I'm a Creative Director in London and Travel to Paris and NYC Often—These Are My True Staples

Collage of Lara Mead, Varley's creative director.
(Image credit: Lara Mead)

Simply put, Lara Mead is a fashion powerhouse—no questions asked. She co-founded the wildly successful contemporary brand Varley with her husband in 2014 and currently serves as the brand's creative director. Mead is based in London, where she leads the creative vision of Varley, which is known for its wildly comfortable and chic separates. Given the nature of her role, she travels quite often for business and pleasure, of course. To note, she routinely frequents cities like Paris and NYC.

Given her on-the-go lifestyle, she prioritizes pieces that are easy and versatile yet chic and polished. She shared the seven items she deems as true staples because she has been packing them for every trip she's taken recently.

Keep scrolling to check out Mead's must-haves and peep more of her personal style. Interested in adding her selects to your own wardrobe? You'll also find inspired shopping recommendations throughout.

Matching Set

Varley's Lara Mead holding a suitcase handle and wearing a pink matching set with a denim jacket and red baseball cap.

(Image credit: Lara Mead)

"The perfect travel outfit—chic and stylish but incredibly comfortable."

Loafers

"These loafers are simple, classic, and easy to style. Their timeless look fits right into my everyday wardrobe."

Cashmere Sweater

Varley's Lara Mead wearing a tan blazer and jeans with a red cashmere sweater around her shoulders.

(Image credit: Lara Mead)

"I always carry an extra layer with me to drape over my shoulders, and this one is my go-to. It's made from the softest cashmere and has the perfect fit."

Baseball Hat

Varley's Lara Mead wearing tan trousers and a white tee with a blue baseball cap.

(Image credit: Lara Mead)

"I take a cap with me everywhere I go and think it adds a coolness to any outfit."

Denim Jacket

"Incredibly soft denim with a modern, relaxed fit. The balloon sleeves give it an edgy touch, making it ideal for layering and everyday style."

Sandals and Slides

Varley's Lara Mead wearing tan shorts and an oversize white button-down with tan slide sandals.

(Image credit: Lara Mead)

"I love these sandals for long travel days. They're super comfortable, easy to slip on and off, and go with just about anything, making them a favorite whenever I'm on the move."

Clutch

"It holds all my daily essentials and seamlessly transitions from day to night, whether dressed up or down."

Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.