Postcards From Paris: No. 8

Bonjour! The past two weeks have been a whirlwind of presentations, exams, and endless hours of studying. As much as it dissatisfied me to be spending so much time inside, it’s the reality of being a student. Fortunately, when my brain was too frazzled to be of any use, Paris was just as I had left it: beautiful and waiting to be explored.

Saint-Germain-de-Prés: For the Rich, the Intellectuals, and the Tourists

Situated on the Left Bank is Paris’s 6th arrondissement, otherwise known as Saint-Germain-des-Prés (or Saint-Germain for short), and my latest discovery. The area was named after the Abbey of Saint-Germain, which was first built in A.D. 543, and is the oldest church in Paris. The long history of the neighborhood, paired with its reputation for being a popular destination for writers, philosophers, and artists, makes for a very captivating atmosphere. While I can’t speak for what this area was like in previous centuries, I can see why Saint-Germain attracted various intellectuals.

Although visually very different, something about Saint-Germain felt oddly familiar. It reminded me of the East Side of Providence: a bit prestigious, with a maze of little streets and squares. One minute you’re under the impression that you’ve wandered into a French village, and the next, you’re on a busy street with thousands of cars rushing by, commercial stores in every direction, and hundreds of people crowding into the famed overpriced cafes. I enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere of the less populated areas where there is nothing to see but the old architecture, antique shops, and expensive boutiques.

Paris Fashion Week: Behind the Scenes, Chaos Ensues

The first week of March ushered in the highly anticipated Paris Fashion Week: Fall/Winter 2022-2023 Ready-to-Wear. Unlike last month’s fashion week escapades, I was less interested in being part of the crowds of people waiting outside the shows. That said, I did spend a decent amount of time on Instagram, scrolling through the endless pictures of all the celebrities who had flocked to Paris for the fashion shows.

So while I was not the fashion show groupie I had been a few weeks ago, I did have the fortune of seeing the behind-the-scenes of Paris Fashion Week. I wish I could say I earned my way backstage, but when you are entirely unqualified (which I was), sometimes it’s who you know. My roommate has been interning for Victoria/Tomas. Twelve hours before call time, she asked if I wanted to be a dresser for the runway show..., I am certainly in no position to turn down the opportunity to work at Paris Fashion Week (even for just a few hours), so of course, I said yes. I have studied fashion for a couple of years and have obsessed over it for many more, so getting an intimate look at one of the more revered aspects of the industry was a dream come true.

That said, it was pure chaos. The difference between the glamorous, manicured runway shows and the frantic backstage area is jarring. I was in a sea of models, hair and makeup people, other dressers, journalists, and members of the Victoria/Tomas team. Standing at only 5 feet, you can imagine how small I felt surrounded by dozens of models and attempting to dress someone who was probably a foot taller than me. It was a stressful experience, and I was under the impression that very few people knew what was happening, but somehow the show was a success (even if it was fashionably late).

It certainly opened my eyes to all of the moving parts necessary to put on a fashion show. However, from the perspective of someone who is very type A, all I kept thinking was that they needed an operations coordinator.

(I wasn't allowed to take photos backstage, so here is the best I can do)

Musée Rodin: Back for Seconds

Like all museums, if I like it the first time, I have to go back a second. I don't think I will ever get tired of the Musée Rodin, and this time around, it was even more deserted.

Sunny Days in Paris: Dreaming of Spring

Although I love the moodiness of Paris in the rain, the sun draws people outside, and there’s a noticeable change in attitude; everyone is much more at ease, and there’s a general positivity that radiates everywhere.

This past week, Paris finally started to see some 60° temperatures, and the once barren trees are beginning to show signs of what’s to come. As much as I am determined not to wish the days away, I will say that I can’t wait to see Paris in the spring. Rest assured, once the trees in front of the Eiffel Tower turn pink, I will be lounging in the nearby park, accompanied by a good book, a baguette, and maybe some friends. My roommate and I have already made plans to have a picnic for my birthday in a couple of weeks!

Night Walks: Peace and Light

One of the more unexpected aspects of Paris is how safe it feels compared to my college town. I can't speak for every neighborhood in Paris, but at least towards the center, it feels safe to walk around at night. Granted, I'm not out that late, and exercise caution. Away from the busy streets and restaurants, the city is peaceful, and it truly feels like you are the only person in the world.

Reflecting on My Second Month in Paris: When Life is a Movie

I could cry writing this section…, and I probably will. Any time anybody has brought up the fact that we’re already halfway through, I’ve immediately responded with, “we’re not going to talk about it.” I won't dwell on this point too much, but I have gotten prematurely sad about my inevitable departure and have already acknowledged the fact that returning home will be a challenge.

One of the defining aspects of this past month is the gradual transition from being a tourist to being a student who lives in Paris. The things that used to leave me awestruck are now part of my new normal. For instance, the Louvre is just a building I can casually stroll by on my way to class. That said, I haven't completely forgotten about the girl whose everyday sights were trees, Dunkin Donuts, and other tell-tale signs of suburban America. Thinking of those scenes often draws me back down to reality and makes me appreciate Paris more. The relentless excitement that defined my first month has been replaced by immense gratitude. Paris has the power to make life feel like a movie, and I am grappling with the fact that everyday routines can be so captivating and stimulating.

I knew before studying abroad that this experience was going to have an impact. I believe being open to change is an important aspect of traveling (and life in general). This month I can feel my perspective on life beginning to transform. At least since high school, my happiness has been linked to accomplishments. Once I figured out what I wanted to do career-wise, I developed tunnel vision, and nearly every decision I made focused on securing my future happiness. Not to say that’s necessarily a bad way to live, but I’ve come to realize that I value more than just work. I cherish the idle moments and love being in a city that's full of life, history, art, and fashion. I enjoy being a student of life, and my previous lifestyle didn't always allow me to do that. Certainly, for the remainder of my trip, I will continue to indulge my curiosities and embrace all of the opportunities to learn about things that are irrelevant to school or my desired career.