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Bonjour à tous! Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier— are the three grapes that whisper the taste and complexity of champagne. The processing of champagne is steeped in tradition, artistry, and precision, with Meunier as the exclusive gem of the Champagne region, and the focus of my trip to the Dom Caudron Champagne tasting room and museum. Maybe you've wondered why a glass of champagne seems so elegant and luxurious - know that it starts with the best grapes and follows up with an intricate process to transform them into the magical beverage we have come to love at celebrations, weddings, nightclubs, restaurants - do we really need a reason to enjoy champagne? The Grapes: A Story of Structure and Color I learned so much on the tour at Dom Caudron, and it was so interesting because I was once told that rosé wines weren't healthy. This crushed me because I love rosé wines - I love any wine that tastes good! Pinot Noir and Meunier grapes have red skins, but their juice is clear. However, when the skins are added, the wine is given a different hue of pink. Isn't the skin of the grape where all of the vitamins are? We know luxury is all about heritage, process, refinement, and precision. Wine is no different when the pressing process begins. The pressing process of grapes in the Champagne region is exact - done within 12 hours of picking to ensure only the best juice is extracted. And in true luxury fashion, nothing goes to waste: the leftover skins produce grappa, an agile way of turning by-products into another exquisite offering. Harvest and Fermentation: Timing is Everything Champagne's September harvest season just concluded, and in this brief window—about 10 days—each picker gathers approximately 3,000 grapes daily. For perspective, one grapevine yields one bottle of champagne. Timing is critical, as the grapes must be pressed immediately, and the juice volume must be meticulously measured to maintain the balance of flavors. After the first pressing, the grape juice, known as the "must," begins transforming into base wine through the first fermentation process. Here, it's all about chemistry and patience as the juice slowly ferments into the base that will ultimately become champagne. Once the wine is bottled, the second fermentation captures those signature bubbles that dance luxuriously on your palate. This process lasts between 4 to 6 weeks, and it's where the magic happens—champagne is born. Aging to Perfection Luxury, of course, is always timely. Some champagnes age for three to four years (like the one in my photos), though non-vintage brut must age at least 15 months to develop its signature complexity. Aging the wine in the bottle allows it to mature, and over time, the yeast is carefully removed in a meticulous process known as "remuage." The bottle is turned upside down and gently rotated until the yeast collects in the neck, which is then frozen, allowing the yeast to pop out with precision. The final touch? A measured addition of wine and sugar determines whether the champagne will be brut (dry) or doux (sweet). Less sugar means a drier, more refined taste. Tasting the Difference Here's where the luxury experience truly comes to life. Tasting champagne is an art, and each bottle tells a story. Brut champagne offers crisp, fresh notes—think apple and pear—balanced with about 9 grams of sugar per liter. On the other hand, champagnes from older vines, at least 80 to 90 years old, provide a more mineral-driven experience with a drier sensation on the palate. On this tour, we tried both young and vintage champagne - equally excellent, but the vintage tasted much more complex. Champagne: The Epitome of Elegance In the luxury world, champagne is more than just a drink—it's a statement. It speaks to refined taste, craftsmanship, and an appreciation for tradition. Like the French fashion houses strive for artistic grandeur while innovating with each collection, champagne producers aim to recreate the perfect blends l'année après l'année (year after year). Is champagne healthier than other wines? In a way, yes. Dry white wines and champagnes, with their lower sugar and (sometimes) alcohol content, can be a lighter indulgence. However, read the labels and talk to your sommelier if you're seeking something with either of these characteristics. After this tour, I will remember that next time I drink a glass of champagne, I am savoring a piece of heritage and craftsmanship—hopefully, I'll be dressed for the occasion as well! Cheers!  This photo was taken in front of the Perrier Jouet restaurant, where you can indulge in delightful bites of French cuisine, perfectly paired with champagne to suit your taste. Though the day was a bit gloomy, the vibrant colors more than made up for it. It felt only right to add a pop of red with my SAINT LAURENT handbag, a piece I picked up last year. I adore this shade because it’s a true red—not too dark and without too many orange undertones. Plus, it holds everything! I’m still on the hunt for the perfect sneakers, so I wore these purple running shoes—they’re super comfortable, and you never know how much walking you’ll end up doing on a tour. As for my hair, the humidity had its own plans, so I just let it flow—much like the champagne!  This guy is Italian and of course he was promoting his country! I'm not sure why I was giving a thumbs up - maybe to suggest that Italy is next on my travel list (although I love French wines more) shhh!
My vintage champagne, ready to be opened at the next celebration!  This champagne is a vintage, aged over 3 years. I also chose it because it's considered a gastronomic champagne, which is meant to pair with foods such as aged cheeses.   I love paying attention to the smaller details that deepen my appreciation for luxury items. The silver clasps on the sides of the bottle head ensure the handle stays securely in place. And the cardboard flap around the bottleneck? It’s there to prevent the bottle from rolling around in the package, avoiding any unfortunate accidents when you open it     What a beautiful amber color! Champagne bottles are traditionally amber or dark green for a practical reason: to protect the wine from light exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) light can affect the chemical composition of champagne, causing it to age prematurely and develop unpleasant flavors, often referred to as "light-struck" or "goût de lumière." The amber or dark green color acts as a natural filter, shielding the delicate contents from harmful UV rays and preserving the champagne’s quality, flavor, and effervescence over time. 
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Bonjour, mes chéries! There's something magical about wandering through Paris, discovering little pockets of luxury hidden away, waiting for someone like us to find them. On one of these recent outings, I stumbled upon a treasure—a white leather Chanel jacket that instantly captured my heart. I didn't set out to find it, but that's the beauty of fashion in Paris; sometimes, it finds you. The moment I looked at this jacket, I knew I had found something extraordinary. A white Chanel jacket isn't your everyday find, and this one, crafted from the softest lambskin, immediately stood out. With its understated elegance—just five signature Chanel buttons down the front and smaller ones adorning the cuffs—it whispered luxury without having to shout. It was as if this piece had been waiting for me, hanging subtly, ready to become part of my story. Why This Piece Spoke to Me The fit? Oh, mes amours, it was like it was made for me. The sales associate, who knew her sizing like an art form, suggested I try it on, and it hugged my frame in the most flattering way. It's versatile—perfect for autumn strolls or spring outings. I could already imagine pairing it with a sleek black dress for an evening out or denim and boots for something casual. That's the thing about Chanel: the pieces are timeless, but there's always a modern edge that makes them wearable for any occasion. What makes this jacket even more remarkable is how it transforms once you put it on. It's not just clothing—it's a mood, a feeling, an experience. I tried it on over black denim trousers and my trusty Saint Laurent patent leather boots, and immediately, it became part of me. The white leather against my skin tone, the way it fits with my style that day—I was sold, not just on the piece itself, but on the story it became part of. The Chanel Effect: Why It's Personal This jacket has deep meaning as a collector of luxury pieces, mainly from French houses. In many ways, Chanel epitomizes what I love about Parisian fashion—elegance, history, and a nod to the timeless. Owning pieces like this isn't just about fashion; it's about living the luxury lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same. Studying luxury brands as I am, I see Chanel as one of the cornerstones of French style, and having this jacket in my collection feels like a personal achievement. I also love the process of discovering unique items in person. There's a joy that comes with that moment when an item catches your eye, draws you in, and makes you want to try it on. This jacket was no exception. Like all my luxury finds, it will be cataloged—its story preserved as part of my journey. Tips for Buying Leather and Chanel Vintage My advice for buying a Chanel (or any other) leather item is simple: always inspect the leather. In this case, the lambskin was soft and luxurious, and although vintage, it showed minimal wear. Don't shy away from slight imperfections; skilled professionals can refresh and restore leather. Another important point--only shop from trusted sources who can authenticate the pieces. This is crucial for ensuring your Chanel jacket is the real deal. Styling My Chanel Jacket This jacket will be my go-to piece for so many looks. I imagine wearing it casually with jeans and moccasins (loafers) or pairing it with trousers and heels for a more polished ensemble. The beauty of a Chanel jacket is its versatility. Whether dressed up with a silk scarf or worn with a simple tank top, it's that perfect blend of chic and ease that defines Parisian style. Living the Luxe Life Ultimately, this jacket represents more than just an addition to my wardrobe. It's a piece of Chanel's legacy, reflecting the luxurious, fashion-forward life I'm building in Paris. Jackets like this are the perfect symbol of French elegance—they can be styled up or down and never go out of fashion. With each piece I find, I'm reminded of why I fell in love with fashion in the first place. So, here's to living luxuriously, discovering beautiful things in the most unexpected places, and always keeping our eyes open for the next great find. Stay tuned to see how the jacket is repaired and polished. Once I get the jacket back, I'll style it and take some pics! Until next time, mes chéries.  Here is my stunning white leather Chanel jacket, which has a sleek, minimalist design. The jacket features a slightly fitted silhouette designed to sit close to the body, emphasizing a chic, tailored look. Two small patch pockets on the chest and two larger pockets near the bottom contribute to the structured, functional appeal. The jacket is adorned with understated Chanel buttons—four down the front for closure and an additional button just above the waist, giving it a subtle yet classic Chanel flair. The buttons feature the brand's iconic logo. The leather is soft and smooth, likely lambskin, known for its delicate texture and luxurious feel. The overall design is clean and timeless, with no excessive detailing, making it a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, perfect for layering or as a statement jacket. The white color enhances its elegance, making it an eye-catching addition to any wardrobe, especially suited for those who appreciate subtle luxury with a nod to Parisian sophistication. At the boutique, I saw wear and tear on the jacket and talked with the SA about this. She showed me the areas of wear and what specifically drove down the price, such as the inner lining being a bit yellowed at the underarm. Now, taking it home, looking at it under natural light, and shooting it with my Leica, I could see all the "flaws." However, I'm undeterred, and I will take this to the cleaners for a refresh, which includes polishing/cleaning the leather, reinforcing the buttons on the front closure (and any others that need it), and cleaning the inside fabric lining. Ideally, I would have the lining removed and replaced with a new one, but I want to retain the Chanel essence. I should have the jacket back within 1-2 weeks and have an update!    Buttons on the front of the jacket slightly larger than the buttons on the cuffs. Also, the buttons are not engraved, but the metal logo is slightly raised.  This photo is to show how buttons can be reinforced. This is a sign of craftsmanship and attention to detail.  Signature Chanel buttons and there are 3 on each cuff. I really like this extra detail.   Back of the jacket, in the natural light you can easily see where there is some wear and discoloration. However, notice the tailoring and the lines - the cut of the jacket is designed to give a snug and tailored shape.  Signature Chanel logo lining Despite the chaos during Paris Fashion Week, I visited the Balmain store on Rue Saint-Honoré (374 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris). I had recently purchased a denim jacket and a statement tuxedo top from Net-a-Porter, both in size 42. I tend to size up when ordering French brands because, let's be honest, no one wants to deal with something too small! If it's larger, then at least you can tailor it. The shopping experience online was smooth, with DHL delivering almost overnight. Yet, I couldn't help but feel the sizing was a little off when the pieces arrived. Trying on the Pieces The Pleated Denim Jacket in a light blue wash felt oversized, especially in the back. I thought it might just be the style, but my friend pointed out that it was clearly too big. When I saw this jacket online, I rushed to get it because I'd been looking at it for many months, even while I was in Houston. Balmain is known for its peplum pieces, and my love for denim really drew me in. Features:
   Next was the Structured Crepe Top—a black tuxedo-inspired piece with gold buttons and an elegantly tailored shape. It's daring yet classic, which is exactly what drew me to it. On the model, it was paired with designer denim, creating a quintessentially Parisian look that I adore—elevated denim, heels, and luxurious tailoring. But when I tried it on, it, too, felt slightly big. At 5'2", I have a shorter upper body, so I knew some tailoring would be to make it truly fit like a glove. Features:
    The Balmain Flagship Store Experience A few days later, I decided to take my friend and visit the Balmain flagship store to figure out the correct sizing. A sales associate greeted us warmly and listened carefully to what I needed. She brought me the denim jacket in a smaller size 40, which fit perfectly. The details—the peplum, the shoulder stitching, the bold buttons—everything about the smaller jacket gave off an effortlessly cool and sexy vibe. The tailoring hugged my waist just right, making the jacket a statement and a modern, chic piece I knew I'd get endless wear. There's one thing about French tailoring - they'll find your waist! They're going to make sure you have a waistline! However, a smaller size wasn't the solution for the tuxedo top. The sales associate and I concluded tailoring the neck straps to fit my petite frame was best. What I love about shopping luxury is that these brands offer in-house tailoring, making pieces fit perfectly to your body. It's not just about buying something beautiful; it's about making it yours. Balmain's attention to detail, both in design and service, truly elevates the experience. Even though I bought the pieces from Net-a-Porter, the SA at Balmain still took her time to work with me on fit and styling options. I ended up returning both pieces to Net-a-Porter. However, I reordered the black tuxedo top because I couldn't live without it! It's a strong and beautiful statement, quintessential Balmain. I'll have to take it in for the tailoring to fit my petite frame. Falling for the Red Tweed Jacket and Jeans During my second visit to the store, I made an appointment with the same SA. I couldn't help but try on a red tweed jacket. The moment I slipped it on, I was hooked. The vibrant color lit up my complexion and gave me that "wow" moment I look for. Paired with a tailored pair of Balmain jeans, I knew I was in trouble—the jeans were (gorgeous) too long, but the sales associate immediately pinned them to my ideal length while I wore heels. Again, Balmain's on-site tailoring worked its magic, and within a couple of days, the jeans were ready for me to pick up. Some stores also offer courier service or alternative delivery options to ensure you get your items where you want and need them.  The Importance of the In-Store Experience What makes luxury shopping different is the bond you create with the pieces in-store. My sales associate knew exactly what to bring out, offering pieces I had yet to consider. Feeling the textures, seeing how the colors enhance your complexion, and seeing yourself in the mirror is a complete sensory experience. When I put on the red tweed jacket and denim jeans, I couldn't help but smile. These pieces weren't just items I liked—they became part of my Parisian style story. The process of trying, tailoring, and personalizing these pieces is what makes luxury truly special. I can't wait to wear my new Balmain treasures, each carefully chosen and crafted to fit me perfectly. Balmain's commitment to craftsmanship and tailoring makes each piece feel like an extension of you, and that's what luxury is all about. Craftsmanship Highlights: • The denim jacket, made in Italy, features exquisite pleating, structured tailoring and Balmain's signature gold and silver lion buttons. It perfectly blends Parisian chic with modern elegance. • Balmain's in-house tailoring ensures a flawless fit, making every piece feel custom-made. • Attention to detail—from intricate stitching to fabric choice—makes Balmain's designs stand out as timeless yet innovative. Don't forget your hangers!   Pieces from the recent collection - October 2024      Bonjour tout le monde! The school year has officially begun for me, and I'm excited to share the experience with you. On Monday, October 1st, I had my first day of orientation at the Sup de Luxe campus in La Villette, Paris. I met my classmates who are entering the second year of the Global Luxury Management MSc program (where I am starting since I have a master's degree). It felt surreal—this moment I had imagined for so long was finally here. I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that led me here, all the way back to the United States, approximately two years ago, where I began asking myself the question: If money were no issue, what would I truly want to do? At the time, it was difficult to answer. I had such a narrow perspective, worrying about retirement funds and health insurance—who would cover that if I didn't have a "proper job"? Isn't money always an issue in America? It took me a couple of months to allow myself the freedom to think beyond those concerns and really consider what would bring me joy. As I peeled back the layers and thought deeply about my true desires beyond the obvious—good health and financial security—I began to ask myself: What would genuinely bring me happiness? What have I always wanted to do but never had the time or space to explore? I found myself returning to childhood memories, to passions I'd set aside for practicality. I remembered my fascination with Paris from my 30th birthday trip here. Even earlier, I used to watch episodes of CNN's Runway and dream of the life Brenda from Beverly Hills 90210 had when she went to Paris for an internship, or maybe just because she was wealthy and wanted to have fun. I also recalled a particularly tough time in my career when soapmaking became my creative and analytical outlet. It wasn't just a hobby but a way to channel my frustration into something beautiful. I loved thinking through the process—how a batch of soap would look, smell, and feel—and the chemistry behind mixing oils and fragrances to create a luxurious product. Then, I had a part-time job at a contemporary furniture store in Walnut Creek, California. I took that job simply because I wanted to be surrounded by beautiful things. I especially loved the holiday season when I wrapped gifts, making sure that no matter how much someone spent, they went home with a beautifully wrapped present, a touch of luxury. These moments reminded me of what truly excites me: creativity, beauty, and luxury. That's when I knew—I wanted to be fluent in French, and what better way to achieve that than moving to Paris and immersing myself in the culture? Perhaps even restarting my soapmaking business. But how? Uprooting my life meant I needed a solid plan. I started researching programs to learn French and explore fields that would genuinely make me happy. These programs gave me new insights into industries I hadn't yet worked in, but one thing I knew for sure—I didn't want to return to healthcare or public health. As I refined my research, I kept thinking about my love for Parisian shopping. Wouldn't it be incredible to be a part of the luxury industry, specifically luxury fashion, which had brought me so much joy as a client? Fast-forward to today. Stepping onto my chosen school's campus felt like a dream come true. The campus is relatively small and modern, with several other schools housed in the same building. It's more of a management school setup, different from the sprawling university campuses we might think of in the U.S. But despite its size, it felt right. During orientation, we filled out the necessary forms, and I received my student ID, which I'm quite excited about because now I can take advantage of the student discounts in Paris! We went over academic policies and expectations of professionalism. One thing that stood out to me was the strict policy on timeliness—if you're more than five minutes late, you're not allowed in the classroom. That's definitely a cultural adjustment for me. In the U.S., especially in a master's program, it's understood that life happens—whether it's work, kids, or other priorities. But here, the system feels a bit more traditional, almost as if students abused the privilege of flexibility in the past. It'll be an interesting adjustment, for sure. As for the class schedule, it seems manageable—around three to four days a week with time to work in groups or even for a company. Some students in the program work as their companies cover their tuition. There are also some exciting aspects this year, like a field trip to Milan, a business case competition, and the chance to put together a business plan for either a new luxury product or a relaunch of an existing one. It's all hands-on learning, which I love. This case-study method reminds me of my previous graduate studies at Columbia, where we used real-world scenarios to learn. Harvard pioneered this method, and I'm grateful to have experienced it before—I'll certainly be drawing on those lessons in this program. We also met the student coordinators and the director, and I was thrilled to learn that we can take French lessons through a partnership with the Sorbonne. Knowing that the Sorbonne is one of the world's leading institutions gives me confidence that my French skills will skyrocket if I apply myself. Finally, the dress code is one of the most exciting aspects of the program. Every day, we're expected to dress as if we were working in the luxury industry. This will be a shift for me, as I usually prefer sneakers while walking around Paris. It could be more appealing to wear delicate shoes and outfits, only for someone to accidentally step on them or scuff my jacket on the metro. But I'm sure this will feel normal after a few months—just like when I used to dress up every day in New York. Stay tuned for an upcoming post, where I'll dive into my experience with Saint Laurent and how power dressing can elevate your wardrobe, Parisian style.  |
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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