JOYEUX NOËL ET BONNE ANNÉE!

Chanel Snow Globe

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your support and celebrating the art de vivre of the allure of French style.  2013 will be a year of new heights for Le Style magazine (available on iTunes!) and our French Tea event, L'heure du Thé where we will support the National Breast Cancer Foundation, with an intimate high fashion entertainment in Melbourne and Singapore. Be sure to subscribe or follow us on Facebook and Twitter for exciting updates!  JOYEUX NOËL ET BONNE ANNÉE!

xoxo

Le Style

Annual L'heure du Thé Event by Le Style: Melbourne Exhibitors Applications Open Now

Photographie: The White Tree | Chocolate Eiffel Tower by Master Pâtissier Pierrick Boyer  

To register your interest, please email to sha@lestyle.org for more info about L'heure du Thé Event in 2013. You may also visit our site here.

Hot from Press: Le Style Summer Edition Pour Noël!

Read it here.

Sneak peek to Le Style Digital Magazine Summer Edition Pour Noël

Shanon Quinn Photography

Online shopping links with worldwide delivery, beautiful inspirations, celebrity interview, property buying and selling in Paris with interactive videos and direct clicks. Available on our site on 1st December.

Joyeux Thanksgiving!

Style Me Pretty.com

Happy Thanksgiving to all our readers and followers from America and Canada! 

Cycle Chic

What's the coolest-looking thing about the biker girls of Paris? Probably just the sheer number of them. The more there are, the more they stand out. And thanks to the vélib program, taking out and returning a bike is a faster and easier operation than locking one up with your own bike chain. And they sport baskets, to boot! It can be one's primary mode of transportation, or a spur-of-the-moment ride.

While Melbourne is in Spring season, we are in a cycle chic spell.  Reid Cycles has great selection of ladies bikes and accessories for all your needs. Don't let any dress code be a hindrance to your bike riding, anything goes and that's what make this cycle chic look fabulous. Put on your Louboutins!

Images: The Sartorialist | Bill Cunningham

Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo and a Frenchie

Following up on the recent New York, Milan, London and Paris Fashion Week after-party amongst fashionistas in Twitter-lounge, it's only natural for us to team up with Rom Anthonis from Rom Anthonis Photography and Nerida Beardsell from ntdesigns Make-Up Artistry & Hair Styling for un photoshoot.  

Rom has a fantastic sharp eye on details to his photography and a great admiration on his work has been going for too long.  Having been partners for various fashion and event projects, Nerida and Rom joint forces with Le Style in creating a photoshoot featuring Sha Anderson, the director of Le Style.

Mixing a few of her favourite things - Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo shoes and a Frenchie named Daisy; the location was perfectly set at the stunning, The Albany by 8hotels.  The Albany is on one of South Yarra's prettiest little streets on Millswyn Street which has only the best regular and new guests who have been charmed by its amazing exterior upon discovery.  Check out its chic interior styling here!  As part of 8Hotels Collection you can also stay at the Paris8 Apartments located in the heart of the Marais, the Louvre, Montmartre, Montogueil and the Latin Quarter.  Book your reservations here.

L'heure du Thé event that we produce each year are in the process of exciting new heights for the following year onwards.  We are working towards celebrating with friends and fans in major cities in future!  Thank you to all press and reviews that we received from all wonderful individuals who appreciate French allure.  Le Style supports bloggers and beautiful luxurious elegance in black and white in Le Style l'edition noir et blanc Spring Edition.

Photography: Rom Anthonis Photography | Facebook Page

Makeup Artistry & Hair Styling: Nerida Beardsell | Facebook Page

Wardrobe: Wrap top and wrap glitter skirt; vintage jewellery and black fur coat - model’s own | snake leather heels by Jimmy Choo | handbag by Louis Vuitton.

Models: Daisy the Frenchie, Sha Anderson director of LE STYLE and L’heure du Thé 

Location: The Albany 

LE STYLE Spring Black & White Edition

Bonjour printemps! The first day of spring started so beautifully. Kick back and get the mobile devices out to celebrate the season with Le Style Spring Black and White Edition. The publication is an inspiration, an idea of passion that we have to live the essence of French beauty that touches our hearts. Click on the magazine below to view!

High fashion & high tea in the sky at L'Heure du Thé event

A contemporary, decadent Parisian themed high tea held at our official venue, Sofitel Melbourne held on 21st July went above our expectations. Guests dressed to the Chanel pearls, the food were better than ever, the high tea room located on level 35 boasted stunning skyline of the city - leaving the afternoon a successful high tea with high fashion & high society.

We're very pleased with working with Sofitel and will begin L'Heure du Thé event internationally at the Sofitel chain.  Next stop will be hosted at to-be-launched Sofitel Singapore in 2013.  Asia's cosmopolitan city perfected our first stop in the South East Asia region.  

Thank you to VnC Cocktails for providing delicious cocktails to our guests, Madam Virtue & Co for the fun, fresh high fashion installation which includes Lanvin, Hermes and Paris household names, Sofitel Melbourne for the excellent services, all exhibitors and press involved.

Wonderful exhibitors included Chateau Cuisine, Madam Virtue & CO, VnC Cocktails, Discovervin Wines, B Free Intimate Apparel, Paris 99, Bon Radiance, Missie, Mi Amor Candles, Anton Venoir Interior Designs, The Girl In The Green Scarf and One Sweet Girl.

Beautiful French high tea menu at our official venue, Sofitel Melbourne

Guests stayed on for hours at the very high tea location - Level 35 of Sofitel Melbourne

Amazing French antiques showcased by Anton Venoir Interior Designs

Chic black gown as part of high fashion installation by Monsieur Dean Hewitt from Madam Virtue & CO.

High fashion installation included Lanvin, Hermes and other Paris household names by Dean Hewitt from Madam Virtue & CO

Our Partner, VnC Cocktails provided complimentary cocktails liven up the atmosphere 

Beautiful wines from Provence by Discovervin Wines 

Divine Bastille-inspired macarons by Chateau Cuisine

Gorgeous sweet delights by One Sweet Girl with a Parisian theme

Atrium Bar located opposite our petit emporium where 12 exhibitors showcased their beautiful collections in high fashion, food, beauty and lifestyle

 Photo: LE STYLE

Your Invitation to L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea) luxury event & le Petit Emporium

Exclusively for Le Style subscribers

Bonjour Juillet!  It's a month full of events and festivals in France.  Le Tour De France, Bastille Day, Paris Fashion Week, Paris Plages & L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea) event!  Enjoy complimentary cocktails upon arrival perfect for that fabulous July atmosphere.

2 tables left available. Book an afternoon of modern Parisian day at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins here.

Exclusive offer: Come in a group of 3, and get 1 ticket for free.  Only to valued likers, followers and subscribers.  Discover a secret discount code on the site above for tickets at $65 per person.

lestyletea.tumblr.com

A beautiful Petite Emporium at L'Heure du Thé French High Tea event

Each year, we host a luxurious French High Tea in style and glamour. We'd love to spend the day with you in a setting full of French indulgence.

Set with French musique at a contemporary 5-star destination, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, we bring to you perfect Opera slices created by the well-known French pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre, beautiful spread of patisseries, freshly made gourmet sandwiches including warm delights that balance your taste buds with French tea and coffee. A specially curated menu just pour vous!

Feast your senses on a divine petite emporium of fashion, beautiful lingerie collections, amazing valuable antiques, artistic cake displays and exciting surprises leading up to the event day. A lucky door prize winner and best-dressed winner will be spoilt with a delightful prize.

Anton Venoir Interiors

Sneak peek: Get ready to be in awe by the stunning display by antique dealer and interior decorator, owner of Anton Venoir Interiors. Specializing in French antiques and interior styling, these treasured pieces are only for private viewings, however our lucky guests will stand a chance to admire in awe some of the stunning collections at L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea).

Want beauty tips & treatment? Visit our petite salon de beauté at the upcoming L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea) this 21st July for that special treat!

lestyletea.tumblr.com

Exclusive ticket offer to subscribers only coming up next!  View on our Facebook Page.

Get a FREE ticket to L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea)!

Bonjour! 2 days left before the Early Bird Promo Tickets of $65 ends. THERE ARE LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE, so do secure your seats soon to avoid disappointment - Book here.

There are more exhibitors to explore & shop at L'Heure du Thé's petite emporium! We bring to you an amazing display of exclusive French antiques from overseas, French, European and elite local brands in fashion, health, beauty and more. Only the best pour vous! The delightful high tea menu & experience at the event is needless to say - magnifique.

Email to info@lestyle.org or write in a comment below on why you would like to attend L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea) & we will give away a ticket to one lucky person! Giveaway ends on 21st June 6pm. Winner will be announced on 22nd June.

L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea)

21st July 2012, Sat

1-6pm (High tea sessions at 1pm & 4pm)

Sofitel Melbourne on Collins

Book here: Website

Photographe: Tim Walker pour Sofitel

LE STYLE MAGAZINE - WINTER 2012

The amazing turn out from our previous edition gets us connecting with some of the world's successful individuals who are passionate in French style. An interactive version, smartphone and tablet friendly, accompanied by instant click-on videos and useful links - this Winter edition is one you would want to sit at the cafe or lounge with! A stylish, cool and insightful digital publication of today.

Maintaining the clean look and yet full of great topics that's perfect for the savvy digital lover.  Le Style team consists of well-known correspondents who are passionate to bring to you the best.

Le Style Digital Magazine is published quarterly for each season in Melbourne, showcasing French style and news from around the world.  For advertising rates and information, email advertise@lestyle.org.

Click on magazine to read:

L'Heure du Thé event at Sofitel Melbourne on 21st July - A luxurious French High Tea in style and glamour

Le Style is hosting our next much anticipated, glamorous French High Tea event on 21st July.  We have shared with you French style from around the world through our lenses on our blog and magazine.  Now we'd like to spend the day with you in a luxurious setting full of French indulgence.

Set with French musique at a contemporary 5-star destination, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, we bring to you perfect Opera slices created by the well-known French pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre, beautiful spread of patisseries, freshly made gourmet sandwiches including warm delights that balance your taste buds with French tea and coffee.  A specially curated menu just pour vous.

Feast your senses on a divine petite emporium of fashion, beautiful lingerie collections, amazing valuable antiques, artistic cake displays and exciting surprises leading up to the event day.  A lucky door prize winner and best-dressed winner will be spoilt with a delightful prize.

Date: 21st July 2012, Sat

Time: 1 to 6pm

Venue: Sofitel Melbourne on Collins

Dress Code: Parisian Chic

Early Bird Promotion:

We are giving you the opportunity to book your tickets at a discounted price to attend L'Heure du Thé!  Book your seats now for only $65 and enjoy all of the above by purchasing your tickets on the link here or call 0430 375 564.  Offer last till 21st June.  Standard ticket price of $90 will commence thereafter.  Hurry before tickets sell out!  

Social Links:

Join us on our social links to be informed on prize giveaways, exhibitors, surprises and so much more.  Click on  L'Heure du Thé Facebook | Le Style Facebook | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram.

Tchaikovsky On The Road Through the Eyes of French Director Bertrand Normand

The conductor, much like a mad scientist, bold and stern like most middle-aged Russian men, instantly stops the entire orchestra to a complete silence, and zeros in for the attention from one. He looks directly into the eyes of a cellist and demands, “inspire the orchestra!” This is a scene from French director Bertrand Normand’s Tchaikovsky On The Road documentary of a European tour of the highly-acclaimed Russian Mariinsky Theater’s orchestra lead by the great conductor, Valery Gergiev. Admirer of classical music or not, Normand’s film enlightens us of the remarkable orchestra’s passion, dedication and often painstaking journey with nightly performances after a day filled with rehearsals.

“Maybe the most important thing that I have learned is what a conductor brings to a piece of music and how differently an orchestra can play according to the conductor, the venue, the mood,” states Normand of his latest film. “It was amazing to hear each symphony of Tchaikovsky sound differently every day.” Normand dedicated two weeks of filming on tour with the orchestra from cities such as Amsterdam, Brussles, Toulsous and Cologne just to name a few. “When you can listen to the same piece of music over and over within a short period of time performed differently each time, a world opens to you, a world of variety, of nuances, of emotions, and you can’t help but compare, relate, be more attentive and more sensitive to the music.”

I’m highly impressed with Normand who graduated with a degree in Business Management but realized it was not his calling. “I needed to do something I was passionate about,” he admits, “I did some acting for a few years, in short films and on stage, but I realized that I didn’t care much for the life of an actor and that my true means of expression was directing, meaning being behind the camera.” Normand’s other impressive documentary Ballerina released in 2006 showcases five female dancers also from the Mariinsky Theater (commonly known as the Kirvo). Although Normand wants to direct feature films, he has worked on several documentaries. “It allows to convey something truthful, although to some extent personal as well, to the audience,” explains Normand of documentary type films.

“Before directing my own films, I have worked as an assistant on several films made by other directors,” Normand recalls. “The most memorable experience was on Russian Dolls, directed by Cédric Klapisch, with Romain Duris and Audrey Tautou, on which I worked as second unit director.”

As for Tchaikovsky On The Road, “making that film has allowed me to better grasp what some call the ‘Russian soul’,” Normand explains. “What distinguishes the Mariinsky orchestra from most Western orchestras is that it plays in a more emotional way.” Normand shows us how and why commendable conductor Gergiev “seems to go through great torments or ecstasy!” You see this in Gergiev’s eyes as he stand proud in front of his orchestra. That is, if his eyes are open. Other times with eyes shut, Gergiev is lost in an apparent trance. His baton flutters like that of the wings of a hummingbird while the other hand is directing another group of musicians a different tempo. I became completely fascinated with Gergiev, his hair a tattered mess tosses beads of sweat onto his jacket; his mellow dramatic full body gestures surely needed in leading the orchestra to its greatness. Through Normand’s eyes, we see and feel the maestro’s passion as he ignites the musicians to a most memorable performance. “Some of the musicians, and above all Gergiev himself, are certainly passionate about what they are doing,” describes Normand.   “Observing them gives a lot of energy and a will to devote oneself to something one is passionate about.”

“Tchaikovsky is our daily bread,” explains French Horn musician, Yuri Akimkin in the film. While on the road with the orchestra, Normand was able to make certain observations of this ensemble. “It was amazing to witness how an orchestra functions from inside, moreover a Russian orchestra.” While some musician are back home in St. Petersburg performing at the Mariinksy, “those taken on tour by Gergiev are supposed to be the best and most energetic ones, and young ones cope with tiredness better than old ones,” Normand explains.

http://www.bertrandnormand.com/

By: Slavica Monczka

A piece of the French Riviera fit for a Princess

For those of you looking to splurge on a vacation home, look no further. Have I found a place for you! Let’s just say, it is located in paradise, a.k.a. the French Riviera. Luxury does have its price so for the 21 million Euros, which is nearly $28 million USD today, you shall receive a home fit for a princess, literally. “The owner is one of the most famous and beautiful princesses,” states Irina Alekseeva of Sadaka Exclusive Realty agent representing the majestic villa off the glorious Côte d'Azur.

First thing first, I wanted to cut to the chase to know why the princess, who shall remain nameless for the sake of privacy, would sell such a beautiful property minutes away from world-renowned Monte Carlo. In the back of my mind I envision a stunning young lady, resembling Eva Green dressed in an evening gown in Casino Royale, sipping champagne off the terrace during sunset, overlooking the sparkling sea and twinkling city lights. “She is very involved with charity work,” explains Alekseeva, “she wants to invest her money in one of her charity projects.” 

If you are not writing out that check yet to purchase the home after learning of such a generous deed sure to accept the princess into the sanctity of sainthood, then allow me illustrate for you more. This palatial estate includes the basics you would expect, such as original marble fireplaces, numerous large and spacious rooms, a pool with a guest house, and a private beach, just to name a few. From any one of the picturesque terraces or patios, the views are breathtaking! 

Views from the Villa

“It would be paradise,” Alekseeva declares in her charming French accent when asked what it would be like to live in this elegant manor. “You wake up in the morning in your room to views of a blue, peaceful sea,” Alekseeva continues illustrating for me what you can expect for a typical day in this prestigious locale. “You enjoy breakfast on the beach, later plans with friends for a barbeque. For the evening, you put on a beautiful dress and invite your business partners to champagne. Later, accompanied by your driver, you are off to the famous Monte Carlo Casino where you enjoy the most famous opera in the world. Near midnight, a beautiful table in the best restaurant is waiting for you.”

I suddenly think of Eva Green once again, only this time I am she and my driver is the 007 agent himself dressed in a tux as we race down the winding seaside drive! “You have a great image of Monaco, and you are right,” Alekseeva laughs! “It is the most famous place in the world for the exceptional people and for a unique life style.”

Located in the one of the most exclusive communities in the French Riviera, Domaine Prive du Cap-Martin, this historic villa was built in the late 19th century by prominent architect Hans-Georg Tersling. Well known for much of his work on the French Riviera of that time, Tersling was commissioned by European aristocrats and elitists for his designs from mansions to hotels you find scattered across the highly desirable coastline.  

Monte-Carlo Casino

The accomplished architect knew that the cultured and wealthy holiday homeowners on the French Rivera demanded quality, as evident in the exposed stone structure and the room layouts that captures the natural light gleaming from windows throughout this chateau, a must on the Mediterranean Sea.

Alekseeva is well experienced in representing these luxury properties for her high-profile clients from Paris, to Monaco and even to other cosmopolitan cities like Geneva, London and our very own Miami. Again without mentioning names, most of her clients are on the Forbes list. Due to the high priced residential properties, the savvy and sophisticated Alekseeva chooses to represent only the distinguished to be able to give them her full attention in the process. Alekseeva has built relationships within each location for an irreproachable experience for the sale and purchase of her client’s properties. Currently, Alekseeva’s listings range from a 1 million Euro pied-à-terre in Paris to a 100 million Euros mansion near Monaco she calls “a piece of art.” Gasp!  

These pictures can try, but do not do the lavish villa the justice it deserves. Often purchased as a secondary home, Alekseeva explains of the properties on the French Riviera, “it is not only the villa you buy; you buy your social position and a security which is the best in the world.” The down or volatile global economy does not affect her listings much at all. “Monaco is the most secure place in the world for you and your finances, and for the life of your family,” Alekseeva confidently states. “The highest level of education for your children, great climate, entertainment all year round from the Grand Prix to the best restaurants, art galleries and events,” boasts Alekseeva.

If the best location is key in real estate, then the French Riviera is the place to be. However, if you are already fortunate enough to have a villa there, no worries as Alekseeva has more to offer at www.sadakarealty.com. By: Slavica Monczka

L'idée du jour - Louis Vuitton Trunks

Photographe

A Day in Paris With Composer Eric Serra

Photo Courtesy of Eric Serra

Music mogul Eric Serra has a wealth of experience from composing his own music for his band RXRA to being the founder of the EuroVoice competition to, what he is most commonly known for, his long list of music scores for blockbuster films. From his studio in his home inParis, I spent a day with Eric Serra curious about his beginning that led him down this path of success, and where it will taking him next! 

The Fifth Element(1997), The Professional (1994), andLa Femme Nikita (1990), Serra has composed music for all but one of Besson’s films in his entire history as film director. Further impressive is that young Serra at that time did not consider himself a composer, explaining to Besson, as if almost not accepting the job, "well, I’m not a composer, I am just a musician." Luckily, Besson was so impressed with Serra that he encouraged him to give it a try, leading to this marriage made in heaven where the two have collaborated their film and music for well over two decades now. 

"Luc knows exactly what role he wants the music to play in the movie, for each scene. And that is probably why we work well together, because he talks about emotions. The way I work with music, even the way I listen to music, to me is emotional," explains Serra of composing for director Besson. "That is my only concept of music. When I compose I am just expressing emotions." 

Believe by Criss Angel and Cirque Du Soleil on stage at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas. The Cirque illustrates how "Serra takes the listener on a thrilling, dreamlike exploration beginning with sounds of vintage children-inspired melodies to rock and gothic moments with heavy, industrial, electronic beats to classical and operatic influences." 

Serra has composed music for a variety of movie genre, such as action/adventure Golden Eye (1995) of the James Bond mega hit film series, or animations Arthur 3 and Tarzan where he had the opportunity to work with the legendary Phil Collins. "I’m good friends with Peter Gabriel, and so it was nice to meet the other Genesis," jokingly stating since he knows the two "now I know all the secrets of the original Genesis." 

We sit in front of his monstrous digital recording soundboard and discuss how he has come a long way in his career, yet Serra is humble when reminiscing with me his fascination with music as a child. Serra is not sure when it all began for him as he does not have much memory before age seven, when his mother unexpectedly died. 

Assia Ahhatt. Serra will also be starting to work on his new album for RXRA this year as well.  Need more Serra? Visit EricSerra.com and EuroVoice.tv. For a show you have to see to Believe, go to Criss Angel Believe at Luxor in Las Vegas. 

RXRA You make my mind wonder, go astray In a trance, I fade away For Serra’s music, I am the prey 

By Slavica Monczka

La recette des macarons croquants, café‑chocolat blanc by Carte Noire

A sexy and enjoyable video of the making of White Chocolate-Coffee Macarons by Carte Noire.  A must-watch for foodies and dessert lovers.  Sweet tooths, you've been warned. 

Opening of Festival de Cannes 2012

“Cannes belongs to each and every one of us who, year after year, from wherever we are and in our own individual way, contributes towards creating it step by step. It is only by constantly analyzing the Festival, adapting its function and encouraging debate about it that we will continue to make it the very best it can be. Cannes must be open to new ideas, while remaining faithful to its past, of course. Diversity can only enrich it. That´s what makes the Festival de Cannes our festival.” - Thierry Frémaux

MOONRISE KINGDOM, the new film by American Wes Anderson, will open the 65^thFestival de Cannes on Wednesday, 16 May in the Grand Théâtre Lumière of the Palais des Festivals, with the Jury presided over by Italian filmmaker Nanni Moretti in attendance.

If you love films, glamour and French style with a beautiful culture mix at a festival, note the date next month with your friends for a fabulous day on 16th to 27th May.  Read more on Festival de Cannes website here.

Photo du jour - Paris, je t'aime

French bulldog paired with a fabulous owner.  {Image}

A Seductively French partnership with Le Style

A widely respected fashion and lifestyle correspondent, host and creator of Seductively French, Slavica Monczka is one of Le Style's official correspondent for our upcoming magazine issues bringing readers world renown fashion designers, iconic luxury brands, celebrity chefs and international business moguls while visiting prestigious destinations like The Royal Palace of Monaco.

Le Style's Fashion and Lifestyle Correspondent, Slavica Monczka

Publicity for Seductively French series produced by Primetime Emmy Award winning producers John Feist (Survivor) and Jarrod Harlow (The Amazing Race), will include topics and celebrity personalities that Slavica, a widely respected fashion and lifestyle correspondent, has written about in such international publications as Jetset Magazine, JustLuxe.com, Upscale Living Magazine, Luxury Report Magazine, L'Officiel (Ukraine), Belle Inspiration and Le Style. 

- View the article report here on Yahoo Finance.  

Congratulations to Jason and Slavica Monczka for a great showcase of French luxury and lifestyle, and partnership with Le Style.