SKIRT: A.L.C. (also available HERE)  |  BLAZER: A.L.C.  (also available HERE)  |  HAT: Janessa Leone (old, similar HERE) |  BELT: Chloe (affordable alternative HERE) |  BAG: Mark Cross (unavailable, similar HERE and love THIS ONE)  |  SHOES: Sergio Rossi  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs

As far as I’m concerned, magenta is a color for getting things done. Productivity, confidence, accomplishment—no one’s curling up with a book and some tea in bright, blazing magenta. This is the color you bring with you when it’s time to get after it, even better when you’re getting after it in Paris.  Last week my commute involved a trans-Atlantic flight, which was a little longer than the usual cab ride but you know what?  Worth it.  However, while the croissants beckoned and the wicker bistro chairs looked like they craved company, there was work to be done.

There are very few cities where business and pleasure are such close companions for me, but Paris is the reigning MVP.  How then to style a scenario involving multiple business meetings, delightful Parisian cuisine, and the inevitable truth that I’ll never not be a tourist in Paris?  The answer is simple, but well-accessorized.  What’s more Parisian that that?

3 Perfect Meeting Spots in Paris + The Parisian Power Suit

This look is all business—or is it?  A brilliant shade of magenta brought to life with a classically structured blazer and a pleated skirt—with lace detailing at the bottom for a refined, feminine spin.  If you’re feeling intimidated by head-to-toe magenta, I get it, but I can accessorize the butterflies away.  Belt cinching gives the look continuity, and more depth than a standard blazer-skirt pairing.  The eye sees the look as a whole.  Neat trick, right?  Head-to-toe coordination comes in from black hat to smart shoe.  And before you can think there’s too much matchy, a white statement bag (can’t resist a good top handle) takes this from an outfit to a look.

Another key reason why magenta works, specifically in Paris: there is no better backdrop, literally none better in the world, than a Parisian street. Yes, yes, the beach is lovely.  But your footwear options are limited and it’s a one-season wonder.  Paris gives your outfit a stage, no matter the season.  Walk around the Marais for 20 minutes and tell me I’m wrong.  The muted palette brings historical charm that practically wants you to wear a bold shade, and then ‘gram it.  So me and my magenta suit hit the streets, and got to work–en France.

Since work brings us back to the City of Lights fairly regularly, I’ve amassed a list of favorites that are particularly perfect meeting spots.  However, these three places are killer whether your itinerary involves work or play…

My Top 3 Meeting Spots In Paris

The quick coffee: Fragments. Near Place des Vosges, this quaint cafe is known for outstanding coffee, and a serious cinnamon roll. A quick post-coffee stroll and you’re in the heart of The Marais.

The power lunch: Pink Mama. Italian in Paris? Hear me out. This stunning surround is so captivating and impressive, the meeting will be a memorable one–forever. And as with any restaurant in the Big Mama group, the food is nothing short of scrumptious.

The client dinner: Clamato. Run by the crew behind Septime, Clamato is the seafood-focused sister restaurant of dreams–with one of the best wine lists anywhere.  Dash across the street to La Cave de Septime for a glass of wine while you wait for a table.

SKIRT: A.L.C. (also available HERE)  |  BLAZER: A.L.C.  (also available HERE)  |  HAT: Janessa Leone (old, similar HERE) |  BELT: Chloe (affordable alternative HERE) |  BAG: Mark Cross (unavailable, similar HERE and love THIS ONE)  |  SHOES: Sergio Rossi  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs

Looking for more travel tips?  Check out my shortlist of game-changing travel accessories that I never leave home without.