Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

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Soirée à la môde

January 29, 2008

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In a glamourous end to elegant Haute Couture week, designers and models united for one night of partying and fundraising for the fight against AIDS.

Diner de la Môde is the annual bash that brings out the finest talent in fashion, and this year took place at the Pavilion d’Armenonville at the Bois de Boulogne. In attendance were such fashion doyens as Yohji Yamamoto, Ricardo Tisci (both featured above), Chrisian Lacroix, and Giambattista Valli. Supermodels and stars included Devon Aoki, Natalia Vodianova, Eva Herizigova, Dita von Teese, Diane Kruger, and French actress/Playboy centerfold Vahina Giocante. Oh, and Madame Catherine Deneuve.

The night was magical, and the dresses might have had something to do with it: Dita Von Teese looked ravishing in Lacroix haute, Eva Herizogova looked more like Helen of Troy than Diane Kruger in her Sophia Kokosalaki dress, and the eternal muse of the city, Carine Roitfeld, looked sultry in Christopher Kane.

The charity event raised nearly 1 million euros, and the auction included a black and white photo of Dita von Teese, and personally designed chairs by some of fashion’s biggest designers.

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Party of le Week: Tranoi

January 21, 2008

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Men’s fashion week was the buzz of the town this past weekend, as the industry flocked to Paris to snap up the hot creations from designers like Kris von Assche, Hedi Slimane, and dozens of up-and-coming createurs. Two major men’s expositions– Tranoi and Rendez-vous, took place to showcase new collections from edgy designers like Surface to Air, Gaspard Yurkievich, and Xavier Brisoux.

Parties of mention around the city include last nights wild bash at the opulent Hotel Paiva (above) for Tranoi, where the night started with a presentation by Bernard Wilhelm, and was followed by entertainment by the Broken Hearts Club. What began as classy red carpet event ended like a frat party, and by 3am, the champagne needed restocking and bouncers were busy hauling out roudy partiers. “Literally an hour after the Veuve was brought out, the wheels fell off and everyone went crazy. I saw someone get rugby tackled on the dance floor. At that point the level was set for the night,” said Mic Eaton of up-and-coming label, Material Boy. “I’m rather tired today,” he added.

Other parties were held over the weekend at La Scala and Experimental Cocktail Club (which was THE private venue of the week, hosting everyone from Details magazine to the Rendez-Vous group).

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Keeping her crown

January 15, 2008

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Miss France and pageant organizers have reached a compromise decision following the photo scandal that surfaced last month (see previous article).

 Valérie Begue will keep her crown this year, but will not participate in any international contests, such as Miss Universe. Instead, Miss New Caledonia will fill in. 

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Who is Miss New Caledonia? It’s Vahinerii Requillart (see above). Where is New Caledonia? It’s a French island in the Southwest pacific, where they don’t take scandalous digital photos, and still use the franc as currency!

This seems like a win for Miss France (the public was on her side anyway). Now with no pageants to rehearse for, she have lots of time to….

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Bonne Annee 2008!

January 1, 2008

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Paris ushered in 2008 last night with parties around the city, although the vibe according to officials was generally “calm,” with only 150 cars torched by vandals.

Today, smoke still billows out of the cafes on the Champs-Elysees as bleary-eyed tourists recuperate from the nighttime festivities. Looks like that new smoking ban is going to take some enforcement!

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Get Down & Dirty at your Paris Library

December 3, 2007

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Forget those scandalous videos you’ve been downloading, and get over to the Bibliotheque Nationale this season for some eye-opening pornography. That’s right, porn in a national library!

The new exhibition is called “L’Enfer de la Bibliotheque; Eros au secret,” and showcases 170 years of meticulously collected pornographic material from France and the UK. (Some librarian has been having a lot of fun). Warning: this show is not for the faint of heart– some of the content is XXXX– and those under 16 are not allowed.

Think of it as a holiday gift from la Republique!

Check out this review for some dirty details.

“L’Enfer de la Bibliotheque, Eros aus secret”: open at the Bibliothèque Francois Mitterrand in the 13th arrondissement from 10am to 7pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays and from 1pm to 7pm on Sundays from tomorrow until 2 March. Entrance: 7 euros. Under 16s are banned.

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Hedi Slimane & a lot of Perfect Strangers

November 28, 2007

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Former Dior Homme maestro Hedi Slimane unveiled his new artistic venture this evening at Galerie Almine Rech in the Marais. The exhibition is called Perfect Strangers and showcases black and white photographs and light design by the famed couturier. Inspiration for the works came from a summer vacation to Spain, where he visited a rock festival called Benicassim.  Most of the photos are giant-scale images that follow the rock&roll motif– and one wall is covered in part of the concert’s stage.

The fashion industry herd flocked in around 7pm, and flashbulbs popped faster that champagne corks (actually, where was the champagne?!) when Editor-in-Chief of French Vogue, Carine Roitfeld, strolled in to view the work. Incredibly chic and clad in what looked like a golden brace/suspender belt, she cut the most elegant silhouette of the evening.

Hedi’s work is on display until January 5th.

Tue-Sat, 11am-7pm.

Galerie Almine Rech, 19 rue de Saintonge,

3rd. M°St-Sébastien-Froissart.

01.45.83.71.90.

www.hedislimane.com/

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Lauren Conrad goes to the Bal

November 26, 2007

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Lauren Conrad, star of the LA-based ‘reality’ show The Hills, was in Paris this weekend to attend the annual Bal des Debutantes at the Hotel Crillon. Wearing an elegant white gown with diamond accessories (we shall ignore the hideous Kabbalah bracelet), LC looked pretty in a safe, not-so-fashion-forward way… as if styled by Rachel Zoe.

LC also attended the Baccarat party, where she and another co-star (hey we don’t really watch the Hills over here), looked less than enthused.

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Sofia Coppola, Daryl Hannah, party in Paris

November 25, 2007

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Sofia Coppola and husband, musician Thomas Mars threw a party last night in the Marais in celebration of their first year of parenthood. Daughter, Romy Mars, turns 1 in a few days– and opted for a night of sleep instead of partying with her artsy parents.

The Paris-based couple invited around 40 close friends to join them at Le Scarron, a secluded, gay-friendly joint that has a sultry bar/club basement clad in baroque decor. The gathering was relaxed and low-key, and most party-goers wore jeans and flannel shirts; a few bore a striking resemblance to Jesus. Champagne was the drink of the night, and Sofia made the rounds showing a photo album full of baby photos.

Stopping in for a drink was actress Daryl Hannah, accompanied by two girlfriends. Daryl has had a busy year, with 5 films in production, including one based on the Song of Roland, starring John Malkovich, Peter O’Toole, and Saffron Burrows.  PetiteB sees a comeback in the works for the 46 year old beauty!

  • Le Scarron, 3 Rue Geoffroy l’Angevin, 75004  Paris
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Kanye West cries his eyes out in Paris

November 19, 2007

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Kanye West kicked off his European tour in Paris this weekend, and it was an emotional return to the stage after the sudden death of his mother. Dr. Donda West died last week at the age of 58 following complications from cosmetic surgery performed by an uncertified Los Angeles doctor.

At the end of the concert, Kanye began to dedicate the final song to his mother, but broke down in tears before completing the dedication. According to one concert-goer, “he just lost it.” Members of the band came out to help him off stage, where he took a 15 minute break and came back to finish with a rousing performance of “Stronger.”

The hip-hop artist canceled performances scheduled for today, and returned to the US where his mother will be buried on Tuesday. He then returns to Europe on Thursday to continue with the tour.

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Cavalli roars through H&M

November 8, 2007

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The Roberto Cavalli capsule collection for H&M hit stores this morning, and flocks of ostentatious fur-wearing ho’s set their alarm clocks early to make it to the store before stocks ran out.  As if women don’t look trashy enough in Cavalli’s normal collection, they now have the opportunity to look TRES trashy.

The collection is small and in limited quantities, which is a blessing because we all might become sick if we saw 20 girls in one day wearing the same leopard corset. Yes, if you bought everything in the collection (and a lot of women were loaded up), your closet would look like you returned from a big game hunt— complete with the crocodile Dundee black leather fringed vest (possibly the most hideous thing, and in the arms of nearly every woman there.) Your wardrobe would include: the leopard corset, leopard and zebra chiffon dresses, leopard tights, a gold flapper dress,  leopard jeans, leopard scarves, leopard bras/panties, leopard lined blazers…. you get the point.

So for those readers looking for a lucrative night on the Bois de Boulogne, swing by H&M today for your chance to make all your colleagues jealous.

Note: Reports from two saleswomen say the collection will be gone after the lunch hour. Ho la la, la la…………

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Monaco parties for World Music Awards

November 5, 2007

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Monaco was the epicenter of celeb spottings this weekend as the tiny principality hosted their annual World Music Awards.

The two most legendary stars in attendance were Patti LaBelle and Celine Dion, who both took home top honors. Other performers who took the stage included Avril Lavigne, Akon, Rihanna, and Mika– who won 4 awards including Male Entertainer of the Year — though he was too sick to sing the most appropriate song of the evening, “Grace Kelly.”

Julian McMahon of Nip/Tuck was the host of the evening, although Prince Albert snapped out of his narcoleptic daze and spoke to the audience as well.

Stars were dancing til dawn at Jimmy’z, the notoriously swank nightclub where a flute of champagne on New Year’s Eve will set you back 120 euros!

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Happy Halloween !

October 31, 2007

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It’s that time of year again— when girls have the perfect excuse to bring out those stripper heels and fishnets…

If you thought Halloween was just an American holiday, think again! A record number of Parisians are out buying costumes today for a number of spooky events around town, including the annual bash at the Plaza Athenee hotel. Other parties will be held on Rue Mouffetard, Rue Montorgueil, and in the Marais.
In need of a last-minute costume? As long as you are ready to face the crowds, here are a few places to go:

* Reasonably Priced: the costume store directly across from BHV (hotel de ville) on Rue du Temple (don’ t know the name!) has a great collection of masks, wigs, and props. Get your fake blood there!

*Rue Quincampoix: descends down from Etienne Marcel towards Chatelet. There are 2 stores side by side (fetish stores, so beware!) with amazing costumes. One is called “Metamorphoses.”

* For vintage costumes that make a hot gogo dancer or eighties prom nightmare: Fripes Star (rue de la Verrerie)

To rent a costume:

AU CLOWN DE LA REPUBLIQUE
Tél.: 01 42 72 73 73
11 Boulevard Saint Martin
75003 Paris (France)

ACADEMIE DU BAL COSTUME
Tél.: 01 43 47 06 08
22 Avenue Ledru Rollin
75012 Paris (France)

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Cruise and Redford premiere new film

October 29, 2007

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The Paris premiere for Robert Redford’s new film, Lions for Lambs, took place this weekend at the Cinematheque Francaise– and the crowds came out in full force to see the stars. The French were feeling nothing but love for coif-challenged Tom Cruise, and spent one hour taking photos and getting autographs.

Cruise jetted in to Paris via Le Bourguet airport, and made a quick stopover at the Ritz before heading out to continue the promotion week.

Lions for Lambs opens in France November 21.

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Luxe week in Cannes

October 25, 2007

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PetiteBrigitte, queen of all things luxe, hit up the TFWA travel & duty free trade show in Cannes this week. The massive expo is for mega-buyers in the luxury/cosmetics/dutyfree industry, and exhibitors included Chanel, Hermes, La Prairie, YSL, and Versace. This translates to lots of free samples and goodie bags (including massive amounts of chocolate from generous stands like Nestle and Mars).

Freebies aside, the show also offers visitors a sneak peek at new launches and best-selling products. For example, PetiteB got a first sniff of Costume National’s 21st anniversary perfume, called “21,” as well as Monique L’Huillier’s first fragrance for her emerging lifestyle collection (very California girl with heavy notes of citrus).

Also noteworthy was Kate Moss’ new perfume, called “Kate.” Currently the number one perfume in the UK, the scent is not available in France. According to the salesman, this is because the French retailers are too snobby to stock it!

The event lasts until Friday at the Palais du Festival in Cannes, when all the vendors give away their products to the crowd– we’re talking big jars of Creme de la Mer, gratuit!

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Victoria vs. von Teese

October 14, 2007

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 Dita von Teese (left), the burlesque diva, posing next to Victoria Beckham (right) outside of the Chanel show in Paris.

OK, so fashion week has been over for a while, but PetiteBrigitte is still running through the photos and had to stop for a moment of reflection. Aside from the fact that the amount of artifice in these two divas is enough to shatter a lens, could they look any more opposite when standing side by side?

Dita, who has dyed her naturally blonde hair to raven black for over 16 years, paints a pale 1940’s bombshell silhouette with a custom black ensemble and red nails. Victoria, newly Californicated with a heavy dose of spray-on tan to contrast the plantinum locks, looks like a futuristic 1950’s barbie doll in her vintage dress from the same decade.

One thing is for sure: these two are a rare breed of woman. Though with so much artifice going on here, they could quite possibly be men.

Speaking of men, do they find these looks sexy? Honestly, much hotter women could be found walking the Tuileries last week, and the Sartorialist had his eye out for them….

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You thought fashion week was over?

October 11, 2007

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There is still one show left! The Ethical Fashion Show kicks off today and for the next 4 days at the Tapis Rouge in the 10th arr. The event promotes eco-friendly designers and fosters discussion between fashion players on topics like free trade and sustainable development.

But the question is, will they be serving champagne or green tea? PetiteB will report back with the hard facts.

ETHICAL FASHION SHOW® / Universal Love
Office : 4, rue Trousseau 75011 PARIS
Tel. : +33 (0) 1 43 48 94 68

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Issey Miyake’s blow-out show

October 2, 2007

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Issey Miyake’s show started nearly an hour late today, leaving guests to suffer from overwhelming heat inside the tent at the jardin du Louvre. The show might have been called “The Wind,” but there wasn’t the slightest breeze in the humid venue. After a bit of yelling from impatient photogs, and the arrival of Kanye West, the show got underway, and the second collection for designer Dai Fujiwara hit the catwalk.

The large collection contained many architecturally inspired pieces, using fabric to create angular and graphic shapes in everything from pants to dresses. It also featured trademark Miyake pleating, as well as host of dresses with voluminous rouching. Overcoats and trenches were playful in grey with magenta details. One favorite piece was an oversized black leather jacket with curved zipper details and a popped collar. Less inspiring was the halloween-esque aspect of the show, in which some hooded jackets made models look like witches.

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The show was held in collaboration with Dyson, the vacuum people. Huge industrial pipes extended during the show to blow gail force wind on the models, creating a dramatic sense of movement as their perfectly frizzed coif blew in all directions with each gust.

Kanye West and fiancee Alexis Phifer sat in white plastic chairs hastily set up as the show began. That didn’t seem to bother them however, and Kanye happily snapped away with his own camera during the show. When asked his favorite show thus far in Paris, Kanye revealed to PetiteB that it was the collection from the house of Martin Margiela.

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Above Magazine at the VIP room

October 2, 2007

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After an exhausting day of covering the shows (well, ok… four shows: Gaspard Yurkievich, Vivienne Westwood, Dior, and Fatima Guerrout), PetiteBrigitte rallied for an evening of fashion parties around the Champs-Elysées.

VIP room hosted the launch party for Above Magazine’s 7th volume, entitled ‘Opulence.’ The magazine targets the new generation of style conscious fashion consumers, and provides fresh commentary and original photo spreads. It’s so chic it doubles as a coffee table book. This issue features Rose McGowan on the cover, and contains a beautiful layout and interview with brit-aristo-trendsetter Daphne Guinness. Several contributors and photographers were on hand to celebrate the new issue, including Parisian photographers Les Deux Garçons, who were busy snapping away impromptu shots of party-goers.

In attendance (surprisingly): fashion editor Hamish Bowles, Michael Brown of Vanity Fair, and photographer Ellen von Unwerth (featured above).

For those unfamiliar with the VIP room, it is one of the least enjoyable venues in Paris, yet for some reason still takes in some big parties like this summer’s Longoria/Parker festivities. Last night was a hot mess: after a humid day of destroying our shoes in the Tuileries mud, all we wanted was a tall drink and some cool ventilation. And, as usual, VIP did not deliver. Thank heavens for the open bar, even if we did have to sideline a few models to get a drink.

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Hot & Steamy at Dior

October 1, 2007

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Fashion press, buyers, and a moderate number of celebs flooded the Tuileries on Monday afternoon for the Dior show. Security was tight as drivers pulled in by the gates at Place de la Concorde. All in all, there were few celebs braving the Parisian humidity. Kanye West was a notable exception. He also hit the Vivienne Westwood show an hour earlier, along with fiancee Alexis Phifer. Is it just me, or is he looking like another one of the Black Eyed Peas in this ensemble?

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Also in attendance at Dior was Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana. The Thai princess entered with a flood of entourage and security, looking regal and radiant as knowing paparazzi bowed down in respect. Her first collection debuted on Saturday at the Opera Garnier.

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Ivana Trump, arm in arm with her longtime boyfriend Rossando Rubicondi, looked cool and collected, and very collagenized.
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The always gracious Susan Tabak made an entrance to a flood of flashes. The author of Chic in Paris and fashion insider looked trim and energized, as various assistants made sure her perfect hair didn’t succumb to the humidity.

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And what would the show be without a character like Anna Piaggi, whose ensemble needs no analysis. She and other member of the fashion elite, including Carine Roitfeld and Hamish Bowles, entered to see the jaw-dropping show that featured a very 1930’s Marlene Dietrich vibe.

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Fashion weak?

September 26, 2007

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Are you already feeling on the fringe of the upcoming Paris fashion week? Can’t get the invite to your favorite show… don’t know where to spot your favorite designer…. it’s enough to make any fashion whore go to church for one hail Mary!

Don’t worry, mes petites, skip the trip to Notre Dame.

Aside from continuously checking back here, these are the keys to keeping up with fashion week:

- see the schedule and plan your day accordingly

- reserve now for dinner in any of the hip restaurants, make it for no earlier than 10pm (Costes, Mathis, Caviar Kaspia, Fontaine de Mars…)

- Café Beaubourg and Café Marly (though we are sick of their menus) are two of the best places for those looking to mingle with the uber-chic; just get a coffee and chill

- Don’t miss brunch (reserve!). Cheaper spots like Joe Allen’s (metro: Etienne Marcel) are favorites of designers like Marc Jacobs, as are Hotel Amour and Rose’s Bakery up near Pigalle. On the pricier side, the new brunch at the Ritz is going to be a big draw– it is served outside next to the new mini-golf course in one of the hotel’s interior courtyards.

- And for the best recap: Fashion queen and society lady Susan Tabak does an excellent review of all the hot shows and parties, at chicinparis.com

Photo courtesy nymag.com

 

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Elle est trop belle

September 17, 2007

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Camilla Belle is in Paris ahead of fashion week, as part of her involvement in a new Nespresso campaign… also starring George Clooney. Lucky girl.
The 19 year old actress will stay in town for fashion week, as invitations pour in from every designer. Her incredible looks have caught the attention of more than one Parisian house– from Gaultier to Chanel. This L.A. born beauty has no French relations… despite her last name (Belle is actually her middle name). Her mother is Brazillian.

Belle looked fresh-faced and chic as she strolled along Quai Voltaire last night with a group of friends. She is in between films, having recently completed 10,000 B.C. and in preparation for a film called Push, starring Djimon Hounsou and Dakota Fanning.

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Balmain, the Princess, and a new twist on Paris Fashion Week

September 14, 2007

Merci Papa!
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It seems that money can buy just about anything… including your way into Paris fashion week.

For the first time ever in the history of Paris pret-a-porter, a non-member of the Federation Francaise will present a collection this fall. And who might be the odd entry… ? None other than Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.

The 20-year-old Thai princess, who seems to have a panel of designers at her disposal, will show 39 semi-couture pieces on September 29 at the Opera Garnier. Titled “Presence of the Past” and sponsored by the House of Balmain, the collection is a modern interpretation of traditional Thai design.

”I hope that the collection will open the doors for other Thai designers, too. It’s an opportunity to reveal to the world the skills of our fashion personnel as well as high-quality and exquisite materials that may be rare to foreigners,” says the Princess.

Will the fashion world come out to support this new entry? Or are we in for yet another royal blunder…

photo courtesy of notesfromhollywood.com

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Gwen Stefani: Queen of Ska

September 11, 2007

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Gwen Stefani plays at Bercy on September 17th.
Gwen will arrive from Germany as part of her Sweet Escape world tour. This hasn’t been the easiest tour for the successful queen of Ska– one of her sponsors, Verizon, pulled out its support during a spell of bad publicity for her collaborator, Akon.

The show is sure to be a crowd pleaser, however, as the energetic diva takes the stage with her usual professional tenacity.  The album has been a big hit, gaining recognition at the MTV Music Awards, and featuring a number of artists like Damian Marley and Akon.

Ever the renaissance woman, this album is the first for Gwen after the birth of her son, Kingston, in 2006. She still designs a successful pret-a-porter collection out of NYC, called L.A.M.B., which launched its first perfume this season.

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George Clooney’s new girl

September 4, 2007

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Sarah Larson accompanied George Clooney throughout his recent appearances in Venice and Deauville.

But is she taking this most eligible bachelor off the market anytime soon? Petite Brigitte sees no immediate cause for panic.

The pretty brunette is 28 years old and a self-proclaimed actress/model. Unfortunately, we can find no record of her past work, neither an agency or on iMBD. The only info available appears to be her appearance on Fear Factor, where her profession is listed as a “go-go dancer.” Hmm…

Her body language in recent photos also suggests she is no threat. See the way she keeps her eyes open when being kissed? Obvious fame whore. Nope, she’s just arm candy for his summer promotions.

So go-go George but don’t forget to make a Petite stop in Paris before you leave the country! Je t’attends!

     Photo courtesy of clooneystudio.com

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Cheering for the home team

September 3, 2007

The Rugby World Cup kicks off in Paris on Friday, and while it might be too late to teach you the rules of the game, you can at least learn the hottest players on the French National Team!

Petite Brigitte brings you the Fabuleux Four of the French team:

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Vincent Clerc plays wing for the Toulousian team. At 26 years old, he’s single and a reputed charmer. He is a fan of New York City, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and tennis. And watch out ladies, he doesn’t like to wear underwear!

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Let’s just say there were more revealing photos I could have posted of Christophe Dominici. This man loves his body (and for good reason). Dominici markets himself as the ultimate “Dieux du Stade,” sitting down for all the interviews and photoshoots. Sure, he’s past his prime and clinically depressed, but we can think of more than one way to cheer him up. Let’s just hope his ego isn’t as big as his . . .

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Oh la la la la. Frederic Michalak is a sexy beast. Aside from his position as fly-half on the national team, Freddy models for Levi’s and Armani campaigns, and signed an endorsement deal with Manix condoms. He’s not just a pretty face though; this “Zidane of rugby” has the biggest fan base of all the players. Even though he was on the cover of Tetu magazine, he’s straight ladies. Just got to get past his fiancée.

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Aurélian Rougerie could be cast at Greek god Apollo with his blond locks, but this guy is 100% French. Brought up in an athletic family (his dad was a pro rugby player, mom a basketball star), Aurelian stays close to his family in Clermont-Ferrand, and has a reputation as a fun and humble player. Go number 14!

The World Cup will be in Paris for the next 7 weeks, so get your patriotic gear together and head over to the sure to be packed streets around rue Princesse!

Click here for official site and the entire schedule.

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Alert: Celebrity Invasion in Deauville!

August 31, 2007

Brad in town to promote Jesse James. He hasn’t looked this hot since Legends of the Fall!brad.jpg

Who knew the Deauville American Film Festival could pull such big names?

 Brad & Angelina, Matt Damon, Ben and Casey Affleck, George Clooney, Monica Bellucci and Katie Holmes, are just a few of the big names attending the event.

Starting today and lasting until September 9th, the town of Deauville will play host to the 33rd annual American Film Festival, where this year’s honoree is Michael Douglas. Michael will open the ceremonies today with the screening of his film, King of California, directed by newcomer Mike Cahill.

Deauville, located in Basse Normandie (Calvados), is traditionally associated with its world-class equestrian centers and famous horse races. It is a favorite holiday escape for wealthy Parisians because of its beaches, harbor, and casino (which was the inspiration behind Ian Fleming’s James Bond Casino Royale). With this year’s high celebrity turnout, the city can expect an even more glitzy image than before.

Stars have been arriving at CDG all week, with most of the big names expected this weekend hot off the Venice Film Festival. Many will transfer directly to Deauville, but others such as Matt Damon plan to spend a few nights in Paris. Stars will reside at the Ritz, and the new Fouquet’s Barriere on the Champs Elysees/George V, which is the sister hotel to the Deauville Barriere.

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Lagerfeld sexes up Dom Perignon

July 18, 2007

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Feel like you’ve hit a plateau in your love life? Has your husband or lover become predictable and boring?

Leave it to Karl Lagerfeld to inspire some old-fashioned role playing… a la francaise.

Shot in his magnificient Parisian mansion using supermodel Claudia Schiffer, Lagerfeld unveiled a series of photos shot for Dom Perignon’s OEnotheque 1993 vintage. The unveiling party this month hosted celebs such as Jude Law, Ralph Fiennes, Pedro Almodovar, and Maria Bello.

The campaign offers a myriad of fantasy women, with Claudia Schiffer in multiple roles including french maid, dominatrix, geisha, and trashy bride. Says Karl: “These portraits show a woman who metamorphoses over time, from the 18th to the 21st centuries, while retaining her own personality.”

Check out the seductive shoot on Dom Perignon’s site.

And who is that sniffing Claudia’s neck? None other than Karls secretary/bodyguard/boytoy Sebastian Jondeau. Oh la.

Photo courtesy of domperignon.com 

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Hitched

July 6, 2007

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Eva Longoria and Tony Parker are now officially married after completing a civil ceremony in Paris. The Mairie of the 4th arrondissment hosted the small wedding party and the cermony took place at 3pm this afternoon. A brief reception followed.

Eva wore a stunning Chanel couture dress to make her entrance, then changed into a white dress for the ceremony.

This follows a week of hard-partying for the couple and their guests. Last night the group took an evening boat cruise aboard Mirage, one of the swanky boats in the fleet run by Yachts de Paris. Eva and Tony took photos for OK magazine as the Eiffel Tower glittered in the background at 10pm. From there the couple went back to their hotel, while guests boarded buses at the Park Hyatt and headed out to party at VIP.

Unfortunately, nothing noteworthy happened at VIP last night. The guests seemed a little worn out, but party animals like Terrence Howard kept the energy levels high well until 2am. Tony Parker’s father and brother were in attendance, as well as many of Eva’s cousins, who bear a remarkable resemblance to the actress. A few semi-famous actors from American TV shows were there, but none of the Desperate Housewives or any A-List.

Tonight the wedding party has no official plans, though many will be resting in anticipation of tomorrow’s massive party at Chateau Vaux le Vicomte.

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Stars arrive in Paris for Parker-Longoria wedding

July 4, 2007

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Turns out the Parker-Longoria wedding festivities are already underway!

The July 7th wedding at Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte will be the hottest wedding of the season, but that’s not to say the days leading up to the big bash will be boring. Au contraire!

Many celebs arrived in Paris today in the prelude to the big day. Terrence Howard and Robert Verdi (featured with moi above), are in town staying at the Hotel Park Hyatt.

After dining tonight at the Market, and then attending the Lacroix bash at the Centre Pompidou, they are headed to EuroDisney tomorrow for another pre-wedding activity. Looks like Eva has it all planned!

I was surprised to learn that Robert Verdi is Eva’s personal stylist (I always think to Fashion Police). He is here to make sure Princess Longoria looks the part for her fairytale week. I didn’t dare to ask who is doing her dress!

Stay tuned for more on the pre-wedding festivities… will PB be at the actual wedding?? On verra…!

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Lacroix’s 20th anniversary bash

July 4, 2007

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Models, stars, and celebs were out in force tonight at the 20th anniversary party for Christian Lacroix Haute Couture.
PetiteBrigitte was in attendance as celebs such as Edouard Baer, Terrance Howard, and Robert Verdi mingled with a flock of beautiful people and fashionistas atop the Centre Pompidou, chez Georges.

Three fully stocked bars kept the champagne flowing, and the dance floor was hot by midnight, with the legendary designer taking time-out to jive with his male entourage. Christian was looking fit and happy in a stunning white dinner jacket as he received congratulatory kisses from the crowd.

As the tour Eiffel glittered in the background, the night was a romantic finish to the second day of Parisian haute couture shows. Lacroix’s own show was a masterpiece unveiled at the Palais Toyko. His lush embroidery and intricate weaves were as complex as any work of art, and perfectly encapsulated the designers trademark provencal image.