Guide To Navigating Paris Fashion Week In Style: Fashion Maven Yoyo Cao

Each season, the fashion industry’s biggest heavyweights journey to the City of Lights for Paris Fashion Week. From magazine editors to the hottest celebrities and the most-followed influencers on social media, anyone who’s a fashion insider will be there—front and centre at luxury fashion’s biggest runway shows and presentations.

In this series, BAZAAR speaks with industry experts on their top tips on navigating Paris in style. Here, fashion darling Yoyo Cao shares her hot takes. 

Related article: Guide To Navigating Paris Fashion Week In Style: Editor-in-Chief Kenneth Goh

What does a typical day during Paris Fashion Week look like for you?

I start my day by waking up early to prepare my skin for full-day of wearing makeup. I do this while catching up on my favourite television shows. Next, I have breakfast—usually hard-boiled eggs or bananas. Then I get dressed and head off for my first show. Prior to entering the show venues, I get my looks documented by street style photographers—a task I take on despite my sometimes disagreeable footwear.

I try to refuel—or I unintentionally empty my wallet at Chrome Hearts—in between shows. And if time allows, I catch up with friends in town over dinner and drinks.

Related article: BAZAAR Academy Masterclass: How to Create Compelling Content By Yoyo Cao

In all your years of travelling to Paris, what still excites or surprises you about the city?

The experience of visiting Paris after what seems like forever was so surreal. And it didn’t hurt that I was put up in a vintage-looking abode complete with Parisian decor. It was my first time back in the City of Lights after two long years, so naturally I took some time to revisit some of my favourite stores, places and restaurants (Asian, of course). I just love how Paris makes me feel; absolutely free that it’s almost impossible for stress to get to me. 

What are some of your must-haves while travelling to Paris for fashion week?

My ultimate travel must-haves right now include: Romi Beauty’s tinted moisturiser and SKIN111 sheet masks! Not to forget my NARS lipstick for quick touch-ups in between shows and shopping. It’s irreplaceable.

Related article: ROMI Beauty Is Social Media Darling Yoyo Cao’s New Business Venture

While in Paris, what are your must-visit restaurants and cafes?

Somewhere between my Asian taste buds and Paris’ crowd-pleasing restaurants include: Takara, Lao Tseu and Au Coin des Gourmets. If you’re craving for some caffeine, stop by any cafe along the streets of Rue de Rivoli to get your brew-of-the-day while people-watching outdoors.

In your opinion, what are the must-visit places in Paris?

Stop by Les Merveilles de Babellou if you’re a fan of vintage shopping like me. I stumbled upon this gem and it’s been my favourite bargain-hunting store in Paris ever since. Les Trois Marches de Catherine B is another alternative if you’re looking for pre-owned vintage finds specific to Hermès and Chanel. I momentarily felt what it would be like to be in heaven while there.

In your opinion, what are the top three must-buy items while in Paris?

Croissant from Du Pain et Des Idées, accessories thrifted from a vintage store, and a Mini Kelly from Hermès.

In your opinion, where are the best places to stay while in Paris and why? 

Le Meurice is an ideal spot because there are so many places to explore around it; vintage stores, bookstores, bakeries, cafes and even the Louvre! I love that it’s also near Rue Saint-Honoré, one of my favourite streets in Paris to do shopping. It isn’t called the heart of Parisian luxury for nothing.