Reflections on New Beginnings and a Vintage Chanel Find from the 1990s

Bienvenue! Well, here we are, Monday, September 23, and I’m actually writing this post a bit backwards because so much has happened! These past two weeks have been filled with exciting adventures, and I’m eager to share them all. But first, let’s start with the most recent adventure.
I’m thrilled to announce that my university program at Sup de Luxe is starting next Monday! Can you believe it? I still can’t quite wrap my head around it, especially considering that just a year and a half ago, I was planning my stay in Paris. It was around this time last year when I submitted my application and spoke to the admissions officer, feeling both nervous and excited. I knew I wasn’t just moving to a new country—I was also shifting industries, from healthcare to luxury marketing. It’s been a journey, from completing five months of language courses to now preparing for an intensive dive into the luxury world.
This past Saturday, I met a new friend who will be attending the MBA program at my university. She’s also passionate about luxury but leans toward the jewelry sector. Before our lunch, I stopped by a bookstore near the Louvre and picked up two French books and a few postcards that capture the essence of my current mood: a modern Parisian woman with an appreciation for historical and vintage collections.

Parisian Luxury: My Love Affair with Fashion 
One of the reasons I’m so passionate about this new path is my long-standing love for luxury fashion, especially in Paris. Paris is truly the ultimate destination for those who adore iconic French designers like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Chanel, Balmain, Saint Laurent, and Givenchy (yes, yes, yes!). The heritage, the timeless craftsmanship, and the sheer elegance these brands embody—there’s nothing quite like it. I’m especially drawn to Balmain, with its military-inspired pieces and haute couture statements. The city itself is full of people who don’t just love luxury fashion as a brand but as an art form, appreciating the heritage, stories, and exquisite craftsmanship behind every piece.
A Vintage Shopping Adventure
After lunch, we ventured into some vintage shopping. Honestly, I hadn’t planned on buying anything, but when you step into a beautifully curated store filled with hand-selected pieces, it’s hard to resist! The setting was intimate—just a few people at a time, making for a calm and luxurious shopping experience. My eyes were darting all over the place, especially at the stunning vintage Chanel pieces. One jacket in particular—a fuchsia piece—stood out. I tried it on over my mini dress, and it looked fabulous. Now, I’m asking myself, why didn’t I just buy it?
Then, I noticed a black vintage Chanel coat hanging behind the shop owner. I was in the market for a black coat for winter, and this one immediately caught my attention. I love my Saint Laurent coat, which I’ve mentioned in a previous post, but this Chanel coat was something else entirely. The shop owner explained that it was from the ’90s and could fit a range of sizes from 36 to 44, making it incredibly versatile. When I tried it on, it was love at first sight. The way it draped, the silk Chanel lining, and the eight buttons—it was truly a statement piece.
The 6 Stages of Falling in Love with a Fashion Investment
Buying an investment piece isn’t just about the price tag; it’s an emotional experience. As I reflected on my Chanel coat, I realized I went through six clear stages in my decision-making process:

1. Curiosity: This is where I first notice the piece and feel drawn to it. It catches my eye, and I’m intrigued.
2. Initial Fit: I try it on and take that first look in the mirror. How does it fall? What’s my initial reaction?
3. Detailed Evaluation: Here, I begin to interact with the piece—zipping, tying belts, and really assessing how it complements my shape. This is when I start to see its potential.
4. Excitement: Now, I’m starting to feel the butterflies. I see how this piece enhances my look and how it makes me feel—whether that’s strong, sexy, or simply my best self.
5. Giddiness: Shopping with friends adds to the excitement. This is the moment when everyone agrees—it’s fabulous, and you can’t leave the store without it. Even the store associate joins in, styling the piece and confirming it’s perfect for you.
6. Commitment: At this stage, I’m fully committed. The associate might discuss tailoring options, and I’m already thinking about how I’ll style this piece in the future. By now, I’m walking out of the store with it!

In this case, the Chanel coat passed through all six stages, and I knew it was a perfect fit for my wardrobe and personal style. The craftsmanship, the fit, and the history behind it sealed the deal.
The Joy of Investment Pieces
For me, investing in fashion isn’t like the stock market—it’s about falling in love with a piece that will last. This Chanel coat is one of those pieces. The quality stitching, the perfectly placed pockets, the versatile styling options—it’s everything I look for in an investment. Now, I’m just thinking about how I’ll style it next!