Caroline Shares Her Business Travel Essentials

This past week I've been in Paris for Fashion Week. The last time I was here was March 2020 when the world was shutting down due to Covid. So, to say I’ve been excited to return is an understatement. There are so many things about this city that ignite inspiration in me –  from the architecture and city life to the street style and, of course, the food and wine. I’ve been traveling here for business for over 30 years now, so it truly feels comforting being here, and when it comes to packing, I think I have it pretty well dialed in. The key is to keep it simple by packing just a couple of colors that allow for mixing and matching, and to avoid bringing too much. From denim and boots to sweaters and blouses, plus toiletries… Here’s what I brought on my trip...

Denim is a fall travel essential, especially in a city like Paris. There are so many wearable options that are elevated and appropriate for both meetings and sightseeing. I brought along the Tailored Drop Jeans because they're comfortable and can be styled a variety of ways. I wear them with the black Lanie Sweater from Nili Lotan and Golden Goose sneakers (see this similar pair) for a daytime look. Easily transition to evening by swapping the sneakers for booties, like the Isla Booties from Loeffler Randall.

I also packed a pair of light wash jeans, my favorite Olivia High Rise Slim from Citizens of Humanity. Alternatively, the Daphne Crop High Rise and the Charlotte High Rise Crop Straight are great options. I dressed this pair up with the classically chic Ellias Shirt from Nili Lotan. This is a silk button up that feels luxe, yet relaxed – the ultimate Paris basic. On chillier days, I pair the jeans with the black Lanie Sweater and the Jerry Loafers from Golden Goose. I also love the Oscar Loafers from Aeyde.

To bring in some print and color, I brought along the Palermo Julieta Blouse from Maria Cher. It’s lightweight, and wears well with any of the jeans. To dress it up, I'm styling it with a classic black skinny leg, like the Olivia High Rise Slim (can’t you tell I love Olivia’s). To complete the look, I wore the Isla Booties. They also come in black here.

I packed one lightweight jacket for this trip since I knew the weather was going to be fairly mild. I went with an oversized favorite in a neutral color from Isabel Marant Etoile. Some others that I love are the Harveli Coat, Janette Coat and Mackensy Coat, all from Isabel Marant Étoile. And from new brand, Tela, the Lerice Boucle Coat is similar to the one I packed.

A scarf is a travel essential, especially in the fall. I’ve been packing a Jane Carr Scarf in my travel bag for as long as I can remember. These scarves are well made, so soft and never go out of style. I brought along the Luxe Scarf (here in black), but The Chalet Square and The Gilt Square are also favorites. Bundle up in it on the plane, wrap it around your neck or throw it over your shoulders for extra warmth during dinner outside.

For a toiletry bag, I love the Vanity Kit from Anya Hindmarch. It's been my go-to when traveling for years. I also brought along the In-Flight Case, which is the perfect size for stashing away in your carry on, and the clear case makes it easy to find what you need. 

Inside is a variety of make up and skincare products, and there are a few that I don't leave home without. The Salt & Stone Deodorant: made with natural ingredients, this deodorant gives you 24-hour protection without irritating the skin. And, the Hand Cream from Susanne Kaufmann nourishes the skin without making it greasy. It’s my favorite for that inevitable dry skin you get while traveling. To freshen up, the signature No. 9 Perfume Oil from Maison Louis Marie has scents of grapefruit, orange, cedarwood and patchouli.

For this trip I wanted to bring a handbag that was compact, held essentails and could be worn as a crossbody.  The Vere Soft Satchel from Anya Hindmarch is similar to the one here. It's elegant, relaxed and will keep you perfectly organized, plus it can be worn over the shoulder or as a cross body. Another travel option is the Jacquard Essentials Crossbody, it’s even more compact, but just as chic.

From buying appointments to sightseeing, I kept my everyday essentials as minimal as possible. I packed sunnies, like these MP-2 Sunglasses from Oliver Peoples, and a journal, like this one or this one. And of course my cards, passport, hand sanitizer, earbuds, and a quick sugar craving fix, naturally…

Packing for a trip is definitely an art, one that takes trial and error, practice, and the right essentials. If there's one take away, it's to keep it simple, plan to mix and match and bring only what you love. I'm really excited about what I found for you on my trip and heading back inspired in a way that only Paris can make you feel. Oh, Paris je t'aime.