Fashionistas turn our in LBDs and pearls for screening of 'Coco Before Chanel' at Enzian. by Jean Patteson /Orlando Sentinel

Little black dresses and pearls were much in evidence at the Enzian this evening, as admirers of the one-and-only Coco Chanel came out in force for a screening of Coco Before Chanel.

The French American Business Council (FABCO) had bought a block of seats, and it was fun to hear French being spoken in the theater as well as on the screen. A very special member of the audience was Rose Monique Vartanian, who once worked for Chanel in Paris -- and even made a suit for Chanel. After she retired, Rose Monique moved to New York, then San Francisco, and finally Orlando, where she has family. A denimutive woman in a loose black dress, she said she loved Chanel when she worked for her, and loves her still.

And I loved the movie. Five stars. Go see it for the acting, the scenery, and the insights into the early life of one of the greatest designers ever. ... Read more

Remise de la Legion D'Honneur

Remise de la Legion d’Honneur by Honorary Consul, France, Brigitte Dagot on Wednesday Nov 11, 12:30 PM at Lake Highland Preparatory School, 901 N. Highland Avenue, Orlando, 32803. Qu'est-ce que la Légion d'Honneur? The Legion of Honor was created two centuries ago by Emperor Napoleon. It is the highest distinction France can confer on a citizen or a foreigner. It recognizes exceptional services to France and reward eminent military and civil merits. No one deserves the Legion of Honor more than these American veterans who fought to give France its freedom and independence back. Pourquoi la France remet-elle ces médailles? Since 2004, the 60th anniversary of the Normandy invasion, France has sought to award the honor to U.S veterans who fought on French soil as a gesture of gratitude. The Legion of Honor is a way to thank these young American men for their courage, dedication and sacrifices; and prove that France cannot, and will not forget them.