While I was working on MY NEW BOOK, Arbiters of Style, I delved deeply into defining French style. It turns out that certain je ne sais quoi does have defining characteristics. For one, I found that French style-setters truly follow their instincts to make their point of view heard. And if they follow the rules, it’s only up to a point—classic designs always have a distinguishing twist that redefine the cool factor. It makes sense that so many of us find inspiration in French style.
Arbiters of Style: The New Wave of French Interior Design by Eugenia Santiesteban Soto is available now.
Here are some of my favorite French finds that somehow feel timeless and fresh all at once.
Cupboard Knobs by Bonnemazou Cambus
Founded by two industrial designers, this hardware company is the epitome of French cool.
$174, bonnemazou-cambus.fr
Marbles Ceramic Vase by India Mahdavi
India Mahdavi is a French national treasure and her Marbles collection is as chic as it is whimsical.
€450, india-mahdavi.com
Yellow Dessert Plate by Waww La Table
Waww La Table is a newish tabletop brand that was started during the pandemic. Along with collaborating with some of France’s premiere talents, they also have their own in-house line with fun pieces like this bright yellow dessert plate.
€19, waww.fr
KRONOS CANDLESTICK by Studio Ebur
One of the great things about the designers featured in Arbiters of Style is how diverse the group was, which is a true reflection of modern-day France. Studio Ebur is a Lebanese-French duo and I love these candlesticks that fittingly reference French decorative arts but are crafted by artisans in Lebanon.
€320, studioebur.com
Castor Pendant Light by Édition Limitée Paris
I fell in love with this pendant light when I first saw it years ago, and it still holds the same allure.
Price upon request, editionlimiteeparis.com
Transat Espresso Cup & Saucer Yellow by Marie Daâge
Marie Daâge is one of the remaining porcelain houses that hand-paints each piece. I will never tire of their striped Transat collection, it’s a classic.
£150, bonadea.com
Spiked Vase by Jean Roger
Jean Roger ceramics are classic pieces that have been collected by the likes of Jackie Kennedy and Coco Chanel. This piece riffs on their more traditional designs.
$2,400, schumacherdesignshop.com
Greco Medium Lampshade, Black & White Model
Former fashion designer turned lampshade artisan Coline De Masure makes these cotton shades with theatrical flair.
€480, lamaisondecommerce.com
Mabouls by India Mahdavi
We’ve featured these tumblers in Frederic (a few times!) and have them in our corporate office in New York. There’s a reason we keep coming back to them, they are so fun!
€124, waww.fr
Charlotte Chenais Double Palm Sculpture
Charlotte Chenais is primarily a jeweler, but also a sculptor. These organic cast-bronze pieces would look amazing on a bookshelf.
$4,575, charlottechesnais.com
Vase by La Tuile à Loup
La Tuile à Loup is known for its selection of artisan-made tablewares from all over France. I love how vibrant this vase is.
Price upon request, latuilealoup.com
Sun Duvet Cover by Pierre Gonalons
For sleeping like a modern-day Sun King (or queen).
$1,425, theinvisiblecollection.com
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