Mélanie Huynh Shares Her Top Beauty Guide For Paris Fashion Week

Mélanie Huynh, dubbed as the French Gwyneth Paltrow by no other than Vogue, has a jam-packed Paris Fashion Week schedule (“back-to-back events, shows, and meetings”, you name it). Yet there’s no person who knows better than her on how to look — and feel — a million bucks during this hectic period of time.

A stylist for 15 years at Vogue Paris, Huynh is not only known for her impeccable taste that embodies the definition of Parisian chic, but also as the driving force behind her thriving lifestyle brand — Holidermie — the pinnacle of self-care and beauty that delivers visible results. And I couldn’t wait to get the holistic guru’s top beauty guide for the most glamorous and hectic 10 days of the season.

First up, which shows are you most excited to see, the best launch to keep an eye out for, most stylish attendees to watch?

Mélanie Huynh (MH): I’m particularly excited about the Dior, Chanel, Vuitton, Miu Miu, Schiaparelli runway shows; they always manage to captivate with their creativity and innovation. I also love the Isabel Marant show as I’m a big fan of her work and Vauthier’s show as he’s a close friend of mine.

When it comes to the most stylish attendees, it’s hard to pick just one, but I’m always eager to see what the fashion icons will be wearing: Tamu, Giovanna Battaglia, Anna Dello Russo, Veronika Heilbrunner, Caro Daur, Pernille Tisbaek, Raya Martigny to name a few!

Given the hectic PFW schedule and all the long days of rushing around and late nights with cocktails, how do you advise fashion insiders to keep their skin radiant and healthy during this busy period?

MH: Keeping your skin radiant during PFW can be a challenge, but it’s crucial to maintain a skincare routine. I recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and incorporating a hydrating face mist or cryo stick into your bag for quick refreshment. Don’s forget to remove your makeup before bedtime and use a good quality moisturizer. Additionally, applying a face mask or indulging in a quick facial massage can do wonders for tired skin. I also love adding a LED mask or Lightinderm in my routine.

What’s your beauty/skincare routine? And how does your PFW routine differ from your regular one?

MH: My regular beauty routine emphasizes consistency. I cleanse, tone, and moisturize daily, along with a weekly exfoliation and the use of sunscreen. During PFW, I might amp up my skincare by adding a hydrating serum and using a higher SPF due to extended outdoor exposure. I also pay more attention to eye care to combat any signs of fatigue from late nights. Overall, it’s about adapting my routine to the demanding schedule and environmental factors of PFW.

Your favorite beauty as well as skincare product for fall?

MH: This season, I’m absolutely loving a rich, hydrating cream like the Baume Repair as my go-to skincare product + Holidermie Sérum-en-huile. It’s perfect for combating the drier, cooler fall weather and keeping my skin nourished. As for beauty, a Violette FR bold, deep-red lipstick is my must-have for fall; it adds a touch of glamour to any look. I also take a good care of my hands with moisturizing cream.

Do you have a go-to facial treatment when you want to rejuvenate the skin? Where’s your favorite facial place/spa in Paris?

MH: When I need to rejuvenate my skin, I opt for a Hydrafacial signature facial at L’Appartement Holidermie using beauty tools to amplify the result. It helps to unclog pores and infuse much-needed moisture.

I also love a deep-cleansing facial with Facialist Barba Sand, Fran Feire or Delphine Langlois.

How do you keep your hair healthy and strong and where to go in Paris for the perfect treatment and/or blowdry?

MH: Healthy hair is essential, especially during PFW. I make sure to use a high-quality shampoo and conditioner suitable for my hair type. When in Paris, I rely on top-notch salons like Olivier Lebrun for a professional blowout or treatment. Regular trims are also key to maintaining strong and shiny hair.

I will soon be using the clean Haircare range we are launching at Holidermie — it will be out end of October! 🙂

What do you add to your diet during PFW to give yourself that extra energy and health boost? Your typical meal on-the-go between shows and your favorite restaurants to go for healthy food/people watching/buzzing atmostpher?

MH: To stay energized during PFW, I focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. I incorporate superfoods like chia seeds and spirulina into my meals for an extra boost. For quick, on-the-go meals between shows, I prefer salads with grilled fish along with some fresh fruit for a healthy dessert. One of the Best advice to survive during FW, is to avoid alcohol as much as possible.

As for favorite restaurants in Paris, I love the healthy options at Wild & The Moon, Cave and Coconut, La Guinguette d’Angele or Maisie. When I want to indulge a bit, I can’t resist the charming atmosphere of Café Voltaire, Café Grace, Judy or Golden Poppy (the restaurant of La Fantaisie hotel).

Favorite hotel in Paris?

MH: It’s hard to pick just one, but I love charming boutique hotels. La Fantaisie hotel which just opened holds a special place in my heart. The combination of vegetal, ethic food, and impeccable service makes it an unforgettable experience.

Also, Holidermie is operating at the spa with our signature facials.

Do you have a workout routine and how do you advise people to squeeze self-care/exercises into their schedule?

MH: Maintaining a workout routine during PFW can be challenging, but it’s crucial for both physical and mental well-being. I recommend incorporating short, high-intensity workouts or yoga sessions in the morning or before bedtime. It’s a great way to stay active and relieve stress. Also, consider walking between some of the shows instead of taking a car; it’s a simple way to sneak in some exercise. I also do body inversions every morning for blood circulation.

I also do some virtual sessions with Isaac Boots or Ludi Pilates.

Top supplements?

MH: When it comes to supplements, I always prioritize collagen and hyaluronic acid to cover hydration in my diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for skin health and overall well-being. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine to ensure they are suitable for your specific needs.