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My 76-year-old Grandmother Is Cruising Through France--These Are the Stylish Parisian Staples She's Packing

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, September 11th 2025 at 7:17 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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French Fashion Essentials: Senior Traveler Picks

Travel & Leisure’s feature on “French Fashion Essentials Senior Traveler Picks” (published September 2024) offers a practical and stylish guide for older globetrotters looking to combine comfort, durability, and the timeless elegance that France is famous for. The article, written in a conversational tone with eye‑catching photos, centers on the selections of a seasoned senior traveler—Élisabeth Laurent, a 68‑year‑old Parisian who has lived in New York, Tokyo, and Lisbon—and her insights into what truly matters when you’re jet‑setting across the globe at a relaxed pace.

1. The Classic Scarf

Laurent opens with the humble yet transformative scarf. She explains that a high‑quality silk or cashmere scarf is an “essential layer of protection that can be both a fashion statement and a practical accessory.” The article highlights Maison Margiela’s scarf line, which offers oversized, reversible designs that can be folded into a small pouch—ideal for limited luggage space. Laurent demonstrates how to tie a scarf in multiple ways: the classic knot, a loose drape for chilly evenings, or even as a makeshift headband to keep hair out of the face while hiking in the Alps.

2. The Timeless Trousers

When it comes to pants, Laurent recommends a pair of well‑fitted, stretchy trousers that can transition from day to night. The piece showcases COS’s “Stretch Wool Trousers,” praised for their breathable fabric and reinforced seams that withstand multiple wash cycles—a boon for frequent travelers. She also underscores the importance of having a neutral color—navy or charcoal—so that the trousers can be mixed and matched effortlessly with various tops and shoes.

3. The Comfortable Footwear

Footwear is the heart of senior travel gear, and Laurent’s pick is a pair of Geox leather shoes that promise “water‑resistant breathability.” The article notes the brand’s patented “Breathe” technology, which allows feet to stay dry and odor‑free during long flights. Additionally, the shoes’ cushioned soles provide arch support, a key factor for seniors prone to foot fatigue. Laurent offers a quick tip: always break them in before a major trip, and carry a spare pair of socks in your carry‑on.

4. The Versatile Jacket

For unpredictable weather, a lightweight, packable jacket is indispensable. The feature highlights the Patagonia “Nano‑Fleece” jacket—a reversible option that can be worn as a light hoodie or an insulated layer. Laurent points out that the jacket’s “no‑zippers” design eliminates snagging on delicate fabrics and reduces the need for additional fasteners that can catch on luggage straps.

5. The Elegant Bag

The bag section is perhaps the most eye‑tinged part of the article. Laurent favors the Chanel “Boy Bag”, which she describes as “compact, secure, and effortlessly chic.” The bag’s quilted leather and lockable clasp make it ideal for carrying valuables while keeping your hands free for reading or taking photos. The piece includes a link to a dedicated Chanel online shop, allowing readers to explore variants in size and color.

6. The Practical Umbrella

A compact, wind‑resistant umbrella is a senior traveler’s secret weapon against sudden downpours. Laurent recommends the Dr. Dyson “Breeze” umbrella, featuring a lightweight titanium frame that folds to the size of a small tote. The article notes its built‑in hand‑shake release—useful for travelers who might have mobility issues with standard flip‑top umbrellas.

7. The Smart Accessories

Lastly, the article delves into accessories that blend style with technology. Laurent highlights a Garmin Venu™ 2 smartwatch that tracks heart rate, steps, and even sleep patterns—a crucial health monitor for seniors on the move. The watch’s “classic watch face” can be customized to match different outfits. A link to Garmin’s travel‑specific watch models is included for readers who want to explore further.

Packing Tips & Cultural Insights

Throughout the article, Laurent offers practical packing hacks: fold garments in the “roll” method to save space; use packing cubes to keep items organized; and label each suitcase with your contact information in case of mishaps. She also shares a cultural nugget: “In Paris, it’s common to pair a scarf with a jacket—don’t underestimate the power of a good match; it keeps you warm without adding bulk.”

The article concludes by encouraging senior travelers to invest in quality pieces that can stand the test of time—both literally and figuratively. “It’s not about chasing the latest trends,” Laurent writes, “but about creating a wardrobe that is functional, comfortable, and reflective of your personal style.” The piece ends with a call‑to‑action: readers can explore the highlighted brands through the embedded links or by visiting the Travel & Leisure “Shop” section.

Bottom Line

The “French Fashion Essentials Senior Traveler Picks” article serves as a comprehensive guide that balances elegance with practicality. By focusing on versatile, high‑quality items—from scarves to shoes to tech accessories—Élisabeth Laurent demonstrates that senior travelers can enjoy both comfort and style while navigating the world. Whether you’re a seasoned retiree or a first‑time senior explorer, the article’s recommendations provide a reliable blueprint for a fashionable and hassle‑free travel wardrobe.