8 wise lessons from Christine d’Ornano
There are those women whose wise words flutter around you every day. Those you have had the pleasure of meeting and who seem to continue to whisper wise advice to you. I had the pleasure of having lunch with Madame d’Ornano, a Polish princess, but above all the wife of the late Hubert d’Hornano, founder of the superior Sisley. Breathless from her art and impressed by her presence, I hung on her lips. I wanted to know everything and of course pass it on to you. Duly noted.
1. Work
You don’t ask a lady her age, but it is certain that the first digit of her age is an 8, so she is certainly of a respectable age. The notion that this means she merely goes through life having lunch is a misconception. Madame is still very much involved with her house Sisley: she comes to the office once a week and tests all new products until they can withstand her approval. Working keeps her fresh and cheerful. But of course, you have to choose a nice job. This brings me immediately to the next surprising point.
2. Choose a study that you enjoy, not a useful one
Your study time is the period to shape yourself and enjoy a little before real life begins. What nonsense to choose a useful study. The chance that it seamlessly connects to the profession you will practice is anyway negligible. It’s about basic intelligence and interest; you learn the rest when you are working. So. Enroll in leisure studies or take that master’s in English metaphors (which actually exists) and sharpen your mind.
3. Art
Madame d’Ornano’s apartment has a larger collection than an average museum. Art expands and enriches. Because let’s face it, that’s a top-notch investment. Although that’s not why she does it, of course, it is a nice side effect.
4. Life takes and gives
Madame has a beautiful life. Colorful and sparkling. As a Polish princess, she came to Paris where she married Hubert d’Ornano. Her uncle was married to Lee Bouvier, whom you mainly know as Lee Radziwill, which is therefore the last name of Madame’s uncle. Madame worked for Jean-Louis Scherrer and was friends with Oscar de la Renta. Yet this is no guarantee for a carefree life. Her daughter went adrift in India, met other people with different customs, which ultimately led to her death. Another son died in a car accident. His death did mean that her other son decided to join the company and even surprised himself with his qualities as president of the Sisley empire.
5. Choose your own style
Madame can still be seen in her slightly older days wearing trendy Prada shoes with platform soles, but she remains true to her style. “Choose who you are, know what you stand for” is her most important motto.
6. Honor your traditions and adopt new ones
Madame has lived in Paris for many, many years, but they celebrate Christmas ‘the Polish way’. So gathering at the grandparents, dining, and then running to the tree to grab your gift.
7. Be loyal
To your husband, your housekeeper (Madame d’Ornano has had her Polish housekeeper for years), and she does not let her staff go either. “Working at Sisley is like being part of a family,” says a charming woman who has worked for the company for twenty years. “It’s secure and safe.”
8. Use Sisley
Madame didn’t say this herself, but that is the conclusion I have drawn. If you look as charming and beautiful and wonderfully preserved as she does, you immediately run to the perfumery for the Sisleya Integral and whatever else.
