They say Paris has a way of revealing who you are.

Recently, that truth unfolded in ways I couldn’t have scripted if I tried. Every step felt intentional—from the places explored to the stories uncovered—each one gently pulling back a layer of inspiration, history, or personal connection.

A Reunion in the Making

Last year, during Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)’s inaugural alumni trip to Italy, I met—and found friendship in—two strangers. Though we came from different backgrounds and age groups, we bonded over fashion, food, and unforgettable moments. So when FIT announced their second study abroad trip—to Paris—it was a no-brainer: we all reunited.

We clinked glasses everywhere—from the Eiffel Tower to the not-so-secret-anymore lounge at the Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel. Fun fact: the Obamas stayed there back in 2009. Yeah… that part.

From Plans to Purpose

Wait—I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me back up a bit...

Before we even knew about the Rosewood lounge, we had already mapped out a pretty ambitious agenda. And as determined as we were, we only scratched the surface. But thankfully, FIT had a beautifully curated and highly organized itinerary. In hindsight, knowing how full our days would be, we probably would’ve pared down our personal “must-do” list.

Nothing could have prepared us for what came next. Just like in Italy, we hit the ground running.

Fashion, History & Storytelling

Among our earliest highlights was a walk through the Christian Dior Museum and an exclusive visit to the Archives—a section not open to the public. Thanks to FIT’s connection, we were granted access to pieces that felt frozen in time. A guided tour brought decades of sketches, textiles, and French craftsmanship to life in a way that few ever get to witness.

Then came an intimate walkthrough of the latest collection at the CHANEL Watches & Fine Jewelry Flagship Boutique at Place Vendôme—where heritage and innovation meet in the most stunning way. Each encounter was layered with history and luxury, a reminder of how deeply storytelling weaves through French fashion.

I wore a black-and-ivory dress accented with a large black satin flower—a nod to CHANEL, of course—along with ivory pearls trimmed with delicate black floral petals. I styled Elani at the waist, using it as an adornment to my belt. What I didn’t know then was that my chosen palette would mirror the interiors of the House of CHANEL almost perfectly.

Let’s just say… the fashion gods got the memo.

Art in Bloom

On one beautifully clear afternoon, we visited Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, the idyllic village that inspired his most famous works. His gardens were like living canvases—vibrant and lush. Among the winding pathways, we spotted a cluster of white cows basking in the sun; they stood perfectly still, as though part of the composition. Truly, it was one of those moments where art and life merge.

Royal Grounds & Simple Pleasures

From Giverny we traveled to Versailles, where history reveals its grandeur: from a hunting lodge to the residence of kings under King Louis XIV (also known as Louis the Great or the Sun King). 

Then came the indulgent moments: ~French Martinis~ at Hôtel de Crillon, late-night laughter, and that breathtaking champagne toast at the second level of the Eiffel Tower with my travel soul sistas.

And I’ll be honest—the whole time, I was secretly hoping for a Beyoncé sighting (the rumor was she arrived just before we did). No Beyoncé, but sharing an impromptu laugh with Ryan Seacrest? A fun surprise. I’ll take it!

The Fragrance of Memory

We also visited the Fragonard Perfume Museum, where scent and heritage collide in the most elegant way. From the displays of antique bottles to hands-on scent mixing, it was a reminder that Paris delights go beyond the visual. I created a signature perfume—one that aligned beautifully with my style Séduire. A soft yet confident expression of self.

As I walked through the perfumed corridors, I couldn’t help but think of my grandmother’s advice:
“Always wear a little fragrance, just enough so that when you walk by, someone is enchanted and wonders where the aroma came from.”

Her words came rushing back, lingering in the air like the perfect top note.

Divine Timing at CHANEL

The moment that truly left me humbled and inspired: sitting down with Madame Joyce Green, the new Directrice Générale of CHANEL France. Yes—CHANEL.

Weeks before the trip, I was asked if I’d lead this intimate conversation. Even before I fully understood the weight of it, I just knew I had to say yes. This felt like a divinely set moment, a step in a path already written.

It was an exercise in faith over fear. My grandmother’s reminder echoed in my mind: “God didn’t give you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” Keeping it quiet from my travel soul sistas wasn’t easy—but I needed the interview to emerge organically, as two women connecting and sharing.

Moments before we entered the flagship boutique, a new acquaintance and fellow alum, Sun Joo, looked at me and said softly, “God is with you.” We’d only shared our faith that morning—but those words were exactly the reminder I needed.

Learning more about Madame Green and her career path—and being fully present to capture her responses—confirmed that this vision, this path, this purpose… it’s already written. Even down to her last name—Green—my brand’s color. The alignment was loud and clear.

As she shared her journey, she revealed that she too, over the years, had experienced several divine moments—each one consistently leading her to Paris. It made perfect sense; she seemed entirely at home in both her new role and her new residence.

Having my fellow alumni in the wings made the experience even more meaningful. Their presence added an extra layer of comfort I genuinely welcomed.

Acknowledgments

Thank you, Julie, for giving me a seat at the table.
Mila and Jackie—thank you for your continued support and friendship.
Madame Joyce Green—thank you for your time and openness in sharing your story.
FIT—thank you for the opportunity to travel abroad and connect with individuals I may have never crossed paths with otherwise. 

Samantha Hunter —To my forever friend Sam thank you for taking the time to help me prepare for my interview and reminding me that my authentic self is more than enough…

With love,
Cealle