Heading to Milan Design Week? Here’s What to Pack, According to Stephanie Goto
The renowned architect shares what she can’t leave home without as she heads to the inspiring Italian city
This month, the world’s top designers, collectors, and tastemakers will head to Milan for Salone del Mobile to take in immersive installations, exhibitions, and product debuts. But the premier annual design and furniture fair doesn’t end when the galleries close; instead, the night invites an endless offering of cocktail events, lively gatherings, and courtyard parties. For tips on what to pack for such an inspiring week-long celebration, Galerie asked world-renowned architect Stephanie Goto to share what’s in her suitcase.
Where are you traveling?
Milan, to see global clients and lifelong friends in a city energized by the Salone del Mobile.
How long will you be in Milan?
Three days with a five-day warm-up in Paris celebrating “Calder. Rêver en équilibre,” an exhibition marking the centenary of Alexander Calder’s arrival in Paris and the 50th Anniversary of his death at the Foundation Louis Vuitton.
What aren’t you leaving home without?
My new Rimowa Sleeve Cabin Plus in Matte. It’s the perfect companion.
What essentials are in your carry-on?
Unless I am journeying to Japan, I usually just carry on. My Black Hermès Cashmere Stole is always with me on the plane. It’s the chicest blanket, pillow, and shawl when you travel. From Superegg, Calm Movements Eye and Cheek Mask—I always put a mask on at some point during the journey. And Superegg’s This Moment Hand Care and Kypris Lip Elixer Balm keep the hands and lips perfect.
What is your day of travel outfit?
Black Comme Des Garcons Skirt, The Row Long Sleeve Scuba Top, Nike Sportswear Maria Sharapova x La Cortez, a Bomber Jacket, or Melitta Baumeister Black Cropped Hoodie are my uniform.
How many outfits for how many days?
I always make a handwritten calendar with a little sketch of the look for each day and the weather forecast next to it. This way, I can visualize the journey.
Seven or eight looks for eight days and nights, including my latest addition, a Melitta Baumeister Soft Blue Flowy Ripple dress.
Do you have an “outfit formula?”
Simplicity. A multitude of combinations and layering are possible at any moment with all pieces.
What kind of versatile staples are you packing?
The Sacai Paneled Denim Jacket can go from casual day jacket to a light cape over a dress at night. Sacai tops that are a combination of cotton and knit, a little whimsy is my style.
What shoes are you packing for the day?
Melitta Baumiester Nike Vomero Premium for the power walking around town.
What shoes are you packing for the night?
Hermès Black Platform Heel in suede. I adore Pierre Hardy’s sensibility for shoes, the balance of heritage, height, luxury, versatility, and comfort.
Which accessories make the cut?
I am a minimalist. A 1960s silver Rolex Air King watch, and one simple accent piece per journey—this time, a Round Trip Bracelet by my friend Charlotte Chesnais.
What outerwear are you bringing?
I always like to keep it light and use a car as my jacket. A big, black, and light cashmere and wool Hermès stole can be everything anytime, anywhere.
Are you leaving room for a keepsake?
A tiny corner. I will scour the flea market and old hardware stores to add to my antique plumb bob collection. Each one is like a sculptural memory of a country and its culture. If I had the room, it would for sure be the new Ferrari Luce launching next week!