Forever Chic

July 1, 2013
This book adds more support to the belief that the French are better at everything—eating, raising children, and of course, efficient application of cosmetics. An American in Paris, Jett was the style editor of the International Herald Tribune and the editor of American Elle. Her research for this book involved observing fashionable friends and visits to French estheticians, dermatologists, plastic surgeons, pharmacists, internists, nutritionists, and personal shoppers. Backed by these experts, Jett doles out advice with exactitude: “I recommend, as do estheticians, that for an intensive, post-pajama winter treatment, we sleep in a layer of the butter. You must have an old pair of sweat bottoms and a T-shirt someplace. Remember your socks. And, do I need to say this? Don’t ever wear that get-up outside the privacy of your own home.” Jett’s comments and sprinklings of French (“Hair Rules: Non, Non, et Non”) give the book a lively personality. Sure, Jett can be downright ridiculous (“Pierre, my personal jeweler...”), but where else can readers peek inside the closets of French women (over age 40, une femme d’un certain age, to whom this book is dedicated, and the name of Jett’s blog) and find such details as “large Hermes scarf as a halter.” Each chapter is indulgent fun. 50 color illus. Agent: Lauren Galit, LKG Agency.

September 1, 2013

French women have an enviable reputation for being svelte, sexy, and stylish and for possessing a certain je ne sais quoi that doesn't seem to diminish with age. Fashion journalist and editor Jett reveals how middle-aged French women remain "forever chic" in this detailed look at the diet, skin, hair, makeup, and exercise regimen of la femme d'un certain age. Like contemporary Francophone beauty authority Jamie Cat Callan, Jett relies on interviews and observations gathered during her stay in France. The author found, as many articles, blogs, and books about the French feminine mystique assert, that culture and confidence play an important role in French women's ability to age gracefully. The French purportedly celebrate older women, are fashion-conscious, control their food portions, and walk more than Americans. However, French women still work hard at maintaining their looks, and this volume provides commonsense and decidedly French head-to-toe beauty routines that yield results. Readers will also learn how to use color, accessories, and figure-flattering clothing to emulate the classic Parisian sense of style. VERDICT This worthwhile and entertaining addition will be popular in libraries where there is an interest in French culture.--Ajoke Kokodoko, Oakland P.L.

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