Playing with Proportions

I was browsing through the last vestiges of the summer sale in Zara the other day, and came across these two pieces.  I fell in love with this skirt – its vintage cut and a bright-pastel, lilac color.  I feel quite ladylike in it, because it nips in so nicely at the waist.  Unfortunately, it’s made from a linen-like material, so wrinkles spread like wildfire, and I don’t own a clothing iron.  However, let’s all take a moment to celebrate the fact that the original price of this skirt was around 45, but I scored it for 17!!!!  And the little crop top?  1.99!  Good deals give me such a life-high!

I’m quite wary of crop tops because of my larger bust, although in theory they should be very helpful in terms of adding height to my short legs… it’s a catch-22.  I liked the idea of putting the crop top over a high-wasted skirt; it just feels easier and more fresh than tucking in a blouse.  I think this skirt runs the risk of looking very old-fashioned, so I was careful about how I styled it.  Maybe it’s not the MOST flattering outfit on my body, but I shouldn’t let things like my natural body shape deter me from wearing whatever the hell I want.  That’s a lesson I continually have to remind myself of, almost on a day-to-day basis.

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Ile-Saint-Louis & Berthillon Ice Cream

The second part of our day consisted of exploring the smaller of Paris’ islands – Île-Saint-Louis. This island’s claim to fame is Berthillon, ice creamery. It is the home to many (very) rich people, some charming shops, and a restaurant called, in English, Our Ancestors the Gauls. Now, this restaurant was closed, but when I spied animal furs, helmets, and swords hanging in the windows, I was very intrigued. We later learned that an experience at this restaurant consists of communal seating, hearty caveman-like dishes, and a raucous, loud atmosphere. Sounds like the perfect antidote once I’ve tired of the classic, refined French cafe scene.

I highly recommend getting some Berthillon ice cream. The main store is often closed (because French), but tons of restaurants in Paris serve their goods. I got a cone with THREE flavors. Vanilla, Coconut, and Melon. I should have just had melon because it was so freaking delicious! …Have I mentioned that I am now addicted to melon? France has turned me into a melon freak. Their melons are very sweet, and all their produce is so much better than stuff at US grocery stores. You’ve heard the rumors, and I’ve come to tell you that they’re pretty much true. Most food is indeed better here.

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