Every once in a while, New York City manages to surprise me. You’d think after years of weaving in and out of its neighborhoods, I’d know every corner. But just recently, I discovered something that felt like finding a little jewel hidden in plain sight: the Bonpoint boutique on the corner of 96th and Madison.
Until now, I thought the children’s French luxury brand had only two New York homes—the elegant Upper East Side store on 69th and Madison and the chic outpost in Soho. Both are beautiful in their own right, but walking into the uptown location instantly felt different. The soaring ceilings, the way sunlight floods through the wide windows, the airy sense of calm—it’s less of a shop and more of an experience. It felt like stepping into a daydream, where fashion meets childhood magic.
A Little Store Adventure with Stella
When we visited a few weeks ago, Stella and I made a day of it. With the upcoming Bonpoint Fall-Winter 2019 show on the horizon, it was the perfect excuse to explore the collection up close and select some favorites for Paris. Stella, of course, took her role as co-stylist very seriously. Watching her carefully move through the racks—her little fingers brushing against delicate fabrics—was a reminder that fashion doesn’t have to be about age, but about imagination.
She gravitated toward playful pieces, while I found myself swooning over the more timeless designs that Bonpoint does so effortlessly. The boutique itself encouraged this exploration. The natural light seems to illuminate every detail: the embroidery, the soft wool textures, the way certain prints whisper of childhood whimsy while still carrying the sophistication of French design.
Of course, I can’t give away exactly what Stella (and James) will be wearing for the show just yet—you’ll see those in Paris! But consider this your little sneak peek: think cozy elegance, unexpected details, and pieces that balance refinement with that spark of childlike wonder.
Family Moments That Matter
Part of what made that uptown visit so special was that my mom was with us. She was visiting from The Netherlands, and sharing this outing with her felt like layering memories upon memories. Watching Stella twirl in front of the mirror, with her grandmother smiling nearby, reminded me that these moments go far beyond fashion. They’re about connection—across generations, across continents, across time.
Sometimes, in the busyness of preparing for trips and shows, it’s easy to forget to pause. But that day in the uptown store, surrounded by light and laughter, I found myself deeply grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to see my daughter explore her individuality, grateful for my mom’s presence, and grateful for traditions—both old and new—that anchor us.
Next Stop: Paris
By the time you read this, chances are we’ve just landed in Paris, ready for a whirlwind of incredible days ahead. Our calendar is dotted with shows that I’ve been dreaming about, but there’s one highlight that outshines them all: James and Stella walking the Bonpoint runway for the third time.
There’s nothing quite like the energy backstage before the show—tiny feet skipping around, giggles echoing through the room, stylists smoothing hems, and makeup artists leaning down with the gentlest touch. Then comes the magic moment: the runway. Every season, I’m struck by how confidently James and Stella step out, their personalities shining through as they bring these beautiful clothes to life. It’s a proud-mother moment in the truest sense.
But it’s also something bigger than that. Bonpoint has created a space where children aren’t just models—they’re storytellers. Each look carries a narrative, whether inspired by global prints, seasonal colors, or playful cuts, and the kids embody it with a joy that is infectious.
Why This All Matters
Fashion often gets dismissed as frivolous, but for me, these experiences are about more than clothes. They’re about memory-making. They’re about my children discovering pieces of themselves on a runway in Paris. They’re about Stella’s giggle when she finds a dress she truly loves, James’s quiet determination before stepping into the spotlight, and my mom’s warm smile as she watches her granddaughter play dress-up in a New York boutique.
Yes, there’s glamour in attending haute couture shows, and yes, there’s pride in seeing James and Stella walk for Bonpoint. But at the heart of it all, it’s about family. About finding joy in little rituals, whether that’s exploring a sunlit store uptown or sharing a croissant on a Paris morning before showtime.
A Sneak Peek of What’s to Come
I can’t wait to show you the full collection once we’re in Paris—the looks James and Stella will be wearing, the behind-the-scenes stories, and the magical energy of the Bonpoint show itself. For now, though, let me leave you with this: sometimes the most beautiful discoveries happen when you stumble across something unexpected. For me, that was a Bonpoint store tucked away on 96th and Madison, where light, laughter, and family made an ordinary afternoon unforgettable.
Stay tuned for Paris—it’s going to be a week filled with fashion, family, and a whole lot of joy.
