Each year around November 25th, the French fashion world gathers to commemorate St. Catherine’s Day, a tradition that has roots in medieval times and is celebrated by the haute couture industry. This event, marked by vibrant green-and-yellow hats symbolizing various virtues, brings together young professionals from Parisian luxury houses at City Hall. Historically, this occasion provided single women working in couture ateliers an opportunity to meet their superiors and enjoy festivities while wearing elaborate hats that showcased their skills or interests. Over time, the tradition evolved, including men who honor St. Nicholas, and now embraces inclusivity beyond marital status and age restrictions.
The celebration of St. Catherine’s Day dates back to the late 19th century when it was first observed by the couture industry. Known as Catherinettes, these unmarried women, each 25 years old, were given a rare chance to interact with their employers and participate in street parties. The hats they wore were often personalized, reflecting either their individual talents or the distinct styles of their respective fashion houses. For instance, in the 1940s, Schiaparelli’s Catherinettes donned oversized versions of designer Elsa Schiaparelli’s surreal fragrance bottles shaped like suns and candlesticks. These extravagant headpieces served as a subtle yet clear message: "I’m available," according to Sophie Kurkdjian, an assistant professor of fashion history at the American University of Paris.
St. Catherine’s Day holds significance beyond its role as a matchmaking ritual. It also fostered camaraderie among workers, serving as what might today be considered a team-building exercise. Men eventually adopted a parallel tradition honoring St. Nicholas, celebrating on December 6th. They enjoyed additional years of singledom before becoming Nicholases at 30. In modern times, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode has updated the rules, removing the requirement for participants to be unmarried and lowering the age limit for Nicholases to 25. This change reflects a shift towards inclusivity and adaptability within the fashion industry.
Victor Weinsanto, a French designer who started his label in 2020, appreciated the tradition during his internship at Chloé, where he witnessed Catherinettes receiving handbags along with their hats. Despite missing out on being feted as a Nicholas due to the rule changes, he still enjoys the spectacle from afar. The event remains a moment of creative freedom, exemplified by the large feathered hats worn by Hermès employees last November. As the fashion world continues to evolve, St. Catherine’s Day remains a cherished tradition, blending history, creativity, and community spirit.
The weekend in Guadalajara is a vibrant tapestry of cultural and culinary delights. Santo Coyote, a themed brunch buffet park, offers an immersive family experience with its festive atmosphere and diverse menu options. Families celebrate special occasions while enjoying both Mexican and international dishes. Meanwhile, Tlaquepaque, known as a "magical town," showcases the region’s rich artisanal heritage through pottery, sculptures, and ceramics. Visitors can explore galleries featuring renowned artists and enjoy refreshing Jalisco-style treats that capture the essence of Mexico.
Festive Family Brunch at Santo Coyote
Santo Coyote provides a unique brunch experience where families come together to celebrate milestones. Despite its large size, the restaurant maintains an intimate ambiance through distinct dining areas. The highlight is the bustling stations where fresh tortillas, tortas, and pancakes are prepared on demand. The menu offers a mix of Mexican and global flavors, ensuring there's something for everyone. A standout feature is the tequila vault upstairs, offering bottles for purchase.
Visitors are drawn not just by the delicious food but also by the lively and festive atmosphere. Children interact with concrete sea turtles near artificial waterfalls, while grandparents gather under palapa-style roofs. The joy of Santo Coyote lies in its unapologetic celebration of spectacle and tradition. Whether it's a birthday or simply a weekend getaway, this place creates unforgettable memories with its combination of delectable cuisine and engaging ambiance.
Artisanal Wonders in Tlaquepaque
A short drive from downtown Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque invites visitors into a world of artistry and craftsmanship. This charming town, recognized as a "magical town," is famous for its pottery and sculptures. Artisans use the distinctive clay from nearby Tonalá to create unique pieces that have gained international acclaim. The community also hosts galleries showcasing works by notable sculptors like Sergio Bustamante and Rodo Padilla, whose whimsical ceramic figures add a touch of humor and charm.
For those interested in ceramics, the Museo Pantaléon Panduro offers a glimpse into Mexico’s annual national ceramics competition. Each year, the museum welcomes new and innovative additions that showcase the evolving talent of Mexican artisans. After exploring the galleries, visitors can indulge in a refreshing Jalisco-style treat at Nieves de Garrafa Chapalita. These light and fluffy snow-like desserts come in uniquely Mexican flavors such as elote, sandía con chile, and tequila, providing a delightful conclusion to a day filled with culture and creativity.
In the face of fluctuating weather patterns, maintaining lip health has become more critical than ever. Our lips, being more vulnerable to environmental factors due to their thinner protective layer, can easily lose moisture. This season, several brands have introduced innovative lip balms that not only hydrate but also add a touch of color. These products are perfect for those who want to protect their lips while enhancing their natural beauty. Isamaya Ffrench's Metal Lip Balm offers a metallic finish with protective ingredients like castor oil and plant-based waxes. Chanel’s Rouge Coco Baume Shine provides vibrant colors and deep hydration using olive leaf extract, shea butter, and squalane. Glossier’s Balm Dotcom in Black Cherry ensures your lips stay moisturized with traditional occlusives such as petrolatum and beeswax. Meanwhile, Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Posh Balm delivers a sheer tint with murumuru seed butter and botanical lanolin alternatives. For those seeking exfoliation, U Beauty’s Plasma Lip Compound and Eadem’s Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm incorporate gentle exfoliants to smooth and prepare the lips for better absorption.
A charming retreat awaits in Cornwall, England, where Jess and Ash Alken-Theasby have recently unveiled a beautifully renovated two-bedroom cottage in the coastal town of Padstow. Working with Hám Interiors, this 100-year-old property now boasts deep, rich colors and nautical-themed decor. The primary bedroom features a striking burnt orange hue, while the dining room showcases a hand-carved wooden salmon. Jess aimed to create an atmosphere reminiscent of an old family home filled with cherished items. Guests can enjoy cozying up by the wood-burning fireplace or preparing meals with locally sourced granola, Cornish scones, cream, and jam. For culinary enthusiasts, nearby restaurants by renowned chefs Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth offer exceptional dining experiences within a short walk from the cottage.
As we explore these luxurious lip balms and the inviting Cornwall cottage, it becomes evident that self-care and thoughtful design can significantly enhance our daily lives. Whether through nurturing our skin or creating spaces that inspire comfort and relaxation, these innovations remind us of the importance of taking time for ourselves. By embracing quality products and environments, we foster a deeper connection to our well-being and the world around us, promoting a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.