So Frenchy So Chic is the summertime brainchild of Melbourne music entrepreneur Jean-Francois Ponthieux, a glorious celebration of all things French, usually played out under blue skies, beneath shady trees and across the emerald lawns of Melbourne’s elegant Werribee Mansion. Next Saturday, January 18, it’s Sydney‘s turn to host its own version of this easy-breezy garden party of French culture, music and food.
Words: Ash Bagga
Photographs: Aimee Bush
Now in its ninth year, SFSC’s rich hit of Parisian culture ranged across tango beats, retro moods and soulful tones with a danceable line-up including Corine, Lou Doillon, Nouvelle Vague, Tete and Philippe Cohen Solal.
Yesterday Melbourne’s SFSC crowd moved to the beats, drowsed on their picnic rugs or drifted, sampling Jurlique’s mini-spa experience, sipping free coffee and L’OR espresso martinis, swinging in the tropical sanctuary of hammocks and complimentary massages from New Caledonia, fastening their flower crowns by SFSC’s artisan florists into their hair and posing for photos against the Kronenbourg Brewery’s exotic flower wall.
Food! The flavours of France were served with love and a flourish: quiche Lorraine, croque monsieur, bourguignonne brioche bun with ham hock, crepes, tarte bourdaloue aux poires and foie gras parfait, cheese boards and Laurent Perrier Champagne.
Long queues waited goodnaturedly at the food stalls but many also carried in their own picnic baskets or, even smarter, picked up pre-ordered hampers.
SFSC’s dress code is “effortless”: summer dress ups in fresh linens and cottons, beautiful printed dresses, summer whites, statement accessories and bright lips were all spotted, with flower crowns, parasols and chic hats the essential accessories.
Amid the joy and music, the sunshine and champagne, the sight of Red Cross volunteer collectors, warmly welcomed and supported, was a reminder of the chaos and despair generated by our bushfire crisis. If you’re headed to Sydney’s So Frenchy So Chic this Saturday, remember your cash and cards can buy hope as well as crepes and champagne!
