What a wonderful holiday this has been. I share some of it with you in today's video. We visit Kew Gardens, The Cotswolds, to see my friend, Alena, and end up at The Lion King!



Many of you asked for a tour of our flat and I share that as well in today's video. The flat has been beautifully decorated by my mother-in-law, Jane, who has exquisite taste in interior design (and all other things, really). I wish I had the "before" pictures for you. She had the whole space gutted and completely transformed it.

Today's blogpost will be shorter as I am still away from home and have limited time to write... I hope the vlog will speak for itself.

Thank you for joining me for today's video.

Alena's books are English Etiquette and Ladies Like Us .

News
📍 We are taking a break from The Chic Assignment in January and will resume in February.

📍Become a member of The Daily Connoisseur through the MEMBERSHIPS feature. I do one livestream as well 3 episodes of my new Vodcast (a video podcast) per month. The lowest tier is $1.99 a month. Upper tiers receive recognition in videos and even mail. (Link must be accessed on a computer.)

📍Thank you for your wonderful support of my new book, CONNOISSEUR KIDS.

📍Check out my affordable eCourses: The Ten-Item Wardrobe, Chic Financial Principles for Debt-Free Living, and How to be Efficient at Home.


On Instagram

View this post on Instagram

Ordered books by Jennifer Scott...my new favourite YouTuber and Chic guru. Can't wait to add some more chic to 2020! #babiesandbookcases #chiclife #madamechic #dailyconnoisseur #bookstagram

A post shared by Nancy (@babiesandbookcases) on Jan 2, 2020 at 10:43am PST

Comment of the Week
Kristyn writes, "I have a friend in Northern Scotland and another in Northern Sweden, and both say the same thing about the cold and dark of winter: wear layers and light candles! It's currently in the low 30°s F here in Michigan, and we have a lot of overcast days this time of year, so I take their words of experience to heart."

Hi Kristyn, It's great to hear how people in other parts of the world dress to stay warm. Thanks for confirming what your Scottish and Swedish friends do!

Thank you for joining us for today's vlog. I hope you enjoyed touring England with us. I look forward to seeing you soon!


Visit my newly designed Author Website

*NEW* Shop my Amazon page for a comprehensive list of my favorite things and mentions on the blog.

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

Instagram @dailyconnoisseur

Take my affordable eCourses on the ten-item wardrobe, debt-free living, and efficiency at home


FTC: This post is sponsored not sponsored. All Amazon links are affiliate. Other links may be affiliate as well.

Hello friends,

I am back with another 3 Articles on Dress video. Today we are going to explore gender neutral dress codes, dressing well for air travel, and the surprising latest fall trend.



The first article discusses the recent Gender Neutral Dress Code implemented at a Virginia Public School.

The second article, which I have discussed before on the channel, shares an argument for why we should dress well for air travel via Slate.

The final article discusses the surprising fall trend: bourgeoisie "boring" dressing.

Be sure to watch today's video to hear the details on each article and my thoughts. I would love to know yours too!

Please note: this is the headband I am wearing in today's video.

Thank you to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring today's video.



American Blossom Linens provides 100% organic cotton linens that are made completely in the USA. This is a small family business that produces such high quality bedding. Janet, one of the owners, has been a long-time reader of The Daily Connoisseur.
Use the code Jennifer20 for 20% off the first order.

If you have a small business and are interested in sponsoring a video on The Daily Connoisseur, you may contact me here. I give a discount to small businesses.

News
📍Take part in the Chic Assignment for August and join our Daily Connoisseur community.

📍PRE-ORDER my new book, CONNOISSEUR KIDS, which comes out September 10th from Chronicle Books.

📍If you haven't taken my eCourses yet, now is a wonderful time to get started. Check out my affordable eCourses: The Ten-Item Wardrobe, Chic Financial Principles for Debt-Free Living, and How to be Efficient at Home.


‎Comment of the Week
On Facebook, Sandie B. writes, "Hi Jennifer, Just to let you know, following on from your video regarding compliments...
I have received three different complements on three different dresses that I’ve worn in the last week, as well as my teenage daughter telling me one of my outfits was cute!
Dressing nicely boosts confidence, and each outfit was secondhand so didn’t cost a fortune!!"

Sandie, this is so wonderful! I'm thrilled you are feeling great in your flattering dresses. Thanks for letting us know!

I hope you enjoyed today's video. I would love to hear your thoughts on all of the articles discussed. Your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog.



Visit my newly designed Author Website

*NEW* Shop my Amazon page for a comprehensive list of my favorite things and mentions on the blog.

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

Instagram @dailyconnoisseur

Take my affordable eCourses on the ten-item wardrobe, debt-free living, and efficiency at home

Sign up for my Seasonal Author Newsletter

Interested in sponsoring a video on The Daily Connoisseur? Contact me here.

FTC: This video is sponsored by American Blossom Linens. The link to the headband is affiliate.

Today's video has been highly requested. It seems that many families are interested in how to handle traveling with small children. I have a lot of experience in this area and today I offer my top ten tips for you.

We have three children, ages 5, 7 and 17 months. I've traveled everywhere from England with my two toddler daughters alone, all the way to Japan with my 3 month old baby boy... alone too!

This time, my husband was with us and we were with all three kids. So whether you have a short flight over Thanksgiving weekend, a long-haul flight or even just a road trip, I think you can benefit from my advice in today's video.

Here is a short summary of my ten points in the video:

1. Plan as much as you can! Then be prepared to throw your plans out the window when things change :)

2. Be prepared with snacks/ activity books (see my suggestion below).

3. If you allow your children to use an iPad or tablet, deprive them of it for a few weeks before the flight to make
it a special treat.

4. Have your children bring a backpack on the plane with their own personal items: activity books, water, snack,
airplane pillow and headphones. Make sure they know they're responsible for it.

5. For babies, make sure you have different ways to carry them. Moby wrap or baby bjorn in addition to a stroller.

6. Have a sense of humor! Laughter is one of the best ways to dissolve stress.

7. Emphasize that you are a family team and that we all need to think about other people before we
think about ourselves.

8. Totally surrender. You won’t be able to relax with a toddler on an airplane. If you do, it’s a pleasant surprise!


9. Employ patience. Extreme patience.

10. Do what comforts you and try to focus on why you are traveling in the first place.

These are the three items I mentioned in the video:


Never Bored Kid Book age 5-6 These activity books are really impressive. We've tried dozens of them and these are definitely the best! Also age 6-7, age 7-8, age 8-9, age 4-5



Kids airplane neck pillow shaped like a dachshund. These pillows were so welcome on the flight. The airplane no longer supplies pillows so I was grateful we brought these for the girls.


Lil Gadgets kids headphones Again, the airlines don't supply headphones. I find that these, which are made for children's heads work a lot better than the standard adult earphones.

News

Enter the Jord Wood Watch Giveaway. You have until November 26th...

Be sure to stop back on Thursday for a major announcement!

Take my new eCourse on the ten-item wardrobe. With over an hour of never-before-seen video instruction, notes and quizzes, you will feel prepared to create your own ten-item wardrobe. For those of you who already do the ten-item wardrobe, this course will keep you on track and provide further inspiration. The course is self-paced and includes a lively comment section with other ten-item wardrobe enthusiasts. Enjoy!



On Instagram
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic and a delightful lunch in Vintage Loving Celiac's Instagram post...

Doing the book justice!!! Lunch with a portion of poise 😊 #lunchtoday #potofteaforone #jenniferlscott #polishyourpoisewithmadamechic

A post shared by Lynn (@vintagelovingceliac) on Oct 18, 2017 at 4:35am PDT

Comment of the Week
Jody writes: LOVE the Jord wood watches. I've been eyeing wood watches for some time and now you share this brand which is beautiful. Thanks for the opportunity to learn more about Jord and to possibly win!

The girls' quilts are so cute! I'm in the process of making a quilt for my newest granddaughter so I have a great appreciation for quilts.

You really must make your own granola. It is SO delish. A good one is on the website: jennycancook.com. She's got some videos that are so much fun to watch and her recipes are all excellent.

Fall favorites:
*Burning candles. I'm going to make some beeswax/coconut oil ones very soon. I can't do strong scents so this is what I like.
*Making no knead breads. See jennycancook.com again. She's got several knockout bread recipes that I've been trying. The cinnamon rolls too! YUM!

God bless you and your family. ~Jody

Hi Jody, Thank you for sharing JennyCanCook with us. What a wonderful site!

Before we close, we offer our prayers for everyone affected by the horrible shooting in Texas on Sunday. Our hearts and thoughts are with you.

Today I would love to know... what is your advice for traveling with small children? Do you have any triumphs to share with us? Any horror stories? Let me know and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on The Daily Connoisseur. See you back on Thursday for a major announcement!


Visit my Author Website

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

Instagram @dailyconnoisseur

Take my eCourse on the Ten-Item Wardrobe

Sign up for my Seasonal Author Newsletter


FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Come visit Stratford upon Avon with us in this two-part series. Today, we drive through Shakespeare's hometown, I show you the gorgeous Welcombe Hotel and share about my background as a Shakespearean actress! As a very big Shakespeare fan, I simply adored Stratford upon Avon. I hope you enjoy today's video. In part 2, we get to visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Here is a picture of the beautiful, Welcombe Hotel.


...and a few Instagram snaps from my trip, including the gardens at the Welcombe.

Shakespeare's country 🇬🇧#dailyconnoisseur #MADAMECHIC

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Oct 4, 2017 at 6:46am PDT

#englishgarden

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Oct 4, 2017 at 6:49am PDT

#sisters #England 🇬🇧

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Oct 4, 2017 at 7:45am PDT

News
Take my new eCourse on the ten-item wardrobe! With over an hour of never-before-seen video instruction, notes and quizzes, you will feel prepared to create your own ten-item wardrobe. For those of you who already do the ten-item wardrobe, this course will keep you on track and provide further inspiration. The course is self-paced and includes a lively comment section with other ten-item wardrobe enthusiasts. Enjoy!




Comment of the Week
Laura F. writes, "HI Jennifer I quite agree about getting up earlier than the rest of the family it's also my moment of peace before the rush starts, keep up the good work and can't wait for you're next video xx"

Hi Laura, I agree! I need that extra time in the morning to get things done in a peaceful environment where I am uninterrupted by little ones :)

Today I would love to know... have you visited Stratford upon Avon? What is your favorite Shakespeare play? Have you ever acted in a Shakespearean play? What was your favorite role? What is the nicest hotel you've ever stayed in? Let me know and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog.


Visit my Author Website

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

Instagram @dailyconnoisseur

Take my eCourse on the Ten-Item Wardrobe

Sign up for my Seasonal Author Newsletter


FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

Take a walk with me on the beach and have a chat! In this video, I update you on how homeschooling is going, what our daily routine is in Portugal and the unusual things I have been missing while traveling abroad. We are actually in England right now, but I hope you enjoy seeing these videos from our Portugal trip.

This video was shot on the DJI Gimbal Osmo video recorder. I'm still learning how to use this device so bear with me as I try to walk in the thick sand, talk and film at the same time. Ha!

I hope you enjoy today's video.

News

Take my new eCourse on the ten-item wardrobe! With over an hour of never-before-seen video instruction, notes and quizzes, you will feel prepared to create your own ten-item wardrobe. For those of you who already do the ten-item wardrobe, this course will keep you on track and provide further inspiration. The course is self-paced and includes a lively comment section with other ten-item wardrobe enthusiasts. Enjoy!



Fiona G writes, "Thank you Jennifer for putting this course together. It's been really helpful in putting the 10 item wardrobe into practice."

Thank you, Fiona!



Today I would love to know... what are the unusual things you miss while traveling?


Visit my Author Website

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FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I posted a bonus video on the YouTube channel yesterday, Exploring Loulé.



It's a quick, fun travel video showing you this historic Portuguese city.

And now... What's in my toiletry bag?



In today's video I show you what's inside my toiletry bag for our 5 week European trip. I try to pack lightly because I really dislike lugging extraneous things around with me when I travel. When you're already traveling with three kids, it's important to pack light! I hope you enjoy today's video.

For all of the makeup shown in this video, check out my bareMinerals blogpost.

Other toiletries shown in the video:
Philosophy Purity face wash in travel size, Simple makeup removing cleansing wipes in sensitive (this is what I used before I ran out and bought the Portuguese brand), Neutrogena spf 55 for face (2 pack), La Vanila The Healthy Deodorant in vanilla lavender, bareMinerals Smart Combination lightweight emulsion, Cortizone 10 cream (for mosquito bites).

This video was shot on the DJI Osmo



News

Take my new eCourse on the ten-item wardrobe! With over an hour of never-before-seen video instruction, notes and quizzes, you will feel prepared to create your own ten-item wardrobe. For those of you who already do the ten-item wardrobe, this course will keep you on track and provide further inspiration. The course is self-paced and includes a lively comment section with other ten-item wardrobe enthusiasts. Enjoy!



Here is a wonderful testimonial for the ten-item wardrobe eCourse from Elizabeth P, who writes, "Thank you very much for such a wonderful course! It's even more in depth than your excellent Ted talk, and I think your presentation was perfect! I must confess...I have a skirt just like the one on the cover of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic (currently in my out-of-season clothes), and I am searching with a discerning eye for some fabric to match the top! That's my ideal style!!!"

Thank you so much, Eizabeth! I'm so happy you enjoyed the course...

Comment of the Week

Alejandra C writes:
Thank you Jennifer for the updates. Would love to see a debt-free living series. Recently I read an article by finance blogger Pauline Paquin (born and raised in Paris) about the French approach to debt. One thing I was suprised to learn was that typically the only debt they carry is their mortgage. I think people being able to do that here in the U.S. alone would be a step in the right direction. I also think that the self discipline and commitment required for the 10 item wardrobe can, and is very useful when applied to personal finance and debt. Also, thank you for being an advocate for and encouraging saving for quality items that one can afford.

Thank you, Alejandra! I would be very interested to hear the French perspective on debt. I am looking forward to the debt-free series too.

I hope you enjoy both of the videos today! Have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you on Monday for more videos from our trip to Portugal.

Today I would love to know... do you like to pack light for traveling? Do you need help in this area? What do you like to bring in your toiletry bag? Let me know and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog.


Visit my Author Website

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

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FTC: This is not a sponsored video. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links

Dear Daily Connoisseurs,

Hello from Vale Do Lobo, Portugal! We have arrived in Europe. Learn how our flight went, what castle we visited in England and take a drive with us to Santa Bárbara de Nexe all in today's video.

News
Take my new eCourse on the ten-item wardrobe! With over an hour of never-before-seen video instruction, notes and quizzes, you will be on track to creating your own ten-item wardrobe. For those of you who already do the ten-item wardrobe, this course will keep you on track and provide further inspiration. Enjoy!



Here is a testimonial for the eCourse from Charlotte V, who writes, "Thank you for taking the time for this course. It has inspired me to finally actually do the 10 item wardrobe... not just dabble with it. I'm sure I'll be coming back to this course for encouragement as the changing seasons approach and I get anxious about keeping it minimal. Take care."

Thank you, Charlotte! Please check in with us and keep us updated!

So Many Changes blog tries out the ten-item wardrobe.

On Instagram
Here are some more pictures from our trip... We visited the charming town of Loulé.

Exploring Loulé #Portugal #dailyconnoisseur

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Sep 20, 2017 at 7:15am PDT

I love the blue and white tiles!

Loulé ❤️

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Sep 20, 2017 at 7:18am PDT

Pastel de natas are my husband's favorite pastry here...

Afternoon coffee in Loulé ☕️

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Sep 20, 2017 at 7:44am PDT

I had to get an apron... I'll reveal which one in a future video!

Mama needs a new apron #MADAMECHIC #dailyconnoisseur #Portugal

A post shared by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Sep 20, 2017 at 8:01am PDT

What a beautiful city. I'm truly enjoying my time in Portugal!

I filmed the driving portion of this video on the Gimbal Osmo.



This is a great device to steady your filmmaking as you are moving around.

Before closing, I pray that everyone affected by the earthquakes and hurricanes are safe and comforted during this very tumultuous season. It seems that every week there is new tragedy on a global scale. My hope is that everyone affected by these natural disasters is able to find safety, comfort and peace.

Thank you for joining me today and I will see you on Monday!




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FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. Links may be affiliate.

Hello Daily Connoisseurs,

I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing Thanksgiving holiday with your family! I really wanted to do a Thanksgiving post this year, but with my trip to Japan the week prior to Thanksgiving, I was unable to get that done. If you haven't seen my Thanksgiving tablescape blog from last year, you can check it out here.

This week's video shares my recent trip to Japan with you. I traveled with the baby to Tokyo to shoot a television show. Thank you so much to the Japanese readers who have embraced my books so enthusiastically. I am so grateful to you and simply love visiting your country!

A photo posted by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Nov 16, 2016 at 11:40am PST

Here I am with the director and crew for the on-location shoot.

In this video you will see my makeup artist sessions, my hotel room, what I ate, where I shopped, local culture and sights as well as a few funny episodes involving a complicated washing machine and a Japanese face mask! The most exciting thing about the vlog, however, is that you get to meet my baby boy, who was such a delightful companion on this trip.

A photo posted by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Nov 17, 2016 at 10:30am PST

My little man. Everyone who met him said he is so "Kawaii"!


We are outside the National Art Center after visiting the Dali exhibit.


Going over my lines in the greenroom before the big shoot!


The Madame Chic books were featured at the front of the airport bookstore!

Regarding the Japanese drugstore items I show in the video, I found some of them on Amazon. If you are interested in them, here are the links:
LuLuLun Japanese moisture face mask

Kate Tokyo brown shade eyes eyeshadow (I have shade BR3, but could not find that on Amazon, so here is the link to BR1, which is quite similar).

Brow Lash Ex eyebrow pencil. (I am not sure if this is the shade I picked up at the drugstore, but it looks similar, and actually better, for my coloring.)

I hope you enjoy this week's video, Japan Vlog 2016.

News
Japanese viewers: The television show I am appearing on is Nippon Television's The Most Useful School in the World, airing Saturday, December 3rd. I do hope you check it out and please let me know how you like it!


Comments of the Week
Anonymous writes:
Bonjour Jennifer,

As for tights, I always put them with my damp hands and with my palm in contact with my tights and not with my legs. It's a bit strange but doing so I avoid ruining them from the very first time.
When buying thin and expensive tights, I often choose the superior size.
And before washing, I put them in a special bag.

Thanks for all your posts.

Hi Anon, those are great tips, thank you! I also wash my stockings in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tears. And many times, my nails, jewelry or heels have caught on the tights causing a snag. I like how you deal with those issues.


Kathleen writes:
Hi Miss Jennifer!

One of the things in which I delight about my own ten item wardrobe is ease of packing! When I was young, my mother always told me, "Packing is simple as long as your clothes are clean." and yet I found myself frequently dithering over what I might like to wear followed by later regret that I had not chosen something else. I've amended her advice to, "Packing is simple provided your clothes have been chosen with care and they are currently clean." The last 5 week long trips I have taken I've simply moved my ten items from my closet, to the smaller of my two suitcases (including the hangers), added underpinnings, a bathing suit, my travel toiletries, and called it an enjoyable 15 minutes. I've found that I am always overpacked but never feel as if I'm lacking in any area.

On the subject of pantyhose, when I was in college my sister and I used to tell each other, "Never wear a skirt without hose!" And we would thoroughly enjoy how fantastic our legs looked. As I've gained responsibility and a desire to skip that step while getting dressed we have modified the statement to, "Your legs will look better in hose." Less totalitarian and more motivational!

My favorite brand of hose is, Leggs: Sheer Energy; Medium Support, Control Top. They are about 4.50 a pair and I can wear one pair of them between 7 and 14 times (sometimes more!) Before they tear or run.

Thank you for the video!

~Kathleen

Hi Kathleen, thank you for your great comment! I also love the ease of packing with the ten-item wardrobe. In fact, I recommend that people who have a hard time doing a ten-item wardrobe, pack one for a long vacation. They will see the benefits on their trip, like the ease of dressing and the ability to look presentable and stylish. Thank you, also, for sharing your pantyhose recommendation. I have found that Amazon sell the Leggs control top tights you recommend in a 4-pack for just over $16, which is definitely more affordable than most pantyhose I have seen on the market.

I hope you enjoy this week's video! Please let me know what your favorite parts of the vlog were. What do you love about Japan? Let me know in the comment section below, and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog.

Visit my Author Website

Facebook facebook.com/JenniferLScottAuthor

Twitter @JL_Scott

Instagram @dailyconnoisseur

Sign up for my Seasonal Author Newsletter


FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. Links may be affiliate links.

I hope you had a great 4th of July weekend! I am back in America after a short trip to England. What a wonderful time we had! Today I have a short video showing one of my favorite places in England, Richmond Upon Thames.




Check out this week's video for a mini tour. We go to the Terrace Gardens, Petersham nurseries and take a walk along the Thames. In the middle of the video you will hear a very talented violinist perform by the river. Classical music connoisseurs: can you tell us what song he is playing? (A bit of music trivia is always fun!) You can leave your answer in the comment section below or tweet or facebook me.

If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
Spend some time this week in a garden, whether it be in your back yard, the local park or on a special trip. Enjoy the beauty that surrounds you and be very present while there.


Speaking of beautifully scented roses, here are the David Austin Gertrude Jekyll roses from the garden of my mother and father in-law's house. This rose has the most incredible scent! A strong, traditional rose fragrance emminates from every bloom.

News
Style Sprinter recommends Lessons from Madame Chic among great company in her What to Read in the Hamptons list.

For the Love of Organizing has selected Lessons from Madame Chic for her July book club! Check out Laura's introductory video here.

Enchanted blog writes about rejecting the new materialism as discussed in Lessons from Madame Chic.

Fab le Frique talks Paris and Lessons from Madame Chic.

At Home With Madame Chic is making waves in Italy and the Czech Republic!


L'eleganza del riordino from publisher Piemme.


S Madame Chic doma from Mlada Fronta

Comment of the Week

Patrish writes:

Just a quick note on aprons: they have something that most clothing for women does not--pockets! I love to listen to audio books while cleaning/cooking and the apron pockets hold my phone or ipod and earbuds so they are always within reach when I have a few minutes. I also have a small coin purse that holds a house key (ever locked yourself out while taking out the trash?), lip balm and a few dollars in case I need to tip a delivery person. I transfer the coin purse to whatever apron I'm wearing. I won't buy an apron without pockets.

Thank you Patrish! While I don't keep a coin purse in my apron, I do love to listen to podcasts or music while I work around the house and love my apron pockets for the very same reason.

Artistic Recommendation

Elizabeth writes:

After I read your first book - I watched the film Amelie - it was lovely. I came across another film starring Audrey Tautou - Delicacy. It is a beautiful film and Ms. Tautou is outstanding - I just wanted to recommend it to you if you haven't seen it. I love your books and am looking forward to the release of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic.

Best wishes,

Elisabeth


Thank you Elisabeth. I am looking forward to watching Delicacy!

This week I would love to know... how are you spending your summer holidays?


Music featured in video is: Beethoven Pathetique Sonata 2nd Movement


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I just spent one whirlwind of a week in Tokyo, Japan and recorded a video diary of my trip for you! What an amazing adventure this has been. Everyone I met has been so kind and generous. This week's video is a bit longer, but I hope that you will enjoy watching it as I share my adventures with you, including:

- my book signing
- misadventures in a Japanese drug store
- Japanese style observations
- A trip to the hama-rikyu gardens
- A traditional 10-course (!) Japanese dinner
- My television experience

and much, much more!


At dinner with the team from Daiwa Shobo and Japan Uni


after the book signing

If you are unable to see this week's video, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or check out my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

Update: I will appear on The Most Useful School in the World on Japan's Nippon television, Saturday, May 23rd 7pm.

I would like to give a special thank you to my Japanese publishers, Daiwa Shobo, who were so welcoming and generous. I am very lucky to be with the best publishing house in Japan! Thank you to my representatives at Japan Uni Agency, who took care of me every step of the way. Thank you to Nippon Television for the amazing days of filming and the wonderful show to come!

Lastly, thank you to the many Japanese readers I got to meet while I was here. Your stories are inspirational and I feel privileged to have met you.



Jennifer x

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I had such an amazing time in New York. I just got back this evening. Reflecting on the last few days I feel a combination of many things: humbled, excited, motivated and inspired. This past week I got to meet the team of people at both Trident Media Group and Simon & Schuster who work so hard to bring the Madame Chic books to fruition. These dedicated people are the ultimate professionals and also so chic! Seeing my agent, Erica Silverman, again and meeting my editor, Trish Todd, for the first time was an extra special treat.


The team at Trident Media Group (from left to right): Tara, Erica, moi, Lauren & Meredith holding some of the foreign editions of Lessons from Madame Chic.


Erica (left) and Trish (right) after lunch at SD26 in Manhattan


Part of the amazing team at Simon & Schuster (not everyone is pictured). They threw me a tea party!

The TEDx talk on Saturday was the perfect finale to my New York trip. I relished the opportunity to meet so many interesting people and hear their ideas and inspired talks. As soon as I have a video of my talk I will be sure to post it and share it with you. Thank you for your supportive comments on social media. I felt as though you were right there with me on stage!

For my talk I wore this vintage inspired polka dot dress from Tory Burch (both dresses featured in the video are sneak peeks into my Fall/ Winter ten-item wardrobe).



I had my hair done for the day in an art- deco inspired chignon.


Check out the whole story in this week's video where I give you an inside look on what it's like to be an author! If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
Don't be nervous to share your ideas. The world is in need of your thoughts. Remember ideas can be shared by actions as well as with words. TEDx talks are about "ideas worth spreading". What ideas would you like to spread? Let me know in the comment section below or on social media using the hashtag #MADAMECHIC

Who knows... you might be picked as the comment of the week!

Comment of the Week
Catherine writes:
Hi Jennifer. I am a faithful reader of your blog and loved your book. I've attended estate sales for several years, many which are held when the elderly homeowners pass away. Looking through the clothing, it's remarkable how many women hold onto items for decades. Closets are packed full with clothes, shoes and accessories. This seems perpetuated today even more with the marketing of large walk-in closets which women are sold on the fantasy of filling with an abundance of clothing (never mind where these clothes are made. No union label, Made in the USA tags on today's clothes like the ones at estate sale clothing from decades ago). Thank you for encouraging women to give their unwanted clothes a new life and for promoting living with less. Donation is so important. I love clothing swaps and charity shops to pass items on.

See you soon! xx

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This special Thursday post brings a fun announcement. An article I wrote for AnyTrip.com On the Romance of Paris is featured this week on their blog. AnyTrip is a travel booking website that allows you to book a cheap hotel in Paris with no booking fees. To read the article I wrote as part of their Romance Week, click here.

Also AnyTrip is giving away a trip for two to Paris (can you imagine?) to enter their contest, click here. Bonne chance!

And finally, this week's video shows you some of my favorite luxurious bath and shower products- all of which I purchased from either the drug store, the beauty supply store or specialty bath stores. If you are unable to see the above embedded video, you can click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

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It hasn’t felt much like summer here in England- it’s been cold with heavy rains and thunderstorms! Unfortunately I did not pack accordingly. I did pack a 10 item (ish) wardrobe but sadly most of the items I’ve packed are summer attire. Thankfully I had the foresight to bring two Tippi sweaters from J. Crew (one in navy, one in black) as they’ve really come in handy.

I’m staying in the countryside and have ventured into London a few times, dining first at French restaurant (of course) Aubaine (I had a delicious smoked salmon salad), then doing a spot of shopping on New Bond St. and finally dragging my husband and daughter to the Sherlock Holmes museum (pictured above)- which I have been to before and I must admit isn’t quite so much a ‘museum’ as a marvelous recreation of what 221b Baker St. would have looked like. There is something about that space that I just love and naturally I went a bit mad in the gift shop. Also there was a very large line to get into the museum proving that I am not the only mystery buff that loves all things Sherlock Holmes.

And even though my Twitter friend and fellow blogger Mr. London Street heckled me a bit for not taking public transportation into the city, I did shoot this week’s video, which I quite like, out of the car window. I call it A View of London… in it you see a tour of the beautiful city and a rare glimpse of Mr. Connoisseur. I hope you like it!



If you are not able to see the above embedded video, A View of London, you can see it by clicking here, looking in the sidebar of this blog or by visiting my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

I hope your summer is going swimmingly...

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Before this week's post begins, be sure to check out my latest video: Le No Makeup Look- Defined Eye. In the video I show you a variation on my usual le no makeup look where I add subtle drama to my eyes. To see the video click here, look in the sidebar of this blog or visit my channel: www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur.

And now for this week's post...



This post comes by request from Sandy who asks advice for the upcoming travel season on how to pack toiletries and makeup bags for travel.

This is not only a timely question (as travel season is upon us) but one that has been on my mind lately. I recently visited (twice!) the Paris Life & Luxury exhibit at the Getty Center (which I will do a separate post on in the near future) and spotted in the exhibit the most exquisite travel toiletries service in silver dating back to 1738-39. In the service was a box, a candle snuffer, a basin, table mirror, a set of brushes and small pots for cream. The set was so ornate and decadent. It made my plastic, see through Victoria’s Secret carrying case seem a bit inadequate… but oh was it fascinating to see how the Parisians perfected the art of travel back in the age of opulence. Sadly they would not let me take pictures or I would have loved to share it with you here. One can imagine though…

We are a family that travels a lot so I will share my tips for efficient traveling with toiletries and what I keep in my own cases (however inadequate they may be).

I always have my toiletries bag packed and ready to go at a moments notice. There is nothing more tiresome (or ‘tarsome’ as E.F. Benson’s Georgie would say) than packing at the last minute, stuffing toiletries into a travel bag only to realize you’ve gotten to your destination and forgotten deodorant or your specific shade of foundation.

I keep both my makeup and toiletries bag stocked at all times with everything I could possibly need. I know that all I need to do is pack the bags into my suitcase and I have nothing to worry about. If I run out of something I replace it instantly so I never have to double check to make sure everything is there.

My travel toiletries bag is the clear travel case from Victoria’s Secret pictured above. I got it on sale a few years ago and have been very pleased with it. I like being able to see what is packed in my bag.

These are the essential items I always have on hand in my toiletries case:

Shampoo, conditioner, body wash and hair styling products decanted into travel sized bottles and labeled accordingly (the body wash is crucial in case the soap where you are staying is not up to par)

Tooth brush and travel sized tooth paste

Deodorant- I love Kiehl’s superbly efficient antipersperant and deodorant cream and am quite lost without it!)

Nail polish remover pads- These are critical as well. You may start out the trip with a lovely manicure but your nail polish could chip and you might not be able to touch it up- much better to simply remove it.

Q tips and cotton squares

Body cream (either travel size or decanted into a bottle)

Sun block- for face and body

Travel sized facial cleanser and moisturizer

Eye makeup remover

Eye cream

Nail file

Clear nail polish and color nail polish- I always bring a clear polish. When I take my color off (if it has chipped for example) it is nice to go over my nails with a clear base coat. It feels more polished than bare nails- especially if you are going out to dinner or to something more formal. I tend to always use a neutral color on my nails (such as Essie's Mademoiselle or Diego Dalla Palma's French Pink) so I keep one of these shades in my case to do touch ups.



In the video How I Store My Makeup I briefly showed you my travel makeup bag (pictured above). Many of you were surprised to see that I have such a capsule makeup collection! I suppose I would have more but makeup can be quite expensive so I employ restraint and only get what I absolutely need. Because I usually wear le no makeup look anyway I never need too many items. This holds true for my travel makeup bag as well.

Because my travel makeup bag is small, I always keep it with me in my carry-on luggage. You never know when your bags could get lost … All those makeup and brushes are expensive and could be hard to replace depending on how remote your destination is.

The following are the indispensable items always on hand.

Tinted moisturizer or mineral foundation (this varies but I usually have either one or the other)

Bronzer- I always have this because when traveling its nice to feel, well… bronzed.

Blush – I either pack a crème blush or a gel blush like Posietint. They are easy to apply when on a plane or in a taxi…

An eyeshadow quad- I love Chanel and usually pick up a new one at duty free whenever I fly internationally

Clear lip gloss- Kiehls is my favorite

One or two lip colors- usually a light pink or neutral shade and a darker plum shade for night…

Mascara

Eyebrow powder

Translucent powder

And don’t forget your brushes! I do not have separate brushes for travel so I pack my small set of brushes in their travel case and include it in my carry-on.

Voila! Those are my travel bag secrets. Even if you do not travel a lot it is a good idea to keep a stocked toiletries bag at all times… you never know when you will be whisked away!

Thank you, Sandy, for your request...

I would love to know… what do you keep in your toiletries bag?

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