Fashion File

Whoever said food and fashion don't mix was seriously mistaken. The posh restaurant, Cafe de la Paix, located near the famous Opera in the 9th arrondissement in Paris is one of the pioneers of the fashion and food movement. Every four months they collaborate with a different fashion designer to create a mouthwatering delight fit for a fashionista. Past designers have included Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Gaspard Yurkievich, Elie Saab, and Franck Boclet (Ungaro Men's). We had the privilege of meeting with the head Chef at the Cafe, Laurent Delarbre, and his Pastry chef Guillaume Caron for a private viewing of the making of the newest creation by Franck Sorbier, which will be on the menu in January. As they were showing us the detailed and delicate process that goes into making the "Lucky Charm" dessert we couldn't help but feel sorely out of place in the kitchen of this Parisian institution. For two people who have barely mastered the skill of boiling water we were in awe of how much work goes into one pastry, I think they might have been in awe of how much work went into our outfits. Our attention to detail includes sky-high heels, choice vintage finds, and perfectly smudged kohl eyeliner, while the Chefs opt for a clean white sartorial color palette and focus their energy on the different flavored chocolate mousse, wafer-thin chocolate biscuits, and orange marmalade glaze. This is one dessert that is definitely worth the extra calories!
The Fashion inspired treats don't stop at Cafe de la Paix. You can also find them in London at the Berkeley Hotel. Their approach is a bit different but definitely still fashion forward and oh so chic. While they don't collaborate with designers they study the newest Pret-a-Porter collections and take their inspiration from there. The pastry chef works with in the know magazine editors to create edible renditions of a Valentino red coat, or most recently an Alexander McQueen chiffon dress. To top it off they are all served on china designed by Paul Smith. EuroDisney is also tapping into the trend. They are teaming up with Chantal Thomass, Vanessa Bruno and ORA ITO to create 3 bouche de Noels that will be sold exclusively in a Disney themed bakery in the 1st arrondissement of Paris on the 23rd and 24th of December. We are all looking forward to eating desserts as well dressed as we are!