CITY ESSENTIALS 2025
I recently returned from a delightful trip across the pond. I went to London and Paris, undoubtedly two of my favourite cities on the planet. It had been a decade since I went to Paris. One of the best things about maturing as a traveler, is realizing what you like and don't like and simplifying your routine. Coming to the realization that this wasn't my first rodeo, I feel I nailed an effective list of city essentials and would like to share.
It's official. I have finally found the perfect crossbody bag for city travel. It is quite literally called the City Essentials Small Shoulder Bag by Lulu Lemon. The name says it all. This bag was absolutely ideal for running around city streets, climbing stairs, catching trains, hopping on the metro. You name it. Not only does it look cute, but it is practical. I was able to fit almost all of my important items in here and had extra room. I also wore it to the theatre because it looks chic and can be dressed up and down. It comes with an additional strap and can be worn crossbody, which is how I chose to wear it while traveling. Even though I romanticize cities like Paris (and will continue to do so until the end of time), theft does happen so be aware of your belongings. This bag is number one on the list!
Next up are some basic but necessary essentials. Make sure to take a hair clip with you. I used to be a headband girl through and through. But now I always seem to have a hair clip on me. There are so many nice looks out there right now whether you want to go minimal or fancy. The point is, they work and keep your hair out of your face. My favourite brand for hair clips is Framar and I have them in a few neutral colours. I also had a dependable pair of sunglasses with me. I went with a classic, black oval shape from H&M that slid nicely in my pocket or bag and did the trick. Sunglasses and a striped shirt is all you need to feel a little more Parisian.
For accessories, I did the unthinkable and finally changed up my Fossil watch, which I adored and was pretty much the only jewelry I wore for years. I was gifted an Apple watch from my lovely family for a birthday gift last month. Though I was stubborn at first, it didn't take me long to love my watch and now I can't picture going back. The watch looks more attractive than I could have imagined and comes with so many features that I am still discovering. It also provided an extra layer of security while traveling.
Now for toiletries. I think it is paramount to have a miniature perfume. This trip, I took a travel size Jo Malone and loved it. It sat cutely on my hotel counter but I could have easily thrown it in my bag as well. I tried the wood sage and sea salt scent which was great for day to day. I also had sunscreen with me at all times. I lucked out with gorgeous May weather, especially in Paris. I know a lot of people don't enjoy applying sun lotion but the brand Supergoop is a game changer. It is so easy to apply and blends nicely. Finally, a hand cream. Though I always travel with it, I ended up buying a L'Occitane at Gare du Nord station on a whim. That was all it took for me to fall in love with this French brand all over again. It just felt so...luxurious?
One more thing. Bring a great hat. I have become such a hat person in my 30s it's not even funny. I own so many baseball caps now and who knows, one day I might become a floppy, straw hat person too.
Safe travels.
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