Stylish Women Never Go to Paris Without These 11 Items

There’s taking a work trip, and then there’s taking a work trip to Paris Fashion Week. We can assure you those are two very different things, and for the fashion industry insiders about to head to the City of Light this week, they rely on a special set of Paris packing essentials that are elevated, practical, and, of course, appropriate for the setting.

To get a sense of how some of our favorite women in fashion prepare to arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport, we asked them about the items they never head to Paris without. Most interesting? They all have a different perspective on what’s essential. For one insider, it’s a pointed slingback that goes with everything; for another it’s a classic trench coat, or sneakers to make sure she stays active throughout a busy workweek. Below, take a look at what these women would never arrive in Paris without.

“I never go to fashion week without a pair of Balenciaga knife pumps; they are so versatile and comfortable to run in between shows in both the boot and pump versions, and come in a multitude of colors for those who want to stay away from a classic black pair—they really are the perfect packing essential for me when traveling to all four cities.

“I also never go anywhere without my red lipstick (MAC’s Ruby Woo shade); red lips can instantly lift your outfit, even if you are dressed down or wearing something casual such as vintage denim and an oversize hoodie. And finally, I never forget a pair of sunglasses for any of the cities; there is bound to be at least one day of good weather! Celine remains my go-to; they have a variety of shapes that I think suit everyone.”

“I always travel with activewear. It’s hard, but I like to get at least a workout or two in because my mood is really not the best without those endorphins.”

“I hear Paris is starting to get chilly at night, and since I get cold easily (I’m a Florida gal, okay?!), I’m making sure to bring one cozy lightweight jacket to carry me through the week. Admittedly, I recently splurged on this Acne Studios jacket—it’s the ideal weight, the color goes with everything, and it’s perfectly oversize. It’s so soft and feels like someone has already broken it in for you. I never spend this much on outerwear (I’m a hoarder of cheap, vintage blazers!), but this one feels special, and it’s definitely coming with me on my first PFW trip.”

“Every time I go to Paris, I never leave the house without my three trustees: my converter, neck pillow, and trench coat. Nothing screams Paris more than the perfect trench. You can dress it up or dress it down—so many possibilities!”

“I always pack a pair of heeled ankle boots. They’re great to walk all around town in and chic enough to wear to shows. Got to be practical!”

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