Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, once described her life with the Duke as simple and quiet, even claiming to sometimes cook and live frugally in Paris due to the expense of the United States. This recollection comes from a 1960s interview recounted by journalist Cindy Adams, who noted a stark contrast between the Duchess's portrayal and the luxurious circumstances she observed.
Adams recalled interviewing Simpson in a suite at the Waldorf Astoria, which she described as a "six-room palace." The room featured a leopard-skin rug, which the Duchess stated the Duke had personally shot. Despite claiming to "rough it" in America, the couple reportedly had furnishings shipped back and forth and received discounted rates at the hotel.
Simpson emphasized their "everyday kind of people" status, stating that rumors of their wealth were untrue and potentially harmful. She mentioned that the Duke was occupied with managing his investments, describing it as more than a half-day's job. The Duchess also touched on their social life, noting that while friends might visit hairdressers twice a week, she only had her hair washed once. She also mentioned taking French lessons twice a week, while the Duke studied Spanish.
Adams also noted the Duchess's attention to appearance, describing her as being dressed for a "Rembrandt sitting" in a Balenciaga suit with meticulously styled eyebrows. The Duchess reportedly had her personal hairdresser flown in from Europe for a specific event. Simpson explained her preference for living in Paris by stating that the U.S. was "frightfully expensive."
Regarding children, Simpson indicated they had discussed it but felt they were too old. She also dismissed the notion of holding a steady job, citing dislike for long hours and the fact that it was just the two of them. Adams also recounted an incident where Simpson commented negatively on her maroon dress, shoes, and bag, with her secretary then escorting Adams out.
The interview took place during a period when the Duke and Duchess were staying in a suite that included three bedrooms, maid's quarters, a sitting room, and a secretary's office, which Adams noted was similar to accommodations used for presidential visits. For their 25th anniversary, the Duchess reportedly gifted the Duke a plant.