DRESSES AND PARISIAN FAMILY ADVENTURES WITH LINDSEY

Every dress tells a story, every picture holds sweet memories and experiences! Let us make photos speak by presenting Lindsey and her family. With her husband Brooks they have three children : Woody (12), Gaines (10), and Mae Stanley (7) as well as a darling dog Debbie.

In this article not only does she share beautiful pictures of her princess in our dresses but she also describes her family’s trips to Paris. A great way to dream and find inspiration for your next stay in France.

Mae is wearing our timeless classic blue and white striped smocked Cerise dress

Our friendship actually began in Paris at our L’Ile aux Fées boutique where Lindsey picked her very first Charlotte sy Dimby dress : a raspberry red and white striped summer smocked dress! We’ll never forget that very first encounter. 

Can you tell us about your love story with Paris?

Brooks and I first visited Paris in 2018. I instantly fell in love with the city, and we try to come back every year. In 2023, we brought our children with us for the first time and were delighted when they shared my fondness for Paris. 

Can you tell us about some of your favourite experiences in Paris?

One of our favorite activities is exploring the Luxembourg Gardens with its many statues, flower beds, and sailing boats. 

Our children also highly enjoyed the walking tours of the Marais and Montmartre which were great ways to immerse ourselves in the local ambiance and discover the different neighbordhoods’ gems.

 We also did a child-friendly tour of the Louvre. The museum being so big, it was definitely a good idea to have a guide. 

We organised these outings through the Earfultower which not only writes books and hosts a podcast but also offers tours in the capital. Thank you as well to charlottepleasants_ and @panamepodcast.

Can you tell us about your favourite boutiques in Paris?

Of course Mae Stanley and I agree that the L’Ile aux Fées children’s dress boutique is our very favorite boutique in all of Paris! These  Charlotte sy Dimby dresses are so special to both of us and have been part of many memories. We’ve worn them for Easter, by the beach and on many fancy outings.

 We also love stopping at Deyrolles which is a taxidermy boutique with a museum filled with fossils and stuffed animals. It has a very particular cabinet of curiosity ambiance. We have a special critter from every visit. 

Mae is wearing our yellow Netti smocked dress

Can you share about your best food experience in Paris?

On our last visit, my husband and I enjoyed an incredible meal at Caviar Kaspia. I cannot recommend it enough for a special dinner. Seafood, delicious caviar, champagne enjoyed in an elegant and sophisticated setting make for a great meal.

Another of our favorite scenic meals is on the roof of The Terrass Hotel. It is located in Montmartre and has a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower! We had the entire roof to ourselves, which was a nice break from the typical crowds of Montmartre. 

However, we have found that one of the many wonderful things about Paris is that every street is full of wonderful restaurants and cafes! The children thoroughly enjoyed stopping in local boulangeries and patisseries for tasty treats. Rue Cler, in particular, is such a fun street for strolling. It is a perfect place to grab a bite to eat before or after visiting the Eiffel Tower.

Where do you like to stay when visiting Paris?

When we are with our children we typically stay in an apartment for the additional space. However, on our last visit, it was just the two of us, and we stayed for part of our visit at Hotel Providence in the 10th arrondissement. This hotel oozed with charm, and we enjoyed spending time in this "hip" part of town.

Can you share about your fondest memory Paris?

I hold so many dear memories of our visits. Before I brought my children, I had never walked to the Eiffel Tower, only had enjoyed it from afar. It was Mae Stanley's top request, but as soon as we got there it started to rain. I wanted to quickly get a car, but my children were laughing and playing in the rain. We had the best time together, even though we looked like we had just gone for a swim! Paris really is always magical, no matter the weather. Every street you walk down has a story. There is beauty at every corner. The culture and history are captivating, no matter if it is your first visit or your hundredth. There is no place that compares to this incredible city.

What would your best piece of advice be for families travelling to Paris?

My biggest tip in traveling with children is don't overbook! Even if you think you will never have the opportunity to come back, don't try to see and do everything. You will miss what makes special! We planned our days with a scheduled morning activity or tour, but left the afternoon and evenings open to explore on our own and move at our own pace.

Follow Lindsey on Instagram

For additional adventures with children in Paris, wander through the comprehensive, locally sourced guide on L'Île aux Fées.

Read more articles about family trips to Paris

To receive personalised tips for your Paris trip or have a special map/illustrations made, please contact the Charlotte & Burlington family club by email at info@charlottesydimby.com or on Instagram @charlotteandburlington.