Hello Daily Connoisseurs,

Today I have a nice, juicy chat video for you as a bonus this week. I love doing these videos because I feel as though we are actually chatting together and we can continue the discussion in the comment section and on social media.

These days it is rare when my family and I go to a nice restaurant, so when we do go, our expectations are high. We went to a fancy Sunday lunch last weekend and this video discusses my thoughts and observations about those who wear exercise clothes to nice restaurants. I'm sure you can imagine what my stance on this is!

Please check out my bonus video this week for the full discussion. If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or check out my YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

And please let me know what you think. Do you think there is a direct correlation between dress and behavior? Have you noticed that people are no longer dressing up (or even appropriately) for nice occasions such as nice dinners or the theatre? Do you feel that this brings down the tone of the whole engagement? What are your thoughts? Don't be shy! Let us know in the comment section below and you could be picked as the comment of the week.

News

I have written an article for Dress for Success on Poise in the Workplace.

I am featured in Real Simple Magazine in an article called, 5 Ways to Handle an Awkward Conversation.

Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out next Tuesday! I am so excited for you to read this latest installment in the Madame Chic series.

I will be speaking and signing books at Pages Bookstore in Manhattan Beach, Thursday, October 29th 7pm. I hope to see you there! I will be signing extra copies of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic at Pages and they will have these copies available to sell after the event.

Question of the Week
Candice writes:

I myself am struggling with a new change in my life: I took a job in a city about 20 minutes farther than I currently drive to work, so will be taking transit into the city each day now, instead of driving. I am looking forward to time to be able to read to and from work. My only concern though is footwear & purses. I will be walking probably 8-9 blocks per day so will be in search of appropriate winter footwear for Western Washington (it's very wet here during fall/winter). Do you have any suggestions or tips for incorporating chic looks along with form/function? Obviously heels are out for safety & sanity reasons. I would love to hear your input on this subject!

Congratulations on your new job Candice! My advice for you is to wear an all-weather boot. Something comfortable to walk in and able to withstand the elements. If appropriate, you can keep a pair of chic flat shoes or heels in your office and change into them once inside. If not, many flat boots are very attractive and will look good with most outfits. Good luck!






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This week's post and video are full of my seasonal favorites. I share my favorite fall candles, nail polish and lip colors as well as my fall home decor. I really enjoyed hearing Melissa55's fall favorites on her YouTube channel and was inspired to do this video for you.

Candles

I would show you my leaves candle in this image but It's all burnt down... time for a new one!

I burn more candles in the fall and winter months than I do any other time of year. Bath & Body Works always seem to capture the season to perfection in their candles, my favorite one being Leaves (notes: golden nectar, red apple and spiced berries). This year I have also used Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin (notes: harvest pumpkin, sweet vanilla cream & spicy cinnamon stick) and Autumn (notes: bright red apple, cedarwood & fresh balsam) too.

Beauty

During the fall season, I like to wear deep plums, rich reds or wine- colored nails. In this video I am wearing Dior nail polish in Nuit 1947.

My favorite lip shade for fall is Clinique's iconic Black Honey. I have it in the gloss but you could also use the stick.

** Side note: I have just noticed that Clinique have black honey in a mascara (!). Considering how much I love YSL burgundy mascara, this might be worth a try too. If any of you have tried it, please let us know what you think.

Flowers

As the flowers in the garden go dormant for the fall/ winter season, I like to bring out faux flowers to add a touch of color to the house. Silk or faux flowers are not what they used to be! They look very realistic now- you just have to know how to style them. In this video I show you one of my tricks: using leaf ribbon to line the inside of the vase to get a professional floral look.

Fall Decor


In the video you will see our fall wreath, outdoor pumpkins and haystacks, indoor light up pumpkins, my fall pumpkin centerpiece and more.

If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my YouTube channel. If you enjoy the video, don't forget to "like" it with the thumbs up. Be sure to subscribe and select the option to receive emails for new uploaded videos. I plan to post many bonus videos during the holiday season.

News

Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out on October 27th! Pre-order available now.

I will be reading and signing books at Pages Bookstore, Manhattan Beach on October 29th at 7pm. I hope to see you there!

Thank you to Live Intentionally for your wonderful video review of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic.


Congratulations to my writing mentor, Alan Watt, who has published his highly-anticipated second novel, DAYS ARE GONE. This dark and edgy work examines second chances, forgiveness and redemption.


Here is the description for DAYS ARE GONE from the back cover:

Alice just walked out of her marriage to aging rock star, Chick Wolfson, leaving behind her San Francisco penthouse and all the trappings this union conferred. She drives north to Seattle to stay with her folks, but never makes it. Chick cancels her credit cards – her parents disapprove of her choice mainly because she’s spent her marriage lying to everyone including herself about the nature of their relationship. With her tank on empty, she crawls into Waiden, a small Oregon town off the coast, and checks into the crumbling Frontier Inn where she lands a minimum wage job. While there, she finds herself attracted to Webb Cooley, grocery clerk, and recent parolee of Oregon State Correctional Facility. Webb is quiet and withdrawn, with secrets of his own. Soon they are pulled into a relationship that they are each using to exercise their own particular form of escape. As they grow closer, their desire to be known by each other threatens to reveal the secrets from the past. Exquisitely written with a propulsive narrative, Days Are Gone explores the nature of regret, and how faith and forgiveness are the surest path to freedom.

Congratulations Al!


Comment of the Week
Stephanie writes:

Jennifer, I had an interesting experience living the Madame Chic habits that may interest you.
To "look presentable always," I have been trying to rise earlier so I can shower, dress, etc. before walking the kids to the bus stop. Most days I have been successful with this. The first three weeks I felt a bit out of place in my summer skirts and nice ballet flats. Many of the other moms were in pajamas, sweats, etc.
Yesterday morning was especially difficult for me, emotionally. I had attended an Officers' Spouse Club meeting the night before. We are relatively new to the military life, and the feeling that I didn't fit in was especially strong that morning.
Still, I put on my summer skirt and nice ballet flats, did my make up with the dramatic eye variation, and walked out to the bus stop.
Imagine my surprise, delight, and relief to see two of the other moms at the stop wearing skirts and ballet flats. (All three of us wearing it in a different color and cut).
Some readers express frustration at standing out too much when they try to adopt a Madame Chic lifestyle. My experience at the bus stop showed me that perhaps we can be a positive influence on those around us.
Thank you, Jennifer, for being a positive example in my life.

Thank you Stephanie for your inspiring comment. I love that the other ladies dressed up, most likely because of your influence. Your silent perseverance is very powerful!


Question of the Week
Isabell writes:

Hi Jennifer, I just discovered your Youtube channel a few weeks ago and I love it. Presently I am reading Lessons from Madame Chic. Thank you for so much inspiration. I loved your piano playing. I play a few simple songs on the keyboard (with sheet music, lol). I am 58 years old and I'm wondering if I should continue playing at least 30 minutes a day or if it's too late and I should find other pursuits. I grew up receiving no encouragement in practically anything. Then again, Grandma Moses did not start painting until she was in her 50's or 60's. What do you think? God Bless You and I respectfully await your reply. Sincerely, Isabell

Dear Isabell. I think you should continue to commit to playing the piano every day if it brings you joy. Age should never discourage you from doing anything you love to do. My Grandmother played the piano well into her 90s and it brought her such happiness. It is never too late. Enjoy every note!



This week I would love to know... what are your favorite fall candles, beauty items or ways to decorate your home?




See you on Thursday for a special bonus video!



FTC: All items featured in this video were purchased by me. I have no affiliation with any of the companies mentioned. All opinions are (as always) my own.



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Thank you for your enthusiastic response to my fall/ winter ten-item wardrobe for 2015! Today we are going to do a talk-through of the core pieces. 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

For still pictures of all the pieces as well as pertinent links, please visit my original ten-item wardrobe fall/ winter 2015 post.

A few key points:

There were many holes to fill because last year's wardrobe was more budget-geared and filled with older items. I filled the spots with higher-end, higher-quality items this year with the hope that they will wear well and last to show up in next year's wardrobe.

I often purchase from the same retailers as I put these wardrobes together in some what of a "rush" for the blog. I also like to purchase from stores that are ready available to people online. If I wasn't blogging my ten-item wardrobe, I would take my time purchasing pieces from more diverse retailers.

While there are many new pieces, almost nothing was purchased at full price. A wonderful aspect to purchasing from online retailers is they often have big promotions and sales. Every purchase took advantage of one of these promotions and so the full retail price you see online, more often than not, is not what I paid. (After all, I enjoy a sale just like everyone else!)

The lace tees from Loft look like blouses but are actually tee shirts. Loft label them as "tee shirts" so I included them in my extras. There are so many wonderful dressy options today for tee shirts that can help dress up even the most casual looks, which is something I love to advocate.

I purchased a few of the Boden dresses in a size up as an experiment. I find that after two seasons of heavy wear and washing, some of my clothes shrink. I will see if purchasing a size up makes a difference and will allow my clothes to last until next year. **This is a point that I forgot to mention in the video.

You will notice there are no jeans in this year's wardrobe. I need a break from jeans. I still love jeans, don't get me wrong, but I am tired of always seeing them. Jeans, like exercise clothes, can become a "uniform" for many people and I like to rebel against that in my own way...

I love my ten-item wardrobe this year! There are so many different combinations of outfits that I can compile. I will aim to do one or two "one week of outfits" videos for you this year so you can see it in action.

News
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out on October 27th! Pre-order available now.

I will be speaking and signing books at Pages Bookstore in Manhattan Beach, Thursday, October 29th 7pm.

Comments of the Week
Shannon M writes in response to my commentary on job hunting in the recent reader questions answered:

I've got a great story for you! When I graduated from my first degree, I couldn't find a job so I worked at the coffee shop that I worked at while I was in school. Well, guess who I met there? My husband! So if it weren't for that job I wouldn't have my husband or my 3 kids! Also, one of my customers noticed how hard working I was and hired me to work in my first 'real' job in my field! So, I agree, do your best at whatever you're doing, you never know what will happen!

Thank you for sharing your story Shannon! You never know who you will meet or what doors will open for you on any given day so it's a great idea to give everything you do your absolute best.

On Facebook, Alicia writes:
You have helped me think of my wardrobe as a garden to be cultivated and pruned until there are no weeds!

Alicia, I adore that analogy! Thank you for your comment.

Question of the Week
Many people asked about the music in my ten-item wardrobe video. It is a piece called "Beautiful Emotional Piano". I download my copyright-free music to use in my videos from AudioMicro. If you are ever curious about features in a video (such as music, etc.), always look in the info box below the YouTube video, where it will be listed.


Artistic Recommendation

Megan writes:

Good morning Jennifer,

I just wanted to stop by and say I'm so excited about your upcoming book and can't wait to read what all you have to say on the subject of poise!

I also wanted to share a movie recommendation with you and the D.C. community here. I was recently on a long flight and as I was scrolling through the in-flight movie options I stumbled across a 2015 French film called Un peu, beaucoup, aveuglément (Blind Date). This quirky romantic comedy had me laughing out loud on my flight and reminded me a bit of Amelie (which I know you love). Its a sweet romantic film that I know other daily connoisseurs will love. Plus, it is devoid of the sexual vulgarity that we have come to expect from the majority of our American romantic comedies.

Thank you for this recommendation Megan!


This week I would love to hear from you. What are your thoughts on the talk-through? How is your ten-item wardrobe coming along?

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I am so pleased to present you my fall/ winter ten-item wardrobe for 2015. This year's wardrobe was so fun to put together. I am experimenting with elegant looks that can be both dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You will see a nice mixture of solids and prints and everything oh-so-ladylike.

As you know, last year's fall/ winter wardrobe was full of budget finds as well as older pieces so there were quite a few holes to fill this season. I have many thoughts on this process so be sure to check out next week's talk-through video to hear the in-depth details and learn from my insights.

This year's ten-item wardrobe actually has eleven core pieces. I try to keep it to a strict ten to show you that it can be done but I also think it's important that you know this plan is flexible. It has room to adapt to your life. Many people do the strict ten, but many also do more like 15. You must do what works for you!

I hope you enjoy the video! If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel as I will upload a lot of bonus videos during the holiday season.

Now let's look closely at the core items:

Dresses


Garnet Hill Juliet knit dress

Garnet Hill Amelie knit dress

Garnet Hill Ponte Sheath Dress

Boden Erica dress one in dusky rose and one in navy.

Loft dot dress (this is an older piece, no longer available)

(Long tassel necklace Stella & Dot, Bib necklace from Bauble Bar)

Skirt


Boden Ponte skirt in navy

Trousers


Loft fluid ankle pants in black (no longer available)
Talbots riding pants in honeynut

Blouses

Loft shell in ruby red
Ann Taylor ruffle sleeve top in chianti

Extras

The extras will compliment the core items.

Tees

Loft lace tees (These will be discussed in next week's video. Loft labels them as tee shirts which is why I categorized them in the extras. I just love tee shirts that look like blouses.)
Loft brocade tee (no longer available)
Talbots white tee (please note, I have a few more white tees in short and love sleeve)
Ann Taylor long sleeve green tee

Sweaters and Cardigans

I also have simple black and navy cardigans from Old Navy (not shown)
Boden cropped sweaters
Talbots hunter green v-neck sweater
Ann Taylor black cardigan
Ann Taylor Tan Cardigan

Outerwear

Boden The Mac rain coat in tan

Garnet Hill olive sweater coat and ruby red wool coat (no longer available)

Scarves

These are not my only scarves. I also have black and tan scarves. Here I am showing my grey Massimo Dutti scarf with an Ann Taylor grey cardigan as well as a green tartan scarf no longer available.


News

Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out on October 27th! Pre-order available now.

I will be speaking and signing books at Pages Bookstore in Manhattan Beach, Thursday, October 29th 7pm.

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
The ten-item wardrobe is a fun, exciting and liberating process. Once you try it you will never want to go back. If you have been on the fence about the ten-item wardrobe but feel even the slightest interest, give it a try this season to see how you like it.


Comments of the Week
I have two comments to share with you today from readers who live in cold climates:

Mbmbmb0775 writes:
As a New Englander with a Ten Item Wardrobe I hope you don't mind my adding a few thoughts about winter wardrobes. First, there are days in January and February where I have to ignore my wardrobe and just dress for safety in the elements and I don't see that as going against the principles in any way. Second, my big investment most years is either a new pair of winter boots or a nice wool coat. I only pull out the Bean Boots and puffer coat on the dangerously cold days or ones with heavy snow. Third, my fall and winter wardrobes are not the same. While I can get away with a single capsule for spring/summer, I want completely different things in 50 degrees vs. 5. Finally, if I see that corduroy or wool trousers and lined skirts are big in stores in a given year I will buy duplicates because for whatever reason it's not always easy to find them every year. Hopefully that's helpful for anyone looking to take the plunge from a colder climate!

Hesebs writes:

I always love these videos. I learn so much from them. I just wanted to mention about winter and wearing dresses. I have not looked back since I discovered fleece lined tights. They are the warmest things ever! I fact I tend to favour them over trousers as they are really warm.

Great advice ladies! Thank you for encouraging those in a colder climate to try out the ten-item wardrobe. You are proof that it works no matter where you are!

Question of the week
Julie G. asks:

With the ten-item wardrobe, do you find you have to do laundry more often and do your clothes wear out faster? Thanks for your advice. I look forward to your blog each week.

Hi Julie, We do our laundry once a week. I do not find that I have to do my laundry more often with the ten-item wardrobe. I do find, however, that the clothes wear down faster. This is why I advocate getting the highest quality you can afford. One of the reasons why many pieces from last year's wardrobe did not make it this year was because they were heavily worn, they wore out by the end of the season. This does not happen with my higher quality pieces, which you will see can last even 4 to 5 years with repeated heavy use.

Stay tuned for next week's ten-item wardrobe talk-through. See you then!


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This week I have a rather long video for you where I answer your reader questions. So make a cup of tea, pull up a chair and let's have a chat together!

Today's topics?

Lizzy Loves Health asks for advice on what to do when you realize your style has dramatically changed.

Anna C. asks about dressing chic in cold weather.

As a recent graduate, Sarine asks for advice on how to deal with the often frustrating job search.

Lisa from Germany asks about chic house shoes and snacking with regard to children.

Please check out my video to hear my extended answers. If you have further advice to share with these readers, please leave comments in the section below. If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or check out my channel (and subscribe!) at www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur **


Two items discussed in the video:
My slippers from Bed Bath & Beyond: These slippers are so cozy and stay on my feet. They aren't terribly fashionable but I don't mind how they look when I wear them at home. Madame Chic did not wear slippers during the day. She wore her regular shoes, but at night she changed into slippers when she wore her pajamas and dressing gown.

Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman has wonderful advice on children and snacking.

News
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out on October 27th! Pre-order available now.

I will be speaking and signing books at Pages Bookstore in Manhattan Beach, Thursday, October 29th 7pm.

Terigigi gives a glowing review of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic on her YouTube channel.

Lucia from Dysfunctional Scrapbooking just adored Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic. Read her advance review here.

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
If you've been thinking about picking up an old hobby that you loved, this is the week to do it! Even if you are busy, try to find some time to rekindle an old love, like playing an instrument, writing that novel or learning a new language. You will love the feeling it gives you.

Comment of the Week
Christine writes:

I have a little "hobby" of mine that I recently abandoned - and it was inspired by you in the first place. I began teaching myself french last year! I always wished I could speak french and begged for lessons when I was a little girl, but I was never given the opportunity. After being inspired by many of your videos and your books, I downloaded a few apps, began watching children's television shows in French, and e-mailed a friend who lives in France to practice. I was doing fairly well, but due to some life changes I stopped all together. After this video and your recent messages of refusing to be dumbed down, I have returned to my lessons! 15 minutes a day is all it takes for me to achieve something I've always dreamed of.

Merci beaucoup, Jennifer! A bientôt!

I loved reading what you are inspired to take up again after watching my performance of Alla Turca. Christine, your comment was one of many that I found to be encouraging. Thank you and have fun with your French lessons.

Question of the Week
Many people asked about the nail polish I am wearing in my latest hair tutorial for the double-wrapped ponytail. It is Revlon number 620 in "bewitching". This is an old color so I am not sure if it is still carried.

I will see you next week for the reveal of my Fall/ Winter Ten-Item Wardrobe.


**Some email subscribers are not receiving the embedded video in their email. I am not sure how to amend this problem. If any of you technically savvy readers have advice on how I can fix this problem, please let me know. Thank you!

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Before we begin this week's post I'd like to thank you for your enthusiastic response to my piano performance for you! I am so happy you enjoyed it! And even better, many of you said you felt like playing the piano again (which was my goal all along). To keep me on my toes, I aim to give you a few piano performances each season. You inspire me to keep my skills sharp.

Forgot to post my bad hair day fix from this weekend. The wrapped ponytail. I'll do a tutorial on The Daily Connoisseur in the future #lookpresentablealways #MADAMECHIC ❤️

A photo posted by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Sep 9, 2015 at 6:52am PDT

Another promised video is being shared this week: my tutorial for the double-wrapped ponytail. This is a great bad-hair-day fix or for when you'd like to keep your hair out of your face but are tired of the standard ponytail. It's a very elegant look and so easy to accomplish. This look works best on medium to long hair.



You will need a hair brush, a handful of bobby pins, a hair tie and hair spray (optional).

Brush your hair until smooth. Gather the sections of hair on either side of your face and allow them to meet at the back of your head. Twist the left side over the right side. Push up to create volume at the crown. Pin in place. You can leave your hairstyle like this or you can tie the rest of your hair into a low ponytail. Take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it. Pin in place.

Check out my video this week for a visual tutorial. If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or subscribe to my channel to never miss a video www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
Practice a few hairstyles that you can refer to when you are in a rush or are having a bad hair day. This will keep your morning beauty routine quick and you will still look presentable always.

News
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out on October 27th! Pre-order available now.

I will be speaking and signing books at Pages Bookstore in Manhattan Beach, Thursday, October 29th 7pm.


Comment of the Week
On my recent Look Presentable Always post, Mademoiselle Nomad writes:

I have your book "At Home with Madame Chic" and absolutely love it and have been watching your videos regularly ever since. This particular video came at a very good time in my life. I've had a week where I've been feeling overwhelmed and extremely sad. Because I work from home & remotely, I did not think it was necessary for me to get out of my pajamas. It didn't make me feel necessarily better, so watching you speak of how sad you are right now and still making an effort to looking presentable. It really touched a nerve and it hit home. I realize dressing up nicely every day is more than just the surface ' looking pretty' and more about our attitude. I do believe by looking presentable always it affects our mood, can lift up our spirits and even give us hope to carry on our day. Thank you! And as my birthday present, I will be getting your new book about Poise :)


Thank you! I am so happy you are encouraged to dress well, even though you work from home.

Artistic Recommendation



Thank you to Daily Connoisseur reader, Ann G. Rusky, who painted this picture of Gatsby for me. I love it Ann. You are so talented and you captured him well.

Check out Ann's fabulous art blog here.

See you soon!



The video is set to Air from Suite No. 3 in D Major by Bach.

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Determined to learn Alla Turca on my summer break. Slowly but surely I'm getting there. When I learn it do you want me to play it for you on YouTube? #Mozart #SeekOutTheArts

A photo posted by Jennifer L. Scott (@dailyconnoisseur) on Aug 4, 2015 at 1:08pm PDT

This summer I asked if you'd like me to play Mozart's Alla Turca for you and you gave a resounding yes! I worked on it over my summer break and today I perform it for you. It's not perfect. In fact, it's a little clumsy, but that is not the point. The point is that it's a great thing to challenge and push yourself. To cultivate your mind and not only seek out the arts but create them yourself. To pick up a worthwhile hobby. This keeps us our minds sharp. It gives us achievable goals and a sense of accomplishment. We better society by bettering and pushing ourselves.

Now without further ado, here is my performance of Mozart's Alla Turca.



If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog or subscribe to my YouTube channel to have the videos instantly emailed to you at www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

If you feel inspired to share your art via YouTube or blog post be sure to let me know! Use the hashtag #MADAMECHIC #seekoutthearts Let's encourage each other to raise our standards and challenge ourselves.

Comment of the Week

Laura B. writes:

Dear Jennifer,

You have little time to read all the letters you receive. I understand as a pediatrician your time is limited and valuable. Quickly, your books and blog have me dressing tastefully for my job rather than wearing scrubs. Thank you (say my patients). Your recent post hit home to me and I must write even if you don't read. I have played piano since very young also, so glad that in college I FINALLY didn't have to take lessons. I have not lifted much of a finger since until now. At 38 I'm realizing (maybe as you) what a special thing this is that I can do... that is a secret and maybe unattainable to most that know me. My grandmother played beautifully; my mother missed the trait. She poignantly says I play like "Tine" (christine) even though I never saw her play (she was paralyzed with Lou Gehrig's dz). 6 months ago I splurged on a used Steinway upright and once delivered, sat down with it and cried at the sound that I had forgotten I could make. I grew up learning Chopin, Bach, and the classics only (which I love). Right now I have pulled 'Laura' from a stack of Tine's favorite movie/show tunes, which happens to be how my name was chosen. Learning the tune- so, thanks for your inspiration and Aspiration to be better than is required.

Sincerely,
Laura

Laura, I loved your message to me. Thank you! Your grandmother would be very proud of you.


Artistic Recommendation

Celia on YouTube writes:

I have a great book to recommend that exposes the reader to great composers and their influence. It's called "THE GIFT OF MUSIC" by Smith and Carlson. Very readable. Enjoy.

Thank you, Celia, for your recommendation!

See you all next week...

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Last spring I did a video called, Refuse to Be Dumbed Down. What a response that received and is still receiving! This week I am giving you active tips and a challenge on how you can avoid being dumbed down by our modern culture.


Tip #1- Cultivate a long-lost skill

You loved playing the piano as a child, but haven't played in years. You used to paint before the kids were born but haven't picked up a paintbrush in ages. You had ambitions to write a novel when you were in your early 20s but never got past chapter 3. Do you relate to any of these? Many people long to pick up an old skill or passion again but discourage themselves by saying they are "no good" or have "lost what it takes". This week I'd like to challenge you to pick up an old skill and begin to hone it again. This takes discipline. It takes time and it also is a wonderful antidote to being dumbed down.

I used to play the piano as a child. I stopped playing during my college years and early to mid-twenties. I never thought I was very good. I would play occasionally. Recently I have committed to seriously taking the piano up again. During my summer break I took a piece of challenging music (challenging for me!), Mozart's Alla Turca. I worked on it every day for at least twenty minutes. I have committed to learning it. Be sure to stay tuned for a bonus video later this week where I play Alla Turca for you!

Tip #2- Reignite your passion for an art or skill or commit to learning a new one

If you don't have a long-lost skill, commit to learning a new one. Is there something you have always wanted to do? Now is the time! When I was in my late twenties I am so happy I decided to take a writing class. If I never pushed myself to take that class, I might never have written Lessons from Madame Chic. I probably wouldn't even have this blog!


Tip #3- Analyze how you spend your down time and make changes where needed

We often say we "don't have time" to do these things, yet we somehow find time to watch a reality TV marathon or read a gossip magazine. It's a great idea to analyze how you spend your downtime and see where you can make changes. There is nothing wrong with mindless entertainment or guilty pleasures, but we should be conscious that that is not the only way we entertain ourselves. Avoid being dumbed down by choosing an enriching activity during your downtime. As a side note, I actually find playing the piano during my down time quite soothing!

See you on Thursday, for the bonus video where I play, Alla Turca (and remember, I am not a professional pianist!) :)

This week I would love to know... Do you agree or disagree that today's culture is being dumbed down? What is a long-lost skill or new passion you'd like to cultivate? Let me know in the comment section and you could be picked as the comment of the week!

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

News
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance comes out October 27th from Simon & Schuster. Pre-order available now.

I will be speaking and signing copies of my new book on Thursday, October 29th at Pages Bookstore, in Manhattan Beach, CA at 7pm. Details to follow.

Thank you to Melissa55 who has read an advance copy of Polish Your Poise in Madame Chic. She recommends it in her August favorites!

Madame Chic Inspiring Thought
Cultivate your mind, seek out the arts or work on a skill this week! Share what you are doing on social media using the hashtag #MADAMECHIC so we can encourage each other and refuse to be dumbed down.

Comment of the Week
Erica G. writes:

I love this!!!!! I'm learning the violin as a 30-something. I practice ballet videos on YouTube for exercise, and I try to write poetry. I'm not "good" at any of them, but these pursuits feed me somehow. We homeschool, and we often have classical music playing in the background during certain subjects, and we've watched many classical ballets on YouTube. I adore your "culture minute" with your family!

Erica, I love that you are learning the violin in your 30s! That's the spirit!

Jeanne D. writes:

Jeanne D This is the first time I have heard of you or watched you, but I was delighted with your comments today. My mother had a rule that whenever I left the house, I had to look as good as I could for whatever I was going to do. I was never allowed to leave the house in curlers (this was in the 1950's). She died in 1964 and the 3 times I left the house in curlers (in the mid-1960's) I ran into someone I had not seen in years and felt so foolish. Needless to say, I did not do that again. That advice has served me well all my life as people always comment on how nice I look, or 'you always look great'. It wasn't long in the early years before I realized how much my daily mood was impacted by how I looked--so following this 'rule' has been one of the nicest things I have done for myself. It is such a treat to see someone in your generation feeling this way---and doing something about it!! Kudos to you!!

Thank you, Jeanne, for your lovely comment.

As you know, nearly every comment I get can be the comment of the week. Please keep them coming as I know that others enjoy reading them too. Also, your comment could be featured on the blog!

Please note, if you have submitted a question to me, look for it to be answered in a future "reader questions answered" video.

See you later in the week for a special performance of Mozart's Alla Turca :)


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