A Girl in Boston Guest: Packing with Parisian Style

Hello Mon Petit Chou Chou readers, I’m Lissy from A Girl in Boston.  I’m so very excited to be here with you today while Lani and her darling husband are off gallivanting in Paris.

To give you a little tidbit about me, each day one of my very favorite things to do is to get dressed.  I find joy in color and whimsy and accessory overload. But the multitudes of options that I have at home clearly don’t work when traveling.  So what to do for my own upcoming Parisian voyage?  

In comes Ines de la Fressange whose most recent book, Parisian Chic, is going to help me in my endeavor to stay true to my fashion self while imbuing a sense of Paris style.  Here are some of Ines' tips that I am finding most useful in packing for my upcoming Parisian style endeavors.

Item #1 - sunglasses

“One maxi impact accessory with an ultra-simple silhouette.  The Parisian worships Jackie in her Onassis period; white pants, a black T-shirt, open-toed sandals, and oversized sunglasses.  Chic, effective and oh-so-easy to copy, right now!”

Sunglasses clockwise from top: Cynthia Rowley, Prada, Morgenthal Frederiks, Celine

Sunglasses are a must whether it's sunny blue skies or overcast and I've got several options.  The pair by Celine are classic, polarized and have been my go to pair of late.  Which is your favorite?

Item #2 - the tote bag

“The big tote bag: A faithful friend for every day. You can slip your clutch inside - handy if you are going out after work and can't go home first.”

Balenciaga bag

Miu Miu bag

When traveling, a big bag is essential for both the actual air travel as well as the daily jaunts.  These two bags are in my regular rotation and they fit the bill.  Each will fit magazines and my kindle for the flight and will serve me well for the daily travels to carry my camera in addition to all the regular daily essentials.

Item #3 - the clutch

“The essential evening accessory - or for daytime use if it's big enough and soft enough.  Perfect for raising the tone if you're under-dressed.”

Clockwise from top left: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Tiziana, YSL, Longchamp, Tiziana 

Oh which clutch should I bring along for evenings out strolling the city streets and dining in charming Parisian bistros?  Basic black does go with everything but I think I'll opt for the blue YSL clutch.  Despite its small size, it fits my phone, camera and a small wallet and adds that little pop of color that I'm always after. 

And to end with some of Ines' most wise words.  “Effortless style often takes, as it says, relatively little effort.  All you really need is loads of self-confidence...and a smile.” 

XOXO

Lissy