What we wore: Press trip to Geneva and the wine country
Warm weekends are beginning to dangle the dream of travelling to the European wine country, of basking in glorious sunshine and strolling through lush vineyards. Here at YCB, we were lucky enough to do just that as we travelled with Geneva Tourism (and a group of ministers of Geneva City!) to taste exclusive wines from the region.
Our trip included the official Open Cellars Tour, wine tasting, gourmet dinners, as well as relaxing and detoxing activities before collapsing in our plush Hotel N’vY room. With so many exciting things to pack in to the bank holiday weekend we wanted to be comfortable – there’d be plenty of walking in the midday sun. But given that so much of the allure of an outdoor wine tasting is the elegance and sophistication of the occasion, we felt it our responsibility to uphold that laid back glamorous ideal by dressing the part.
We were told that wine lovers should not miss the Open House Day at Geneva’s wineries; we were there like a shot. A unique annual event in the heart of the stunning Geneva countryside, this day saw over 90 wineries open their doors to share their passion and introduce new vintages.
When we knew we’d be wandering around vineyards we opted for a small wedge; good and sturdy on rocky ground (especially after a glass of wine!) In keeping with the nature around us we went for understated sophistication in organic, earthy tones. A cashmere sweater looked perfect with slim fit cropped trousers. Not wanting to be burdened with heavy accessories, a lightweight scarf kept us cosy in the afternoon breeze whilst a foldover clutch gave the ensemble a pop of colour.
For the sit down wine tastings we decided it would be ok to work a higher heel, although we did keep a pair of flats in our bag just in case – this fabulous grape-red tote is big enough after all! We fitted in perfectly with the surrounding vineyards in a printed silk dress, over which we layered a loose cut cardigan (we had been warned that wine caves and tasting rooms are often air conditioned!) With our perfect outfits taken care of, all we had to worry about was inhaling the sweet smell of the region’s finest wines!
After a glass or two the night before, we delighted in nothing more than a sumptuous Sunday brunch picnic at the Parc des Eaux-Vives. We couldn’t go wrong with an elegantly structured shirt and matching checked skirt, completing our feminine silhouette with a pair of denim wedges. Never ones to forget the little details, we accessorized with a slim crystal bead necklace and blue gem ring. We love that it’s totally acceptable to mix silver and gold jewellery now! With blankets, glasses, cutlery and fantastic 5-star finger food all provided we didn’t need to bring anything ourselves, so a little cross body bag was perfect just for our essentials.
Bains des Paquis, the ‘city beach’, was the ideal place to relax, swim, and sunbathe in the afternoon. We like to think we made the promenade in to our own catwalk as we paraded up and down in an embellished kaftan, beaded statement necklace, sandals, and a turban over our beach-tousled hair. No seaside ensemble would be complete without a beach bag; in gorgeous hot pink this one was a big hit with the YCB team.
Cottage Café, where we were lucky enough to enjoy a wonderful dinner, had a very laidback vibe so we didn’t want to be overdressed. But dinner is always the best time to make a statement so we loved the idea of this feather print jumpsuit with its fluted trim and nipped in waist with a flared leather jacket (in this season’s hottest colour), strappy heels and an embossed leather handbag. Not wanting to ruin the jumpsuit print with a necklace, we decided to let a chunky cuff do the talking instead.
