Leila Kashanipour has a reputation of being one of the chicest follows on Instagram, with outfits styled to perfection and a talent for highlighting the most eye-catching accessories.
This comes in handy, as the founder of Leivankash since 2011, a jewellery brand that incorporates both luxury and playfulness. Whether you prefer the boldness of skulls or the gentleness of pearls, Leivankash has a piece for every woman. Jewellery is where she began, but her knowledge and taste have garnered her a list of luxury beauty and fashion brands who she considers clients. On top of this, Lelia’s travel expertise is just as sharp as her style sense and business acumen. Whether she’s dining in Tuscany or catching the rays in St. Tropez, she’s one to watch when curating the most gorgeous memories, and even more captivating fashion snapshots, that rival the most well-established editorials.
We delve into Leila’s suitcase psyche.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
We were spoilt by our parents and lucky to have travelled a lot as kids but the ones I remember most are to London (before it became home 20 years ago), and Geneva, as we went to camp every summer. I made lifelong friends who I am still in touch with today.
What’s your most memorable trip and why?
Asia most definitely. I discovered Japan, China, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia with my husband. and culturally they were the most interesting of our travels. If I had to pick one? Definitely Bali. It is an island like no other and Ubud taught me an understanding of self-awakening. I would have loved to live there at some point.
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Where or what is your escape?
I appreciate being in my own company, alone, and lost in my thoughts.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
An active and pampering retreat in Ubud.
How would you spend your ideal afternoon in your home city (London)?
I am always working and on the go. The nature of my work is quite social which means I get to meet creative people constantly. Ideally, I would like to switch off a little bit more mid-week as I do on the weekends with my family!
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Before having kids it was very Eat, Pray, Love and we travelled as free spirits where we wanted to. My children are 2 and 4 years old and so the priority now is very dependent on travel logistics, destination facilities and comfort throughout the trip. And for now, I get most of my travel inspiration from fellow mum friends!
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
A balance of sunshine, beach, good vibes, good food, lots of pampering, alone time, complemented by a glass of rosé or a margarita!
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If you could be sat next to anyone on a plane it would be?
In all honesty, I would rather sit next to my husband who has the most interesting, stimulating, knowledgeable of minds… or alone.
How do you recover from jet lag?
I don’t really get bothered much by it and just push through.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
Take out my notebook & write down ideas, plans and sketch designs.
Favourite Hotel? Why?
Maca Kizi in Bodrum for the service, the food, the people we met, location, and overall vibe.
Phum Bai Tang in Cambodia has the most surreal landscape with excellent service, one of the most memorable hotel experiences.
St Regis in Nusa Dua Bali has amazing service with gorgeous rooms and the breakfast was simply INSANE.
Peninsula Hong Kong. Simply 5 stars.
Les Sources De Caudalie in Bordeaux – I love this hotel for the beautiful tranquility, Michelin star food, incredible wine of course, and a lot of pampering.
Airelles Saint-Tropez, Château de la Messardière – My husband and I stayed there 12 years ago when we were dating and it just reminds me when it was just us, bringing back very sweet memories.
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Favourite Airline?
Wrong time to ask this question, especially if you’re departing from Heathrow!
Where next?
Currently in Cascais for another month. End of August the Cotswolds and the rest is in the making!
First thing that comes to your mind…
Hand-luggage essential?
Power bank.
Packing: roll or fold?
Mix.
In-flight book or in-flight film?
Film.
Music or podcast?
Music.
Time filler on a long-haul flight?
When you have two kids under 5 to entertain, it goes pretty quick.
Bucket list top destination?
Australia.
Vintage earrings and bags.
Beach or City Break?
Beach.
A few hours of me time and complete silence every day.
Any Questions or Tips to add?