Each season, the fashion industry’s biggest heavyweights journey to the City of Lights for Paris Fashion Week. From magazine editors to the hottest celebrities and the most-followed influencers on social media, anyone who’s a fashion insider will be there — front and centre at luxury fashion’s biggest runway shows and presentations.
Here, fashion darling Yoyo Cao shares her hot takes on navigating Paris in style.
I start my day by waking up early to prepare my skin for full-day of wearing makeup. I do this while catching up on my favourite television shows. Next, I have breakfast —usually hard-boiled eggs or bananas. Then I get dressed and head off for my first show. Prior to entering the show venues, I get my looks documented by street style photographers — a task I take on despite my sometimes disagreeable footwear.
I try to refuel — or I unintentionally empty my wallet at Chrome Hearts — in between shows. And if time allows, I catch up with friends in town over dinner and drinks.
The experience of visiting Paris after what seems like forever was so surreal. And it didn’t hurt that I was put up in a vintage-looking abode complete with Parisian decor. It was my first time back in the City of Lights after two long years, so naturally I took some time to revisit some of my favourite stores, places and restaurants (Asian, of course). I just love how Paris makes me feel; absolutely free that it’s almost impossible for stress to get to me.
My ultimate travel must-haves right now include: Romi Beauty’s tinted moisturiser and SKIN111 sheet masks! Not to forget my NARS lipstick for quick touch-ups in between shows and shopping. It’s irreplaceable.
Somewhere between my Asian taste buds and Paris’ crowd-pleasing restaurants include: Takara, Lao Tseu and Au Coin des Gourmets. If you’re craving for some caffeine, stop by any cafe along the streets of Rue de Rivoli to get your brew-of-the-day while people-watching outdoors.
Stop by Les Merveilles de Babellou if you’re a fan of vintage shopping like me. I stumbled upon this gem and it’s been my favourite bargain-hunting store in Paris ever since. Les Trois Marches de Catherine B is another alternative if you’re looking for pre-owned vintage finds specific to Hermès and Chanel. I momentarily felt what it would be like to be in heaven while there.
Croissant from Du Pain et Des Idées, accessories thrifted from a vintage store, and a Mini Kelly from Hermès.
Le Meurice is an ideal spot because there are so many places to explore around it; vintage stores, bookstores, bakeries, cafes and even the Louvre! I love that it’s also near Rue Saint-Honoré, one of my favourite streets in Paris to do shopping. It isn’t called the heart of Parisian luxury for nothing.
This article was originally published on Harper's Bazaar.