Stylish Living with Bénédicte Burguet-Journé
When I think about timeless Parisian style both in terms of clothes and interiors, Bénédicte immediately springs to mind. Senior Editor for Vanity Fair France covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle, she represents that sought-after simple French elegance that isn’t always easy to replicate. Effortlessly put together in a uniform of denim, shirts and blazers, with natural beauty and minimal embellishment, she’s not unlike a modern day Audrey Hepburn in Funny face or a young Coco Chanel. I can easily imagine for example, Bénédicte quoting Chanel’s famous saying to me: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”
Born in Rome, she grew up in Paris near Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement, not far from where she lives today with her husband and daughter, Blanche, making her as Parisian as they come. We have known each other for a little while now having attended various events together (most recently a trip to Athens with Hermès) and I’ve always admired her no-fuss easy elegance and often discover some important tidbit about skincare or the body - she’s a well of beauty and health knowledge. I suggest you follow her on Instagram, where she offers tips on Stories and a thoughtfully-curated feed of monochromatic looks in black, white and blue, along with words of wisdom and glimpses into her beautiful home; a beautiful light-filled Haussmannian apartment boasting classically Parisian parquet flooring, high ceilings, mouldings and a marble fireplace adorned with a striking gold mirror. She has decorated it sparingly, which means that each special piece from the white bouclé sofa to the wooden sculptures and glass-topped marble table have their spotlight, creating a charming gallery-like space that perfectly reflects her personal style.
Scroll down for the interview and to peep into her home.
SHop the story
How would you describe your home’s style?
It’s very pure and minimalist. I love light decoration; I’m not a big fan of interiors cluttered with lots of objects, fabrics and prints.
Last item you bought for your home?
An English cutlery set in silver dating from the beginning of the 20th century.
What’s on your nightstand?
Books, a Panthella lamp by Verner Panton and health supplements.
Favorite coffee table book?
Signature home scent?
Citronelle by Diptyque - it’s fresh and timeless.
Favorite tabletop item for entertaining?
Glasses by Saint Louis, vintage silverware and my mother’s art deco plates.
Favorite piece(s) of furniture or treasures in your home?
The sculptures by Valérie Lebrun, I love their organic aesthetic, our vintage coffee table and the African art objects.
Your favorite handbag for everyday wear?
My Hermès bag in toile and leather, and baskets in the summer - they’re always chic.
Beauty product you can’t live without?
It’s really difficult to reply to this question! But I would say fresh waters like Cologne Impériale by Guerlain, the perfume ‘Blanche’ by Byredo or Eau de Cologne Jean Marie Farina by Roger & Gallet and my Augustinus Bader cream.
What’s on your spring wardrobe wishlist?
Jeans of course! White or denim shirts and a vintage leather biker jacket.
You can follow Bénédicte on Instagram here.
Words by Marissa Cox and photos by Benedicte Burguet-Journé.
