Francophile Gift Guide

Last Updated on 12/27/2021

Looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves Paris, France? When we can’t travel to our favorite places, it’s comforting to bring a little bit of that country into our homes or incorporate it in our daily routine. As a lifelong Francophile, I’ve always looked for pieces that remind me of France. In this guide, I’ve shared some of those pieces that are sure to bring back travel memories.

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Poster | Marinière | Caudalie | Ornament | Tote | Drinking French | The New Parisienne | Champagne Glass | Marble Wine Holder | Jewelry Case | Dutch Oven | Napkin | Market Bag | Herbs de Provence | Candle | French Hair Pin

Books

I have at least a dozen books about Paris and French culture. David Lebovitz’s Drinking French and Lindsay Tramuta’s The New Parisienne: The Women & Ideas Shaping Paris make great gifts. Not only does Drinking French include recipes for cocktails, but Lebovitz also explains French culture and the history behind key ingredients. Tramuta’s new release is her sequel to The New Paris and emphasizes the role of females in Paris today.

Cheese, Wine and Bread was a new addition to my shelf this year. Follow author Katie Quinn through England, Italy and France as she discovers “the magic of fermentation. 

Shakespeare and Co Tote – The famous and historic bookstore in Paris has recently called for help as many businesses have been struggling in 2020. Consider buying a few books or their classic tote from their online store shipping worldwide. They’ve also launched a membership program as another way to support them.

For the Home

Le Creuset was founded in 1925 by two French artisans who wanted to bring some color to cookware with their unique glazing process. Over the past 100 years, they’ve expanded from offering the signature dutch oven (in today’s “Flame”) to endless utensils, flatware and cookware for kitchens around the world.

With all the sales that are happening this time of year, it’s wise to do some price comparison when shopping for higher ticket items. Le Creuset is also available at Crate & Barrel and Amazon.

Market Basket – When I visited Provence, a market basket was at the top of my list of goodies to bring home. I love using it for trips to the store, a picnic or at the beach. 

Fill it with Herbs de Provence and linen napkins for a nice gift set.

Diptyque opened its first shop in Saint Germain as a bazar for unique fabrics, designed by three friends and artists. In 1963, they created their first candles in three innovative scents: hawthorn, cinnamon and tea. Diptyque’s range of candles, fragrance and skincare have expanded over the years while still representing curiosity and an eclectic sprit. 

Eiffel Tower Ornament – While it might be a bit cliché, the Eiffel Tower is an undeniable icon of Paris. You can’t go wrong with something featuring one of the most visited monuments in the world.

Coupe glasses – Rumor has it that the shallow, round shape of the coupe champagne glass is modeled from Marie Antoinette’s breast. Although that legend has been dispelled, the coupe glass has been in style in France for centuries. Pair the glasses with this elegant marble wine bottle chiller (that also doubles as a vase). 

For Her

Anything from Sezane is sure to be a great gift for someone who loves France. The brand is dedicated to sustainability and partners with various charities. You have to act quick though as some of their top selling items go fast and don’t restock. Check out this customizable ring or monogram necklace for something special.

Marinière – It might be a little stereotypical, but the marinière is a classic image of French fashion. The striped long sleeve shirt was actually the official uniform for the French Navy’s seamen. However, it was Coco Chanel that was inspired by the uniform and made it iconic. 

French Hair Pin – I’ve always used hair sticks to put up my long hair, but I was actually turned onto these specific ones from Jamie Beck, an expat living in France…. Which brings me to the next category…

Prints and Art

Isolation Creation Poster – During the first lockdown in France, Jamie Beck created a work of art every day for 60 days and documented her entire process in her Instagram stories. Each stunning photograph is now available in a high quality poster format. You’ll also be supporting an artist based in Provence.

Paris Mail Subscription – American watercolor artist Carol Gillott has been documenting her life in France on her blog Paris Breakfast for years. Sign up for her subscription service through Etsy and she’ll send prints of her work each month straight from Paris. She also thoughtfully stuffs the envelope with a few souvenirs like brochures or fragrance cards.  

French Skincare

Caudalie – French women are known for their timeless elegance, impeccable style and flawless skin. While genetics certainly has something to do with it, they’ve also got amazing skincare on their side. Brands like Caudalie, Avene and Vichy are all made in France. During the holidays, take advantage of Caudalie’s value sets. Also read: The Best French Skincare.

 

Want more gift ideas? Check out the Gift Guide for Italy Lovers .