Book Report: Lessons From Madame Chic

Lessons From Madame Chic

By Jennifer Scott

Lessons From Madame Chic is a compilation of 20 lessons that Jennifer Scott learned during her stay if Paris while she was an exchange student. The family she stayed with she loving refers to as the Chic Family, and the woman of the household is therefore, Madame Chic. Madame Chic made a big impact on Mrs. Scott. In Lessons From Madame Chic Jennifer Scott shares some of the ways Madame Chic stayed so distinguished and, well, chic. 

I walked away from this book intrigued. I definitely could use some lessons on being chic and polished. One thing that Mrs. Scott says is emphasized in the French culture is living life well. Enjoy the little things. For example, don't mindlessly snack on garbage. Allow yourself to become hungry between meals and then thoroughly enjoy your food. Don't let repetetive tasks become mundane. Take pleasure in your work, even when you have to do the same jobs everyday. Don't become slovenly or lazy. Be poised and always ready to do your best. 

Mrs. Scott relates that the French culture focuses on quality over quantity. Quality in every area of your life. Put quality foods in your mouth, quality perfumes on your body, quality information in your mind. Purchase home goods that are made to last. Buy things that will become heirlooms. Don't throw away your money on fad decor that you replace every season. Buy the best that you can afford in every area.

Mrs. Scott talks a lot about being presentable all the time. She says from your inner most garments to your outer most garments to wear nice things. Not only will it effect how others perceive you, but it will effect the way you feel and carry yourself. 

I found many elements of this book to be positive. On the other hand, I felt like some of the ideas are little frivolous and quiet high maintenance. Mrs. Scott tends to idealize the French culture. If the French are doing it, then whatever 'it' is, is wonderful. I have never had a positive impression of French culture. I had to open my mind a little and see if the French had anything to offer that would enrich my life.

One thing I would like to implement is treating everyday special. I want to abolish the notion of saving nice things for "later." As if it has to be a special occasion to use nice dishes or wear nice clothes. If I have clothes that make me feel pretty, than I should wear them. If I have a fancy tea cup or breakfast bowl that makes me feel special than I should use it. The same goes for my family. I can plate up our meals on a pretty serving platter. I can set the table every supper. I can use nice cloth napkins. We can light candles. I can do a spa day with the children. I can give Mr. In the Mid-west a back rub. I want my family to feel special everyday. I want to enjoy the small things in life and live well.

Another piece of advice I want to take away from Lessons From Madame Chic is, to cultivate my mind. I have been working towards this goal for around a year. I want to learn things on purpose. I don't want my brain to go to mush. Mrs. Scott, also, emphasizes seeking out the arts. If you are able, attend a live performance, visit a museum, take a class, learn how to play an instrument, volunteer at a local playhouse, or host a poetry reading. These suggestions sound a little out of my comfort zone, but I, also, think I would enjoy them. I want to try new things, and expand my horizons.

If you feel like your life has become dull and you would like some inspiration, or you feel sloppy and want a nudge in the right direction, I think you would enjoy reading Lessons From Madame Chic by Jennifer Scott.*

Ecclesiastes 5:18
 Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.

What have you been reading? Tell in the comments section!

* Do I really have to write a disclaimer to say that I don't agree with everything that Jennifer Scott says? Okay, well here it is: I don't agree with all of Mrs. Scott's views or recommendations. :)