Like many of us, McLean hospitality pro, home cook and mother of two Anina Belle Giannini has a penchant for the simple pleasures of the south of France—a glass of rosé at a cafe, fresh produce at a farmers market, the charm of a tiny village. But the Canadian-American is able to channel that esprit better than most. The director of public relations at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, spent 15 years working in the industry in Monte Carlo, Monaco; Nice, France; and Montreal. She and her French hubby, Sébastien Giannini—a private chef—settled here in 2016. And her Le Chef’s Wife blog is a living journal of family recipes, traditions and little pieces of France in NoVA for her children (3-year-old Valentina and 5-month-old Pierre) and those of us who long for that joie de vivre, too. Here, she shares a taste.
Less Is More
“I love Longchamp’s [belts and handbags] for their quality leather and chic, understated design.”
Mise en Place
“Sur La Table at Tysons Galleria has the best selection of Le Creuset pots, Duralex glass ramekins and USA Pans for baking.”
In Flame
“Figuier and Muguet are my favorite [Diptyque candle] scents. They remind me of the south of France.”
Earn Your Stripes
“I love a marinière shirt paired with a blazer in winter or a pair of white jeans in summer.”
Cool Cobbler
“Tod’s loafers are comfortable yet always look chic.”
Local Landmark
“Whenever we have family visiting from France or Canada, we take them to the Iwo Jima [sculpture and grounds] for a picnic overlooking the monuments of DC. It immediately gives them a sense of place.”
Eau de Parfum
“I feel dressed up the moment I put Hermès perfume on.”
Spa Day
“I wish I had more time to go to the spa! When I do, it is the Four Seasons for a facial.”
Style Philosophy
“Comfortable elegance: As a mom of two young kids, I feel my best in simple basics that are comfortable and versatile paired with beautiful accessories. I invest in shoes, handbags and belts. They will always elevate an outfit.”
This story originally ran in our March issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
