We traveled to Paris several times when we were stationed overseas. I have a print from the Musee d'Orsay that we framed and have hanging in our dining room. It's a wonderful reminder of a Mother's Day weekend spent in Paris. I also have a blue and white plate displayed in my kitchen that I picked up at a flea market. I'm pretty sure I messed up with my currency conversion when I bought it and didn't get the bargain that I thought I was getting!

A couple of pointers re fit, as several posters mentioned it. When I lived in France, in my 20s I was a size 10-12 and had no problems finding clothes that fit, though this was in the early 80s when you didnt necessarily need to be super skinny. I was also brought up in the UK. I am now an American size 14, hopefully getting back to a 12. However, I had no problem with agnes b when I was in London 2 months ago and bought a jacket (designer's size 4). While I had read agnes b has a rep for sizing small, I didnt find that to be the case-a lot of dresses, jackets, and tops in the store fit me fine. I could have bought a lot more than I did. Eric Bompard large fits me beautifully. I think most Americans who are not plus sizes should be OK.

Oh, such great ideas from everyone! I wish I liked wearing silk scarves better...that would make Hermes a great choice. Honestly I only wear scarves in the autumn and winter months, so have been building up my wool challis scarf collection instead because they provide a nice layer of warmth in these cold months.

My shape is more of an hourglass than the typical French woman, I believe, so a beautiful blouse is probably not a possibility. I will hold all of your suggestions close to my heart and do diligence online as much as possible. Thanks so much to each of you who contributed to the wealth of wisdom on this post. I just loved reading your responses!