Get the best of CF straight to your inbox.

Subscribe, sit back, and let your mind travel.

Suitcase Series

Suitcase Series: Carmen Borgonovo, Borgo De Nor

Borgo de Nor has swiftly become the fashion insider’s go-to for signature print dresses that are utterly feminine, bold, and uplifting.

With an illustrious career in magazine journalism – featuring stints at Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue – Carmen Borgonovo joined forces with her business partner Joana de Norohna to fill the gap in the market for beautifully crafted dresses that honoured their love for colour, art, and print. The result was Borgo de Nor, a brand which champions getting dressed up, whether on holiday or at home.

Travel is important to Carmen to open her mind to new cultures, food, and history. “It  feeds the soul in so many dimensions, and I appreciate it so much more now after the past two years”, Carmen muses.

With a suitcase filled with Borgo de Nor dresses, and a little space left for treasures picked up along the way, we delve into Carmen Borgonovo’s travel psyche.


What is the first trip you remember taking?

It was the 1970s and my family had to leave my birth country, El Salvador, due to a civil war erupting in the country. We moved to Miami, where I  grew up. That trip changed my life entirely. I probably wouldn’t be writing this right now if we hadn’t moved to the United States. It’s incredible how one trip can change your entire life.

What’s your most memorable trip and why?

My husband and I travelled to Ölgii in western Mongolia, near the Kazakhstan border. We camped and slept in yurts with tribal families. It was such an enriching trip, not only because we were exposed to such a rich and beautiful culture, but it was also a moment where we connected completely with nature.

Where or what is your escape?

I love the mountains during all seasons. I just recently came back from a trip in Alto Adige near Bressanone, where we hiked every day. One of my favourite things is to hike for hours, and then have a beautiful lunch in a rustic mountain lodge. I find the mountain air so invigorating and love being active, enjoying the expansive views and a healthy lifestyle.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Borgo de Nor (@borgodenor)

If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…

El Salvador. I haven’t been home in almost three years and can’t wait to see my family. I’m planning a trip soon to both El Salvador and Costa Rica, and I am over the moon about it!

What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?

Luxury to me means enriching your mind with new adventures: cultures, food, art, and learning something new. My favourite trips have never been about the beautiful hotels – although they are always a bonus – but about the memories created and the wonderful experiences I have had.

Where do you get your holiday inspiration?

There are still so many places I would like to discover. Sometimes inspiration comes from reading an article, word-of-mouth through friends, or even watching a travel documentary.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Borgo de Nor (@borgodenor)

My top bucket-list destination is…

I would love to visit Georgia. I’m enamoured with its rich history and love Georgian food. I can’t wait to discover more about the country in person.

If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?

Since we are talking about travel, I would say the explorer Gertrude Bell. I read a fascinating biography about her life and I was so in awe of her bravery and independence. At the the turn of the 20th century when women were not even allowed to vote, she was a single woman navigating exploring and travelling through the Middle East.

How do you switch off?

Spending time with my family and truly being in the moment.

 

What’s on your travel playlist?

A little bit of everything: Led Zeppelin, Tangerine Beat, Magic Now, and Nostalgia 77.

What is your jet-lag recovery tip?

Water, and more water.

Who is your favourite travel companion?

My husband. If he had lived in another era, he would’ve been an explorer. He loves travelling and always finds the most authentic way to experience a trip – no matter where we are.

What is your suitcase stalwart?

A Borgo de Nor dress. There is always a moment when one wants to dress up and feel wonderful.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Borgo de Nor (@borgodenor)

What is your number one packing tip?

I’m the opposite of a minimalist packer, I’m all about bringing options as you never know where you will go or what you will end up doing. It’s always best to be prepared for anything.

What is your most treasured purchase from your travels?

An oil painting of Suleiman the Magnificent that we bought in a small gallery in Istanbul.

Where is home and what are your must-do’s for any tourists visiting?

London. The must do’s start with all the incredible museums and art exhibitions in the city.

First thing that comes to your mind…

Packing: roll or fold?

Fold.

Music or podcast?

Music.

In-flight book or in-flight film?

Book.

Time filler on a long-haul flight?

Reading.

Holiday tipple of choice?

Campari.

Beach or City Break?

Beach.

Ultimate holiday treat?

Trying the local cuisine.

You May Also Like

Any Questions or Tips to add?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Share