Take yourself back in time and imagine a classic Parisian vignette in the early 1900s. In this era, Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture added an air of opulence to every turn. Tree-lined boulevards bustled with well-heeled couples stopping to enjoy an afternoon aperitif while discussing the latest French literature and fashions. It’s a heady scene, one that captured the global imagination. “Paris was where the Twentieth Century was… it was the place to be,” declared American novelist and poet Gertrude Stein. All eyes looked to this elegant cultural capital for inspiration — including those of Mexico’s then-president, Porfirio Diaz.
Diaz tasked himself with trying to unite and modernize Mexico. Although Mexico had fought the French in the War of the Reform, Diaz saw France as the perfect example for Mexico. During this time, referred to as El Porfiriato, Diaz commissioned the construction of many French-inspired buildings. These included theatres, monuments, and elegant department stores modeled on the boutiques of Paris. These multi-level stores, humming with sophistication, brought dressmakers and styles from Paris, allowing upper-class Mexicans to deck themselves out in garments worn by the fashionistas of Europe. Several of Mexico City’s finest colleges even taught French as the first language.
Modern Day French Art Deco in Mexico City
More than a century later, it doesn’t take long to spot the French influence when exploring Mexico City. The Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de las Bellas Artes) is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture that would be right at home among the avenues of central Paris. Even when the Folkloric Ballet (a performance of traditional Mexican dance) is on stage, the building’s Art Deco interior evokes images of the City of Light at the height of its glamour. You might also spot the Parisian-style metro sign just alongside Bellas Artes.
Parisian-style architecture dots the streets of the capital’s most chic neighborhoods: Roma, Condesa, and Juarez. The al fresco cafés lining their sidewalks give these neighborhoods a similar energy to Paris’s Latin Quarter. These cafés provide equally enticing opportunities for people-watching. Favorites include Café Toscano on Roma Norte’s delightful Plaza Rio de Janeiro, a prime spot for watching the city’s trendiest residents (and their many dogs) go by; Café Nin in La Juarez (make sure to try their famous rol de guayaba); Maque in La Condesa, a more traditional café and cake shop; or the infamous El Moro, where you can enjoy hot chocolate-dipped churros in front of the vibrant Parque México.
Even the city’s central avenue, Paseo de la Reforma, modeled after the grand boulevards of Europe, like the Champs-Élysées, reflects this connection. It is on this jacaranda-lined avenue where a modern-day French connection continues at the Sofitel Mexico City Reforma. Walking through its doors, you are entering what was once a refined home styled by a French family. The heavy stone building has an undulating staircase and internal balconies. Sofitel Mexico City Reforma welcomes you from the exciting bustle of Mexico City into a serene and striking retreat.
The Influence on Madame Gabriela Lipstick
This rich blend of cultures and architectural grandeur not only shaped these cities but also inspired us at Madame Gabriela. Our signature red, "Paris at 7PM," and the vibrant "Mexico City at 9PM" shades are testaments to this cross-cultural elegance. The stories these cities tell through their art, architecture, and culture resonate deeply with our mission to create clean, chic beauty products.
Every time you apply our Madame Gabriela lipstick, you’re not just adding a touch of color—you’re connecting with a legacy of beauty, sophistication, and timeless elegance. From the Champs-Élysées to Paseo de la Reforma, our lipsticks embody the spirit of these iconic cities. Discover more about this unique connection and how it shapes our brand on the blog.
With love and a kiss, Gabriela