Easy Ways to Cultivate a French-Inspired Life

Embrace French elegance and simplicity in your everyday life! Start your mornings with a touch of Paris, refine your style, embrace leisure, and bring the joy of France into your daily routine.

A French street lined with apartments on either side.

Many of us have experienced the allure of France through the lens of movies, cooking shows, or house hunters looking for their next adventure.

The charming streets of Paris, the serene vineyards of Bordeaux, and the sun-kissed shores of the Côte d’Azur invite us into a world that seems sophisticated, leisurely, and enchanting, all at the same time.

A move to France or even a vacation might not be on the immediate horizon, but what if we could capture the essence of the French lifestyle and make it part of our everyday lives, no matter where we are?

Here are some ways to infuse your daily routine with a touch of French flair, bringing relaxation and joie de vivre into the midst of your busy life.

The French Breakfast

Begin your day the French way with a simple yet luxurious breakfast. Imagine sitting at a quaint café; now recreate this at your kitchen table. A fresh croissant or a slice of baguette with jam, paired with a steaming cup of café au lait, can transform your morning routine into a moment of calm and pleasure.

Ideas for You to Try:

Visit a local bakery for fresh pastries once a week.
Set the table the night before so you have a pleasant space to enjoy your breakfast.
Allow yourself to enjoy breakfast without multitasking. Savor the flavors and the moment.

A latte sits in a cup on a saucer next to a plate holding two croissants on a wooden table top.

Fashion and Décor

French style, both in fashion and home décor, is characterized by a blend of elegance and simplicity. Incorporate this into your life by choosing quality over quantity. A well-fitted blazer or a chic scarf can elevate your everyday look, while a few thoughtfully chosen décor items can transform your home into a more stylish and serene space.

Ideas for You to Try:

Conduct an audit of your wardrobe and home, removing items that don’t bring you joy or serve a purpose.
Invest in a few high-quality pieces that reflect your personal style.
Incorporate elements of nature into your home décor, such as fresh flowers or potted plants, to bring a sense of tranquility and beauty.

Cultivate Leisure and Well-Being

The French are known for their leisurely pace of life and their commitment to work-life balance. While adopting this approach completely might be unrealistic for you, you can designate “mini escapes” throughout your week. Whether it’s a long bath, a walk in the park, or a yoga session, find your version of a French vacation amid your busy schedule.

Ideas for You to Try:

Schedule at least one leisure activity per week that is just for you.
Try disconnecting from digital devices for an hour each evening to enjoy uninterrupted family time or personal relaxation.
Consider adopting the French tradition of the long, leisurely meal during weekends. Cook a simple but delicious meal and enjoy it with your family, allowing for conversation and connection.

A woman walks away from view on a brick walkway with a stone wall to her right and a park with trees to her left.

French Cuisine at Home

French cuisine might seem daunting, but at its heart, it’s about appreciating and savoring the quality of the ingredients. You don’t need to prepare a five-course meal; start with something simple like a Salad Nicoise or a Quiche Lorraine. The key is to enjoy the process of cooking and the pleasure of eating.

Ideas for You to Try:

Choose one French recipe to try out each month.
Visit a farmers’ market to select fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Make meal preparation a family activity, involving your children in simple tasks and teaching them the joy of cooking and eating together.

A kitchen counter is laden with fresh flowers, fruit, and eggs as a woman cuts a small apple in half.

Art, Literature, and Film

French culture is rich in literature, art, and cinema. Engaging with these aspects can provide a beautiful escape and deepen your appreciation for the subtleties of French life. Read a novel by a French author, visit an art exhibition featuring French artists, or watch a French film with English subtitles to immerse yourself in the language and culture.

Ideas for You to Try:

Create a “French night” once a month where you watch a French movie or read a story by a French author.
Join or start a book club focusing on French literature.
Visit museums virtually or in-person to view French art collections.

A pile of watercolor photos lies atop a wooden table. The images depict springtime foggy scenes.

The charm and allure of France can be more than just a distant dream or an item on your bucket list; it can be a tangible part of your daily life.

Embracing the French lifestyle is about more than just enjoying good food or dressing well; it’s about adopting a mindset that values quality over quantity, that finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, and that makes space for relaxation and well-being amidst the busyness of everyday life. It’s a reminder to slow down, to savor the moment, and to prioritize what truly matters.