Paris in Polka Dots

H&M Dress | Milly Bag | Aldo Shoes | MAC Pink Nouveau Lips | Burberry Watch

After Beaune, we headed north to Pa'riii. Ahh, the nostalgia taking over me just writing this. Like Beaune, we had the great fortune of staying with locals in Paris as well, which I must say...is the way to go if at all possible in my (limited) experience traveling in Europe. My boyfriend's Aunt / cousin that hosted us happened to live in quite possibly my favorite neighborhood in the City: the Marais. Think up and coming, cute restaurants and vintage shops a la Brooklyn (for the New Yorkers), Bucktown (Chicagoans) or Haight & Ashbury (San Franciscans).

We woke up early to a traditional French breakfast of fresh croissants and chestnut jam (if anyone can tell me where to buy this in the U.S. I will name my first born after you) before stopping by the Marché Popincourt or farmers market (complete guide to food markets in Paris by arrondissement here). We then capitalized on the City's unbelievably convenient and user-friendly bikesharing program or 'Vélib,' which is free for the first 30 minutes*, to get down to the Louvre. Since I spent a day at the museum on my trip to Paris in college, we parted ways and I went shopping in St. Michele and St. Germain before meeting for a late (and great) lunch at L'Avant Comptoir (great reviews here and here as well).
* Unlimited half hour trips can be taken or pay €1.70/day...a great way to get around this bike-friendly city

{traditional french breakfast of orange juice, espresso...

{...baguette, croissant and chestnut jam}

{Marché Popincourt}

{the city's free bikesharing program, Vélib'}

{Palais Royale}

{Le Louvre}

{an artiste in action along the Seine}

{lunch at L'Avant Comptoir in St. Germain}

Something (Sparkly) Blue

BCBG MaxAzria Dress | Milly Bag | Zara Heels | Vintage Earrings & Bracelets

(yes, I realize this photo doesn't go with the series but I loved this staircase}

Wore this sparkly little BCBG number to the actual wedding in Stresa, Italy the other week. It reminded me of the sequin J. Crew maxi skirt from a couple seasons ago that I desperately wanted but simply could not justify. Worn here with fuchsia nails & lips and probably my favorite pair of black heels ever. Which were also the only heels I brought on the two-week trip given they go with just about everything. Nevermind the fact that they were only $59.99 (no longer available but I'll keep an eye out for a close substitute).

Budda Yellow

Ralph Lauren Gown | Milly Bag | H&M Earrings & Bracelets | Zara Heels 

This a dress is a prime example of why it's good to have friends in high places. My co-worker and good friend JJ let me borrow this lovely little number for one of two formal events at the wedding I attended in Italy the other week. I wore this one for the Henna. If you don't know what that is (I sure didn't until I attended one for the first time last year), it is a Moroccan wedding tradition and basically big blowout party two days before the wedding. This one was no exception with the bride & groom riding in on white Italian stallions, after party in a nearby castle and lanterns on the lake spelling out a congratulatory message for the soon-to-be married couple. It was really somethin'.

I would also be remiss if I didn't take a moment to reflect and remember those we lost 11 years ago on 9/11. My condolences for their family members and friends and sincere gratitude for all of those who have fought for our freedom since.

And finally, if you don't have any plans and are looking for some comic relief, I will be walking in a fashion show with some other NYC bloggers at the Green Fashion Business event tomorrow night. Tickets and more information are available here but you can also purchase at the door. The event starts at 7:00 but the show will not start until 8:00 or 8:30. Come out to share in the hilarity of my awkwardness and for what will be a pretty cool event!