In the film Midnight in Paris, Owen Wilson’s character kept talking about how he loved Paris in the rain: that he wanted to walk through Paris in the rain. Well, I got to experience that one afternoon on my recent trip to Paris. But, the weather doesn’t matter to me. I love Paris rain or shine.
A gloomy day calls for color in your clothes. Therefore, a rainy day is perfect for these fun paisley pants from Banana Republic. I adore these wide leg pants. Fun. Comfortable. Great pockets. Great pants and a big umbrella. What else does a girl need, especially in Paris?
I had a truly special stay at the Hotel St. James, a hidden jewel in the middle of Paris’ Rive Droite, just about a half a mile from the Arc de Triomphe. The vibe of the Hotel St. James is quirky and elegant.
Surrounded by a wall, with a beautiful circular drive and garden, it is like staying in a private chateau. My uber drivers kept getting lost trying to find the entrance to the drive as it is so hidden from the street. A member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux, it is a quaint hotel with only 48 rooms. Since I was traveling this portion of my trip alone, I wanted a small hotel setting, where the staff would quickly learn my name. Paris has had a difficult year, and while that did not defer any of my plans to visit, I did want to stay in a hotel that would (somewhat) know where I was. They did and more. When I would go for my runs in the morning, they would ask me how long I planned to be gone, and arrange for my room to be cleaned during that time. All of my restaurant and other wishes were fulfilled through the hotel concierge, as were my travel to and from my restaurant visits. Not a care in the world.
The hotel boasts the Restaurant du St. James with the accomplished female chef Virginie Basselot at the helm. Ms. Basselot was awarded a Michelin star in 2014 and appointed as a Meilleur Ouvier de France in 2015. The restaurant space is stunning and also provides a beautiful spot to enjoy breakfast in the morning. One of my favorite things about the Hotel St. James is the Library Bar. I am all about my hotels having a memorable bar, and the Library Bar is one of those. I spent a little time in there during my stay with a glass or two of white burgundy. The hotel also has a wonderful spa for a little treatment or two if so inclined.
Never let the rain stop you from playing, wherever you are. Xoxo. M.
Photography by Laurent Casanovas and taken at the Hotel St. James (on Instagram and twitter @saintjamesparis).
Pants: Banana Republic (last seen here.) | Top: Simone Rochas | Jacket: Joie | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
