1 — Have dinner-party ready apparel on hand. Sumptuous and plush, black or very dark navy velvet is the go to choice for sleek nights out. Wear the Dune skirt or the Ferry trousers, with a self-tie shirt such as the new Greta for a polished and confident look that leaves space for bold earrings and distinctive shoes.
2 — Use Wilder Botanics Sacred Wash to feel fresh and renewed. This body wash contains extracts of Palo Santo which is known for its effect on stress levels and has a divine scent. Trust herbalist Rachel Landon to devise holistic formulations, using high quality, natural and organic essential oils. Also worth keeping in mind as an excellent gift idea.
3 — From small offerings to lavish presents, our curation of gifts will help steer you in the right direction. Tabletop games, scented candles, interesting books, delicate jewellery and chunky socks should have everyone covered and inspire your own wish list.
4 — French cinema gets an annual celebration during the French Film Festival that takes place in 25 locations all over the UK, from November until December 14th. It is a chance to watch films that are not normally on general release and experience an exhilarating variety of genres. Over 60 films are on the programme, featuring new talent as well as stars such as Catherine Deneuve and Léa Seydoux; classics, documentaries and animation fables. Our eclectic watchlist includes, Jim’s Story, an adaptation of the eponymous book about the complex but loving relationship between a boy and the man who raised him; César and Rosalie a tale of heartbreak with the stunning Romy Schneider and Along Came Love, a postwar love saga that spans over two decades and divided critics when it was premiered.
5 — Bistro cooking is currently the most appealing of French cuisine. It is rightly recognised for its simplicity and use of wholesome ingredients at two recent openings around Borough Market. Expect snails and steak, but Camille’s menu also leans towards British classics and pairs dainty canelés with lemon curd at 2-3 Stoney Street. Further down the road, Café François is the casual offshoot of Mayfair Maison François and offers an extensive hors d’oeuvres list with the essentials that are onion soup, celeriac remoulade and leek vinaigrette. Do not leave without taking home a pastry from the deli counter.