I recently travelled to my favourite European city of Paris for work. I was attending a fascinating conference on Longevity run by LÓreal bringing together the world's top experts in health, nutrition and skincare. A short trip like this always presents a packing dilemma, particularly because I have so many days that require an all day outfit to take me from early morning meetings right though to evening events or dinners.
Thankfully, I have my own mini capsule wardrobe for Paris trips - a handful of hard working multitasking items I rely on again and again. Here's what I packed.
These croc sling backs by Totem are just on the right side of formal while being super comfortable for all day wear - the perfect alternative to heels.
Me + Em Textured Crop Jacket
I love a pop of colour for work and paired this cropped Parisian inspired Me+Em blue jacket with my straight cut jeans and a white T shirt for business meetings.
Reiss Twill Flared Trousers
I never travel in summer without a comfortable pair of white wide leg trousers which always feel like a simple statement piece. These ones by Reiss are timeless.
Adeye Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are everywhere in Paris as they are in London. These black and silver studded ones by Aeyde are versatile enough to take you from day to night and feel effortlessly French.
I took this compact tan Demellier Vancouver cross body bag with me for my daytime essentials. It's stylish, practical and is versatile to go with everything in my wardrobe.
You'll never regret buying a good black oversized blazer like this one from Frankie Shop. I threw this over a white t-shirt and trousers for daytime and it paired perfectly with my midi dresses for evening too.
Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans
I don't often wear denim to the office in London, but these high rise straight jeans from Reformation are my go to smart jeans for trips and shoots. So easy to throw on and super comfortable for travelling in, I dressed these up with my jeans and blazer for meetings.
White Rosa Double Trim T-Shirt
I never travel without a couple of my favourite round neck white t-shirts. I love this one by Whistles which is nicely cut at the neck and a relaxed fit - perfect in the heat.
Rixo Ellery Cotton Blouse
I always pack this feminine white cotton blouse with ruffle trim from Rixo when going to France, which feels quintessentially Parisian and is great with jeans.
Sofia Trim Jersey Midi Dress-Navy
I relied on this navy midi dress from Boden on the days when I was working all day and straight out for the evening. Super comfortable for travelling and flattering on the waist and hips, the puff sleeves and pleats at the front make it look more expensive than it is once on.
Idelle dress by Reformation
The Idelle dress by Reformation is an investment piece you'll wear from office to evening to holidays. A flattering and versatile shape, it was another hard working hero which I could easily style with all my shoes and jackets.
Staud Wells Cotton Poplin Midi Dress
If you're planning on attending Ascot and having a last minute panic about what to wear, we've got you.
The expert team at Marie Claire have rounded up a comprehensive guide including tailoring, occasion dresses and millinery. Royal Ascot also comes with its very own set of sartorial rules and a strict 'expected' dress code, which you'll also need to consider.
So whether you're looking for a killer look for the races or another of the key summer season events, you'll find plenty to inspire you such as this pillar box red Staud poplin midi dress.
(Image credit: Future)
