- Published on
Baggy is back, apparently, when it comes to jeans. Heralded by some fashion houses this season and a need to keep recycling old styles and continuing the trend to comfortable, lounge wear in these lockdown times - baggy is best according to trend setting pollsters.
As always I advocate against anything baggy and shapeless. Not only does it make you - well baggy and shapeless - it will do nothing for your Chic Classic style. I much prefer better cut tailored jeans. My preference as a Rectangle is for bootcut. I recommend them for most shapes - they are versatile, leg lengthening when paired with the correct footwear and in a dark wash denim you get the most Chic bang for your buck.
If you absolutely insist on following the baggy trend the below style by Mango are great value https://go.magik.ly/ml/14lfw/ but beware - next season the trend will move on - don't say I didn't warn you!
As always I advocate against anything baggy and shapeless. Not only does it make you - well baggy and shapeless - it will do nothing for your Chic Classic style. I much prefer better cut tailored jeans. My preference as a Rectangle is for bootcut. I recommend them for most shapes - they are versatile, leg lengthening when paired with the correct footwear and in a dark wash denim you get the most Chic bang for your buck.
If you absolutely insist on following the baggy trend the below style by Mango are great value https://go.magik.ly/ml/14lfw/ but beware - next season the trend will move on - don't say I didn't warn you!
- Published on
Bonjour
There has been such a marvellous, compassionate response to Sarah's story yesterday. It has resonated deeply with many of you and I have received many emails from people telling me their stories. Like ripples on a pond the beneficial effect of Sarah's inspiration is spreading out through the French Chic Community.
One such response I got was from Fernanda who, like Sarah, has agreed to me sharing her story to help others.
"Hello Marie-Anne,
Fortunately I did not lose anyone [see Sarah's story] but my suffering is also great.
I suffer from depression and this, in these pandemic times, is getting worse. Usually I don't feel like going out or even getting dressed in the morning. But knowing that I really can't do it and wearing everything that would give me pleasure, aggravates my condition a lot. Today, it is particularly one of those days. And following you on youtube, hearing you talk about how to dress a la francaise, has also helped me a lot. It makes me want to get dressed and go out to show off the beautiful things I have. Unfortunately it is not yet possible. But I am convinced that better days will come. Until then, I want to thank you for brightening up my sad days a little."
It is so sad to hear that people are suffering depression due to the current world crisis. Our lives, our plans, our hopes and dreams - everything has been put on hold. It is impossible sometimes to believe that we will get through this. But we will. Vaccines are being rolled out, lockdowns seem to be helping and people are, as ever, resourceful and steadfast.
But, what can you do, if like Fernanda, the weight of it all seems too much to bear? Here is what I suggested to her:
"Bonjour Fernanda,
Thank you so much for reaching out and I am so glad that my channel is helping.
Every day try to make just a little effort. It does not have to be much. Put a lovely scarf around your neck. Put on a pair of nice shoes to wear around the house - even if it is simply to sit at the table. Or pop on a bit of lipstick. The idea is to prove to yourself that you can take little steps. In that way, once you know you can take little steps, one day you may be able to take two little steps - put on a nice blouse and add some lipstick or a scarf. Or, put on a nice skirt with those shoes. It does not matter how long this takes - it is the process of doing so that can help - once you get used to the idea that you can - believe me ma chère you will.
Please let me know how you get on - keep in touch Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x"
I have found that when all seems too much, taking easy steps is a great way to keep moving forward. That sense of moving forward is so beneficial. Never allow yourself to get stuck. It may feel hard, it may feel impossible but I assure you - you can do it. I am here to help and support and encourage you.
There may be those who think that style is not important and can not help. I beg to disagree. Style reflects how we see ourselves and is a reflection of our our inner feelings. If we can show by our small steps our resilience in these times we improve our confidence and that improves our well being.
One thing I do, that I find helps me enormously to cope with the challenges I face everyday both through life and running my business, is journaling (see my free video here https://youtu.be/T-focA7cU5k). The process of writing down my thoughts and feelings allows me to see them for what they are - just thoughts and feelings. They are not obstacles to my happiness or my success in life. Like all problems they are there to be solved whether by a change in thought process or by action - you can find your solutions to your problems it only takes easy steps.
If you have a problem or an issue you believe may help others or if you would just like to write to me for advice please do so at info@marieannelecoeur.com
I will always do what I can.
Let 2021 be Your Year of Change
Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x
There has been such a marvellous, compassionate response to Sarah's story yesterday. It has resonated deeply with many of you and I have received many emails from people telling me their stories. Like ripples on a pond the beneficial effect of Sarah's inspiration is spreading out through the French Chic Community.
One such response I got was from Fernanda who, like Sarah, has agreed to me sharing her story to help others.
"Hello Marie-Anne,
Fortunately I did not lose anyone [see Sarah's story] but my suffering is also great.
I suffer from depression and this, in these pandemic times, is getting worse. Usually I don't feel like going out or even getting dressed in the morning. But knowing that I really can't do it and wearing everything that would give me pleasure, aggravates my condition a lot. Today, it is particularly one of those days. And following you on youtube, hearing you talk about how to dress a la francaise, has also helped me a lot. It makes me want to get dressed and go out to show off the beautiful things I have. Unfortunately it is not yet possible. But I am convinced that better days will come. Until then, I want to thank you for brightening up my sad days a little."
It is so sad to hear that people are suffering depression due to the current world crisis. Our lives, our plans, our hopes and dreams - everything has been put on hold. It is impossible sometimes to believe that we will get through this. But we will. Vaccines are being rolled out, lockdowns seem to be helping and people are, as ever, resourceful and steadfast.
But, what can you do, if like Fernanda, the weight of it all seems too much to bear? Here is what I suggested to her:
"Bonjour Fernanda,
Thank you so much for reaching out and I am so glad that my channel is helping.
Every day try to make just a little effort. It does not have to be much. Put a lovely scarf around your neck. Put on a pair of nice shoes to wear around the house - even if it is simply to sit at the table. Or pop on a bit of lipstick. The idea is to prove to yourself that you can take little steps. In that way, once you know you can take little steps, one day you may be able to take two little steps - put on a nice blouse and add some lipstick or a scarf. Or, put on a nice skirt with those shoes. It does not matter how long this takes - it is the process of doing so that can help - once you get used to the idea that you can - believe me ma chère you will.
Please let me know how you get on - keep in touch Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x"
I have found that when all seems too much, taking easy steps is a great way to keep moving forward. That sense of moving forward is so beneficial. Never allow yourself to get stuck. It may feel hard, it may feel impossible but I assure you - you can do it. I am here to help and support and encourage you.
There may be those who think that style is not important and can not help. I beg to disagree. Style reflects how we see ourselves and is a reflection of our our inner feelings. If we can show by our small steps our resilience in these times we improve our confidence and that improves our well being.
One thing I do, that I find helps me enormously to cope with the challenges I face everyday both through life and running my business, is journaling (see my free video here https://youtu.be/T-focA7cU5k). The process of writing down my thoughts and feelings allows me to see them for what they are - just thoughts and feelings. They are not obstacles to my happiness or my success in life. Like all problems they are there to be solved whether by a change in thought process or by action - you can find your solutions to your problems it only takes easy steps.
If you have a problem or an issue you believe may help others or if you would just like to write to me for advice please do so at info@marieannelecoeur.com
I will always do what I can.
Let 2021 be Your Year of Change
Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x
- Published on
Bonjour
I get a lot of emails every day from women asking for style and related advice and I reply to every one. I feel that, if you take the time to write to me, sometimes with very open hearted messages, it is only right that I reply. In fact one of the things that surprises me is the 'surprise' people express that I have actually replied. Perhaps it is the way of the world these days that no one, least of all Influencers, reply to messages and comments.
Some of the messages I receive are truly inspirational. Women who have suffered loss and heartache find a way to cope and the courage to move forward. I received such a message from Sarah this morning. This is what she wrote.
"Dear Marie Anne,
I felt compelled to write and thank you for all your videos. I recently found you on youtube and you have been a massive boost to my well being. I am recovering from the loss of my husband and have found life very hard the last few years. I was encouraged to find someone who inspires me online and lifts my mood. I am about to turn 50 in a few days, single and have been feeling lost and styleless and a million miles away from my former self. Then I found you and your videos are helping me to regain my self confidence. I was advised to do self care so I now get a cup of tea and watch your videos as my self care.
I have been making notes and learning how to think differently about shopping. I am planning soon on trying your journal course and dress like a rectangle. I enjoy making notes on all the tips you give. You seem to be a font of knowledge. I wish I had found you earlier. I bought so many wrong things during lockdown that I never wear. And they look awful when I try them on. Your videos on how to shop like a french women are so useful to me. I live by the sea and feel I am dressed like a man all winter in dark water proof coats and wellington boots and a tight beanie hat as the wind blows off anything nice. I need to get my wild windy cold coastal winter style sorted out ! and feel feminine when I go out.
I also like watching you talk about you hair and how being tall affected you, as I have the same issues and thought it was just me. It makes me feel so much better hearing another person that understands.
You have also made me think about my style, how tragic life events can make you forget yourself. I feel I am in the process of refinding myself and starting a new chapter. I feel there is a psychological aspect to style that helps your self esteem. I have never written to someone like this before but I felt I really wanted to tell you how glad I am to have discovered your channel.
Kind Regards
Sarah"
Sarah is truly inspirational. At such a deep point in her life she found the courage to ask others for help (the person advising her to seek inspiration online and to practice self care). Too many times we feel like we must struggle through our problems by ourselves. To admit we need help is taken as a sign of weakness. Far from it. To ask for help is a sign of courage. It opens our hearts to others and lets in light to where there was before only darkness. To allow others to help you is to acknowledge their gifts and to recognise their light. What greater gift can you give than to allow others the ability to shine their light into your life and to help you. There is reciprocity in such healing - mutual love and respect that honours both.
Style is a great expression of self. There is a huge psychological component to style. We do dress how we feel. We can style ourselves to greater confidence, which affects us in so, so many ways. Improving your style is all about knowledge - Style Knowledge is Style Power.
I always say that you can tell a person's style level by the questions they ask. At a most basic level people will ask what they should wear or what goes with what. It is so very interesting to see that Sarah didn't actually ask for any style advice at all. She states what she is doing and where she is heading. Sarah is doing exactly what I would have recommended to her. Start journaling and learn about her body shape objectives. Sarah is doing everything right. Her new style journey is starting on the right path and I am sure Sarah will go from strength to strength.
So please, if you feel you need to ask for help do so. And, if you choose to seek help from me do not be surprised to get a response! I am here for all my French Chic Ladies and Lads. I hope to walk your style journeys with you.
Let 2021 be Your Year of Change
Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x
I get a lot of emails every day from women asking for style and related advice and I reply to every one. I feel that, if you take the time to write to me, sometimes with very open hearted messages, it is only right that I reply. In fact one of the things that surprises me is the 'surprise' people express that I have actually replied. Perhaps it is the way of the world these days that no one, least of all Influencers, reply to messages and comments.
Some of the messages I receive are truly inspirational. Women who have suffered loss and heartache find a way to cope and the courage to move forward. I received such a message from Sarah this morning. This is what she wrote.
"Dear Marie Anne,
I felt compelled to write and thank you for all your videos. I recently found you on youtube and you have been a massive boost to my well being. I am recovering from the loss of my husband and have found life very hard the last few years. I was encouraged to find someone who inspires me online and lifts my mood. I am about to turn 50 in a few days, single and have been feeling lost and styleless and a million miles away from my former self. Then I found you and your videos are helping me to regain my self confidence. I was advised to do self care so I now get a cup of tea and watch your videos as my self care.
I have been making notes and learning how to think differently about shopping. I am planning soon on trying your journal course and dress like a rectangle. I enjoy making notes on all the tips you give. You seem to be a font of knowledge. I wish I had found you earlier. I bought so many wrong things during lockdown that I never wear. And they look awful when I try them on. Your videos on how to shop like a french women are so useful to me. I live by the sea and feel I am dressed like a man all winter in dark water proof coats and wellington boots and a tight beanie hat as the wind blows off anything nice. I need to get my wild windy cold coastal winter style sorted out ! and feel feminine when I go out.
I also like watching you talk about you hair and how being tall affected you, as I have the same issues and thought it was just me. It makes me feel so much better hearing another person that understands.
You have also made me think about my style, how tragic life events can make you forget yourself. I feel I am in the process of refinding myself and starting a new chapter. I feel there is a psychological aspect to style that helps your self esteem. I have never written to someone like this before but I felt I really wanted to tell you how glad I am to have discovered your channel.
Kind Regards
Sarah"
Sarah is truly inspirational. At such a deep point in her life she found the courage to ask others for help (the person advising her to seek inspiration online and to practice self care). Too many times we feel like we must struggle through our problems by ourselves. To admit we need help is taken as a sign of weakness. Far from it. To ask for help is a sign of courage. It opens our hearts to others and lets in light to where there was before only darkness. To allow others to help you is to acknowledge their gifts and to recognise their light. What greater gift can you give than to allow others the ability to shine their light into your life and to help you. There is reciprocity in such healing - mutual love and respect that honours both.
Style is a great expression of self. There is a huge psychological component to style. We do dress how we feel. We can style ourselves to greater confidence, which affects us in so, so many ways. Improving your style is all about knowledge - Style Knowledge is Style Power.
I always say that you can tell a person's style level by the questions they ask. At a most basic level people will ask what they should wear or what goes with what. It is so very interesting to see that Sarah didn't actually ask for any style advice at all. She states what she is doing and where she is heading. Sarah is doing exactly what I would have recommended to her. Start journaling and learn about her body shape objectives. Sarah is doing everything right. Her new style journey is starting on the right path and I am sure Sarah will go from strength to strength.
So please, if you feel you need to ask for help do so. And, if you choose to seek help from me do not be surprised to get a response! I am here for all my French Chic Ladies and Lads. I hope to walk your style journeys with you.
Let 2021 be Your Year of Change
Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x
- Published on
Amanda Gormon did more than wow us with her words at the inauguration she wowed us with her style. She is the embodiment of the complete package. Brains, talent, beauty, poise, elegance and style - what more is there?
This beautiful Prada coat https://go.magik.ly/ml/14fzy/ has already sold out and I'm not surprised: even though yellow doesn't suit me - I would have tried everything to make this coat work for me given the chance. The exquisite Italian tailoring of the heavy wool fabric would look great over a slim fitting outfit such as a sweater and slacks. The weight gives it such a beautiful drape and structure, I'd wear it all day everyday and those retro style buttons? I adore them.
Just because it is cold enough to wear a coat doesn't mean you have to wear bulky clothing underneath. Remember, layering is a much better way to keep your body warm and keep your silhouette trim.
This beautiful Prada coat https://go.magik.ly/ml/14fzy/ has already sold out and I'm not surprised: even though yellow doesn't suit me - I would have tried everything to make this coat work for me given the chance. The exquisite Italian tailoring of the heavy wool fabric would look great over a slim fitting outfit such as a sweater and slacks. The weight gives it such a beautiful drape and structure, I'd wear it all day everyday and those retro style buttons? I adore them.
Just because it is cold enough to wear a coat doesn't mean you have to wear bulky clothing underneath. Remember, layering is a much better way to keep your body warm and keep your silhouette trim.
- Published on
If you are envious of all those runway models with legs that go on forever - never fear Marie-Anne is here.
Thursday 21 January 2021 at 4pm Paris Time (10a, NYC) is my brand new Masterclass see the link here
https://www.marieannelecoeur.com/longer-legs.html
In this fun course I will show you the mistakes you make that shorten your legs, the way we French Women increase the length of our legs visually and the pieces you need to have in your wardrobe to make the most of your pins.
Spaces are already filling up and I have only just posted the details so hurry to save being disappointed
Thursday 21 January 2021 at 4pm Paris Time (10a, NYC) is my brand new Masterclass see the link here
https://www.marieannelecoeur.com/longer-legs.html
In this fun course I will show you the mistakes you make that shorten your legs, the way we French Women increase the length of our legs visually and the pieces you need to have in your wardrobe to make the most of your pins.
Spaces are already filling up and I have only just posted the details so hurry to save being disappointed
- Published on
In my latest video, at 8pm Paris time Friday 15 January 2021I create a 5 French Chic Style Outfit Look Book using just one Black Blazer from Karen Millen. I describe each outfit and suggest just where you could wear it and for which occasions. Why not try creating these looks yourself.
If you enjoy the video please share the link with your many friends and why not leave a comment. If you haven't already subscribed to my channel please do and don't forget to click on the link to be notified every time I post a new video.
If you enjoy the video please share the link with your many friends and why not leave a comment. If you haven't already subscribed to my channel please do and don't forget to click on the link to be notified every time I post a new video.
- Published on
It's supposed to be a harsh winter this year and to keep us snug the fashion world has decided that La Cagoule (Balaclava) is the surprise knitwear hit of the season. Whether it is Gucci or Paco Rabanne on the catwalks, all fashion houses are producing something.
But, you know me. I am only here to suggest to you those fashions from France that have the chance of becoming staples in a French Chic Style Curated Capsule Wardrobe. And that means only those things that are destined to be stylish for years to come get the Marie-Anne Chic Stamp of Approval. So, I will be giving this trend a miss thank you.
If you are a skier - all is well and good for the piste but I am afraid the fashion houses are 'taking the piste' if they want us to wear these on the streets. This, on top of face masks - literally - is a fashion miss-step too far.
But, you know me. I am only here to suggest to you those fashions from France that have the chance of becoming staples in a French Chic Style Curated Capsule Wardrobe. And that means only those things that are destined to be stylish for years to come get the Marie-Anne Chic Stamp of Approval. So, I will be giving this trend a miss thank you.
If you are a skier - all is well and good for the piste but I am afraid the fashion houses are 'taking the piste' if they want us to wear these on the streets. This, on top of face masks - literally - is a fashion miss-step too far.
- Published on
The new Pantone colours for 2021 are out watch my latest video here
When it comes to colours you must, must, must know what colours suit you AND avoid those colours that do not - even if you love those colours.
To find out all there is to know about Wearing Colours Like A French Woman see my course of that very same name here
I'd love to know if you will be introducing the new Pantone Colours into your wardrobe and how you will be pairing them
When it comes to colours you must, must, must know what colours suit you AND avoid those colours that do not - even if you love those colours.
To find out all there is to know about Wearing Colours Like A French Woman see my course of that very same name here
I'd love to know if you will be introducing the new Pantone Colours into your wardrobe and how you will be pairing them
- Published on
And so we lose another Style Great.
No one did more to define his era than Pierre Cardin. With a futuristic vision of style that bordered on "out there" at times, he nevertheless produced clothes that people rushed to wear. I remember, at one time, a Pierre Cardin sweater was THE statement item to have.
Many designers create outfits for the cat walk that do not translate to main-stream fashion. But M. Cardin had the knack of following his creative vision and yet producing popular style. Rare indeed and something modern designers need to study long and hard.
My favourite photo of M. Cardin is below and with it, by way of tribute, my interpretation of it. I am wearing my navy stripe suit jacket by Claudie Pierlot one of the few modern designers whose creations are both wearable and stylish in the true Cardin tradition.
If anyone knows the photographer of this iconic image please let me know - I have tried to find out but can't.
For those interested in learning more about M. Cardin there is a marvellous video on Youtube Here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryua4f-sqnE
Merci M. Cardin from you I have learned to follow my own vision. A lesson I will be applying to everything from now on.
No one did more to define his era than Pierre Cardin. With a futuristic vision of style that bordered on "out there" at times, he nevertheless produced clothes that people rushed to wear. I remember, at one time, a Pierre Cardin sweater was THE statement item to have.
Many designers create outfits for the cat walk that do not translate to main-stream fashion. But M. Cardin had the knack of following his creative vision and yet producing popular style. Rare indeed and something modern designers need to study long and hard.
My favourite photo of M. Cardin is below and with it, by way of tribute, my interpretation of it. I am wearing my navy stripe suit jacket by Claudie Pierlot one of the few modern designers whose creations are both wearable and stylish in the true Cardin tradition.
If anyone knows the photographer of this iconic image please let me know - I have tried to find out but can't.
For those interested in learning more about M. Cardin there is a marvellous video on Youtube Here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryua4f-sqnE
Merci M. Cardin from you I have learned to follow my own vision. A lesson I will be applying to everything from now on.
- Published on
Many of my viewers have asked me very many questions and, as similar questions keep coming up, and as it is 2021, and I have had so many new subscribers recently, I thought it best to re-introduce myself to you. So tonight, some little known things about me - what gets me leaping out of bed in the morning and what I have in store for you this year. Please, please, please share - you'll see why tonight ;0) go here to watch at 8pm Paris time.
For those who want to join my Lose Weight Like The French Master Class tomorrow 5 January 2021 at 4pm Paris time (10am NYC) - there is LESS THAN 24 hours to go. Get my free download here of 50 reasons NOT to buy the course https://bit.ly/3rEVoRT or just go straight to the course page here https://www.marieannelecoeur.com/eat-like-a-french-woman.html .
The course is not just a short video of tips it is over 24 hours of instruction and a vibrant community of like minded people who will help you reach and celebrate your weight goals.
For those who want to join my Lose Weight Like The French Master Class tomorrow 5 January 2021 at 4pm Paris time (10am NYC) - there is LESS THAN 24 hours to go. Get my free download here of 50 reasons NOT to buy the course https://bit.ly/3rEVoRT or just go straight to the course page here https://www.marieannelecoeur.com/eat-like-a-french-woman.html .
The course is not just a short video of tips it is over 24 hours of instruction and a vibrant community of like minded people who will help you reach and celebrate your weight goals.