In the next edition of The Handbook’s Tastemakers Series, we chat to model, mother, businesswoman and all-round Parisian style icon, Jeanne Damas. From the cosiest bar in Paris to the best store for shopping homeware gems, music picks to hotel recommendations, here is her little black book of everything she loves.
Jeanne Damas’ CV covers all areas of the fashion world, from model to creative director, Instagram star and muse. It was only a matter of time before she launched her own label.
Rouje was founded in 2016, a collection that embodies the Parisian chic of Jeanne’s innate style, a curated line of pieces designed by women for women. Think the perfect jeans, timeless tea dresses and separates that fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.
Jeanne has also recently become a mother and added beauty to the Rouje line. If that wasn’t enough, she’s also just launched her new book, La Vie en Rouje: Curated by Jeanne Damas, a stunning collection of photo memoirs from her everyday life and backstage access to running one of the fashion labels of the moment.
Here’s what she had to say…
For more effortless Parisian style, check out our list of the chicest French girls to follow on Instagram.
Where do you live in Paris and what do you love about it?
I live in the 20th arrondissement, near the Père Lachaise cemetery. For me it’s the ‘real’ Paris, a neighbourhood full of diversity, those that are young, old, living a very joyful and enriching life together. It’s also an area which is not very touristy, which I love.
The whole city has so many hidden gems, just look up and you can always discover something beautiful. A detail on a facade or the light which reflects on the roofs.
Do you have a favourite local restaurant you return to time and time again?
I love Le Square Trousseau – which used to be my parents’ restaurant – for the atmosphere and the nostalgia. I also love Aux Deux Amis for a drink and French tapas.
For something special, Clamato, is the best fish restaurant in town.
Where would you book for a cosy date-night in Paris?
Le Clown Bar.
What are your recommendations for galleries and museums?
My tip is to go to the Louvre during the week as there are far less people. I also really liked the recent group show ‘Cache Cache’ at Perrotin, with works by some upcoming artists I love, like Nathanëlle Herbelin and Adrian Geller.
What about London… Where do you love to stay when you visit?
I love the Portobello Hotel for its charm, garden, colourful decor and a bath in the middle of the room.
I love the Portobello Hotel for its charm, garden, colourful decor and a bath in the middle of the room.
Where is great for browsing and buying beautiful books?
In Paris, I go to La Nouvelle Chambre Claire or Ofr for great photo books. In London, Hatchards Piccadilly – they have everything.
Where do you shop for interiors?
I love Simerane for gifts. I love buying their plaid pieces for friends, but I have many things from them for my own home too. I also love everything Luke Edward Hall’s does – his world is full of colour and fantasy.
I love everything Luke Edward Hall's does - his world is full of colour and fantasy.
What’s the last thing you bought for your wardrobe?
A vintage Cavalli cashmere cardigan.
Which item in your wardrobe will you treasure forever?
My YSL vintage pieces, especially the 1970s corset I bought for my 30th birthday in Marrakech.
What are the three hero pieces from Rouje’s new collection?
A pair of perfect jeans in blue or pastel, the suede trench and the Aurelio T-shirt.
Who would you love to see wearing Rouje who hasn’t already?
A lot of actresses wear Rouje and we are very honoured and touched, but I would love to see a pop star like Beyoncé or Rihanna in Rouje.
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La Vie en Rouje – Curated by Jeanne Damas is out now.
£24.92 at Amazon.co.uk
What was the last book you read and what’s currently on your nightstand?
I’m currently reading a biography on Karl Lagerfeld as I’m working on a project about him, otherwise I love the books of Virginie Despentes or Romain Gary.
What are you currently listening to, either music or podcast?
I listen to the radio station, France Inter – I’m a grandma!
Music-wise, I’m listening to a lot of Rosalia, Aya Nakamura and Christophe.
Do you have any morning or nighttime rituals you swear by?
Since having my son, I don’t need any alarm anymore! We have our family morning routine, dressing the table, sharing breakfast together and listening to music. In the evening, I do a face massage with the Les Filles en Rouje face oil.
What are the three beauty products you couldn’t live without?
The products I’ve developed for Les Filles en Rouje: a face cleanser, a rosé face cream and a nourishing face oil.
Hydration and protecting yourself from the sun are key when it comes to healthy skin.
Where do you go in Paris when you need some relaxstion?
I love the Buttes Chaumont park, it’s very romantic and quite untapped by tourists. It’s a bit like our Hyde Park.
Let’s talk travel… where’s on your list for 2023?
Portugal, London, NYC and Italy.
Finally, tell us about your new book, La Vie en Rouje?
I curated this book for the fifth anniversary of my brand Rouje two years ago. It was quite emotional to go through all the archives and select our favorite images and moments, like our short movie we shot with the iconic Rossy de Palma.
WATCH THE FILM HERE
SHOP ROUJE’S CURRENT FASHION & BEAUTY COLLECTIONS AT ROUJE.COM
SHOP JEANNE’S NEW BOOK AT AMAZON.CO.UK
& FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM @JEANNEDAMAS
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