KATIE KENNEDY

Holiday Gift Guide: The Francophile

Holiday Gift Guide: The Francophile
đź“ŤParis, France

French Cookbook || Skincare Set || Classic Perfume || Ritz Baseball Hat || Herbs de Provence || Nautical Shirt || Framed Matchbook Print || Iconic Tea Cup Set || French Earl Gray Tea || French Oven || It-Girl Sneakers || Tote Bag

Dress (Similar) || Topcoat || Heels ($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Headband || Similar Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

France, French, Francophile, Holiday Gift Guide

Earlier this year, I had the absolute pleasure of spending nearly two weeks in France. With one week in Paris and one week exploring the Provence region, it’s easy to say that I fell in love with the country! It truly is so magical, and I cannot recommend visiting it enough. I would love to book another trip in the year 2023, but if I can’t, I’ve been thinking of ways to add a healthy dash of French to my life. Here are 12 ideas for the Francophile in your life with my latest gift guide.

French Cookbook

I have such a love for French cuisine. The simple ingredients and the right amount of spices (and butter) make for such incredible flavors. I’ve been growing my French cookbook collection recently. Mastering the Art of French Cooking from Julia Childs is a must, but I also like to pull recipes from Dinner in French. The next on my list is Plat Du Jour: French Dinners Made Easy. This book includes 352 pages of new recipes to try in the new year, and I can’t wait! 

Skincare Set

France is known the world over for their beauty products, with many making annual trips to Paris to stock up on supplies! It only makes sense since French women are renowned for their beauty and youthful glow. After researching and trying a few different brands, I really love the products from Sisley Paris. This Velvet Nourishing set is perfect for cold winter days when my dry skin is at its worst. 

Classic Perfume

While in Paris, I made sure to visit the iconic Officine Universelle Buly. This perfume boutique is absolutely incredible! There are countless perfume and skin care options, and it’s tempting to spend all of your souvenir budget here. I came home with a bottle of their orange blossom eau de perfume. The scent is light and citrus-inspired, perfect to be used as a daily favorite or for special occasions. 

France, French, Francophile, Holiday Gift Guide

Ritz Baseball Hat

There is nothing more luxurious than visiting the Ritz in Paris. Even if you don’t stay there, it’s still worth a visit. You can feel the history as you walk through its hallways. Recently, FRAME collaborated with the Ritz Paris, and I love every single item. The baseball hat is the most versatile pick that can be worn year-round and is the perfect gift for the Jetsetter on your shopping list.

Herbs de Provence

After traveling through the South of France this year, I quickly learned to love this French kitchen essential. Ever since, I’ve been adding herbs de Provence to nearly every recipe. From soups, salads, omelettes, it really elevates an already delicious meal. There’s just something about the blend of thyme, tarragon, rosemary, and even lavender. This blend from William-Sonoma comes in a cute ceramic jar for the chef or foodie.

Nautical Shirt

France has a long history with striped Breton shirts, and Saint James has always been at the center. Not only is it a French essential, historically worn by the Navy, but it’s also an incredibly versatile piece that belongs in every closet. There’s a rainbow of colors and styles, but the most classic pick would have to be navy and white stripes. Think of this as the ultimate symbol of Parisian chic. 

France, French, Francophile, Holiday Gift Guide

Framed Matchbook Print

One of my most cherished memories from Paris includes drinking and socializing at Harry’s New York Bar until 2 in the morning. Claiming to be the oldest cocktail bar in Europe, this place is a favorite amongst locals and tourists. This framed print from Charles Ryan Clarke is a constant reminder of an unforgettable evening. With hundreds of options to choose from, I think a matchbook print always makes for a great gift.

Iconic Tea Cup Set

For me, a perfect Parisian morning starts with a coffee and croissant at CafĂ© de Flore. Watch the world pass on Boulevard de Saint Germain as you enjoy your breakfast and attempt to read the local paper. If only every morning can be spent here. Since that’s probably not a reality right now, gifting a tea cup set from CafĂ© de Flore may be the next best thing. Pick up a croissant from your local bakery and you can add a touch of French to your morning routine.

French Earl Gray Tea

Although the Brits are most often associated with tea, the French may have perfected it. On my most recent trip, we had tea time at Laduree’s, and it was heavenly! One of the most beloved tea brands in France is Mariage Freres. Founded in 1854, it was developed by two brothers who imported tea from Asia and India. Gift a slice of France and history with this tin of Earl Gray Imperial tea. At Under $35 each, you can even mix and match to create a custom set. 

French Oven

With the colder season here, I have a long list of soup and stew recipes that I’m dying to try. Many of them recommend having a French oven in your kitchen just for the task. This enameled French oven by Le Creuset is dishwasher safe, meaning it moves from prep to cooking to cleanup without a hitch. They come in a rainbow of colors and are seriously a work of art. You’ll want to keep it out on display long after the dishes have been put away.

It-Girl Sneakers

Parisian women are notorious for having effortless and functional style. It’s extremely common to see one rocking an incredibly chic outfit with white sneakers. A favorite brand amongst the French set is Veja, especially their white sneakers. I’ve been wearing mine for several years and I can attest how seamlessly they can pull together almost any outfit. They’re also incredibly comfortable too!

Tote Bag

Not only are Longchamps the perfect travel tote bag, but they are also a quintessential French accessory. While in Paris, you see countless locals carrying as they hurry around the city. Longchamp created this particular tote bag to celebrate Bastille Day, France’s national holiday. You really can’t get any more Parisian than that!

France, French, Francophile, Holiday Gift Guide

Et VoilĂ ! These 12 Francophile gift ideas are sure to please and dazzle. Even simply shopping for them is enough to inspire a 2023 voyage to France. Maybe I’ll see you there!

Love from Paris,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Holiday Gift Guide: Coastal Grandmother

Holiday Gift Guide: Coastal Grandmother
đź“Ť Rowayton, Connecticut

Oversized Blanket || Fresh Scented Perfume || Large Festive Candle || Dutch Oven || Ginger Jar || Cable Knit Sweater || Wine Glass Set || Monogrammed Bath Towels || Needlepoint Pillow || Rattan Tote Bag || Cozy House Slippers || Maine Cookbook & Hamptons Cookbook

Oversized Sweater || White Jeans || Chelsea Boots || Wool Topcoat || Beanie || Similar Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

Is being a Coastal Grandmother still a thing? Since I think it’s more of a lifestyle than a quickly cyclical trend, it’s a style that I’ve brought to the end of 2022 and beyond. If you have a like-minded loved one who loves cozy sweaters, hosting dinner parties, and relaxing days at the beach, this is the gift guide for you. Here are 12 gift ideas for the Coastal Grandmother: a girl who strives to channel their inner Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, or Nancy Myer protagonist.

Oversized Blanket

The need to snuggle with an oversized blanket gets stronger and stronger as the weather gets cooler. Add a fun movie and a big bowl of popcorn, and I’m in heaven! Chappy Wrap is a woman-owned, New England-based company that I have long admired. They have a rainbow of cozy blankets to match countless design styles. Gift a blanket that matches the holiday season, like Carly Riordan’s collection, or pick an option that matches their personality.

Fresh Scented Perfume

Since the Hamptons seem like the epi-center for the Coastal Grandmother movement, it only makes sense to highly the women who call that slice of the coastal home. Aerin Lauder is one of those women, and I can’t help but love her AERIN perfume collection. Each scent is unique, and I often swap them to match my mood or event. A current favorite is Ikat Jasmine. With a combination of tuberose and honeysuckle, it will become an instant classic. 

Large Festive Candle

I think candles always make for the perfect last-minute gift idea. They’re truly a crowd-pleaser and come at any price point. If you go this route, make it a tiny splurge and pick a high-quality candle, preferably made from all-natural ingredients. NEST is one of my favorite brands, plus you can use the glass jar long after the candle is gone. 

Dutch Oven

With the colder season here, I have a long list of soup and stew recipes that I’m dying to try. Many of them recommend having a Dutch oven in your kitchen just for the task. This enameled French/Dutch oven by Le Creuset is dishwasher safe, meaning it moves from prep to cooking to cleanup without a hitch. They come in a rainbow of colors and are seriously a work of art. You’ll want to keep it out on display long after the dishes have been put away.

Ginger Jar

It’s just a fact. Every Coastal Grandmother has an ever-growing collection of blue and white ginger jars. As I write this, I have at least five pieces at my desk. Help add to the chinoiserie shelf by gifting a memorable piece this holiday season. You can find many options via Etsy, but don’t be afraid to do some thrifting in your town.

Cable Knit Sweater

A cozy cable knit sweater, especially in a cream color, seems like the ultimate Coastal Grandmother piece. I mean, I can totally see Diane Keaton wearing it in Something’s Gotta Give. Year-round, this a piece that belongs in their closet, from breezy summer days at the beach to evenings gathered around a warm fire. This particular sweater from J. Crew is absolutely stunning and will be an instant crowd-pleaser.

Wine Glass Set

Founder and owner of Estelle Colored Glasses, Stephanie, is inspired by her grandma, who loved antiquing throughout South Carolina. From stemware to cake stands, her glass pieces are absolutely stunning and come in a rainbow of colors. It seems like a loving nod to dinner parties from years ago when the tablescape was everything. I can’t decide between the wine glasses or the champagne coupes.

Monogrammed Bath Towels

Thoughtfully monogrammed pieces don’t have to blow your budget. Weezie Towels is one of my favorite women-founded companies to work with. While I practically live in my Short Robe, a set of Bath Towels is a perfect gift. Whether it’s the newly engaged friend, college students, or anyone in between, this customized gift is sure to delight the Coastal Grandmother.

Needlepoint Pillow

Needlepointing has taken the Coastal Grandmother world by storm and has seen the greatest resurgence. My grandma taught me how to crochet and cross-stitch, but in 2023 I hope to give needlepointing a try. If time isn’t on your side, but you still love the tongue-in-cheek sayings, gift a pre-made needlepoint pillow to freshen up your loved one’s home.

Rattan Tote Bag

You all probably know my penchant for straw bags. I think they are the perfect summertime accessory and make for an even better gift. Breck and Grier was created by two Connecticut-based sisters to bring Moroccan straw bags to the masses. They can be personalized to match the style of your mom, friend, sister, or any woman in your life. This Large Becky Tote is perfect for a day at the farmers market or the beach. AKA, a Coastal Grandmother’s best friend!

Cozy House Slippers

After a night of hosting, everyone deserves to kick up their feet and relax. Especially if you live in a colder climate, these classic house slippers from Sarah Flint would be such a thoughtful and often used gift. There are a few different color options: girly pink, neutral navy, or versatile black. Make your best guess on size, but a gift card is always a great backup plan if you aren’t very confident.

Maine Cookbook & Hamptons Cookbook

As someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen, cookbooks are one of my favorite gifts to send and receive. After all, food is love! With cookbooks, you can help a novice refine their cooking skills or add something new to someone’s already impressive repertoire. As I was shopping, so many new editions caught my idea! The Hamptons Kitchen is on the list because it has so many crowd-pleasing recipes. This book is even prettier in person, allowing the recipient to display it proudly in the kitchen. 

I know in my heart that the Coastal Grandmother style isn’t a trend, but more so a lifestyle! I promise you it’s here to stay. Shopping for the traditional set in your life couldn’t be easier. Who knows, you’ll probably end up loving something for yourself! Happy gifting!

Love from New York,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

NYC Christmas Packing Guide

NYC Christmas Packing Guide
đź“Ť Upper East Side, NYC

Sweater || Jeans || Ballet Flats || Coat || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet || Lip Color

I will always love Christmas time in the city. The festive spirit creates such a unique buzz that is nothing short of infectious. On the most recent trip to Manhattan, I packed up my favorite warm outfits and was ready to take on the city I love so much. From exploring the Christmas markets to enjoying dinner and a show, you’ll relish every minute of it. If you’re planning your own holiday trip to New York City, here are some of my favorite outfit ideas to pack.

Puffer Jacket || Cable Knit Sweater || Bootcut Jeans || Chelsea Boots || Cashmere Beanie || Cashmere Scarf || Oversized Leather Tote Bag

Exploring Christmas Markets

Nothing gets me into the holiday spirit faster than wandering through a festive Christmas market. Each year, there are at least ten to choose from. My personal favorite may be the Union Square Market, but I know Bryant Park Winter Village is always a crowd-pleaser. With an ice skating rink and a view of the Empire State Building, it’s truly hard to beat. To stay comfortable all afternoon, be sure to bundle up. A warm cable knit sweater with oversized puffer jacket will do just the trick. Wear a pair of Chelsea boots for comfort while you walk from stall to stall. Finally, this leather tote bag is perfect to hold all the goodies you buy along the way. 

Plaid Event Dress || Black Wool Coat || Black Heels || Feather Clutch || Leather Gloves || Red Lipstick

Dinner and a Show

There’s so special about a dinner and Broadway show date night, especially during the holiday season. While most theaters have a relaxed dress code, be sure to double-check, I vote to dress up for the occasion. Pick a restaurant close to the theater, such as Le Rock or Casa Lever, so you don’t have to rush after dinner. When I first spotted this stunning tartan midi dress from J. Crew, I knew it would be perfect for a festive night with David. Because this wool top coat is fitted, it will help elevate your look. Don’t forget to add a pair of leather gloves and a feathered clutch for fun accessories that are perfect for winter! Afterward, the show, grab a cocktail at Pebble Bar to round out a perfect evening! 

Striped Robe || Nutcracker Pajamas || Striped Eye Mask || Relaxing Face Mask || Fuzzy Slippers

Cozy for a Lazy Morning

Need a little more time to rest after a fun night on the town? No worries! With this pajama set from LAKE, let yourself have a cozy, lazy morning in your hotel room. The Pima cotton feels so luxurious, you’ll be tempted to relax in them all day long. Treat yourself to some room service while you apply a face mask to help your skin recover from the cold NYC air. If you’re feeling particularly brave, run out for a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich from the nearest bodega. The point of the morning is to take your time and have relaxation in a city that never sleeps. 

Turtleneck || Wool Skirt || Wool Jacket || Ballet Flats || Leather Handbag || Wool Beret

Window Shopping on 5th Avenue

Get ready to take on the street of Manhattan with this classic look. I love this French-inspired outfit for window shopping on 5th and Madison Avenue. A simple black turtleneck is always a staple but looks even better with a grey wool skirt. Pick a pair of ballet flats that will be comfortable despite the miles, but remember to wear a pair of tights if the temperatures get too chilly. Take advantage of the window displays at Saks 5th Avenue, Bloomingdales, and Bergdorf Goodman. From there, you’re just a quick jaunt to the Plaza, which always deserves a visit during the holiday season. You’re already perfectly dressed to dine like Eloise at the Palm Court. 

And, just like that, you have four easy and effortless outfits to pack during your Christmas stay in New York. The beauty of these pieces is that they can be mixed and matched with whatever favorites you already have in your closet. You too can dress like your favorite Upper East Side or downtown it-girl without breaking the bank. Happy packing!

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.