There was a certain hesitation in the air at the Chanel Les Talismans Gala Dinner the evening before. As the cocktail party in the courtyard progressed, people slowly became more comfortable pulling out their phones and capturing selfies, photos, and videos of the experience. At dinner, surrounded by ancient medical texts and the top creatives and businesspeople of Chanel, the hesitation came back. Nobody wanted to be the novice, snapping every moment and dinner course.

I experienced the same bittersweet feeling I got at my wedding reception – having the time of my life but feeling incredibly sad that this moment would come to an end. I think others were feeling the same way and those phones reemerged to capture the magicians who stopped by each table and the energetic mini fashion show which presented the beautiful new Haute Joaillerie collection on dainty models.

I could barely sleep that night since I was bursting with excitement for the Haute Couture show the next morning. Armed with our invites, we met the car waiting on us out front and began the short drive to the Grand Palais where all the Chanel shows are held.

As the glass dome of the Grand Palais in the distance became closer, the sea of black cars around us began to get tighter and tighter. When a black car pulled up to the carpet in front of the Grand Palais, photographers would scramble frantically, trying to capture their prized celebrity shots. Bloggers not attending the shows were lining up near the entrance in hopes of getting their photos taken for a coveted street style shot. Crowds of people began to form, anxious to see who would show up at the Haute Couture show.

We walked down the carpet, showed our invites at the gate, and walked up the steps to the main entrance. We waited anxiously with the other attendees for security to allow us in. My heart was pounding and the unusually hot Parisian sun was beating down on us, but I didn’t even notice… I fully realized how few people were ever able to enjoy this even once in a lifetime and I was embracing every moment, every minute.

My husband and our Chanel host were not able to join us in the show, so it was just my mother and myself. Suddenly, security examined our invites again, scanned our names, and opened the gate for us. We went through security again inside – this time, a TSA-style search – before we entered the main part of the Grand Palais with the glass dome towering above us.

Once inside the domed portion of the Grand Palais, we saw a crisp white building constructed by Chanel. There were steps leading up to a double-C emblazoned entrance. Sleek, golden lights trimmed the entrance and above it were the words ‘Le Cercle Privé’.

We stepped into the doorway and saw that Chanel had created an entire Chanel casino within the Grand Palais, complete with Chanel carpeting, Chanel slot machines and casino tables, and the kind of strange casino lighting that makes you unsure about the time of day. Everything glowed golden, light reflecting off the sleek white interior of the pop-up casino.

Remember how I mentioned there was a little hesitation at the Les Talismans Dinner Gala the evening before? All hesitation was gone once everyone set foot inside this glowing little Chanel casino. A middle-aged executive giddily pulled on a Chanel-themed slot machine’s handle. A famous Chinese blogger took selfies relentlessly, capturing each facet of the casino in her backgrounds. A couture-bedecked American celebrity quickly uploaded her casino view to Snapchat.  All bets were off… Or should I say, on… Chanel.

Everyone began to take their seats, thumbing through the elegant portfolio left at each place, and opening their gifts. Chanel had given everyone a bottle of the newest fragrance in their Les Exclusifs collection: Misia, a feminine blend of rose and violet with just a hint of leather.

Low, mysterious music started to surround us as men in suits came to the gambling tables and started setting out their chips. As the music built, celebrities began to emerge at the top of the steps surrounding the casino, cards in hand. Kristen Stewart, Rita Ora, Lily Rose Depp, Lara Stone, Lily Collins, Julianne Moore.

The music reached a thumping pitch as the models began to emerge, dressed in Chanel’s new Haute Couture collection. Quilted suits made with 3-D printing technology and bedecked with sparkling crystals. Jackets and skirts made from the most luxurious tweed and set with stones and crystals that played in the lights. Dresses covered in the most delicately woven feathers, floating at the neck and hemlines as the models walked. Roomy silhouettes that played with proportion and movement. Beautiful, feminine shades of ivory, gray, lilac, emerald green, and lipstick red.

After the show, we went back to Le Meurice for lunch. Then we were driven to 31 Rue Cambon for a private tour of Coco Chanel’s apartment above the enormous Chanel boutique and the Haute Couture salons. Chanel asked that photos from Coco’s apartment be kept private and not be shared. I know there are plenty of photos online, but they gave us such an incredible experience and such wonderful memories I really want to respect their wishes and refrain from posting any myself.

My mom and I sat on Coco’s couch and were able to see so many of her “talismans” I mentioned in previous posts. Her apartment was filled with books, beautiful antiques from all over the world, and lots of symbolism… Stalks of wheat for prosperity, the lucky number five, and her zodiac symbol the lion. It was a timeless place, full of Gabrielle Chanel’s spirit. As we descended down Chanel’s famous staircase, they gave each of us a beautiful keepsake book about her apartment.

After raiding the Chanel boutique (and indulging in their shoe sale) we went back upstairs to the Haute Couture salons for a presentation of the new A/W 15/16 collection. The magnificent pieces we just witnessed walking down the runway that morning were displayed on racks and available to gaze upon, touch, and drool over.

As I admired the craftsmanship of each piece, it only reinforced the idea that fashion of this level truly is an art form. Handmade buttons with chain detailing the width of a pencil stroke accented one jacket. Tiny woven feathers created a delicate cage around one evening gown. Intricate beading creating crystalline formations to trim the neck and shoulders of a dress. The newest collection is effortlessly chic intertwined with a breath of modernity, which is the essence of Chanel.

I so enjoyed this experience with Chanel and I will remember it for a lifetime. Thank you so much for allowing me to share it with all of you.

You can follow my Paris Couture Week adventures by searching the hashtags #TCGinParis and #TCGatPFW on Instagram and Twitter. You can see the entire Chanel Haute Couture show here. To get my outfit look, shop the links below.

Those of you who know me or have followed my blog for some time know that I’m planning-obsessed. Ever since I was a little girl I’ve loved writing my schedule and to-do’s out in my planner or agenda. I’ve tried electronic planning and it’s just not for me. I’ve had my phone and computer change appointments due to changing time zones and cancel meetings for no reason. Even while working at a traditional job, I would print out my Google calendar and tuck it into my agenda on work trips. There’s nothing more satisfying than crossing off my to-do’s one by one on paper.

Erin Condren LifePlanner

It seems as if I’ve tried nearly every planner on the market. I found many sold in office supply stores to be too boring and dull. The entire binder portion of my Louis Vuitton agenda fell out in class one day, sending my papers and notes scattering across the floor. But one that has never disappointed me thus far is the Erin Condren LifePlanner.  With its bright colors and well-designed format, it makes the perfect agenda for any student or working woman.

The Day Designer

In the video above, I explained how the LifePlanner stopped working for me when I had a more flexible schedule with more responsibilities, errands, and to-do’s. I recently found a planner that offers more space for to-do’s, prioritizes work needs, and organizes evening time.  The Day Designer is from Target and is at a great $9.99 price point. I would suggest it for someone who often juggles multiple projects at once or has to transition seamlessly from working to home life and back again.

Lilly Pulitzer Agendas

I also like the bright colors and playful layouts of the Lilly Pulitzer agendas. You can find a selection of different sizes and shapes here. For a limited time, Lilly is offering free shipping on all agenda orders.

Be sure to sign up for my back-to-school giveaway below. I packed this sleek little tote with everything you need to get organized… A planner, highlighters, bright pens, post-its, and a gift card for caffeine. You can begin to enter and gain extra entries by sharing this post starting Thursday, August 20th. I will draw the winner on Sunday, August 30th and ship out your goodies!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Includes:  BP Black Tote Bag (Sold Out – I’m currently loving this one), Day Designer Planner, Sharpie Highlighters, Bright Fine-Point Pens, $15 Starbucks Gift Card, Hedgehog Post-Its

Favorite Planner Stickers:  AlexStudio, KarolinasKrafts, MadeByElissa, PlannerHeaven, ThePrettyPlanner, ItsPlanningTime, InkyDinkPrinting, PlannerPress, SweetKawaiiDesign, VintageGypsyRoad

Best of luck on the giveaway. Down below, let me know how you plan… Is there an incredible app I’m missing that beats paper planning? Do you have a favorite planner or agenda that works best for you?

Since our trip with Chanel, I’ve been inspired by black and white palettes and simple silhouettes. I snagged this timeless dress at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and it’s still available and ready to be paired with tights and boots in the fall and winter. I consider it my chic version of a Wednesday Addams dress.

I accessorized with Chanel sunglasses with pearls on the side, pearl drop Chanel earrings, and my Chanel booties with the silver chain trim. Lately I haven’t put down my monogrammed Goyard bag I got in Paris. It holds everything and I like that it isn’t the tote style everyone seems to be carrying. I wore my latest favorite in my beauty stash, a Nars lip crayon in “Cruella”.

This outfit was perfect for a dinner date at Stoic & Genuine, a chic little seafood spot in Denver’s updated Union Station area. If you go, you have to stop for a coffee or cocktail in the train station itself. It’s like stepping back in time with the leather armchairs, curved reading lamps, and beautiful architecture.

Biossance Website

When first presented with the idea of a liquid (that reminded me of an oil) being used as a moisturizer on my combination skin, I assumed the worst… Breakouts, pimples, and clogged pores. But I was so very wrong. After I stopped to admire the beautiful packaging and well-made bottle of Biossance, I gathered a small amount of the clear, odorless product in the dropper and released a few silky drops onto my hand. The liquid glided over my skin and easily absorbed, better than any moisturizer I’ve tried. My skin looked glowing and hydrated. After a minute or two I could feel that the product had completely absorbed into my skin.

I was hooked. I began applying a few drops of Biossance every night to my face, neck, and chest. I would use a few extra droplets to concentrate on my eye area and lips. By morning, the product had soaked into my Colorado-parched skin and left it looking refreshed and bright. I incorporated a tiny drop of Biossance into my morning skincare routine as well.

After a facial and a mild peel Biossance helped to heal my irritated, flaking skin. Its hydrating qualities nourished my skin and brought it back to life post-treatment. Fine lines I had noticed on my forehead and around my eyes appeared less visible. I don’t even notice them anymore.

Biossance is a plant-derived version of the emollient squalane that is found naturally in our bodies. It is designed to imitate the way our bodies moisturize themselves naturally. When you use Biossance, you’ll notice there’s no color or smell… The product feels natural and clean.

I’m so excited about my discovery, I couldn’t wait to tell you. You can use Biossance on your face, neck, chest, and hands. I even take out a few drops and apply to my hands and lips throughout the day to re-hydrate. Let me know if you’ve tried this product. I’d love to hear what you think!!

Chanel sent hair and makeup for my mom and I to have a bit of pampering before the black-tie dinner gala that evening. (Total pinch-me princess moment!!) I’m always a bit hesitant about getting my hair and makeup done since I usually prefer to do it myself, but I enjoyed a little primping with my mother and was happy with the outcome… Especially my makeup. The end result was glowy, bronzy, and luminous without feeling heavy. International makeup artist Cate P Beauty was kind enough to list all the products she used on me so you can recreate the look on your own. All products are by Chanel.

Perfection Lumière Velvet Foundation – No. 30 and 50

Correcteur Perfection Concealer – No. 20

Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Colour Stick – No. 20

Joues Contraste Powder Blush – No. 3

Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eyeshadow – No. 226

Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner – No. 10

Le Volume de Chanel Waterproof Mascara – No. 10

Rouge Coco Hydrating Lip Colour – No. 448

We were taken back to École de Médecine where we had seen the official presentation of Chanel’s latest High Jewellery collection in the morning. As the sun began to set, the shadows in the courtyard dramatically illuminated the intricate 18th century stone carvings. The Parisian evening air went a bit hazy and romantic as the string quartet’s music filled the stone space with sound.

We often hear people our age complaining about formal attire for weddings or charity functions, but John and I always appreciate the chance to dress formally. Living in casual Colorado the chances are few and far between, but we seize them happily when they arrive. I love wearing my jeans and boots, but there’s something about a long evening gown that makes me sit up a bit taller and feel so incredibly feminine. John wore a Theory tux and I wore a silk dress by Narciso Rodriguez. I carried my black patent Chanel travel wallet and wore my crystal wedding heels.

One accessory I left at the hotel? My camera. You’ll have to excuse the iPhone photos, but we wanted to experience this evening without hauling around my large camera. Chanel was so kind about my photo-taking at every other activity, I didn’t want to push my luck at an evening event.

As the cocktail party came to an end, we were ushered through the interior of the building to a large set of stone stairs lined with flickering candles on either side. As we wound our way up the darkened staircase we could feel an energy of anticipation in the air. Everyone wanted to know what was coming next; where we were headed.

We reached the top of the stairs and were guided into a cavernous old library… Imagine Belle’s beautiful library mixed with a little Hogwarts darkness. Shelves and shelves of old medical books books, sliding metal ladders, ancient study lamps and tables. I was in heaven. As we walked toward our table I couldn’t help but just stare around at the space and take it all in. I adore libraries and this one was incredible.

Sitting at our table were a mix of people from the fashion industry, international celebrities, Chanel customers, and Chanel employees. John was seated next to the Director of Haute Couture and I was across from the Master Perfumer. We both felt so honored to be sitting with this group of people and we found them to be warm, intelligent, and intriguing conversationalists. It’s silly that so many often paint the fashion industry to be shallow or inconsequential. The people we spoke with during dinner were businesspeople who seemed to truly enjoy and appreciate the fine artistry behind the brand as well. Part of me felt frustrated I couldn’t get up and talk to everyone; that I didn’t have more time to pick their brains and ask them questions. I was just so incredibly happy to be there and to be present with such great people.

Throughout dinner magicians visited each table, walking up and down the aisles and passing little spheres of magic light between them. They would pull pieces of the new Haute Joaillerie collection from behind a guest’s chair or underneath a table. This little performance showcased the jewels in a fun, playful way and made us all excited to see them again.

Soon, impeccably-dressed and slightly sullen-looking models bedecked with the new Chanel jewelry collection began to strut down the walkway at the end of the tables to pumping music. (See my Instagram video.) Perfectly in sync and on cue, they pranced down the small aisles between the tables, diamonds glittering at their necks and wrists. Each time they returned to their spots at the end of the tables before gracefully switching to the next table, brilliant white spotlights would shine on their neck and chests. These spot lights were like a jolt of electricity to the diamonds each model was wearing. As the spotlights hit their target, rainbows of sparkles would come alive from the new Chanel jewelry dangling from the models’ ears and fastened about the models’ necks. The entire room ‘oohed’ and ‘ahhed’ each time the spot lights beamed on. We were like mesmerized fireflies, unable to look away. Another breathtaking presentation by Chanel.

As people mixed and mingled back downstairs, guests were given the opportunity to try on the Haute Joaillerie collection one more time. The sleek private rooms were still in place, waiting with crisp champagne.

We had just enough time for a coffee before a car came to whisk us away to the presentation of Chanel’s newest High Jewelry collection, Les Talismans de Chanel, at Ecole de Médecine in Paris. We entered the sprawling stone courtyard of the medical school and museum and anxiously awaited our entrance to the presentation. Security guards stood watch and Chanel employees bustled about… Excitement was alive in the air. The release of High Jewelry collections now coincides with the release of the Haute Couture collections at Paris Haute Couture Week twice a year. These collections celebrate the artistry of Chanel… There are no limits as there are in Ready-to-Wear and designers can fully challenge and exercise their creativity without concern for price restrictions or mass marketing considerations. What emerges from these uninhibited creative collaborations are true pieces of art.

Ever the flawless presenter, Chanel had scheduled each presentation so that crowds or lines were prevented. Each guest was able to experience the presentation nearly privately, allowing them the opportunity to take in the artistry of each jewelry set at their own pace.  Called Les Talismans de Chanel, the collection takes inspiration from the treasured pieces Mademoiselle Chanel kept close to her for luck and protection throughout her life.  If you’re curious about these pieces, see my previous Les Talismans post about our guided jewelry gallery tour.

The High Jewelry presentation was laid out in the form of a maze; rooms for presentation joined together by twisting, turning mirrored paths. The first room we encountered instantly chilled our skin with its cold temperature and icy, white feel. Sparkling diamond jewels were presented on stark white displays, their brightly colored enamelwork standing out like intricate paint perfectly splattered onto fresh, white snow.  The effect was cool, untouched perfection.

Winding through another set of labyrinthine paths, we came upon the second room. Warmer than the previous room, the second room was surrounded by mirrors and white spaces that were covered by projected digital images. The entire room alternated between daytime and nighttime. Beautiful jewels rested on a curving display table, lit from underneath with brilliant lights that set the jewels on fire. The jewels glowed warm and vibrant as the projections painted red, orange, and yellow across the room and the sun passed overhead. We could hear the sunny sounds gently changing into more soft, lulling ones as the sky enveloping us became a nighttime lavender-blue. Responding to the arrival of night, the glow from the jewels seemed to sparkle like starlight.  With the most subtle change in surroundings, Chanel allowed their guests to experience the incredible power of their jewels.  Fiery during the daytime… Enchanting at night.

We tore ourselves from this mesmerizing display of light, followed down another maze path, and entered the third room. Stoic statues and busts of knowing, ancient faces surrounded us and lights shone against the endless stone columns towering above us. Contrasting with the somber stone interior, brilliant white diamonds in breathtaking statement jewelry designs blazed in their settings. This room was a reflection of the Chanel brand itself… Classic, timeless design infused with new energy and life.

Another short path led us to the last room in the presentation. White diamonds, pearls, and stones of pink and purple were brought to life by the stunning projections surrounding the room. A sparkling cityscape would slowly morph into a dazzling view of the cosmos – and back again.  The music in this room was particularly intriguing – soothing, yet slightly ominous. The projections and the eerie music made me think of all the natural mysteries involved… Incredible jewels that come from deep within the ground, beautiful pearls created inside sea creatures, and a sparkling city within a vast universe of time and space. This room was hauntingly beautiful; my favorite of the entire presentation.

Upon exiting the presentation we ascended up a large staircase near a beautiful sculpture, everything bathed in the light of yet another digital projection.  This time, the entire room was cast with shades of blue and green, the colors moving over the ancient stone like water. It was as if we were arising up out of the water; we were waking up from a beautiful dream. We reached a sunlit seating area and were escorted to a private room where we were able to try on pieces from the collection.

Mom and I were like little girls playing dress up, with breathtaking diamonds scattered around our wrists and across our décolletages. After gazing at Chanel’s beautiful creations far too long for our own good, we hopped back into the car with our Chanel host and were taken to lunch at a charming little restaurant overlooking the Seine. Open since 1766, Lapérouse has perfected fine Parisian dining. Sipping rosé with a breeze blowing in through the open windows and crusty French bread on my plate… I couldn’t have been happier. We discussed the new collection and its creativity and craftsmanship… Would this give us any hints as to the designs we would see at the Haute Couture show? Stay tuned…

Outfit Details:  This dress is the most comfortable, flattering thing I wore on my Paris trip. I had great luck with the items I shopped before my trip and have been re-wearing everything since I returned, but this was my favorite piece I bought. For the Les Talismans de Chanel presentation I paired it with my Hermès Kelly bag and Hèrmes Oran flats, both in the “Gold” color… I’ve added lookalike options to the slide down below. I switched them out for heels and a clutch for dinner one evening; trust me, this dress will quickly become one of your favorites.

Photo Credit

After tea at Le Meurice and a little primping, we were off to dinner with our Chanel host.  La Fermette Marbeuf is a little treasure off Avenue George V with a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. Stepping into this little restaurant on the corner is like stepping back in time to Paris’s Belle Epoque. Soft, dreamy lighting and gentle colors provide the perfect appetizer before you enter the dining room housed in a spectacularly painted Art Nouveau glass conservatory. This glass veranda, belonging to a hotel at the time of WW2, was boarded over to protect it from destruction by the ruthless Nazis. Forgotten behind the false wall, this beautiful piece of art was only unveiled in 1978 when the restaurant attempted to expand and discovered the hidden room. It was like dining in a perfectly preserved piece of art.

Over dinner we discussed many things, but had a nice conversation about the stories and complexities of Mademoiselle Chanel. Known as “Coco” to most of us, Gabrielle Chanel gained her nickname from singing “Who Has Seen Coco?” to the officers in a cabaret. Still others suggest this “Coco” came from the French word cocotte or “kept woman”, a nod to Gabrielle’s position as a young mistress. Regardless of its origin, Chanel told those around her that “Coco” was a nickname from her father and the rest is history… “Coco Chanel” was here to stay and would become a name known the world over.

I’ve long admired Chanel for her strength, independence, and innovation at a time when it was nearly unheard of for women to be making such advancements. Gabrielle Chanel brought women out of strict corsets designed to create a pleasing silhouette for men and brought them into a world of chic style, comfort, and functionality. She blurred the lines between classes, putting high society women in simple hats and black dresses and creating extravagant costume jewelry available to a wider range of customers. Balking against tradition, Chanel insisted on dressing and living her life the way she wanted. She came from a life of poverty and worked hard until the day she died to create a life she had craved since her humble beginnings.

In the comments below, tell me about a woman you admire. Is she a modern woman or someone who paved the way before her time? Maybe a relative? Have you found a way to take a lesson from the woman you look up to and apply it to your everyday life? Lately I’ve been reminding myself to focus on my dreams and work endlessly at making them happen… It’s all too easy to get caught up in what others want. What Would Coco Do, right?

Outfit Details:  As soon as I saw this dress I knew I had to have it for the Chanel events. Feminine and classic, it can stand out on its own without many accessories added. I’m thinking about adding the black version to my closet as well. I just can’t get enough of the elegant sheer neckline. I was excited to wear my iridescent yellow, green, and gold clustered 1950’s earrings and matching bracelet I found in a little vintage shop years ago. I carried my patent leather Chanel travel wallet and paired it with my new Chanel pumps with pearls in the heels.