When I asked on Instagram what you were most curious about regarding our trip to Paris and James and Stella walking in the Bonpoint Spring-Summer 2019 show, the response was loud and clear: you wanted the behind-the-scenes details. And of course, many of you also wanted tips for traveling to Paris as a family. So, let’s dive into both.
Paris With Kids—Not as Complicated as It Sounds
Traveling to Paris with little ones often comes with raised eyebrows—people imagine it to be stressful, restrictive, or just plain exhausting. But truthfully, it’s not much different from visiting as a couple. Sure, the late-night bistro dinners and post-midnight strolls are swapped for earlier meals and maybe one glass of wine instead of three, but Paris doesn’t suddenly close its doors to families.
What we’ve learned is that the French are generally welcoming of children, provided they’re well-behaved. Unlike some parts of New York where families are funneled into “kid-friendly” restaurants (which, let’s be honest, aren’t always where adults want to be), Parisian spots are happy to host kids—as long as they respect the atmosphere. Good table manners go a long way, and when all else fails, an iPad can buy you that one last sip of wine.
If you’re traveling with kids, I’d recommend considering an apartment rental over a hotel—just for the extra flexibility. But overall, you can still enjoy much of the Paris you know and love, even with little ones in tow.
Behind the Curtain: Bonpoint Backstage
Now, let’s get to what you really asked about: backstage at Bonpoint. Having been behind the scenes at major shows like Valentino, Rihanna’s Fenty, and even Victoria’s Secret, I can tell you fashion week backstages are usually the same—buzzing with urgency, hot, crowded, and filled with people running around on very important missions. Bonpoint, however, is different.
The atmosphere is calm, cheerful, and remarkably organized. Everyone is smiling, and most importantly, every detail is managed with the children’s safety and comfort in mind. As a parent, I’d never let James and Stella participate if I didn’t trust the environment completely. No strangers near them, no chaos left unchecked—just a warm, happy place where kids are treated with care.
And, because I know you’ll ask—James and Stella are under no pressure to walk. They know they have the choice to say no, and we wouldn’t dream of pushing them. They don’t do it for money (whatever they do earn goes straight into their trust accounts), but because it’s fun and because we adore the Bonpoint family. Christine Innamorato, the brand’s Creative Director, is someone we respect deeply, and over the seasons, we’ve built a wonderful relationship with the team.
How We Got Here
Some of you wondered how this all began. It started a few years ago, shortly after we moved to Toronto. Bonpoint invited us to attend their show during Haute Couture week. The kids weren’t walking yet, but we collaborated on content for their collection. Afterward, James and Stella surprised us by expressing disappointment—they wanted to be on the runway! Bonpoint, who had also fallen in love with them, asked if we’d consider it, and after careful thought and a family conversation, we agreed.
Since then, it’s been a mutually rewarding partnership. For me, with my background in styling and content creation, working with a house as iconic and respected as Bonpoint felt natural. For James and Stella, it’s become something they look forward to every season—a chance to play, explore, and shine in beautiful clothing.
Do Kids Really Get Hair and Makeup?
Yes, they do, but let’s be clear—it’s very minimal. A bit of powder to soften the shine from stage lights, or a dab of concealer if there’s a bruise or scrape. Nothing more. As for James, he got a good laugh out of being told he was wearing “lipstick,” which turned out to be just lip balm.
Hair, however, is where the magic happens. This season, the stylists worked with braids and ribbons—playful, polished, and so, so chic. Stella was smitten, and honestly, I was too. I’m already plotting when I can try those same braids myself.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, these shows are about more than clothes. They’re about memories—moments where I watch my kids beam with confidence, express themselves, and experience something extraordinary. Fashion might be fleeting, but the joy on their faces when they step out onto that runway? That’s the part I’ll treasure forever.
So, to those of you who asked: yes, it’s hectic, yes, it’s Paris with kids (so expect a little less romance and a little more practicality), but it’s also one of the most rewarding family adventures we’ve had. And Bonpoint, with its thoughtful approach to both fashion and families, makes it all the more special.
