Sometimes I think it's not just about things. It's about feeling yourself. About confidence, about growing up, about how I want to look and feel in this world. These little dreams help me move forward, even when I'm a little sad or lonely. They're like anchors that hold me and remind me that I have a future that I can create on my own. I'm still learning to live here in Paris. I'm learning to be alone, but not to feel lonely. I'm learning to love a city that hasn't fully become mine yet. And perhaps the most important thing is that I'm learning to love myself in this new phase of my life. Slowly, carefully, but sincerely. And it seems to me that this is where something truly beautiful begins.

I've always loved makeup and fashion. This is my way of expressing myself, especially when there are a lot of feelings inside that are difficult to describe in words. Sometimes I can spend an hour in front of the mirror, experimenting with images: today I am gentle and natural, tomorrow I am bright and bold. There is freedom in this. Even if it's a little sad inside, beautiful makeup or a thoughtful look can make the day better.

I also have my own little hobbies that help me feel better and fill my days. I love photographing — capturing the city's moments, beautiful storefronts, morning light on the streets, or random details that many people don't notice. Sometimes I look back at these photos and realize that I'm starting to see Paris in my own way. I also like taking notes—writing down thoughts, image ideas, and wish lists. It's like talking to yourself. I also like to spend time watching fashion shows and being inspired by collections. Music is another important part of my life: I can walk around the city for long periods with headphones on, creating little movies for myself in my head. Sometimes I go to stores just to try on things, feel the fabrics, imagine how I could combine them in my images. Even without shopping, it brings me pleasure.

Of course, I also have my own little luxury wishlist — dreams that I am gradually collecting in my head. I dream of a classic bag that will be with me for many years, an ideal trench coat that will look expensive and elegant, and a pair of sunglasses that will make me feel confident even on the strangest days. I also want a good set of cosmetics: a perfect tone that fits like a second skin, expensive mascara that makes the look expressive, and lipstick that will become my "signature."

I am Caroline, I am 18 years old, and my life has changed quite recently. I moved to Paris, a city that used to seem distant to me, almost unreal, like something out of movies or pages of glossy magazines. Now I live here, among the narrow streets, old houses and endless noise of the city. Sometimes I wake up and don't fully understand where I am, but then I hear French outside the window and I remember: This is my new reality. The first few weeks were difficult. It's beautiful here, but it's also very lonely. I don't have any close friends yet, and I don't have any familiar places to go to feel "at home." I'm learning to be alone. I'm learning to walk aimlessly, sit in a cafe with a cup of coffee and just watch people, I'm learning to hear my thoughts and not be afraid of silence. It's not easy, but there's a special magic to it-it's like I'm getting to know myself anew.