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I’m a Parisian and more than that, I am a Parisian from the Right Bank. A city girl.
Where do you stay in London?
Hotel CafeÌ Royal, designed by the architect David Chipperfield, who I love. It’s unusual and very cool. I love the spa but never have time to go. And the pool is beautiful.
Where do you recommend for a first date?
China Tang bar at the Dorchester, it’s an address that Kate Moss recommended to me. It has a private club feel, it’s my favourite place. It’s very 1970s.
Which shops do you rely on?
Mostly I am coming for work, so there’s not a lot of time for shopping. I always enjoy going to Dover Street Market, I like the mood there. And I like Harrods, it’s a great magasin. The fragrance hall especially is amazing, it’s a dream come true to see my perfume in there. Working on perfume is very, very personal. It’s very ‘me’.
Have you ever had a run-in with a London police officer?
No, but I like their look.
How does London style compare to Paris?
I think London is much more creative than Paris. In Paris it’s, let’s say, more classic. People are much more anxious about the eyes of others. It’s very simple, not trying to surprise, ready to seduce. Everything is more free in London. I’m a big supporter of Vivienne Westwood, there’s a mix of punk that is so well done in London. I also notice that the British are never cold and that always makes me smile!
Like everyone, I have a crush on Cillian Murphy. And I also have a big crush on Idris Elba
What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
‘Hello, love,’ every time! No one in France would do that.
Best meal you’ve had here?
My best memory was with my son, when he was doing exhibitions, especially on a day with Nicolas Pol, the evening always ended in Chinatown. I have good memories of Mr Chow and Blakes Hotel as well.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
Winston Churchill, Lady Di and all of Blur!
Who do you call when you want to have fun in London?
My friend Jefferson Hack. He’s chic and sexy, he knows all the right addresses. For even more fun I’ll call my friend Kate Moss.
What’s your biggest extravagance?
I love having my morning appointments in evening dress.
What’s your London secret?
Having lunch with my daughter and grandkids at The Duke of Cambridge on St Peters Street. Very traditional, not ‘fashion’. They have a great Sunday lunch.
What do you think of British men?
Very sexy! I’m also a Netflix addict and with each series I have a new crush. Like everyone, I have a crush on Cillian Murphy. I also have a big crush on Idris Elba.
What are you up to for work?
Work has been crazy. I am developing home fragrances, soon we will introduce make-up products, celebrating my famous ‘smoky eye’ look, and I’m launching a new book about 10 years of CR Fashion Book. I hope people will discover amazing stories.
What’s next on your London hit list?
I would love to go and see more musicals but I’m not bilingual enough for that. And to go to Wembley would be an absolute dream.
What is one French phrase every Londoner should know? ‘Je t’aime’. It means something much stronger than, ‘I love you’.
