Nothing like the feeling of the languid stretches of summer. Dappling of light dancing across the walls, the din of an air conditioning unit, slurping of stone fruit juices while standing over the sink barefoot … it’s the quiet moments like these that evoke summer to me.
In recent years I’ve delved into the treasure trove of French New Wave films and found many of them center around the summertime and exactly those romantic mundane moments. The French New Wave was all about eschewing strict narratives (much like how I like to approach my summer!) and allowed for more expressive and existential subject matter. Cue “Summertime Sadness”. We may not be staying in a villa in the French countryside. But with a little je ne sais quoi, key interior summer styling that extends outdoors may evoke that lazy chic romanticism in your own life. It’s the intention behind your living, even if good old-fashioned lethargy, that’s everything.
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In the films of Eric Rohmer, he uses color masterly as a plot device but also so happens to be perfectly summer-y with his use of primary colors and textures (terrycloth, raffia!). Look at the juxtaposition between the wardrobe of the actors and their occasionally monastic interiors: a large, historic villa with sparse decor primarily inhabited by a slew of guests of the nowhere-to-be-found owner. It’s this tension that makes you feel the summer magic, always pointing back to the simple pleasures in life as the French seem to know so well.
I’ve gathered some styling inspiration aiming for the convergence of those sunny stripes, primary colors, and natural woven materials. Imagine these amidst whitewashed walls and antique furniture with some touches of everyday life littered throughout (think ashtrays, pool towels, scattered books).
As always, the collection of meaningful items over time make a home — not necessarily chasing fleeting trends. Connect to your own summer vibes, and enjoy this French New Wave inspiration. Not to mention a summer movie list!
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Summer French New Wave Movie Recs
The Collector (La Collectionneuse), The Green Ray by Eric Rohmer
The Swimming Pool (La Piscine) by Jacques Deray
Le Mepris (Contempt) by Jean Luc-Godard
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Loved every drop of this! 🌞