Saint Barths always has had that “je ne se quoi”… and while it’s been on my list for while, this girls trip for my friend Morgan’s birthday came up last minute, so while I didn’t plan, shop, or prep as well as I typically do …it did not disappoint!

A close Dallas friend and stylist Katie Walters (who always knows the most chic & fun way to travel) who goes every year gave me a visual for how fabulous it is, I just couldn’t stop thinking about it for the last few years. It seemed to have this sense of mystique- like you have to know someone to know the right way to do it and for me the fact that it’s French speaking, is always more appealing. And although it’s just a few flights from Texas and a skip into the ocean, it’s foreign enough that there are some key travel tips you’ll need to know before you go.

This cover-up, was the best purchase for the trip! And you’ll be shocked I overnighted it from amazon… link here ! Run, don’t walk… I wore it backwards actually, but works either way!

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Check In: The Ritz Paris
Overlooking the iconic Place Vendôme, The Ritz boasts a storied address that only further adds to the property’s classic Parisian opulence—plush suites, perfectly pressed linens, and a quiet sense of grandeur that makes you feel like a leading lady in a 1940s film. Even if you're not staying overnight, a cocktail in Bar Hemingway is a rite of passage.

Window Shopping: Rue Saint-Honoré to Avenue Montaigne
I love a good window shop, but in Paris, window shopping is pure poetry. The displays alone are enough to inspire an entire moodboard. I always make time for a loop through Hermès, Chanel, and Dior—sometimes just to admire the craftsmanship, and sometimes to bring home a little something special.

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Over the years, this city has become something of a creative muse for me, its blend of timeless tradition and quiet eccentricity finding its way into so much of what I do. Now, I’m delighted to share a personal guide to the places I return to again and again — from the polished avenues of Chelsea to the vibrant energy of Shoreditch. Whether you're discovering London for the first time or looking to see it anew, I hope these favorite spots, both storied and secret, help you experience the city in all its layered and luminous glory.

Before You Board:

Essential London Know-How

Currency: Pound Sterling (Fancy a coin with the King’s face? You’ll need one.)

Exchange Rate: Roughly £0.80 to $1—but do check before splurging on that Liberty silk scarf.

Language: The Queen’s English (or technically now, the King’s). Don’t be alarmed by phrases like “fancy a cuppa?”—they just want to offer you tea, not propose.

Time Zone: GMT (a.k.a. London time, darling)

Sleep Study

The Connaught

This lavish landmark is Mayfair’s grand dame with a taste for the modern. Here, polished marble meets perfectly chilled martinis, and the staff remember your name before you’ve finished saying it. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a masterclass in how to make indulgence feel effortless. Book Now

The Laslett

Tucked into a stately row of Regency-style houses moments from the tube, is Notting Hill’s latest luxury hotel: The Laslett. Welcoming guests in with a modern gallery-like entrance featuring both established and emerging artists, the boutique property also hosts recharging rooms designed to boost immunity through cutting edge wellness practices. Book Now

The Twenty Two

Check-in to London’s best members-only hotspot and get the same perks as local members. Calling all creatives and the curious alike, Twenty Two takes modern British chic to new heights. Designed by Natalia Miyar, the opulent maximalism nods to 18th century French interiors while the Edwardian manor hosts the discretion synonymous with Britain. Book Now

Dinner Date

Daphne’s

Daphne’s is Chelsea at its most charming—think sun-dappled tables, clinking glasses, and perfect pasta that makes you forget you’re in London at all. A little slice of Italy, wrapped in understated glamour.

Casa Cruz

Part private club, part West London playground, Casa Cruz glows with copper walls, low lighting, and an air of delicious secrecy—where champagne flows, the crowd is beautiful, and dinner often turns into dancing.

Kuro (Bakery)

From deliciously brewed coffee and matcha, homemade pastries and victoria sponge, and a Mediterranean-inspired menu, Kuro offers a bit of everything any time of day. The sleek, minimalist interiors are nestled on a charming Notting Hill side street right in the midst of those picturesque pastel exteriors. Grab your coffee and treats and walk around the area.

London, Mon Amour

Inspired by the elegance of London gardens and the romance of Parisian afternoons, our London, mon amour pre-fall collection is a nod to the art of living beautifully.

The London Botanical Pillow captures the charm of a storied English garden—delicate florals, vintage ribbon motifs, and timeless sophistication in every stitch.

Neighborhood Hop

In a city as widespread as London, It’s helpful to pinpoint the neighborhoods that appeal to your interest.

Shoreditch: London’s version of Brooklyn, Shoreditch is known for its edgy late-night hotspots, creative culinary scene, trendy art-forward hotels, and independent retailers. Consider strolling around the Columbia Road Flower Market on Sunday, brimming with tons of flora and fauna as well as delicious coffee purveyors and street vendors.

Mayfair & Marylebone: Sitting side by side to one another, these two neighborhoods boast luxury and old-world charm around every corner. From world famous Bond Street, lined with exclusive shopping and dining to Hotel institutions like The Connaught and Claridge’s, this neighborhood is quintessentially British—oozing sophistication and charm.

Primrose Hill: Head north on the tube and find yourself in beautiful Hampstead and Primrose Hill. The idyllic neighborhood is home to Primrose Hill Park, where (after a short trek up the aforementioned hill) you’ll find the most beautiful view of London. And, with Regent’s Park a mere stones throw away, there’s no shortage of enchanting strolls to venture down before popping into a friendly pub for some local fare. It’s no wonder why celebrities call this part of town home.

South Kensington: Design lovers, spend the day museum hopping from the Design Museum to the Victoria and Albert. There’s tons of inviting design shops and galleries alike to window shop before ending up at King’s Road, where you can find more decor inspiration and delicious restaurants to indulge in.

Shop Girl

Harrods

Quite simply a British institution, designer department store Harrods has long led the way on bringing the forefront of luxury brands to the market. Home to beautiful tea ateliers, gourmet restaurants, cutting-edge fashion and well-designed homewares, a full day at Harrods is easy to do.

Liberty

Perhaps you’ll first be wowed by the Tudor-revival façade of the stunning department store. But upon entry you’ll soon be in awe by the striking scale and cathedral ceilings of Liberty—not to mention, the seemingly unending floors of designer beauty, jewelry, apparel and homeware.

Spitalfields

East London’s one-stop shop for fashion, food, art, and music, Spitalfields leaves little left to want. The open-air market is home to 100s of independent retailers peddling anything you could ever want. It’s a market you have to see to believe. And the food is not to be missed!

Beyond the Palace Selfie

The Design Museum

Website: designmuseum.org

Set at the foot of dreamy Holland Park on the edge of bustling Kensington High Street, The Design Museum produces engaging and thought-provoking exhibits year round. From interactive ASMR to the inner workings and design of football, each show is immersive. Be sure to reserve tickets ahead of time.

Word On The Water

Website: wordonthewater.co.uk

Calling all book lovers! Head to the London Bookbarge where quirky bookstores dot the perimeter of the canal, including a 100-year-old Dutch barge: Word on the Water. Right by King’s Cross, this storied oasis is perfect for treasure hunting. And, who knows? You may just find a first edition.

The Tate Modern

Website: tate.org.uk

Butted up against the Thames River with views of Millennium Bridge, The Tate Modern houses the most impressive contemporary art collections. From materials and objects to paintings and performances, there’s no shortage of discoveries to be made at the Tate.

Cheers!

London is layers of charm—florals spilling from shopfronts, the patina of old brick, and tables set with timeless elegance. It’s a city that invites you to linger, to wander, and to be inspired at every turn.

These aren’t just practical—they’re stylish, thoughtfully chosen, and elevate the entire experience of being away from home. Think of them as the secret sauce to staying pulled together, even when your suitcase inevitably ends up on the bottom of the pile.

The Always-in-the-Carry-On Essentials

I’d be remiss not to mention a few go-tos that aren't new discoveries, but rather old reliables that just work—trip after trip.

First, my Rimowa. It’s an investment, yes—but it’s also the kind of piece that makes you feel instantly more pulled together the second you zip it shut. The structure, the glide, the quiet click of the handle—it’s a design lover’s dream and a frequent flyer’s best friend.

And then there’s the portable charger, which has saved me more times than I can count. Between gate changes, delayed Ubers, and navigating new cities, a dead phone is just not an option. I keep mine charged and ready, always in the same pocket of my tote, like a non-negotiable piece of travel insurance.

These are the small things that make a big difference. They're not flashy, but they’re foundational.

My top travel tips:

1. Dress for the Security Line

Layers are your best friend: think lightweight knits, wrinkle-resistant trousers, and a scarf that doubles as a blanket mid-flight. Skip the heavy jewelry and opt for slip-on shoes to breeze through security without sacrificing polish. This white tee from Rag and Bone is the best of the best- layering is your best friend on the plane!

2. Double Up on Essentials

Pack a mini version of your in-flight must-haves—hand cream, lip balm, eye mask, and face mist—in both your tote and your checked bag. That way, if one bag goes rogue, you're still set.

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It’s not just the salty air, the queue of palm trees, or the golden sun that hits just right—it's the way the curve of a rattan-backed chair on a dockside patio that’s been there for decades and the aviator wearing folks tie a cashmere knit around their waist for a walk on the boardwalk.

*Note, us west coasters might not be quite as preppy but we know a good knit when we see it. I love how the effortless palette of sandy taupe and soft blue feels like it was born from the sea itself and the carefree, laidback energy just sticks to everything- it’s so thick you can feel it… and I can’t help but adopt it.

Here’s my quick guide to Newport Beach, and a playlist to get you in the West coast spirit:

Shopping

Start your day at Lido Marina Village, a walkable cluster of shops, cafés, and quiet marina views. A few standout stops:

Claire V. – Elevated accessories with a West Coast-meets-Paris feel. Great for totes, clutches, and canvas carryalls.

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A Feast for the Senses

From the moment you enter, down to the dressing rooms- you are met with design that leans in. The arched hallway wrapped in red-and-pink vertical stripes feels like stepping into an old-world Parisian dressing room—but with a twist. It’s layered with scalloped-edge mirrors, patterned carpet, and softly glowing sconces that cast the warmest light. Every inch is curated to dazzle.

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Enter Cotswolds Toile.

This pattern has an amazing story. Inspired by an antique screen I found in England, we transformed the motif into this stunning textile. We drew the inspiration for the colors from vintage British textiles, and it all came together harmoniously. The Cotswolds Toile wallpaper, with its delicate floral patterns, instantly transports me back to my time in England. Each intricate bloom evokes the charm of the rolling countryside, where honey-colored stone cottages peek out from lush gardens bursting with roses and lavender. The soft, timeless hues remind me of peaceful afternoons wandering through village lanes, the scent of fresh blossoms in the air. This wallpaper is more than just decoration—it’s a portal to a cherished past, a reminder of England’s quiet beauty and the warmth of a place that once felt like home.

Waking up at Quarry House felt like stepping into a Nancy Meyers film—vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and an effortless mix of classic and contemporary design. Mornings were spent with a pot of tea in the garden, birdsong as the only soundtrack, before heading out to explore nearby villages brimming with antiques, artisanal finds, and, of course, some of the best food England has to offer.

If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, consider this your guide to the must-see spots, from storied antique shops to Michelin-starred meals, scenic walks, and cozy pubs that feel like a warm embrace.

Where to Hunt for Antiques

The Cotswolds is a treasure trove for antique lovers, filled with markets and shops where you can unearth everything from 18th-century ceramics to perfectly patinaed furniture. Here are my tried and true favorite spots for timeless pieces:

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Spring break is all about creating memories, and there’s no better place to do that than Sea Island, Georgia. This little slice of paradise on the southeastern coast offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury, making it an ideal destination for families. Traveling with kids can be tricky, but Sea Island had everything needed to keep them entertained for a perfect 4 night stay. Here’s a little travel guide and some of my favorite things we did together!

Caitlin’s Guide to Sea Island, GA:

Where to stay:

The Cloister at Sea Island

Where Southern charm meets seaside luxury! The Cloister is a dreamy escape with Mediterranean vibes, five-star service, and endless ways to unwind. Think grand architecture, secret garden paths, and the kind of sunsets that make you forget what day it is. AKA- totally up my alley. Whether you're riding horses on the beach, sipping cocktails by the river, or just soaking up the elegant vibes—this place is coastal magic, wrapped in luxury.

Where To Eat:

Georgian Rooms at the Cloister

The Georgian Rooms are such a chic place to grab a drink, and their espresso martini is made with a special hazelnut syrup that was to die for.

Southern Tide

Dinner at Southern Tide with the kids is a must! There’s nothing better than great food with a sea view. The cornbread biscuits are not to be missed. Better yet… the kids can also run around the beach and playground during or after dinner so the adults can have their moment.

What To Wear:

Where To Play:

Sea Island Beach Club

The Beach Club is an absolute dream with the pool, food, beach, playground, arcade for the kids and ice cream shop. This makes for a carefree vacation and the kids are happy as little clams running around free!

The Spa at Sea Island, The Cloister

While the Beach Club is heaven for the kids, The Spa at Sea Island is heaven for adults! The facilities are fantastic and the design is absolutely breathtaking. As an avid exerciser, I appreciated the expansive gym and studio spaces.

The Bowling Alley

The bowling alley is the perfect rainy day activity or when the kids have had enough sun… make sure to save room to eat a pretzel!

Whether you spend your days soaking up the sun, savoring world-class cuisine, or exploring the island’s natural beauty, this place leaves you with more than memories—it leaves you longing to return. Sea Island- I’ll be back!

A Girls' Trip to Remember: Why You Need a Weekend Away with Your Best Friends

There’s something undeniably magical about an escape with your best girlfriends—especially when that escape involves the sun-drenched shores of Hawaii. My recent girl’s trip to Kona was more than just a getaway for me—it was a reset, a recharge, and a reminder of the joy that comes from indulging in beauty, laughter, and a little bit of luxury.

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For me, design has always been as much about connection as it is about creating beautiful spaces. The most inspiring places I’ve been, the most meaningful pieces I’ve collected, and the most cherished memories I’ve made have all been deeply tied to a sense of place, history, and the people I’ve shared them with.

That’s exactly why I’m launching Collected Retreats—a curated forum for those who, like me, want to unite their passions for travel and design with meaningful connection. These journeys are about more than just discovering exquisite antiques, storied textiles, and one-of-a-kind objets d’art—they’re about fully immersing ourselves in the rich culture of a place and forming true, lasting bonds along the way.

For years, I’ve brought my girlfriends along on buying trips and scouting missions to trade shows, turning work into an adventure of shared discovery. It’s always been a dream of mine to create a way to make those experiences more intentional—and finally, here’s my chance…

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