| photography courtesy of andie furber |

The French way of life is easy to admire. Without overgeneralizing, there’s something distinctly more relaxed and worldly about their pace—slow, steady, and intentional.

After years of admiring the French lifestyle - and a year spent living in Lyon - I’ve put together a list of petites habitudes (little habits) worth borrowing.

Try one, or a few.

| photography courtesy of andie furber |

Long Lunch Breaks

When I taught English in France, our lunch break stretched from 12:30 to 3pm. That’s not realistic in most American workplaces – but the spirit of it is. Pause. Savor your food. Chat with coworkers. Read a book. Your work will wait.

Wine with Lunch

Not for every day – but in summer, why not a midday glass of wine on a weekend? It’s a small joy that reminds us: life is meant to be enjoyed.

Walking Everywhere

In France, walking or biking is often the norm. I’ve carried that with me in NYC. On foot, you see more, breathe more, and move through life more deliberately.

Quality Over Quantity

French women are masters of the curated closet – fewer pieces, better chosen. They invest in items that last and blend effortlessly with what they already own.

| photography courtesy of andie furber |

Read more travel tips and guides from the EG team > 

Laurie's Travel Packing Guide

Elsie's Edit | Boutique Hotels Around the World

Elsie's Edit | The Elsie Green Restaurant List

Andie Furber