Picnic In Provence

L’ÉDITION

Issue 71

Letter from the Creative Director

Bon printemps!

‍Picture lavender fields that fill the horizon, infinite seas of deep azure, and climbing alleyways where you can always discover something incredible. As we continue our ‘saison des célébrations’, celebrating 25 years in retail, I invite you to take a séjour in the beauty of Provence, the setting of our newest range. And how better to soak in the beauty of one’s surroundings and the newly warm spring sun than a picnic?

In this collection, Cobalt Blue and a bold Dusty Rose embody the vibrant Provençal hues, softened by Cream and Icy Pink for that delicate feminine touch. A nod to the carefree delight of picnicking, floral prints and artfully reimagined gingham are set on a backdrop of flowing silhouettes blossoming like spring flowers. I hope you will find in this range the same bright sense of excitement for the changing season that we felt while creating it.

‍Bisous,

An Ode to Côte d’Azur

Soak in the warmth of spring in this beautiful Blue Illusion first.

Inspired by bright, blue skies and the Côte d’Azur, this sweeping Cobalt Blue dress is crafted in 100% cotton sateen for a slight lustre, like rays of sunshine reflecting on the sea. A Blue Illusion first, this on-trend one-shoulder maxi dress struts a short puff sleeve and begs for an occasion to celebrate. Or, in South-of-France fashion, dress it down with this season’s Harli Cross Flats.

Picnic Perfect

Romance and picturesque charm come together in this delicate shift dress.

We absolutely adore how the vivid florals pop against the blue and white gingham details in this ‘Picnic in Provence’ print, bringing to mind the carefree charm of enjoying a meal with friends in the beauty of nature. A simple silhouette like this one pairs beautifully with elegant dangling earrings.

La Touche Féminine

Even a casual look can make an impact with artful detailing.

Crafted in 100% cotton, the heart of this blouse lies in the intricate embroidery around the neck and sleeves. Destined to become a spring wardrobe favourite in this flattering blue hue, pair it with this collection’s 7/8th Tapered Pant and vous êtes prêt!

A Rose in Bloom

This line is for slipping into breathable fabrics and the essence of Provence.

Blush roses scatter against a soft gingham print in blue and white on this breezy 100% cotton blouse. The puff sleeves and relaxed fit create a soft silhouette that’s perfect for pants. We recommend our 7/8th Tapered Pant or your Bengajean® of choice.

Pretty in Panier

Four limited-edition pieces that will bring la joie du printemps to any outfit.

This limited-edition collection takes inspiration from Le Panier, an artists’ district in Marseille known for the extraordinary murals that cover the walls along its narrow streets. Fresh and feminine, we love the artistic print of our Reversible Linen Coat and Georgette Ruffle Dress. Si beau!

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” - Coco Chanel

Our Favori French Things:

Le Picnic

Our 25th year in retail dubbed a ‘saison des célébrations’ continues as we indulge in an essential French pastime—the picnic. In this L’Édition we reveal how you can picnic comme les Français—In style!

To ‘Pique-Nique’…in French fashion

The word picnic comes from the French word “Pique-Nique”, and is said to be traced back to the 13th century when hunters would take their lunches packed to-go. Picnics as we envision today rose in popularity in 17th century France among the aristocracy.

The Supplies

As food is a treasured part of French culture, in France, the packing of the picnic is one of the most important steps. Your staple supplies are a beautiful tablecloth, blanket, picnic basket, chopping board, silverware, and some chic (preferably durable) tableware to serve the food on.

The Menu

Now, to the best part— preparing your menu. The absolutely essential item for your French picnic is, bien sûr, a baguette. From there, let your taste buds decide! Here are some of our recommendations:

Charcuterie and cheeses: une pointe: include a combination of hard, soft, goat and blue cheese for the full effect. Assorted cured meats and pâtés will pair beautifully. Choosing an odd number of cheeses in different shapes and sizes will add that extra je ne sais quoi.
Crudités: Think radish, cherry tomatoes, petit carrots, and baby cucumber. Pops of colour are always welcome.
Une quiche pique-nique: Stay tuned for our upcoming blog, where we share our favourite recipe.
Viennoiseries: an assortment of croissants, pain au chocolat, financier, and brioches will add something sucré to your picnic menu.
Mixed berries or cherries: add sweet touches of colour to your spread with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries.
A bottle of your favori wine. AIX is a delicious dry rosé that comes from the heart of Provence, but there is no end to the list of beautiful Australian-made wines.
And finally, don’t forget cornichons, mustard and butter for that savoureux factor!

The Guest List

Spring calls for time spent under the warm sun with great food and greater company. For this reason, the French are always sure to picnic selectively. Invite a few friends that you know are bound to bring laughs, food or wine, and some interesting conversation, et bon appétit!

The Venue

Just as important to the French as food and wine is the atmosphere. We recommend a beautiful botanical garden, natural reserve or beach. Bring your pooch for an extra French touch!

Ready to picnic, but don’t know what to wear?

Our ‘Picnic en Provence’ collection has you covered. Graceful, romantic and oh-so-chic, make your picnic picture-worthy with our newest range.

Explore the collection

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