Nicky Hilton And Her Passport Collection With Tolani. Credit: Tolani
Nicky Hilton’s newest fashion line solves your travel-packing predicaments. Heading to Spain? Pick up the Ibiza, a flirty, bias-cut frock whose saturated ombre hues come from the party island’s dazzling sunsets. Going to Mykonos? Opt for the strapless Aegan maxi dress covered with a Greek tile pattern in blue hues.
The 20 breezy silk dresses, tops, tunics and kimonos from the Nicky Hilton x Tolani, Spring 2019 Passport Collection were inspired by the jet-setting fashion designer’s favorite travel destinations.
We talked to Hilton about her second collaboration with the womenswear brand, the souvenirs she must pick up when traveling and the one place that tops her bucket list.
Rome. Credit: iStock-Tomas Sereda
What are your favorite destinations?
Italy, definitely, is one of my favorite destinations. I met my husband in Italy. I love Italian food—I love pasta, pizza. It’s such a beautiful, special place.
What are some must-do activities in Italy?
Coffee. I have a weakness for Italian coffee. You can get an excellent cup of coffee anywhere there.
They have amazing pottery and ceramics, which I always come back with bundles of. All of my plateware and bowls, I bought in Ravello.
Which Italian city is best for shopping?
I love Rome. It has one of my favorite shops, CIR, in the Piazza Barberini. It has Incredible embroidered linens, tablecloths and children’s clothing. It’s very special. The craftsmanship is impeccable.
Favorite place for an amazing view?
The Italian coast is pretty incredible. Ravello, Positano and that view looking out is hard to beat.
Hotel Lutetia. Credit: Hotel Lutetia
What was your most memorable trip?
Getting in engaged in Lake Como in a little small boat, in the middle of the water. And then we road tripped to Rome, where we met. We had the most fabulous weekend.
What are your favorite hotels?
There are so many. I love the Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris. I just love how it smells when you walk in. I have been staying there since I was a little girl, and I love the location and the rooms — it’s just amazing.
But actually, during my last trip [to Paris], I stayed in Saint Germain — I’d never stayed in that part of town — at Hotel Lutetia. I loved it. There was a just different energy over there — very chic, Parisian, boutique. Le Bon Marché is within walking distance from the hotel.
I like to get out of my comfort zone sometimes and try new things.
Doha. Credit: iStock-Dane From Spain
Where are you traveling to next?
I’m going to Doha. I’ve never been. That’s exciting. I’m seeing some friends, and there’s the FTA [Fashion Trust Arabia] awards and the big [Jean Nouvel-designed National Museum of Qatar] opening. I’m going to get some good sightseeing in and explore a little bit.
Are there any places on your travel wish list?
I really want to go to Bali. I’ve heard so many wonderful things and seen so many photos, but I’ve never been.
What do you pack on your carry-on?
I always pack a blanket and an eye mask from this brand it I found online. It’s called Mindfold, and there’s foam on the side so it’s completely blackout.
Dr. Barbara Sturm hyaluronic ampoules. It’s hyaluronic acid in these tubes that you crack open, and they keep you hydrated the whole flight.
Water, a book and a note pad to write down lists and ideas.
The Positano from the Passport Collection. Credit: Tolani
Most of the pieces in your new collection are inspired by beachy destinations. Do beaches top your itinerary when you travel?
I like to do a little of everything. Eating is always a priority, so before I travel somewhere, I’m getting tips from friends about the best restaurants. I love visiting the local museums. I love local flea markets; I’m decorating a new house so I’m constantly looking for new additions.
I love shopping. In Positano and Capri, there are so many of these stalls. I’ve picked up some incredible pictures. In St. Tropez, there are local artisans selling things like really cool homemade jewelry. Fun things.
Which pieces from the new collection do you wear most?
I love the Portofino piece because there are so many different ways to wear it. You can wear it as a dress. The other day in New York it was cold, so I wore it as a tunic with jeans. You also can wear it as a cover-up.
And then I’ve also been wearing the Montauk dress — that’s the one with the anchors.
And the Formentera kimono, I love also. I love a good print. It adds a fun splash of color to any outfit.
Nicky Hilton. Credit: Tolani
What other projects are you working on?
I’m launching shoes with French Sole this fall, which is really exciting. I’ve designed clothing, handbags, jewelry, cosmetics, but I’ve never done footwear.
And when anyone ever asks me, “What’s your go-to outfit?,” it’s always skinny jeans, a blazer and ballet flats. I wear ballet flats every single day. I think they’re practical, they’re chic, they’re comfortable. So, my French Sole collaboration will have a lot of loafers and ballet flats.
And I love French Sole. I’ve been shopping at this store on the Upper East Side since I was in high school.
