Puttin’ on the Ritz

Today I have been ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’, well so to speak, as rather I was indulging in afternoon tea at London’s grand old hotel which was the inspiration for the title of Irving Berlin’s song. And though I had planned to dress most fashionably for this delightful occasion, rather than anything too Ritzy, I opted for modesty, an understated yet elegant ensemble that would be far more appropriate for the afternoon and for the hotel’s code. A two-tone mini dress, inspired by the 60s was my selection and I paired this with the perfect match of my Simple French Sole quilted ballerina flats in beige with their black patent toe-cap.

It was a sophisticated combination, perfect for such a stylish location which made me feel so happy, that at times I felt like jumping in the air a la Fred Astaire with a click of my heels, or relevé to a demi-pointe and dance around the tea rooms’ marble pillars, as perhaps the great prima ballerina Anna Pavlova did when she was a guest of this hotel a century ago. And this was all before my introduction to the scone with Cornish clotted cream and a tea, so delicious that I vowed never to return to drinking coffee.

Though over-indulgence wasn’t listed on the menu, I certainly felt as though it had been served to us in ample portions; so many varieties of sandwiches, the macaroons, pastries, I hadn’t realised that there would be so much food involved in an afternoon tea! My mini dress now felt like a maxi but thankfully my French Sole Ballerinas helped me to keep my composure as we walked around the magnificent hotel in an attempt burn those calories and now perhaps, I know the true meaning of ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’, a hidden message in Irving Berlin’s song.

I’m very curious how other French Sole fans are styling their Simple French Sole ballerina flats! Do mention #frenchsoleblogbyamelie on your Instagram and I’ll be reposting the most creative looks on our FS page.

With love,

Amélie Florentine