Jamie Banks
Marcin Muchalski
As founder and chief executive officer of new resort-driven brand, Change of Scenery, Jamie Banks’ wanderlust spirit is inherent in everything she designs. From airy cotton skirts to matching two-piece swimsuits, the unfussy, effortless assortment conjures that getaway feeling best served with a frothy drink in hand.
Banks’ design roots run deep. She spent years at the helm of ready-to-wear brands such as Milly, Shoshanna and, most recently, Kate Spade, where she oversaw the brand’s 20-plus categories for over 10 years. As she embarks on her most ambitious path yet, I sat down with Banks to talk travel, and the destinations, tips and unique preferences that continue to inspire her.
Jamie Banks’ Travel Intel:
My go-to airline is: JetBlue. You can’t beat the snacks.
My favorite seat on the flight is: The aisle. I’m short, but still enjoy the extra leg room.
My go-to in-flight beverage is: Spicy Bloody Mary.
My favorite airport/terminal is: Palm Beach International Airport. You can be in and out in the sunshine so quickly!
The second I get on a plane, I: Read a magazine.
My go-to travel uniform is: Sweatshirt, leggings and sneakers. I admire the women in heels, but I put comfort first.
My carry-on consists of: A change of clothes and basic toiletries, makeup, and an ambitious stack of home décor magazines.
The pieces I take EVERYWHERE are: My Change of Scenery black Tracy Dress, a Madewell muscle tee, AGOLDE denim cutoffs, Thierry Lasry sunglasses.
My flying soundtrack is: Nora en Pure, Megan Davies, Dua Lipa
My favorite thing about flying is: Being off the grid.
The worst part about flying is: Travel time before and after the flight.
My one flying hack is: When traveling with young kids, bring disposable placemats to cover the seat tray table.
The second I land, I: Check my phone
As soon as I check into my hotel room, I: Unpack properly into the closet and bathroom.
My favorite hotel in the world is: Hôtel de l’Abbaye in Paris. It’s the most charming, with the most delicious homemade pastries you enjoy for breakfast in a magical garden. And it’s walking distance to everything, right in the heart of Saint Germain.
My favorite city in the world is: San Francisco
A concierge will know that I prefer: Restaurants the locals love.
My favorite hotel memory is: Staying in a private treehouse and waking up to monkeys and toucans at the Machaca Hill Rainforest Lodge in Belize.
I conquer jetlag by: Staying awake!
My biggest piece of travel advice is: Never pass up the opportunity to travel, even for a short time; it’s so important to take a pause from the craziness of daily life and have a change of scenery.
