A Cool Fashion Designer Shares Her Guide to Paris Fashion Week
I’ve been going to Paris Fashion Week for years, and I never stick to just one hotel. I love trying different places every time – it’s my way of coming out of my comfort zone. Staying in new locations sparks fresh ideas, gives me a chance to experience a bit of culture and helps me weave that into content creation during Fashion Week. Hotels close to the shows are convenient, but sometimes I pick ones with beautiful views, like the rooftop at SO/ Paris, which is magical. The Hoxton is a trendy choice, but I also have a soft spot for classics like the Plaza Athénée, which brings back early Fashion Week memories. If I’m in the mood for extra fun, I’ll stay at The Ritz or Le Bristol. Boutique hotels in Paris are also incredible – every street and corner has its own charm.
Breakfast really depends on the day – and my outfit. If I have an early show, I’ll grab a croissant or boiled eggs – especially if I’m wearing something fitted. But if I have more time, I indulge in the hotel breakfast, especially when my mum joins me for Fashion Week. Since we don’t live in the same country, it’s our girly time to catch up. Wherever we’re staying, we’ll end up strolling across the Seine, having heart-to-heart conversations and taking in the city. It keeps me grounded and gives me the clarity to be the best version of myself. It’s one of the most soulful parts of my week.
After a long day, I love heading to Le Petit Lutetia. It’s one of my favourite spots in Paris – it’s chic, laid-back and the food is always excellent. It’s the perfect place to relax with a cocktail and some friends during the chaos of Fashion Week. Another must-visit is Baronne – the painted ceilings and stunning interiors are just incredible.
Paris has so much to offer. I love Saint-Germain-des-Prés for the way it mixes fashion and history. You really can’t go wrong with Avenue Montaigne – it’s a bit cliché, but I always find myself shopping there before or after the shows. Haussmann Boulevard and Rue Saint-Honoré are other favourites and I recently rediscovered Le Marais during a shoot last season. It’s so hip, trendy and refreshing.
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I work with a trusted glam squad who bring my vision to life. Each season, I create a mood board for my looks, but I keep things practical, especially for back-to-back shows. Simple styles, glowing skin and statement accessories are my go-tos – and if I have time, I always treat myself to a session at the Dior Beauty Spa after the week is over.
Packing for Fashion Week is a mix of essentials and spontaneity. Accessories are always key for me – boots, sneakers and standout pieces I can mix and match. I’ve tried planning every outfit in advance with PDFs and mood boards, but it never works for me. I wake up feeling something different every day and often make last-minute changes just before heading out. It’s all part of the adrenaline rush and what makes Fashion Week so exciting.
Coperni’s robot dress moment was nothing short of groundbreaking – it’s one of my most memorable shows.It was such a dynamic and unexpected moment. Another favourite was a Louis Vuitton show set against an iconic Parisian backdrop, those kind of moments stay with you.
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The best thing about Paris during Fashion Week is the energy. Seeing people unapologetically express themselves gives me a nudge to take more risks, and it’s when I feel most creatively alive. It’s a time of heightened excitement, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Watching the collections unfold on the runways – even with the multinational brands – pushes me to evolve and take more creative risks. As a designer, seeing that level of creativity and daring is what keeps me coming back year after year.
For first-timers, my biggest advice is to go with confidence and an open mind. My first Fashion Weeks were all about having a strong support system – someone experienced to guide me through the shows, showrooms and networking. I wouldn’t recommend going alone for your first time – it can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, it’s magical.
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