.:le train bleu:.

"First Date" Dress

2008-09-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

I spotted his insanely cute girl shopping our recent sale at The Cleaners but it was such a tornado in there that I couldn't place where I recognized her from. Well, thanks to her blog, I have found out that the proud new owner of the Eskell dress is the designer behind Wikstenmade. You might recognize her too from her recent feature in Domino where they decorate a room inspired by an outfit. I know, crazy cute, no?Her designs are as lovely as she is too. Here are some of my favorites:

• jackson, johnston & roe •

2008-09-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

"Though brilliantly sunny, Saturday morning was overcoat weather again, not just topcoat weather, as it had been all week and as everyone hoped it would stay for the big weekend--the weekend of the Yale game."
- J.D. Salinger, Franny and Zooey

Afternoon Match Blouse

I don't know why exactly but jackson, johnston, and roe's collection makes me think of Franny Glass. It might be the fact that they named the above style the "Afternoon Match Blouse" which reminded me of the opening of Franny and Zooey, but I kinda think it's more than that. I think there's something unintentionally youthful in the designs like a precocious young woman who's more serious than her year's warrant, dressed-up, "feminine" but still wearing her hair in the same ponytail she's worn all through highschool. She's a girl who spends a lot of time in libraries but doesn't yet know how to cook anything more elaborate than a grilled cheese sandwich.

Perrine Blouse

Thursday Blouse with Library Skirt

Sara Moffat, Teo Griscom and Riley Salyards assumed their grandfathers’ names for their womenswear line jackson, johnston and roe. The childhood friends draw from each of their distinctive artistic disciplines to create small handsome collections made in New York City. With an emphasis on fine fabrics, construction and detail, the line continues to be classic and versatile.
See more of the jackson, johnston, and roe collection online at Le Train Bleu.

Hello again, High-Low!

2008-09-22T23:59:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since we've featured a Hello, High-Low outfit that we're gonna give you a double whammy today:Jackson, Johnston, and Roe Perrine Blouse from Le Train Bleu, $198.00
White Bowler Hat from Lids and More, $42.99
High-Waisted Sailor Skirt from Chadwicks, $19.99
Ducky Wingtip Loafer from Forever 21, $24.80

The Perrine Blouse is a really special piece with tiny green pinstripes and covered bottle green buttons at the sleeves and in the back (be sure to check out the detail shots on the product description page). It's something you can be sure to get years of enjoyment out of, and to begin, we suggest pairing it with this terrifically flattering High Waist skirt from Chadwicks. The skirt is even on sale now for $19.99 so you can stock up on all the colors. Shown here in Navy, but they're all pretty great.

We've topped the whole thing off with a white bowler hat--something you'll need some confidence to wear but try it for an evening out. Go on, channel Sabine in the Unbearable Lightness of Being:

Ulla Johnson Camelia Blouse from Le Train Bleu, $275.00
High Waist Navy Jeans from Uncle Sam's Army Navy Outfitters, $25.20
Dara 3Q Striped Coat from Forever 21, $37.80
Ducky Wingtip Loafer from Forever 21, $24.80

Here's another exquisite blouse that's an investment piece for the price but the Camelia Blouse is timeless and ageless and goes with everything. The henley neckline is edged in lace and the fit is feminine but not at all fussy. We found a great cotton striped coat from Forever 21 to pair with it along with some high-waisted Navy-issue jeans (hello, sailor!). These are really flattering to a woman's curves and are built to withstand gale winds. I have 5 pairs--no kidding. For the feet, try the black patent loafers that are really comfortable for kicking around in and are meant to be worn sans laces. Casual and dressy at the same time.

PDX COLLECTIVE SALE--THE shopping event of the season!

2008-09-09T17:37:00.001-07:00

.:RONEN CHEN;.

2008-09-09T14:40:00.000-07:00

"I wanted to present a figure that is delicate, urban and rough, all at the same time, " says Ronen Chen.

The name may be new to you but Ronen Chen is an Israeli designer with a refined, minimalist sensibility that has garnered him a huge following around the globe. He now has 9 concept stores under his own name and is sold in over 50 stores worldwide. Incorporating origami-like folds and pleats in his simple paired down garments, his collection is sophisticated and clean, recalling the Japanese designers of the 80's and the Belgians of the 90's. Offering up clothes that are cool but eminently "wearable" which to me just means that you will never look silly in his designs, nor like you're trying to hard. It also means that these are peices that are timeless enough to wear for years and years. People will notice the subtle details and the beautiful natural fabrics, and most importantly you.
His designs are created through draping which lends them their incredibly flattering fit (he even makes his studio employees try everything on so he can examine the fit on real people before settling on any design).
The Fall collection is now in store at Le Train Bleu.

Loving liaMolly

2008-09-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

liaMolly is a sweater collection deeply rooted in the culture of knitting, far away from fashion, if you define fashion as something that comes and goes like the seasons.

The sweaters are as natural as the designers can make them without living in another century. They aspire to humanize fashion and elevate comfort clothes to the sublime - buttery yarns, heirloom accents, and tailoring; not trendy, beautiful. They want their sweaters to be affordable, to be sold in small boutiques so people can shop locally and grow their own economy.

After Hurricane Katrina, the liaMolly creators chose to move back to New Orleans and to family because they felt it was the only thing they could do. After obsessing over how they could help from afar they finally decided that they could best help by being among. By living, eating and voting from below sea level, as they say. They are inspired by New Orleanian's will to rebuild their homes, restart businesses, and continue on with life even better than before. New Orleans is a city that is self mending.

liaMolly is organic if "organic" means "living or working together to make something whole- something greater than one....."

We are so pleased to be able to offer this lovely collection at Le Train Bleu and feel that it is a company off to a great start which would be expected for a line named for two special little girls.

Buyer's Top Sale Picks, Part Two

2008-08-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Since tomorrow's the last day of the "Extra Pretty" sale and so many things from the previous list have sold out now, I thought I would share some more not-to-be-missed deals on my favorite styles in-store.As people are traveling more and the weather gets wackier, adaptable clothing options are more and more appealing. If you're like me, always searching for a way to integrate your Summer and Winter wardrobes, the Rylan Scarf Sweater is just the sort of piece you need. It is made of a lightweight and stretchy mercerized cotton (that wee bit of sheen keeps it looking "neat") and is high on the cool-factor with it's long drapey cowlneck scarf, but can work well with a variety of styles. I can see it over wispy floral dresses, or with wool trousers and an overcoat. This one is an easy fit but I like the look best when sizing up. Originally $187.00, Extra Pretty price $104.72.I'm almost afraid to bring this one to your attention, because we only have 2 left in the store and I've grown very attached to them. Sometimes we have little funerals here to bid adieu to beloved friends like the Fleur Wood Vera Dress, so if you become the lucky new owner of one of these, please love it and adore it as much as I do! This is another style that I think works well year round. It's not going to keep you warm in the dead of Winter or anything but the color makes it perfectly adaptable to the shorter days of the year. Add some tights, a scarf and jacket, and voila! Of course it is also a perfectly lovely Summer dress as exhibited by Zooey Deschanel when she wore it on the cover of Lucky Magazine. Originally $338.00, with Extra Pretty price $189.28.
The Bon Ton Blouse has been one of my favorites of the season. I think the red deco-inspired print is so sweet and the styling on this piece is very 1920's Paris with a touch of Bohemia by way of Morocco. It's a pullover style with unique seaming detail edged in the prettiest white crochet trim. As special as it is, I think this one should be worn for everyday with a pair of jeans. Originally $215.00, with Extra Pretty discount $85.60.
This is a new Tucker style for SS 08 and I'm continually amazed by how Gaby Basora is constantly able to dream up these super-flattering, unfussy, feminine, yet simple styles. The Cami Dress has tiny straps and the front and back are gathered onto them like a drawstring which allows you to adjust the amount of coverage. Shows off the back and décolleté beautifully making you look like a ballet dancer. Plus, I think if you wear this one over a slim black turtleneck, with a cardigan and some simple heels, you will look like a super cool 70s librarian. Originally $298.00, with Sale Price $119.20.Rudsak always hits the nail on the head. The leathers are always just as they should be--truly luxurious feeling, with a rich sheen, never a cheap shine, substantial and soft. The style details are always cool and well-thought out too, rather than superfluous. Here we have a beautifully executed short trench with a very flattering cut, removable Obi-style leather belt, and removable leather sleeves for versatility. Originally $413.00, with discount $231.36.
If Le Train Bleu had it's own line of clothing, I hope it would be very akin to Eskell, with a combination of unique prints, vintage detailing, and modern simplicity. A perfect example: The Savon Dress. There is a beautiful silk "charm" print at the shoulders, 2 rows of pearl buttons down the front, and the dress is black, something you'll get a lot of wear out of, but in an usual gauzy type of fabric. Originally $312.00, Extra Pretty price $174.40.

**Happy Shopping --the Extra Pretty Sale ends tomorrow!**

Buyer's Top Summer Sale Picks

2008-08-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

It's super sale time here at Le Train Bleu and on top of already reduced prices on all Summer stock, we are currently running a site-wide 20% discount, bringing some prices as low as 90% off. Holy smokes! It's a good time to get some crazy good deals on warm-weather gear, and the discount it also good on new Fall merchandise, but just for a limited time.

I thought I'd share some of my favorite things with you. It's true I'm the buyer for Le Train Bleu, but this doesn't mean I love all the styles equally. I do my best to buy a range of styles to satisfy all the diverse Le Train Bleu shoppers, but here today I give you my totally biased and partisan opinion. You can contact me at buyer@letrainbleu.com any time for the same brutally honest opinion.

I begin with some toppers which, if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, are a near year-round necessity. These are all lightweight options which will serve you well in Spring and Fall. They all have incredibly sleek and flattering cuts and unique details.

The Cirque de Nuit coat shown above is my number one favorite and one that will appeal to the girl with a soft spot for vintage styling and feminine silhouettes. The nipped waist lends an hourglass shape and the unique belled sleeves have a way of giving you a long and lanky look. Plus, that jacquard dot pattern evokes a theatrical vibe. Originally $308, this one is currently $123.20, which to me is a no-brainer.
The Paquerette Coat will have you looking sleek and gamine. The proportions on this one are very slimming with a youthful quality. I like to think of a Jean Seberg character wearing this thrown on like a cardigan over something spare and minimal. It's made of a sateen but don't be worried--the fabric is very matte and can work great for daytime and casual looks, though it does clean up well when the occasion arrives. Originally $250, current price $100.
First, let me warn you that this one is not for everybody. Wearing a tux-styled jacket like the Lili Marlene will attract a certain amount of attention. It will ward off guys who wear too much hair gel--in fact you will almost magically become invisible to them. Instead, you will be asked what you thought of the latest Werner Herzog movie. People will tell you that you remind them a little of Tilda Swinton in Orlando, which is partly cause you look that cool, and partly due to the elongated proportions and back pleat of this style which make it resemble an English riding jacket. I previously wrote about the iconoclasts who have donned the tux jacket before and if you read that entry you will see that when wearing this jacket you must be prepared to feel a bit, well, iconic. Was $237.00, on sale for $189.60.

We don't carry a lot of denim at Le Train Bleu but even the girl who emphatically "doesn't wear jeans," succumbs at times. And luckily, once in a blue moon, a denim line comes along that is special and cool enough to standout from the throngs. The 18th Amendment line from Australia fits the bill, and The Bacall jeans above are chic enough to wear to "work" (if you work in a place that requires a certain amount of polish). The high-waisted styles are great for lengthening the leg, but if you have a shorter waist you can go with Bergman or Garlands which have slightly lower rises, but still provide the same benefit. Originally $231.00, sale price is $92.40.
Every season we have certain stand-out styles and these Yumi Kim dresses would have to be our top-sellers of the Summer. We have just a few left in both the pink and navy--nab one to wear now and for something to look forward to next Summer. They are lightweight and flattering, keeping you looking pulled together in the hottest weather. Originally $204.00, with discount $113.60.
While playing favorites here, I'll let you know that I have a real soft spot for Tucker, the line by Gaby Basora. Her clothes always make me feel like a cool grown up and they often have a late 70's vibe that's right up my alley. The Tie Front top is one of her new "bodies" which is just silly fashion speak for styles. Like the smocked styles that launched the line, it is loose-fitting and versatile. At once casual, and dressy. The Helen's Patio Print is my choice for Summer, but the Egypt Desert Ride version would be a great year-round top which could be layered over a lean turtleneck in the colder months. Originally $249.00, sale price $99.60.
Admittedly I am not wearing these, because I'm chicken to show a lot of leg, but I admire the girl who would work these shorts. I think they look so cool with just a white t-shirt and a pair of flat sandals. For you fellow scaredy cats, we can get a similar look with the Humanoid Plus Fours, but we miss out on that retro satin fabric.
In my book, you can't go wrong with the Esme Sweater from Ulla Johnson which manages to be cozy and homespun but also clean and sophisticated. I think the curved cable neckline is such a pretty detail and the way the sleeves flare slightly is graceful and flattering. This is another great one to nab now because it will work well year-round. Very timeless.

Swedish Egg White Soap Testimonial

2008-07-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

"I had made a purchase almost 2 weeks ago and in the order was the famous Swedish Egg White Facial Soap.

As a teen I never had acne. I found in my mid thirties I started to have the worst acne ever and my skin just totally started to dry up and flake. I've tried cream to moisturize....soaps...lotions to help with acne but nothing helped.

I had read rave reviews on this soap and never believed it until I started to use it. It's only been 5 days and my skin is returning to its luster and my acne is clearing up. You're the only site that I've come across that sells this soap singly. That's Awesome. I just wanted to share that with you. Thank you for your time."

--Elizabeth, Le Train Bleu customer

IRL--Kimberly Baker Lexi Earrings

2008-06-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

The beautiful Taryn basking in the sunshine and enjoying her new acquisitions.

Portland Warming Trend Party and Sale This Saturday

2008-06-19T16:36:00.000-07:00

When and Where:

Le Train Bleu
1905 NW 26th Ave
Portland, OR 97209

Saturday, June 21st
Doors open at 11 am
Reception 6-8:00 PM

Public Transportation: Bus Line 77-Stop NW 27th & Vaughn
Dear Portland,

We haven't forgotten you. For the last few months we've just been buried in cardboard and tissue but we are now ready to come out of the woodwork and celebrate our recent press with a party and some Portland friendly prices.

All clothes will be 40-80% off for one day only. Yes, ma’am, you heard me right!

Of course we’ll have our ubiquitous offerings: DJ Matt spinning old-timey 78’s, Saint Cupcake towers, and cheap wine. Our new location is brimming with highly sought after picks for Spring, including newcomers Fleur Wood from Australia, Yumi Kim from LA, and Heimstone from Paris, to name a few.

Looking forward to seeing you there!
Bria and your friends at Le Train Bleu

**The large print giveth and the small print taketh away:
Accepting credit cards or cash
No price adjustments on prior purchases
All sales final

The LTB Wedding Season Survival Guide

2008-06-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

Wedding bells are ringing! Here are some suggestions from Le Train Bleu to help you enjoy the season.

The Non-traditionalist
No veil. No Bridal Magazine look-alikes. No skirt too long to dance or hop a train in. You’ll wear this one with your grandma’s short crochet gloves (they look perfect with the French lace trim) and a neat gardenia bouquet.

Going away dress: time to run off into the sunset
Now that you’re hitched you’re feeling rather lady-like. Leave the party in this smart Heidi Merrick dress as lovely as a ray-of-sunshine.

The Bride and Groom may take the presents but you can take the cake
Cakewalk perfumed candle from D.L. & Co. Long after the bride and groom have left the party you’ll still be kicking up your heels in a cloud of Madagascar vanilla and chicory.

The Best Dressed Guest
The Fleur Wood Field of Flowers dress is perfectly perfect for attending just about any wedding, whether in a chapel or in a back yard. Not for shrinking violets—the wedding photographer will be following you around all day.

Sweet Memories
An enduring sweet—Flavigny Pastilles are the very first candy confection ever made, dating back to 1591. A perfect keepsake and memento for those in your wedding party adorned with a romantic, pastoral illustration.

A dress for the beach-bound bride
The Madame Tirocchi Dress from objets trouvés is elegant and unfussy: an artful silk dress with a delicate hand-drawn white-on-white design resembling sea urchins.

An endearing gift
The lovely couple will think of you every time they fill this pretty vase with flowers in the years to come. Definitely better than the chip and dip set.

For your ladies in waiting
They curled your hair making you into a pageant queen for a day. They even danced with your drunk uncle Marv. It's payback time--here's a start.

A warm honeymoon destination calls!
The show’s over and now it’s time to bear your shoulders in the sun and practice saying “My husband…”

Hitchcock Dress Testimonial

2008-06-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hi-

I just received the Suzabelle "Hitchcock Dress" in the mail and I just had to send you an email to compliment you on this find! It fits perfectly and looks really fantastic. More than that, the copy on the website touting all the details for the reasonable price was right-on.

Thank you for your great work!

Best,

Kelly

Le Train Bleu named "Top Shop" by The Washington Post

2008-06-17T15:19:00.000-07:00

Saks.com, target.com, and...letrainbleu.com?!

2008-06-16T21:28:00.000-07:00

Whoa, weird! I'm still rubbing my eyes in disbelief but somehow Le Train Bleu made it onto Instyle's Top 20 Online Shopping Sites amongst big guys like Saks, Target, JCrew, and Bergdorf Goodman. It was nearly 5 years ago when I launched the site out of my studio apartment with zero retail experience and nearly the same amount of money and I never in my wildest dreams imagined this day. It's a true testament to how the internet has vastly changed the world of fashion retail.

What I'm really proud of is the "Best for" category that they bestowed upon us. It wasn't Budget Bags (that was Target), or Beach Accessories (that was JCrew), but best for Under the Radar Designers. Another win for the little guy!

What they said about Letrainbleu.com:
It's that little boutique where you want everything--from the retro-print tops to the ruffle-knit dresses. Many sites feature emerging designers--Revolveclothing.com and Kaightnyc.com--but nowhere are the items as lovingly chosen as on the Web outpost of Le Train Bleu, a Portland-based boutique named after an early 20th-century ballet with Chanel costumes and a Picasso backdrop. You might not recognize designers like Heimstone and Eskell, but rest assured your fashionista friends will be jealous.

Zooey Deschanel in Fleur Wood

2008-06-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

I was so pleased to see the lovely Zooey Deschanel wearing the equally lovely Fleur Wood Vera Dress on the cover of the new Lucky. This has been one of my very favorite styles this season at Le Train Bleu and we just have a few left which are on sale now (the blouse version is just as sweet and also on sale now).

In the NW edition of the same issue you will also find a nice write up of our Portland store as well as our newly revamped site, right under a feature of our home town heroes Church & State. They've featured our Florentine Rose Water, which is terrific in the Summer heat.

All in the Details #2

2008-06-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

The first installment seemed to be a hit so I thought I'd take a few more detail shots. If you're ever in need of additional photos of anything on the website feel free to email us at info@letrainbleu.com, we're happy to oblige.

Delicate white-on-white screen print on the obje ts trouves Madame Tirocchi Dress
Angie pointed out that they remind her of sand dollars, sea anemone or some other aquatic creature and I can't agree more. Perfect for a beach wedding!

Curious to know what the black baroque print on the 12th Street All The Pretty Horses Dress looks like? Mystery solved.

Delicate lace and smocking detail on the by Francine Crepe de Chine Blouse

Tiny flowers and pleats on the Fleurs Top from APC

Shhh...

2008-06-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

A secret sale before the sale, for special friends and those "in the know."
Good through Friday June 13th.

What's in a Name?

2008-06-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

In the March issue of Lucky there was a funny description of how nerve-racking it can be to come up with ever new ways of describing articles of clothing. Kim France challenged readers to submit their own captions for their shoe guide in The Lucky walk-in-our-shoes caption writing contest.

I particularly enjoyed their list of banned descriptives:
adorable
bling
fashionista
fave
fierce
flair
funky
groovy
indulgence
kooky
run, don't walk
shopaholic
the final word in
whimsical
food references used to describe nonfood item (as in "a delicious shade of pink")

On my own personal list there would definitely be some crossover. Bling, fashionista, fierce. Those all make me cringe. I've no problem with adorable (as long as it's not followed by the word "duds") and whimsical though--sometimes those ones are just too apt. We should all stay away from flirty and girly--two adjectives that will erode your self-respect and give you cooties.

I've been naming and describing all the clothes for Le Train Bleu for over four years now and I relate to the hair-pulling that Lucky describes but that's mostly just due to the fact that I'm normally writing those things long after I should have been in bed. I get a little unfocused and slap happy. And repetitive. Longtime readers, please forgive the duplicate Picnic at Hanging Rock references that always come to mind when the white dresses arrive with our Spring shipments.

See, clothes talk to me. They tell me stories. They remind me of movies and old lovers and things my Mom wore when I was a kid. They remind me of cool girls I see in cafes but have never met. Cities I've visited. Mixed tapes that my best friend made me in 9th grade.

I've come to realize that what I love most about fashion and also about my job, is the storytelling. For me the world of clothes and the world of retail is a world of waking dreams and memories and aspirations. Clothes fire up my imagination and imbue my days with fantasy.

So, here are some of my recent clothes-inspired daydreams from Le Train Bleu.

The Pâquerette Coat

This one is named after her:
She was one in a long line of Picasso's girlfriends (that serial lady-killer). She was also a model and worked for Poiret. Pâquerette is the French word for wild daisy and is also the name of a ballet created in 1881. You should know by now that I'm ever the balletomane and francophile.

The coat has a slight sheen that's subdued, almost faded. It smells like coffee and violet perfume and Picasso's damned infernal cigar smoke. The cut is feminine in a gamine way with delicate, slightly shrunken proportions. The color is a bit sombre, but like the goofy hat Pâquerette wore in the Cocteau photo above it has a lighter side in the over-sized buttons and
"fan" pleat on the cuffs.

The Radcliff Music Wonk Shoulderbag

Named after Ali MacGraw's character Jennifer Cavilleri in Love Story. She loved Mozart and Bach and the Beatles. She was a minimalist and a natural beauty. She would never be so frivolous as to spend over $100 on a handbag, preppy.

The Bon Ton Dress
I thought this dress, with its 20's drop waist and exuberant deco print, was like a modern interpretation of a colorful fashion plate from early 20th century fashion mag La Gazette du Bon Ton.

Aren't they having fun? They look like they just danced out of a box of candies.

Lili Marelene Jacket

Marlene Dietrich liked the tux jacket so much that she needed it in both Black and White, and so did I.

This style was really talking to me though and it was hard to settle on the name Lili Marlene. The tux jacket is so iconic and so many other cool dames have worn it so well. Don't worry, I'm not going to challenge you to a "Who Wore it Best" quiz but just as a quick hats off:

Time will tell if the Jane Birkin progeny will go down as iconic tuxedo artists in the annals of fashion history (I'll bet they will) but Bianca Jagger's name will always come to mind to me when anyone mentions "White tuxedo jacket."
A personal aside: when I was 16 I wore a black tux to my big brother's wedding (the following year I realized I was a girl). I'm sorry Joseph.

The House of Elliot Dress
The House of Eliott was a BBC series about two sisters who, against all odds, launched their own fashion label in 1920's London. This looks like it could have been out of one of their collections. The series and book were co-written by Jean Marsh who wrote and acted in the beloved Upstairs, Downstairs series. If you have never seen either, hop on over to amazon.

Nylon's Jeans of the Month--APC Super 70's Jeans

2008-06-12T11:27:00.001-07:00

This new style in the APC denim arsenal is catching on--I was happy to see they are offering them again for Fall. But don't wait 'til then--we still have a few pairs left from our Spring batch in the store.

All in the Details

2008-05-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

I thought a few things in the shop could use some detail photos, here they are for your viewing pleasure!

Tassels and miniature pom-pon on the Development Bon Ton Blouse

Pretty "fan" pleat on the cuff on the Plastic Island Paquer ette Coat

Pin-tucks and tiny shell buttons on the Ulla Johnson Iris Blouse

Intricate beading on the By Francine Bouquet Beaded Flapper Top

AMAZING lace detail on the Thurley Featherston Dress

The Magical Odorifics of Christopher Brosius

2008-05-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

"...I then became infatuated with these--my 'odorifics.'"

She went over to the boxlike machine and attached a small hose with a sort of oxygen mask at its end.

"Ever heard of these, Harold? Of course, this one I built myself. A young Sioux in a commune gave me the basic blueprint. Here, hold this."

Harold held the mask while Maude fidgeted with the dials and pump. "

Have you noticed that art ignores the nose?" she said. "It's true. So I said let's give the old schnauze a treat. Have a kind of olfactory banquet. I began first on the easiest--roast beef, old books, mown grass--then I went on to these."

She picked up the metal cylinders and read off their titles: "'An Evening at Maxims,' 'Mexican Farmyard.'

Here's one you'd like, 'Snowfall on Forty-second Street.'

She took the cylinder and screwed it into the box. Then she helped Harold adjust the mask over his nose. "Ready?" she said and threw the switch. The lights went on and the pistons began to pump.

"Okay. What do you smell?" Harold closed his eyes and breathed in slowly. "Subways," he said surprisedly. Maude grinned. "Go on."

"Perfume ... cigarettes ... cologne ..." He became more and more excited. "Carpet ... roasting chestnuts .... Snow!"

"Oh, yes." Maude laughed and turned it off. "You can put together any number of them."

--Colin Higgins, Harold and Maude

In Italian with English subtitles, but you just have to see Maude's fantastic Wurlitzer of a magical machine and Harold's face as he recognizes the smell of snow on 42nd St.

What seemed like a dream and something only possible in the fantastic world of Harold and Maude became reality when a man named Christopher Brosius began to capture and bottle a number of off-the-wall yet evocative scents including laundromats, bonfires, and yes, after many years of tinkering, snow.

After building an extensive library of these memory triggering accords for Demeter Fragrances, he turned his attention towards something larger, more cinematic. His company CB I Hate Perfume elevates the work of perfumer to artist. He has exhibited his rare creations with the allure of alchemy in galleries and museums. His perfumes tell stories often drawn from his own memories: the smell of frozen earth as it smelled to a boy in the Winter of 1972, a first edition book from a London bookshop (with maybe a faint whiff of mildew), or the aged, smoked wooden rafters in the kitchen of the farm where he grew up. The experiences are his alone but the scents will evoke a whole kaleidoscope of memory (real or imagined) for each of us. Enjoy the trip.

At The Beach 1966

Imagine it’s about 4 o’clock on a golden summer afternoon and you’ve been at the beach all day rubbing yourself with Coppertone suntan lotion – but Coppertone as it existed in the 60’s, not quite as it is now... You walk into the surf as the waves break on the shore and, bending down to touch the surf, you notice the smell of your warm skin and of the salt water that seems so cold by comparison. It has just the faintest hint of watermelon rind…

Burning Leaves

"Not everyone has your passion for dead leaves."
Jane Austen - Sense & Sensibility

Do you know what a leaf fort is? It's simply a huge pile of fallen leaves carefully raked up, on top of which a group of children sit defending the pile against another group. Battle is joined by gathering up armfuls of said leaves & pelting the opposing party until all concerned are worn out, have twigs in their hair, crumbled bits in their socks & underwear and all the leaves are once again thoroughly spread over the lawn where they belong in the first place. Obviously this was great fun & every autumn when I was small this is just what my cousins and I did.
Sadly there came a day when raking leaves was no longer anticipated with delight - that's the day when I was TOLD to rake them. Suddenly it was a chore.
Still there was something after the raking was over to look forward too - burning the leaves with my father. I loved watching them crinkle up in the flames while the smoke swirled up my nose and made me sneeze.
Now in the fall I sometimes gather a handful of maple leaves and burn them in the fireplace just to remember...

Mr. Hulot's Holiday

Mr Hulot and I have much in common. We're both rather shy and tall with a tendency to stumble. We also both love the sea the sound of the waves rolling on the beach, the feel of the sand crunching under the bum while gazing out across the deep blue water, the smell of the air and the driftwood. This is a perfect vacation.
Mr Hulot's Holiday is one of my favorite films. It is beautifully photographed and perfectly charming and funny. It too is a perfect vacation and I encourage you to watch it at once. Pay attention to the gorgeous clouds and the beautiful shots of the Mediterranean.

The perfumes come in oil or water form and are available now at the Le Train Bleu apothecary as well as in our Portland store.

Pretty Pretty!

2008-05-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Just a couple shots of the beautiful new arrangement from our talented floral artist Shannon!

As Luck Would Have It

2008-04-28T09:50:00.001-07:00

Yup, it's time for a Lucky Breaks code at Le Train Bleu. This is the 3rd time we've participated in Lucky Breaks and it's always a flurry of boxes and tissue and happy shoppers. The code this time is luckybreaks1 and it's good for a 25% site-wide discount through June 1st. Happy shopping!

Ah, You Say the Nicest Things...

2008-04-23T16:56:00.000-07:00

I just received an excited email with these scans from Yumi Kim where they'd just spotted their Joey Butterfly Top in the British Vogue article featuring Le Train Bleu. Also featured were the Grace Sun Waterfall Dress, the Rachel Comey Sneaky Pleat Dress, and the Heimstone Jefferson Sweatshirt.

As you might imagine, I am an avid online shopper and well versed in the benefits, but for those "across the pond" who need some extra inducement, the favorable exchange rate, along with this informative article, should provide a nice kick in the pants.