July 22, 2016
Just before the end of the 19th century, César Ritz, unveiled the Ritz Hotel in Paris, which is located at 15 Place Vendôme and whose guests have included Coco Chanel, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Cole Porter, Ingrid Bergman and the list goes on and on. Now, after a four year renovation, the Ritz has reopened.
In a recent WSJ article, there was discussion if the newly remodeled Ritz will thrive. Essentially, in a modern age, can the historical Ritz bridge the gap to come out on top?
I had the pleasure of attending a discussion where the architect who worked on the Ritz project, Thierry Despont, spoke. Although he didn't go into too much detail about the Ritz, as it hadn't yet been completed, he did emphasize how he worked to maintain the history of the hotel while folding in modern amenities, such as enlarging rooms and as Vanity Fair pointed out, upgrading the basics, such as the air conditioning, heating and plumbing.
Even though I appreciate all of the modern advancements we have today, I have a special spot for those structures and/or businesses that speak to what was or at least find a way to pay homage. Plus, in Paris, it seems fitting the legendary Ritz should be a blend of both worlds - modern and yesteryear.
Even as Despont touched on during his talk at New York City's FIAF, a hotel that housed Chanel to Ernest Hemingway, you cannot just erase that from its past.
Although I'm slightly surprised this topic would be one for debate, I'm also one who appreciates and seeks history while looking past its facade to wonder what stories and treasures it holds. Although, I'm certain there are many more like me.
- Aimee
P.S. Next time you are in Paris or at least wanting to bring a little bit of Paris to you, why not try pairing an Adea Layering Top or an Adea Camisole with a blazer - très chic!Comments will be approved before showing up.
October 22, 2020
I just read an article that sounded – to me at least – like “a canary in a coal mine” or an early warning of danger. This piece, written by Joe Pompeo, appeared in the May 2020 issue of Vanity Fair magazine with the title “The British Tabloid Invasion” and a subtitle that read, “How the Daily Mail is conquering American gossip.”
The paparazzi horde, La Dolce Vita, 1960 – photo courtesy of Vanity Fair
October 14, 2020
Apparently the good old U.S. is a nation of “not great” sleepers. Really? And I thought I was the only one! According to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention it was revealed that one out of three Americans are chronically sleep-deprived. Yikes!
October 06, 2020
I think we’re all taken by the incredible mystique of the famous French fashion house, Hermès that has been with us for two centuries and is still owned and operated by the same family. From its beginnings in fine equestrian leather goods, they are – in the tumultuous year 2020 – best known for their handbags and many other items.
My image of Hermès has always been rarified products at equally rarified prices so imagine my surprise when I recently received a very stylish publication of theirs in the mail.