The real windows of Place Vendome, Paris

Place Vendome is a famous square, lauded for its architecture in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, north of the charming Tuileries Garden.  It used to be the luxurious residence of many famous people, including Coco Chanel (Number 15), Frederic Chopin (Number 12) and the mistress of Napolean III, Countess di Castiglione who lived in seclusion for over 20 years at number 26. Nowadays, it is home to a glittering circle of the world's top brands of couture jewellery including Van Cleef & Arpels, Piaget, Chaumet, Cartier and Bvlgari.

And while I like a shiny bauble as much as the next girl, as you can see....what really caught my eye and imagination were the windows a few stories up from the shop entrances that provided brief glimpses into what could be the drawing rooms of well heeled Parisians, or the private room to host VIP clients of these jewellery makers. The lights are always so warm, richly yellow and beckoning, and there is always a chandelier to cast shadows on nearby ornate walls.  One can't help but wonder what kind of whispered conversations or glass tinkling peals of laughter goes on behind these windows.