Michelle Jonas In Capri. Credit: Michelle Jonas
Created with the traveler in mind, designer Michelle Jonas’ MiJo line has changed the way ladies who live a wanderlust-fueled lifestyle have packed their bags since its founding in 2005. Jonas’ chic, vacation-ready dresses quickly became a favorite of celebrities (Jessica Simpson, JoJo Fletcher) and globetrotters the world over, and not just for their flattering silhouettes. The garments are easy to pack, durable and their level of comfort is unquestionable.
To say that Jonas, a former editor and stylist at Vogue and designer at Ralph Lauren, is familiar with fashion is a bit of an understatement. Inspired by her time working for Ralph Lauren, Jonas struck out to produce her own collection that embodied her love for travel with a classic, effortless style that’s great for all body types.
“I wanted each piece to be stylishly simple but versatile, fit-friendly, easy to pack, machine-washable, durable, comfortable and feminine,” Jonas says. “Nothing complicated or confusing.”
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Her vacation-ready dresses are made of breathable fabrics, such as high-quality silk, cotton and wool, and take up practically no space in your suitcase.
“All my pieces fold up small and compact, so they’re perfect for travel,” Jonas says. “Everything I wear and design needs to be wrinkle-free, easy to care for, compact and, most of all, comfortable. It needs to complement your life.”
Ever-expanding since its debut, the MiJo line offers a variety of styles, from maxis and minis to tops, jumpsuits and pants that can transition seamlessly from day to night, making packing for your next getaway a breeze.
“I don’t believe clothes should be complicated or complicate your life,” Jonas says. “You should be able to put something on that feels and looks amazing without worrying about ruining it.”
But packing ease isn’t the only thing on Jonas’ mind. Read on to learn more about her upcoming plans with MiJo, essential travel items and bucket-list destinations.
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Packing Habits
Whether Jonas is traveling for business or leisure, she is always well-prepared. Peek into her luggage and you’ll usually find the following items:
- Three pairs of shoes: Ancient Greek sandals, a pair of Sophia Webster strappy heels and sneakers
- Her favorite Mother high-waisted, flared-leg jeans
- MiJo stretch silk beach pant with matching camisole and MiJo slip dress
- White Hanes boys tank top
- TSE black cashmere V-neck sweater
- Rag & Bone jean jacket and her black-and-white Golden Goose superstar sneakers
- A sun hat, a bikini and yoga leggings
Travel Preferences
Whenever possible, Jonas visits destinations that allow her to get active outdoors — hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking or biking.
But no matter where she goes, Jonas never forgets to indulge in a little pre-trip pampering. One of her travel-prep rituals is a body scrub at Natura Spa followed by a spray tan before going on a beach vacation.
To keep her skin extra moist and glowing, Jonas packs a secret weapon: “I love Bliss Triple Oxygen radiant protection energizing face serum and gel. I apply it before and after I fly to rehydrate.”
A good book and her iPad are also must-haves on any journey.
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What’s New
Jonas is designing her Resort 2018 collection with a centuries-old Indian technique — she uses hand-carved wood-block stamps to paint unique abstract patterns on her garments.
This project was inspired by a recent trip to Italy, where she visited Rome, Capri, Positano and Lake Como. Many of her ideas come from traveling the world, going to local flea markets, boutique shops, art galleries and festivals.
Where To Next?
The globetrotting garment whisperer says that a luxury Orient-Express train trip and visits to the Maldives and the Seychelles are just a few of the boxes she has left to check off her travel bucket list.
Donna Wong is the owner of allureplus travel, a premier travel provider and destination specialist. Her dedicated and trusted team offers travel services worldwide for individuals and groups.
