Charming Linen store in Saint Germain
I often wonder why Americans have such a fascination with all things French and Italian. Is it because we have read so many books and articles in magazines that speak so vividly about the lifestyle in these foreign places? I never visited either country until I was in my mid twenties, and at that time,I wasn’t as curious as I am now. Possibly because my obligations as single woman, mother, shopkeeper, and the demands of routine seemed to take every ounce of energy and time that I had available. Now that my life has changed into living in an empty nest, I am discovering many things I have not had the time for in years past. In the last couple of years, I have been fortunate to visit Paris, parts of Tuscany, and Venice, although only for short periods of time. Of course I noticed the linens in Italy and France . Every little town I visited had offerings of luxurious sheets, guest towels,and embroidered napkins. Italy has luxurious embroideries, and sumptuous sateens with quilted bedcovers, mostly in elegant classic colors. Some of the contemporary printed linens in Italy are not as appealing to most of the American market, but look beautiful in the Italian countryside. In France, I noticed more casual bedding, such as boutis quilts and matelasse, cool crisp white sheets, bright colors for table, and romantic quotes on boudoir shams such as Bon Nuit. 
Contemporary linens in France seem to be closer to the style we are accustomed to here in America, more solid colors mixed in unusual combinations. Belle Chambre offers a vast selection of all styles of French and Italian linens in our store, just ask one of our sales people to show you.
Even the most simple of sheets in my hotels smelled fresh, and were crisply pressed. We all enjoy sleeping on freshly laundered and pressed sheets, especially when on vacation. Try a freshly pressed set in your own home and feel the difference!!
Bodycare is also important to the Italian and French people. The many Pharmacie’s in Paris are practically on every street, and you may buy fine skincare, luxury body lotions, shower gels, and soaps.
In our country, we consider fine soaps, lotions and bodycare a luxury. In France and Italy, these items are essential to the lifestyle.
I have been inspired, and my curiosity has become stronger than I could ever have imagined since experiencing these countries first hand!! I have realized how many products we offer in our store that are passionately created in France and Italy.
It is with great pleasure, that I am able to share with you through my new Belle Chambre blog. I will begin in Paris, and continue through the country of France this month to share my adventures, knowledge, special finds, and passion with you. It is my promise, to continue to inspire you through visits to our store, entries on my blog, blog.bellechambre.com and the offerings on our newly updated website, www.bellechambre.com Until next time…
Bon Nuit!!
Driving up the long straight unpaved road to Le Clos de Freres Gris was like entering a fantasy I have always had of what a home in Provence might be.
