more minimalist, and fashion-forward preferences seem to approve. I’m seeing several items have already sold out.
A few of you have asked what I think of the new direction, and while I haven’t yet seen the pieces in person, here’s my impression after taking a couple of passes through the new collection online. First, I applaud the idea of “fewer, but better” that seems to be the intent.
In concept, I find the new direction more sophisticated and polished, which appeals to me. Some have made the comparison to COS style-wise, and I think that’s not far off. But while statement pieces like these look cool on a mood board, I have to wonder how easy they are to wear, especially with all the oversized cuts. (I’m always thinking about layering.) The Sézane pieces I’ve had the best luck with have always been the simpler ones, like my favorite Betty cardigans and some accessories. I’m hoping they keep some of the basic styles that have been have been staples.
Fall Travel Plans: London, Paris & Amsterdam
I’m off next month to London, Paris, and Amsterdam! I already have a few meetups planned with friends, and have been bookmarking some exhibitions I want to see. Of course I’ll be sharing what I’m packing closer to my departure, but in the meantime I’m putting together some fall travel capsule wardrobe ideas, so look for those next week.
And yes, while I’m in Paris I’ll definitely do a deep dive at the Sézane flagship appartement, and report back!
A Little France on My Doorstep
In the meantime, it’s always so lovely to get a French Fix thanks to the quarterly My French Country Home Box (c/o).
Each quarterly box is filled with products from French brands and artisans. The August box included:
- A gorgeous print cabas tote and matching zip pouch from Haomy. I love cloth pouches for travel and handbag organizing, and the tote will come in handy for travel.
- An adjustable ring from Fabien Ajzenberg
- Lipstick by Rose Lane, a vegan brand made in France
- Luxurious hairbrush from Artisan Brossier
- Antique silver egg cups
- Paris print by Yves Damin
- Luggage tag and cord organizer by Vacavaliente
There are still a few of the August boxes available, and you can order here. The next box will arrive in November, and will have a winter theme. These boxes make lovely gifts too!
A Few Books I’ve Enjoyed Lately
Earlier this summer, I asked readers for book recommendations, and you all came through with some really good ones! I started with Villa Coco, which was delightful and really funny in parts. If you love “fish out of water surrounded by quirky characters” situations, you’ll enjoy this one. There’s a mystery at the heart of it, and the revelation will surprise you.
I also read “Whistler” by Ann Patchett which I found quietly uplifting. The goodness of the characters (well, most of them) revealed over time, and the enduring connections they form was a balm of sorts.
A friend loaned me Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. I’d already heard a lot of buzz about this book, and that a lot of people didn’t like it. But I did. The characters are mostly unlikeable, but the weird twists and turns kept me engaged, and my sense of karmic justice was satisfied at the end.
What have you been reading, and do you have any travel plans this fall? Let me know in comments!
ICYMI
Eight Women, One Week in Paris
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I was conjuring, willing, hoping , that Sezane would bring the Betty cardigan in bright colors again… but it was not to be. I’ll keep checking ebay and Poshmark. I tried a knockoff from Amazon which screamed knockoff so it went back. Thanks for yet another great post. I think about you almost everyday, which sounds odd since I have never met you but when I open my closet and see my cohesive, easy to style wardrobe I know it’s all because of you.
If you’ve seen “Patience” on PBS, she’s worn the Rose Betty several times; I got that one last year, using their size chart, and would like it smaller. I just got the Khaki one in a size smaller and I love it!! Will be traveling to England with me. So thank you , Susan. Also, I have the knit Eileen F jeans and love them so much, on your recommendation. Extremely comfortable!
Illyrian Spring by Ann Bridge, written about 1934. A journey of change.
I don’t have the words for how well it is written.
Thanks for your blog-fun and informative.
I am leaving in a few weeks for a week in London and Cambridge followed by a week in Paris. I would love to hear which exhibitions and highlights you are planning for your trip. In London, the Schiaparelli, Queen Elizabeth II Life in Fashion and Winston Churchill’s paintings exhibitions are on my list. In Paris, visits to Palais Galliera, Galerie Dior and Grand Palais bien sur. Hoping to bring home a souvenir from Duvelleroy. Any gems on your itinerary you’d care to share?
What a fun posting today Susan! I’ve been reading art books lately plus a mystery by Jess Kidd. I’m noting the Ann Patchett book which I’ve seen recommended and also Villa Coco, which looks fun. I was wondering about Sézane’s changes as well. I’m going to stay tuned to your explorations. BTW I’m wondering about Varley’s waterproof raincoats–are they heavy or light enough for travel? Also they look huge. I take a small in their pants but I’m wondering if XS wouldn’t be better for their raincoats–I think you had to get an XS for yours? I’m confused about their ‘styles’ (the one you bought being sold out) and will have to go back and take a second or third look I think. Looking forward to seeing your travel capsule!
Hi Sally, thanks! Yes, I have a Varley raincoat from last year that is light enough and that I’ve packed for travel. They run HUGE, mine’s XXS.
Thank you Susan! This is good to know! You know I have an REI waterproof jacket but it’s WAY too heavy for travel. I’ll see if I can snag a Varley in one of their yummy Autumn colors. x Do you think the Tovara raincoat will be too overwhelming? (seems to me your raincoat was down to your knees…..)
The new Sezane line looks heavy (in a warming world), uncomfortable (with superfluous flaps and flares) and very, very brown (as if it flatters all of us).
Susan. I was intrigued by the outfits that Suzanne is offering as I received an e-mail a few days ago showing them. The scarf was beautiful but I have a basket full of them! I am very short and petite so am scrutinizing all models now wearing anything; when an item arrives it may be huge or require too much tailoring to justify the purchase. One blog spoke of ‘interesting minimalism’ in an era where we need to make pieces work hard versus sit for a couple of weeks or so in a closet during a season. I will continue to see what is on offer for Fall but realistically may just add a new purse.