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Oh là là — ever held a Chanel flap bag and thought, "Is this the real deal?" I dove headfirst into that question this spring thanks to my Legal Professor at Sup de Luxe. Our class had the rare opportunity to visit the Musée de la Contrefaçon in Paris—a hidden gem in the elegant 16th arrondissement that many tourists (and even locals) overlook. But let me tell you: this place should be a rite of passage for anyone in luxury fashion. Tucked behind a hôtel particulier and founded by Unifab (Union des Fabricants) in 1951, the museum is a small but mighty institution tackling one of luxury's biggest headaches: counterfeit goods. The Parisian Classroom You Didn't Know You Needed The museum showcases over 350 counterfeit items displayed right beside their authentic counterparts—think fake Louis Vuitton trunks, imitation Hermès Kelly bags, knock-off Dior perfumes—the whole illicit runway. Our guide, an expert in counterfeiting, walked us through the complex (and surprisingly scandalous) history of counterfeiting. At the same time, our professor offered a crash course in intellectual property law, consumer rights, and enforcement. I was taking notes mainly because I love buying luxury second-hand products, and my specialty is advising people on making authentic and emotionally resonant purchases in luxury. A 2,000-Year-Old Problem: Counterfeiting Isn't New One of the most surprising facts I learned? Over two thousand years ago, winemakers in Italy and Gaul (modern-day France) stamped seals on their amphorae, clay vessels used to transport wine. That seal? That was their brand, their trademark, their intellectual property. Authenticity has always been a marker of value and protection. In luxury marketing today, we still rely on the same principle: the real thing is worth protecting. What I Learned About Intellectual Property in Fashion Our professor helped us break down how luxury brands legally protect their products. Here are the key takeaways, tailored for fashion lovers and future brand owners alike: 1. Trademarks Include More Than Logos A trademark is any sign that distinguishes a brand—a logo, name, slogan, sound, or even color. In France, for a trademark to be valid, it must be:
2. Yes, You Can Trademark a Color
3. France Doesn't Use 'Copyright'—They Use Author's Rights Instead of "copyright," France protects works under droit d'auteur (author's rights), which:
Here's what we learned:
How France Fights Counterfeit Goods
Why It Matters for Luxury Buyers Like Us Whether buying a vintage Chanel jacket, a limited-edition scent, or your first Hermès accessory—you have power as a consumer. Here's how to protect yourself (and your investment):
Final Thoughts: The Musée de la Contrefaçon was a necessity for me, as a student of the luxury industry and any consumer who wants to be better informed about counterfeiting. Behind every monogram, silhouette, scent, and stitch is a web of legal protections preserving originality, artistry, and authenticity. À très bientôt          
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Bonsoir, mes amis,
Paris has this magical way of offering you exactly what you didn't know you needed. Sometimes, it's a quiet moment with a coupe of champagne at sunset; other times, it's a jacket—no, the jacket—that whispers stories of Tom Ford and the Met Gala while you sip cocktails under soft lighting at Saint Laurent. This is the story of that jacket, a conversation with Hieu, and an evening where art and luxury intertwined at the Bourse de Commerce. When the Jacket Finds You The first time I tried on the jacket, I wasn't even looking for another piece. It was one of those effortless Parisian evenings—cocktails in hand, laughter echoing through the Saint Laurent boutique, that unmistakable sense of ease you find only in this city. A friend wanted to see how the jacket looked, so I slipped it on to indulge her curiosity. But it was as if it had always been mine the moment it settled. Hard to resist? Impossible. Later, over a glass of champagne, Hieu—the brilliant stylist who has helped me refine my Parisian wardrobe—shared the story behind the piece. And what a story it was. This wasn't just any Saint Laurent jacket. It had been custom-created for Tom Ford for the 2024 Met Gala (GQ). Ford walked the red carpet in a striking Saint Laurent ensemble designed by the house's creative director, Anthony Vaccarello—a deep red velvet tuxedo jacket paired with black smoking pants. He finished the look with his signature black sunglasses. Classic Tom Ford: confident, refined, and unapologetically glamorous. Tom Ford in this jacket? Incroyable. You could hear the reverence in Hieu's voice as he described it. We spoke about how Ford's time at YSL had shaped his aesthetic, how his now-legendary crocodile boots—the ones I nearly purchased in Houston—echoed the house's earlier work. Ford has always maintained an air of homage, albeit complex. His relationship with Yves Saint Laurent was famously fraught with "creative tensions, philosophical differences, and the challenge of balancing innovation with respect for legacy" (NSS Magazine). And yet, here was Anthony Vaccarello—breathing new life into the dialogue between Tom Ford and the house of Saint Laurent. Some might even say he's paying homage or repairing what once was fractured. Either way, this jacket is more than a garment. It's a symbol of continuity, evolution, and respect woven into every stitch. I digress—but isn't that how the best stories are told? Second Chances and Scarves The jacket was fabulous, but I hesitated. Did I really need another jacket? Probably not. But the fear of missing out on a piece so steeped in history lingered. A few nights later, I returned for cocktails and a presentation on the men's collection. Hieu presented the jacket to me again, and I tried it again. That night, though, I left with a scarf I had been eyeing for months. A piece I still love. But the jacket? It stayed with me. Third Time's the Charm While previewing the Spring/Summer runway collection with Hieu one evening, I tried on the jacket again. This time was different. Hieu called over the in-house tailor, who explained how she could shorten the sleeves but cautioned against altering the jacket too much—it would lose its essence and architecture. I trusted her completely; I entrusted her with several pieces in my wardrobe. We agreed on the sleeves. I didn't pick up the jacket for a month—work, travel back to the States, life. But when I returned to Paris, I went to see Hieu and try on the latest runway collection, and there it was: my jacket. On that same day, I received a dozen white roses (but that's a story for another time). 
Earrings, Bag, Jacket: Saint Laurent Top: Et Ochs Pants: Alice and Olivia Boots: Gianvito Rossi
An Evening at the Bourse de Commerce: Corps et Âmes
Fast forward to last week. I was invited to a cocktail reception at the Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection, for the Corps et Âmes exhibition. Before these events, I now habitually ask about the dress code—Paris can be all-black chic or full cocktail glam, depending on the evening. Hieu suggested a complete look to pair with my new jacket. I opted for simple black underneath that night but made a mental note to try his full vision at another soirée. Where Art and Luxury Converge The evening was everything you'd expect from Kering—warm hospitality, flawless execution, and an ambiance that balanced elegance with a sense of belonging. We walked in, greeted by familiar faces and new introductions, sipping champagne beneath the domed ceiling of this architectural jewel. The Bourse de Commerce, acquired by the Pinault family and redesigned by Tadao Ando, is a testament to the dialogue between heritage and modernity. Initially built for Catherine de Medici in the 16th century, it has transformed from a wheat exchange to a stock market, and now, a space where contemporary art takes center stage. 
Corps et Âmes: Bodies and Souls in Conversation
The Corps et Âmes exhibition meditated on the human form—its strength, vulnerability, and the stories our bodies carry. I was deeply moved by the work of Arthur Jafa, whose film Love is the Message, the Message is Death—set to Kanye West's Ultralight Beam—was an emotional exploration of Black life in America. His juxtaposition of joy and trauma felt like an echo of stories I know well. Another artist who stayed with me was Ana Mendieta, whose Silueta Series imprinted her body onto the earth, blurring the lines between self and landscape. Her work spoke of displacement, identity, and longing—ideas I have understood more deeply since moving to Paris. One sculpture reminded me of Sarah Baartman, a woman exploited and dehumanized in life and death. It was a powerful, painful reminder of the historical weight many bodies carry and the violence of erasure that still lingers. In another installation, a Black man (in sculpture) painted a wall—a nod to the workers who build and maintain these institutions, often without recognition. 
The Intersection of Art and Fashion
As I stood there, draped in my Anthony Vaccarello-era Tom Ford jacket (yes, that's a mouthful, but fitting), I thought about how art and fashion are languages of identity. Both can provoke, inspire and demand reflection. Kering's commitment to supporting contemporary artists through the Pinault Collection extends the luxury house's ethos—pushing boundaries while honoring craft. This jacket—its story, its past—feels like wearing a piece of that dialogue. It's a conversation between Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent, and me. Final Thoughts I'll return to the Bourse de Commerce soon to immerse myself in the art without distraction. But that evening, in my jacket, surrounded by history, luxury, and voices demanding to be heard, I felt connected to something timeless. I highly recommend an evening at the Bourse if you are in Paris. And if you happen to run into Hieu at Saint Laurent, tell him I sent you. Trust me—he'll know exactly what you need before you do. À bientôt, Tsahia Bonsoir, mes chères lectrices! Have you ever wondered what it's like to step inside a living piece of Parisian history—while sipping Champagne on a velvet banquette? Let me transport you to Le Grand Véfour, a proud Relais & Châteaux association member. Instead of the usual speaker series packed with over 200 students at the Intercontinental, this was an intimate, luxurious experience with my class of 21. We left the classroom behind and entered the gilded world of Guy Martin, one of France's most celebrated chefs, who welcomed us personally into his legendary restaurant. And let me tell you, I'm still captivated. Le Grand Véfour: A Monument to French Culture Le Grand Véfour is a monument historique reserved for France's most culturally significant landmarks. This is where history and haute cuisine collide most elegantly. Tucked beneath the arcades of the Palais-Royal, it's one of Paris's oldest gourmet institutions, dating back to 1784. But unlike many historic spaces frozen in time, Le Grand Véfour remains vibrantly alive. Step inside, and you're enveloped in a world of Parisian opulence. Gilded mirrors, hand-painted panels, and sumptuous velvet seating create a regal and intimate atmosphere. The room glows with a warmth that invites you to settle in, sip something sparkling, and lose track of time. This is the experience of Parisian glamour and hospitality in its most vibrant, living form. I was particularly taken with the deep pink-burgundy velvet on the banquettes. Something about sinking into a plush velvet seat makes you feel instantly at home, even in a place as grand as this. Every detail, from the intricate rugs to the ornate wall decor, whispers of French craftsmanship at its finest. I felt as though I was participating in a centuries-old story.  Le Grand Véfour 17 Rue de Beaujolais, 75001 Paris Hidden beneath the arcades of the Palais-Royal, just steps from the gardens. ⭐ Two Michelin Stars □□ Chef: Guy Martin □ Lunch menus starting at €158—fine dining made (somewhat) accessible!   Guy Martin: The Man Behind the Magic At the heart of Le Grand Véfour's enduring appeal is Chef Guy Martin. If you're unfamiliar, here's a little background: Guy Martin was born in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, in the French Alps. His culinary journey is the stuff of legend—self-taught, he started as a pizza chef before becoming one of France's most celebrated gastronomic talents. By the age of 28, he had earned his first Michelin star. Eventually, at Le Grand Véfour, he achieved three Michelin stars, and today, he holds two, an accolade he wears with grace and humility. What struck me most during our hour-long conversation was not just his skill, but his passion. He describes his craft as "jouer avec la nourriture"—playing with food. And you can feel that playful spirit in his approach. Beyond his culinary genius, Chef Martin is fulfilling a mission: to democratize French gastronomy. He spoke candidly about his desire to make fine dining more accessible. In an era when Michelin-starred restaurants can easily command €400 per person (wine not always included!), his commitment to offering beautifully crafted dishes at more approachable prices is refreshing. For him, it's about sharing French culinary culture with a broader audience, acting as an ambassador of French gastronomy. And as much as I love my Jamaican ackee and saltfish (and will defend its place in the culinary pantheon any day), I had to admire his perspective. French cuisine continues to have a gravitational pull around the world. He reminded us how, in the most distant places, a French restaurant often becomes a destination for travelers seeking refinement and tradition. It made me think of my time in Houston, where I lived near a charming French restaurant called Toulouse. Once a month, I'd stroll over for beef bourguignon and a glass of Bordeaux—pure joy in a city where not much is within walking distance.  Credit: Sup de Luxe LinkedIn      An Atmosphere That's Both Grand and Intimate There's something almost magical about Le Grand Véfour's setting. Yes, it's grand. Yes, it's historic. But it's also profoundly inviting. The space, with its rich color palette, lush textures, and sense of history, feels like the place where whispered secrets and grand ideas come to life. And the food? Sublime. While we didn't sit down for a formal tasting menu that day, you could sense the care, craft, and artistry in every detail. From the seasonal vegetables to the delicate sauces, this cuisine honors French tradition while pushing it forward. Why This Visit Mattered Visiting Le Grand Véfour was a lesson in how luxury and heritage can coexist with modernity and accessibility. Luxury isn't always about exclusivity; it's the quality of experience. It's sitting in a space where Napoleon once dined while sipping wine poured by a team that makes you feel welcome and valued. As I continue my journey in luxury brand management, experiences like this remind me why I chose Paris—and why I want to build a life and career centered on this world. bonne soirée! Bonjour à tous, One of my most frequent questions is: "How did you seamlessly transition from healthcare strategy to the luxury industry?" I've worked with top names in the industry, such as Columbia University and MD Anderson Cancer Center. And, more importantly, "How do you achieve deep industry immersion without a traditional career background?" For me, the answer is unequivocal: immersion. It's about meticulously understanding materials and craftsmanship, the nuances of the client experience, and the essence defining a truly exceptional Maison. My recent luxury immersion with Van Cleef & Arpels perfectly encapsulated these elements, delivering an unforgettable day of profound learning and insight. Mastering Gemology at L’École Van Cleef & Arpels Our journey began at L’École Van Cleef & Arpels, their esteemed jewelry school on Place Vendôme, for an intensive "Introduction to Gemology." This wasn't merely theoretical; it was a hands-on exploration. We delved into the intricacies of gemstone examination, evaluating clarity, cut, color, and carat weight. Instructors highlighted Van Cleef's meticulous selection process, emphasizing technical perfection and aesthetic harmony—how each gem contributes to the overall narrative of a piece. We also explored the ethical considerations shaping today's gemstone trade, gaining a deep appreciation for the rigor and artistry involved. This experience underscored that luxury is about opulence and preserving heritage, ethics, and unwavering excellence. In the end, I had a really nice experience and I have more knowledge on how to purchase a quality gemstone for myself.  The look you give after a long morning of looking at gemstones. It was also the day when my flu was starting to take shape. But, there's always something about shopping and looking at beautiful objets that makes me so happy. Today, I was wearing my Goorin Bros hat from South Carolina, Prada re-edition bag, Saint Laurent cashmere coat and earrings.   Upon completion, a real treat was to receive our certificate of completion!   Experiencing Timeless Elegance at the Van Cleef & Arpels Boutique On another evening, we entered the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique on Place Vendôme, which epitomizes heritage and prestige. Here, we explored iconic collections:
Applying the Client Experience Framework My team and I evaluated the boutique experience using a comprehensive 45-point client experience framework and SWOT analysis as part of our training. We assessed:
Unveiling History at the Van Cleef & Arpels Private Museum Our final stop was the private museum within the boutique, where we explored rare archival jewels. Our guide's enthusiasm and intellect brought the collection to life, highlighting how Van Cleef & Arpels has evolved over a century. He explained the different jewelry styles worn during the day and night during the 1920s, and how today, Van Cleef celebrates the modern woman's freedom to wear fine jewelry on her own terms. This experience blended craftsmanship with emotion and history with modern life, showcasing Van Cleef & Arpels' timeless appeal. Studying gemology at L’École Van Cleef & Arpels, exploring their boutique, and visiting their private museum in a single city was extraordinary. This Parisian luxury immersion perfectly aligned with my vision for this industry. It's a testament to the power of immersive experiences in understanding and appreciating the nuances of luxury. Reach out to learn more about my experience and the client experience framework we employed to analyze luxury boutiques. À très bientôt, Tsahia
 At the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique in Place Vendôme Bonjour mes amies, At its best, luxury is about how a Maison makes you feel. And for me, no one does that better than Saint Laurent. Earlier this month, on International Women's Day, Saint Laurent reminded me why they're a brand I live. It's the house that resonates most deeply with my personal style: sharp, modern, and unapologetically confident. I feel most seen in their boutiques, and their clienteling is second to none. The day started at my hair salon in Paris, where I luxuriated in a steam conditioning treatment and trimmed a few ends. It was an unusual Parisian spring day: 65 degrees, sunny skies, and that perfect light breeze. But it was amazing to enjoy because we've been having cold, gray skies for a while now. Afterward, I took the métro to Trocadéro, sat quietly for a while, then walked toward Avenue des Champs-Élysées. On this day, I took the side streets, carefully avoiding the crowds, to savor the quiet side of Parisian life. Truthfully, I was exhausted. Jet lag from a whirlwind trip to the U.S. (three cities in one week), plus a bout of food poisoning right after landing back in Paris, had left me drained. Even though France is well known for its gastronomy and fabulous restaurants, sometimes you encounter a bad experience. I'd barely had more than a handful of blueberries and water that day, and I felt every bit of it. But everything shifted when I walked through the doors of Saint Laurent on the Champs-Élysées. There's a certain energy in that boutique—cool, confident, and effortlessly powerful. The team knows me well by now, and being welcomed by familiar faces made me feel instantly at home. Then came the gesture: an elegant bouquet of white roses, a gift for International Women's Day. I almost shed a tear. It wasn't the size or extravagance that moved me. It was the intention. It was personal. So Saint Laurent. We spent time catching up and discussing the latest runway collection—Anthony Vaccarello's sharp tailoring and architectural silhouettes always inspire me. I considered adding a power suit to my wardrobe for upcoming interviews (I love a strong shoulder), but I was simply grateful at that moment. How lucky I was to be in my favorite place, with friends, and around all the beautiful things I love. Two years ago, when I was planning for Paris, I never would have thought this would be my life. Even running on empty, I found energy I didn't know I had. Luxury has a way of doing that. At one point, I laughed with my stylist, "Okay… but this is the last piece I'll try on!" (It never is.)     Why Flowers Matter in Luxury Clienteling In luxury, nothing is accidental. Every gesture tells a story. At Saint Laurent, a bouquet of white roses may symbolize impact, minimalism, and honoring women worldwide. It's a quiet yet powerful statement. Like its tailoring, it's about stripping away excess and focusing on craftsmanship, heritage, and confidence. Saint Laurent does better than anyone else. They create experiences that are personal, intimate, and unforgettable. One never feels that the relationship is transactional; instead, it's genuine, enlightening, and ever so Parisian. On a day when I was tired and a little fragile, they gave me exactly what I needed: connection, beauty, and a reminder of who I am. That's what makes them my favorite. À bientôt, Tsahia   |
AuthorBonjour, I’m Tsahia—friends call me Tash. I’m a Parisian luxury-focused entrepreneur and writer, living in the heart of Paris. I'm currently studying Global Luxury Brand Management at Sup de Luxe. 
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