What is it about Paris that puts it at the top of everyone's must-visit list? Is it the anticipation of seeing the Eiffel Tower shimmer and sparkle at night? The prospect of walking along the Seine as accordion music trills in the background? The macarons, croissants, and loaves upon loaves of freshly baked bread?
For PR pro Erin Cullison, it's all of the above. The Manhattan-based publicist regularly jets off to the City of Lights for press launches and fashion shows on behalf of high-profile clients such as Preen and Comptoir des Cotonniers. As the Chicago native's 27K+ devoted Instagram followers can attest, her trips are truly FOMO-inducing, with photo opps at the Louvre, designer ensembles, and refreshing Aperol spritzes in every frame.
So how does a fashion gal truly live it up in Paris? Follow along as Cullison shows us.
On the appeal of Paris:
"I am typically in Paris for work (either for Fashion Week or meetings) but I always find personal time to explore — even if it’s just a few hours. This usually happens during the evening, when I will just start to walk. I love that Paris is as much of a walking city as New York. I always make time for a pic at the Louvre and Jardins du Trocadéro, both of which set you up for an amazing shot of the Eiffel Tower."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
On her favorite hidden gem:
"One of my favorite memories is stumbling upon the Palais-Royal Gardens a few years ago after leaving a client meeting. I never knew about them before; I'm still not sure how that’s possible because they are so beautiful. I could sit and people-watch or read there for hours."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
On her ensembles of choice:
"I typically just carry on, so I always stuff my Rimowa suitcase and Longchamp tote full. I also like to wear my favorite European brands when traveling abroad — think Comptoir des Cotonniers, Preen, Joseph, Belstaff, and Jerome Dreyfuss. Paris is just so dreamy that I tend to find I dress a bit more feminine than I would in New York."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
On being comfy and c hic:
"Comfortable shoes are a must. I make certain to pack loafers, no matter the season. For spring, I'll bring my green Tod's, and for fall, it's my black patent pair from Everyone. I also love a good sneaker, and this pair from Comptoir des Cotonniers is my go-to. The sideways laces give them a bit of an edge."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
On creature comforts:
"I always stay at New Hotel Roblin (pictured) near Madeleine. It really does feel like a second home. They know me by name, have my room sorted prior to check-in, and accommodate my request for extra hangers and an iron so I can get settled right away.
"I make a point to swing by Café de Flore for an aperol spritz and then have dinner at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte. There's also the famous L'As du Falafel, which definitely lives up to the hype."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
On must-see spots:
"I love Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais, both of which are full of hidden shopping gems. Pretty Box is one of my favorite vintage stores in Le Marais.
"In terms of sightseeing, I recommend the Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés; it is one of the oldest churches in Paris. I am not religious at all, but I always find it very moving when I visit because there's so much history. I like to take part in lighting a candle or two."
Photo: Courtesy of @erincullison.
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