Coquette

Gazette: A New French Boutique in San Francisco Featuring Ethical French Brands

Gazette
334 Gough Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Instagram: @gazette.store

Just opened recently is a new boutique Gazette in the lovey Hayes Valley shopping district. It's like taking a shopping trip to France. Owner Charlotte Boedec is a French native from Paris and her new boutique Gazette features brands that originate from France. But it doesn't just stop there. These brands are ethically conscious and may use sustainable materials or ethical production methods. Every brand in the store has their own small area and there is a framed bio speaking to their background and what they do. Boedec's boutique features quality products something that I know the French value a lot. Personally, it's great to see a shop like this in San Francisco.

Boedec herself is the founder and leather designerof SOFRANCISCO, a brand that features handbags, clutches, bracelets, belts and phone cases made from handcrafted Italian leather.

Right when you enter the store, you are greeted by a display of C. Lavie skincare -- natural beauty from Paris created by Sylvia Cazaenvave-Lavie, a former chemical engineer with sensitive skin. You can find out on the C. Lavie site how they go from plant to bottle with a full ecological process with no toxic releases in the environment. All products contain a high percentage of organic grown plants. I have been using the serum, eye cream and day cream since Tuesday and will do a full review soon. Boedec mentioned to me that it was recommended by C. Lavie to only wash your face at night with micellar water and not apply any creams at all at night because your skin will repair at night. I still need to do more research on this but I have been keeping it minimal at night only using my natural products and spraying on rosewater and using my face oil at night while keeping to the C. Lavie regimen in the day (with SPF 50 sunscreen over it).

One of the most popular pieces in the boutique are the classic French mariner striped shirts from Armor Lux. You can really feel the quality of the fabric and these "bateau" tops will surely last a long time. I'm obsessed!

Kids clothing by Le Petits Carreaux is wonderfully displayed near the front of the shop. You guys know how much I love this brand! Chloe sported it a lot when she was younger. (See previous Coquette Maman post .)

Noliju is a super stylish activewear brand.

Naturellement Petits is a clothing line for tweens and teens.

Wooden laser etched jewelry and home decor accessories by Reine Mere.

Lulu waiting patiently while I'm taking photos inside Gazette.

Owner of Gazette, Charlotte Boedec.

Please take a visit to Gazette at 334 Gough Street the next time you are in Hayes Valley and stop by to say hi to Charlotte!

Spring #RANBonusBox: Featuring Jus by Julie, Links of London + More

Some of the goodies in this spring's #ranbonusbox from @rakutenaffiliatenetwork. Tap on photo for info. (Not pictured @jusbyjulie juice cleanse and @dawgsfootwear) Reviews to come soon on Coquette!

A photo posted by Natalie Zee Drieu (@coquettenatalie) on Mar 7, 2016 at 1:20pm PST

My Rakuten Affilate Network Bonus Box arrived for spring a few weeks ago. This one was spectacular in that it included wellness/fitness items that we on track with my health goals for this year.

Here's what was inside:

Jus by Julie 1 Day JUS Cleanse ($50) and Vanilla Probiotic Cold Brew Coffee ($8)

I got a voucher to go online to have the 1 day juice cleanse freshly delivered to my home and to also get to choose one of their probiotic cold brew coffees. I had never done a juice cleanse before so I was a little nervous. I read some tips online on how to adjust your body before a cleanse and picked a Sunday when I would be home to do it. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the experience. There were 6 bottles of juices that came fresh in a box filled with ice packs which I immediately put into the fridge. I drank the 6 bottles throughout the day (about every 2 hours or so) and each one of them were delicious. I have a NutriBullet at home so I was used to drinking full juices and I liked that it made me feel full after I finished each bottle. There are instructions that come with the juices and you should follow the number order of each juice flavor. The #2 Spicy Lemonade was delicious! Since it had the cayenne pepper I couldn't really gulp it down but I enjoyed taking my time to drink it. My favorite juice out of all the juices was #4 Chia Berry. Overall, I didn't feel hungry in the day and I did feel a renewed sense of energy once Monday started. I really recommend the 1 day cleanse if you are looking to try this out before you move onto 3 or 5 day cleanses.

As for the coffee -- what can I say? Simply delicious! Their cold brew coffee is infused with 1 billion CFU's of vegan GanedenBC30 probiotics that can help improve your immune and digestive system.

You can read more about all of their healthy products at JUS by Julie.

Sweaty Betty "Knock Out" Avesha Yoga Tank ($90)

I try to do yoga at home twice a week. This super soft, lightweight tank has been so comfortable to wear during my practice. I love the "Knock Out" text as it gives me a motivation to just go for the day.

Six:02 Gymsack Bag (pictured at top)

I received a Six:02 powered by Foot Locker gymsack bag. This is a site for women's athletic wear and the drawstring bag is perfect when I need to go to the gym.

Links of London White Topaz Pearl Drop Earrings ($150)

These beautiful earrings feature white topaz posts set in 18K yellow gold vermeil. i've worn them out last week when I went to a dinner gala with my husband. They are delicate and elegant. Just so gorgeous!

Folly Follie Happy Nugget Bracelet ($75)

Perfect for my spring outfits is this Happy Nugget Bracelet. I love the rose gold with the white leather. It's so adorable by itself or stacked with my other gold bracelets. I'm kinda obsessed!

Dawgs Girls' Loudmouth Kaymann Loafers ($34.99)

I received a gift certificate from Dawgs to purchase whatever I wanted there. I decided on getting a pair of cool shoes for my daughter for spring/summer and she picked this colorful pair. The loafers are so comfortable for her and she loves the colors and print.

Review products were provided by Rakuten Affiliate Network

Dana Rebecca Designs Jewelry on Sale at Bloomingdales

I've been a huge fan of the delicate jewelry of Dana Rebecca Designs for years now. I have been wearing my Lauren Joy Mini Necklace for almost five years now. I never take it off and I constantly get compliments on it! Last week, the two rings I ordered on Bloomingdales arrived. I picked up the Diamond Lauren Joy Double Ring in 14K Rose Gold (On sale for $356, originally $660) and the Diamond Double Bar in 14K Yellow Gold (On sale for $297, original $550). I wear them both together or alone and they are just so stunning on. I actually got an extra 15% off as a Bloomingdale's Loyalist sale was happening that weekend as well. I lucked out on this sale and it's still going on! There are actually quite a few amazing Dana Rebecca pieces on sale right now so I thought I would spread the word!

Here are some of of my favorites of the Dana Rebecca sale jewelry:

Jennifer Yarnia Necklace with Diamonds in 14K Rose Gold (On sale for $453.60, originally $840)

Diamond Combo Ring in 14K Yellow Gold (On sale for $445, originally $825)

Diamond Double Bar Ring in 14K Rose Gold (On sale for $297, orginally $550)

Emily Sarah Necklace with Diamonds in 14K Yellow Gold (On sale for $356.40)

Monica Vinader Siren Rings

I've become obsessed lately with browsing jewelry, especially pretty rings. The new Monica Vinader Siren Rings caught my eye. I love the beautiful stones and the rose gold. The come in a variety of sizes so you can wear them alone or stack smaller ones. The rings are 18ct Gold Plated Vermeil on Sterling Silver and range in price from $130-345 for the collection. The prices include taxes and import duties and there is free global shopping included.

Here are some of my favorites:

Siren Small Stacking Ring ($110)

Siren Stacking Ring ($130)

Siren Stacking Medium Ring ($135)

Siren Medium Stacking Ring ($150)
in Rose Gold

Siren Cocktail Round Ring ($330)

Shop more rings and jewelry at monicavinader.com.

Winter #RANBonusBox: Featuring DL1961, Luna Mini, e.l.f. + more

My Rakuten Affiliate Network Bonus Box came for winter and I have been trying out all the goodies for the past month. This month's box was a little different in that we all got to choose a pair of jeans we wanted from DL1961! I had a pair of DL1961 skinny jeans that I love and have lasted me a few years. I opted to try one of their cool boyfriend jean styles to shake things up a bit. I love boyfriend jeans but I didn't want an overly baggy and hapless look. These DL1961 boyfriend jeans did not disappoint! I loved how slimming they looked! A huge thank you to the Rakuten Affiliate Network for letting me try out all these wonderful products. Here are my thoughts after using them for the past month.

DL1961 Riley Jean ($168 at DL1961)

These are currently my absolute favorite pair of jeans. These boyfriend jeans are a slim-fit so you look fabulously skinny with all the comfort of a boyfriend jean. DL1961 has superb denim with stretch. I have been wearing these non-stop with sweaters and booties now that the weather has gone cold and rainy. The cuffs roll up beautifully and don't fall down. These jeans can look dressed up, casual, whatever you want. Seriously, their stretch is like no other denim! You will live in these jeans.

Luna Mini ($139 at Foreo)

I had never heard of the Luna and was so happy to get the chance to try out a skincare gadget. This device helps clean your skin using T-Sonic technology. It is so gentle it's not like harsh bristles are scrubbing your skin away. The small silicone brush gently vibrates and helps to clean your skin. Use it with whatever cleanser you are using to help scrub away the dirt and makeup of the day. At the same time, you're getting better circulation throughout your face which is why facial massage is a key to keeping your skin looking it's best. It comes with a small booklet to show you exactly the correct directions to use it on your face to prevent wrinkles. I love that this mini version is compact and is perfect for travel. The Luni Mini comes with a USB plug so you can charge it when the batteries get low. You don't need to charge it everyday. The batteries really last!

e.l.f. Day to Night Eyeshadow Palette - Party Ready ($10 at e.l.f.)

This adorable long and skinny palette comes with an array of matte, metallic and glittery shadows, making it perfect for day wear and the party circuit. I found the color payoff amazing and the price of the palette is just so affordable. So far, I've been using this as my go-to palette for my everyday eyeshadow as I love the pigment of the brown shades so much.

Elemis Skincare Products at Time to Spa

Elemis Pro-Collage Marine Cream ($89.60), Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm ($60), Elemis Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser ($34.30), Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Moisturizer for Face ($54)

I received a small bag of sample sized Elemis skincare featuring the products I listed above. I loved using all the products but have to say that the flash balm is my favorite. It really illuminated my skin and gave it some radiance.

Fiji Friendship Petite Bracelet - Plum ($150 at Monica Vinader)

This bracelet is so delicate and adorable. I love that it comes in a variety of colors and also comes in gold-tone. It's a perfect gift for a family member or best friend.

Bow Knot Diamond Alloy Ladies' Ring ($13.79 at TBDress, sold out)

This delicate bow ring is just so adorable on. Currently this ring is sold out but there are a lot of other fashion rings you can choose from.

Review products were provided by Rakuten Affiliate Network

August Favorites: Clinique, Chanel + NARS

1. Pacific Face Oil ($110 at True Nature Botanicals)
I just started using the Pacfic Face Oil last week before bed. It's been really hydrating and the soft scent relaxes me before bed. It feels great on my skin. The oil uses therapeutic seed oils and rich marine antioxidants to help moisturize the skin. It's supposed to help large pores shrink and soften up wrinkles. (I'll keep you posted if my pores do in face shrink down!)

2. CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream($14.50 for 1 oz or $26 for 1.7 oz at Sephora)
This new cream from Clinique is like their classic moisturizing lotion except in a moisture-rich cream formula for us dry skin folks. I have been using it periodically in the day for a few weeks and like how it is hydrating but feels light on the skin. Use just the size of a dime for your entire face. What's great is that all of Clinique's products are hypoallergenic and fragrance free.

3. Chanel Brooch ($350 at Chanel Boutiques)
I had been eyeing this brooch since after Christmas but it was sold out everywhere. My SA told me she had just gotten one in a few weeks ago so I immediately went to pick it up. I loved it's smaller size and though it would spruce up even casual outfits like denim. It's a classic piece that I will have for years.

4. NARS Audacious Mascara ($26 at NARS)
This is my everyday mascara. The main reason I love it is that it really makes my lashes long and there's no flaking under my eyelids. The case is just gorgeous too in sleek black with the NARS logo. (See previous Coquette review post.)

5. Circling the Sun by Paula McLain ($16.70 at Amazon)
When I found out Paula McLain, author of The Paris Wife had a new book out, I really got excited. This is another fictionalized story of a real person, in this case Beryl Markham and her life in colonial Kenya in the 1920s. Who knew she was part of a love triangle with Karen Blixen and Denys Finch Hatton -- the two who were imortalized in Blizen's memoir Out of Africa. But aside from the stories of romance, the book shows Markham's independent spirit which let her to become the first woman to fly across the Atlantic alone. The descriptions of Africa and it's habitat is just so visual, you'll feel like you are there. I know some may disagree, but I enjoyed this book more than The Paris Wife.

What's Inside My #RANBonusBox? Featuring Marc Jacobs Beauty, Fresh + more!

Earlier this summer I received a cool surprise from Rakuten Affiliate Network. It was their first ever Bonus Box filled with really cool beauty and accessories. Between going on vacation and shuttling the kiddo to various camps, I spent a month or so trying out the products and thought I would give all of you my thoughts.

Marc Jacobs Beauty

I haven't had a chance get to get addicted to MJ's beauty line but now that I have a taste of it, I really am. I received the Marc Jacobs Highliner ($25) in Blacquer, a gel eye crayon that is a really perfect pigmented eyeliner. It lines my eyes perfectly and really helps you do a precise line where you can get right at the lash line. There's a built in sharpener to this eyeliner so you always have a precise point. The Marc Jacobs Le Marc creme lipstick ($30) is pure heaven. I love the luxe case that snaps into place. The color is Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, a great everyday mauve tone that can brighten up your whole face.

AHAVA Mineral Hand Cream ($23)

This cream really helps my dry hands. I love how it absorbs instantly and has a light, soft scent. I have been keeping this in my handbag.

philosophy Miracle Worker(TM) Miraculous Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($60 for 2 oz jar at Sephora)

I used to use a lot of Philosophy's products back when I worked on their web site back in 2001 or so. Using this again reminds me how wonderful their products are. This sample sized moisturizer was perfect on my recent travels to keep my skin hydrated.

Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment Translucent 0.15 oz ($25 at Sephora)

This lip treatment feels wonderful for my lips. I am a lip balm addict and I always need a balm with me at some point in my day. I like that this made my lips feel immediately soft and it wasn't drying.

Wild & Free Baked Eyeshadow Palette ($8 at bhcosmetics)

I've been using mainly the neutral colors in this palette and like how buildable the shadow is. These shadows can be used wet or dry depending on how deep you want the color. Love compact shape of the box too!

Links of London Effervescence Collection

I love delicate jewelry and I received the Effervescence Bracelet consisting of a silver ball on a thin silver chain is perfect for layering. This exact bracelet isn't on their site but you can browse the entire Effervescence collection. The closest thing I could find was this Links of London Effervescence Bubble Necklace ($195).

Folli Follie Donatella Watch ($225 at Folli Follie)

Perfect accessory for summer is this Donatella Watch. Right now you can get it in white or orange on the site for a fun summery splash of color. I love the rose gold!

Review products were provided by Rakuten Affiliate Network

Dana Rebecca Designs' New Cynthia Rose Collection

I'm never without my Dana Rebecca Lauren Joy Mini Necklace (previous post here). I have had it for 3 years now and very rarely take it off. Last year I added the Sylvie Rose Bar Necklace in an 18" chain and I wear them both layered together. The look is delicate and chic. The quality of her pieces are excellent and I've been thinking of treating myself to one of her pieces for Christmas. I may have to get that little gift for myself even earlier now that I've found out about her new collection.

The Cynthia Rose Collection features necklaces and stud earrings in a fun hexagon shape encrusted with round white diamonds. So pretty!

I have my eye on this Cynthia Rose Necklace in Rose Gold ($585).

Get 15% off this new collection with the code CYNTHIAROSE at checkout. Offer valid until midnight (CMT) on Thursday November 6th. (If you are not a Illinois or New York state resident, there's no sales tax. There's also free U.S. ground shipping!)

Shop the Dana Rebecca Designs Cynthia Rose collection.

Jarin K Double Side Pearl Earrings: Dior Dupe

A dupe for the Mise en Dior Tribal Earrings, these Jarin K Double Side Earrings ($150 at Shopbop) are made with sterling silver as opposed to the costume jewelry version by Dior. So stylish and perfect for those with sensitive skin too! Choose from pearl, gray, or turquoise. At $150, you can splurge on more than one pair and interchange the look. You can also just wear the classic smaller front pearl earrings for days you don't feel like going all out.

Related Coquette Post

Must-Have: Mise en Dior Tribal Earrings 7/10/13

Delicate Stackable Cuffs

The bulky arm candy of fall and years past has now given way to what I would like to call, delicate stacking. Think thin bangles and cuffs limited to no more than 3 on a wrist. The look is beautifully soft when wearing your sleevless or short-sleeved outfits. You can't go wrong with rose gold and I love this Giles & Brother Skinny Railroad Spike Cuff ($95 at Piperlime) that can give "delicate" a rather cool edge. Plus the crystals give it that perfect sparkle! I'm also a sucker for twigs so this Gorjana Buckley Cuff ($95 at Piperlime) is a pretty piece in gold. Stack them up or just wear one as a statement.

Here are more delicate stackable cuffs:

Michael Kors Brilliance Matchstick Cuff ($145 at Piperlime)

Gorjana Elea Cuff ($135 at Piperlime)

Tai Pave Feather Cuff ($110 at Shopbop)

Tai Pave Arrow Cuff ($80 at Shopbop)