After carbs and coffee, I was off on my merry way to a bunch of buying appointments. I can’t give away too much just yet, but I can assure you that there are lots of exciting and beautiful pieces coming to RIISE soon! It’s always such a pleasure (and perk of the job) meeting designers face-to-face and being able to see and touch their garments in the showrooms. If I didn’t have buying appointments, I would be strolling around one of Paris’ gorgeous gardens. Jardin du Luxembourg is a personal favourite. The creation of the garden began back in 1612, and today spans 25 hectares of land, which are decorated with a geometric forest, pond orchard, rose garden and over 100 statues and fountains. I packed my Foundation Flats from ESSEN on this trip and thank goodness I did as they carried me comfortably through a great deal of walking.

If you’re in the mood for more culture, you can’t miss Bourse de Commerce. The building is as stunning as the art curation. The restaurant at the top is incredible too. Originally a place of commerce and trade, it now houses the art collection of French businessman François Pinault. Musée Rodin is personal favourite of mine as well. You can get up close and personal with Auguste Rodin’s most celebrated sculptures, like The Thinker and The Kiss. Located inside the 1730 Hôtel Biron, where the artist lived and worked while in Paris, the building is bordered by a tranquil rose garden that almost makes you forget you’re in central Paris. While you’re in the city, it’s best to hop on a Lime bike. I had a few hours to spare after lunch and just rode around enjoying the sights: the Arc de Triomphe, Grand Palais and Champs-Élysées. It’s the fastest way to get around Paris and if you ask me, the most fun.