Dominiqe Loreau’s Art of Simplicity

When the seasons change we try to get new shoes and clothes. For us, it is critical how big the house that we live in is. But the French writer tells us to live a simple life. How she lead her life all come down to being ‘Simple’ and ‘less’.

‘Own less and only possess things that are necessary to you’ That’s the essence of Dominique Loreau’s life style. White lamp is by ‘Jaju’

First of all, I need to ask your regards. How have you been doing?

I have been doing great working on my writing. I just came back from Kyoto and saw cherry blossom. It almost felt like a dream.

Last couple years, you have published books like ‘Art of Simplicity’ and ‘L'infiniment Pue’ for Korean readers, and fans loved them. Did you expect this reaction from the public?

I have never expected anything whenever I publish my work. Especially, ‘L'infiniment Pue’ mostly consists of personal memos and masses of scribbles. But things that I do want to remember and reflect into my life. And, of course, I think they would be helpful for those who want little changes in their life.

Why do you think people in this society listen to your suggestion?

My books are published in 20 different countries. What’s interesting to me is the reactions from the readers are pretty much the same. That’s because I talked about the issues that the so-called developed economies are facing now. People living today feel overwhelmed by overspending, limited time, imbalance of one’s inner self, and emotional pressure. So, they started to have this vague nostalgia for the past.

The Beauty and diet part was interesting. You put great emphasis on using natural oil. Share some tips for the reader of <Allure> magazine.

I have been using the natural oil of sharks and horse fat oil for over 30 years now. I apply couple of drops on the face, hair and nails.

Most of your suggestions sound like we had better live simple. At the same time, you talk about silk night gowns, fragrance of nice perfume, and manicure and pedicure. They remind me of ‘French chic’ Being French affected your beauty secrets?

It’s pretty simple. I think it make your life clear and beautiful when you are all covered in a smooth silk gown. The fabric is also good for your skin. Keeping things neat and organized is best way to make you life simple I guess.

You were born in France, but you also lived in Europe, America, and Japan. What was your impression of those countries?

Except for Africa, South America, and Middle East, I have visited many countries. I have learned a lot about the culture and the people. Would that answer your question if you say ‘I love the desert of Atlas in Morocco as much as I love Beverly Hills. I love Gayaguem (Korean zither) and traditional dances as well.

Your suggestion is mostly related to one’s peace of mind. It is rather personal. Do you think one’s emotional stability can be the drive for social changes?

I do believe what’s really important is every single effort from each one of us. And inner conflicts within oneself lead to excessive competition and social conflicts.