Marie-Chantal, mother of five is the Founder and Creative Director of lifestyle childrenswear brand, Marie-Chantal; board member of DFS Group Ltd.; and now author, with recently released book, Manners Begin at Breakfast: Modern Etiquette for Families.
Starting her children’s collection, Marie-Chantal in 2000, the line sprang naturally from her fondness for classic, timeless design, and a fundamental love of children. Her memories of her own childhood, and her mother’s influence on her and her collection, are vivid. Marie-Chantal’s mother brought her children up to look their best – they were dressed in very specific outfits, like Liberty-print smocked dresses made of lightweight Tana Lawn cotton.
Born in London, raised in Hong Kong, schooled in Switzerland, followed by Paris and New York; travel is integral to her life. Here, we delve into Marie-Chantal’s suitcase psyche…
What is the first trip you remember taking?
Every Summer the family meets up in Greece. It is such a beautiful country where there is always something new to discover: a new friend, restaurant, island, or cove, even a new museum. My memories go way back to when I was four-years old and we would spend the summer in Corfu. Now I’m married to a Greek and spend every summer there.
Where or what is your escape?
On a morning beach walk listening to a great podcast.
What are the biggest lessons you’ve taken from your travels?
I grew up in Hong Kong and, as we lived so far away, we travelled a lot. We also lived in France for a few years, so travelling is second nature to me and where I feel at home with friends in a lot of places. Exposing children to many cultures is so important as it makes them adaptable. When Olympia was little, I made sure she made friends her age so to have a best friend later in life in every city.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
Los Angeles or the UK. When in LA I love visiting my sister, Alexandra. Some of my best friends live there as well. But my home away from home is the Cotswolds in England; I’ll head there as often as I can.
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What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
Staying in a great hotel with my husband and children, visiting wonderful restaurants, and being a real tourist. We have so much fun as a family and I am looking forward to our next trip.
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
We love going back to much-loved holiday spots, but when exploring somewhere new, it comes down to a family vote. Mexico is our next destination.
Your flight is delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
I head straight to the nearest Duty Free!
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
My grandmother – I would love to get some more stories from her.
How do you switch off?
I go on long walks with my dog, Lola or play the New York Times Spelling Bee – I’m hooked!
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What is your jet-lag recovery tip?
I try not to eat on the plane and drink lots of water. Bring a packet of electrolytes with me to keep hydrated.
My top bucket list destination is..
Mexico City.
What is your number one packing tip?
Always pack by outfits and I am a big advocate of packing cubes.
Favourite hotel? Why?
Le Cheval Blanc in Paris. I lived in Paris as a young girl and the hotel overlooks the neighbourhood I grew up in. It always brings back such wonderful memories.
Favourite airline?
Mint, JetBlue.
What’s on your travel playlist?
I love compiling playlists – this is my current go-to. I love ‘So We Don’t Forget’ by Khruangbin.
How do you switch off?
Settling down with a good book – I am currently reading The Collector, a thriller novel by English author John Fowles.
What is your most treasured purchase from your travels?
The most beautiful set of rainbow-coloured Murano glasses from Venice.
Where is home and what are your must-do’s for any tourists visiting?
New York City, Upper East Side. If you are visiting the city during wintertime, ice skating in Central Park is a must. We went a few weeks ago with our children, I just love it.
Where next?
Bahamas with my family for Easter.
First thing that comes to your mind…
Hand-luggage essential…
A silk eye mask, lip balm, hand cream, and always a pair of the thickest, cosiest socks.
Beach or City Break?
Beach.
Packing: roll or fold?
I am a folder – I try to pack everything as flat as possible with silk tissue paper. I’m a Virgo after all….
In-flight book or in-flight film?
Film.
Music or podcasts?
Depends on my mood – both!
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
I am very organised and like to download a series before a flight – I devoured Yellowstone on a recent flight to Geneva.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Dirty Martini.
Ultimate holiday treat?
A walk on the beach for some alone time – it is a great way to recharge your batteries.
Any Questions or Tips to add?