Join us for a singular experience of Paris culture. We'll immerse ourselves in pre-Revolution Paris – and discover why the 18th century produced not only great social reform, but fantastic art, architecture, fashion and design.

Please join us for...

On the one hand, revolution. On the other, fabulous art, fashion, and design.

Join us for a singular experience of Paris culture examined through the lens of an extraordinary woman. Marie Antoinette – the symbol of French royalty's extravagance and excess, and arguably France's queen of fashion – will be our touchstone during a week of over-the-top time travel.

What's special about this trip

• We'll romp through history, immersing ourselves in pre-Revolution Paris – a time of intellectual and political upheaval, and an exuberant cultural period. We'll discover why the 18th century produced not only great social reform, but fantastic art, architecture, fashion and design.
• Fashion excursions will help us make connections between historical and contemporary style. We'll learn how Marie-Antoinette's clothing choices influenced her demise and the direction of the country. We'll visit luxury department stores, attend a fashion show, people-watch in cafés, and stroll along rue St Honoré (then and now, the fashion center of the western world). And there will be plenty of time to shop.
• If you have trouble distinguishing one King Louis from another, have no fear. Guided walking tours at Versailles, the Louvre, and Palais Royal will put French royalty in context. Historical figures will come to life as you become familiar with the art, architecture and political movements of their time.
• No less important are the French painters, and we'll follow the evolution of French art from Pre-Revolution Rococo to Post-Revolution Realism. The journey will take us through three museums, as we view works by Watteau, David, Ingres, and Bougereau – and discover the trend setting techniques of each.
• And while Marie Antoinette never actually said “Let them eat cake,” we'll sample her favorite sweets, and indulge in food and drink fit for a queen. This is Paris, after all – why not revel in its delights?
• Our small group (3 to 6 people, each with a single room), assures a rich, intimate experience. Knowledgeable guides, activities designed to steep you in artistic detail, and spirited conversations in the French salon tradition set this trip apart.

TRIP LEADER

Karen Kane owns Paris by Design, a travel consulting service that specializes in fantastic trips to Paris. She has been studying Paris history, fashion, art, and architecture for more than 30 years – and believes the best way to learn about any of them is in combination with the others.

A former Paris resident, Karen will introduce you to parts of the city you might otherwise miss, and share the secrets that only years of exploration and study can reveal. She'll give you the inside scoop on where to eat, shop, and stroll. She'll help you understand the finer points of French culture, teach you how to navigate the city like a native, and help you get the most from the independent time in your itinerary.

While not a slave to French fashion, Karen is definitely a fan. She is delighted to share her favorite designers, addresses and insights.