Valley or a hatelparticulier in Paris's historic Sixth Arrodissement,the French seldom stray from wellpracticed beliefs to a wish list of riches with splashes of gilding.Inarguably, eighteenth-century furniture, sumptuous textiles, distinctive porcelains and oil paintings in original carved-wood frames are both coveted and collected.

Seducing us with their self-assured approach to design, glamorous culture,and lasting respect for the past, the French are held in awe by Americans.We unabashedly elevate them to symbols of taste, splendor and unshakable stylistic authority.Whether looking to furnish a chateau in the Loire Valley or a hatelparticulier in Paris's historic Sixth Arrodissement,the French seldom stray from wellpracticed beliefs to a wish list of riches with splashes of gilding.Inarguably, eighteenth-century furniture, sumptuous textiles, distinctive porcelains and oil paintings in original carved-wood frames are both coveted and collected. But none are more important than the values that the people, as if by agreement, hold dear.So what can we learn from the French?Fashioning diplomatic ties, Betty Lou Phillips reveals the principles behind French flair, and then shares breathtaking ways confident Americans are bringing these ideals to life on this side of the Atlantic.

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Passion for France

Art of Living

Savoir-Faire

 Table Matters

 Le Chocolat

 Resting Places

 Fine Linens

 Shedding Some Light.

French Class

 Paris

A World Away

Directory

Resources