Many of the most stylish women in the world have the same dress, and they’re fine with it, really, because the dress in question is the Falconetti, from the Vampire’s Wife. Co-founded by former model and style maven Susie Cave, the collection favors Victorian silhouettes tinged with gothic glamour, and Cave’s international coterie of fans can’t get enough. Her latest project, a new collection of luggage, is a collaboration with Globe-Trotter. Its suitcases, vanity cases, and one especially tempting jewelry case are inspired by Cave’s journeys to far-flung corners of the globe with her husband, musician Nick Cave. Here, she shares her secrets to surviving travel.
What was the last flight you took?
Los Angeles to London.
Favorite airline?
My father had a pilot’s license, and my favorite flying experiences were when he flew me as a child around in small aircraft in various countries in Africa. My fondest memories are of flying through the clouds with my father.
What do you wear to the airport?
The Vampire’s Wife flying suit that I designed especially for traveling. It has special pockets for my passport.
What’s your airport arrival strategy?
I prefer to have lots of time to spare but never do. No matter how much I plan, I’m always late.
Do you check bags, or prefer to carry them on?
I check a multitude of luggage, much to my husband’s increasing exasperation.
What do you bring in your carry-on?
I am embarrassed to say, but … everything!
Favorite airport?
Manchester Airport, where I had my first birthday party as a child. It was my venue of choice.
What do you buy in the terminal?
Not much, to be honest.
And how do you pass the time while waiting to board?
I annoy my husband.
You can’t fly without …
My blanket.
Seat preference?
Window seat, always! I love to watch the clouds.
How do you kill time on the plane?
Sleeping.
So no buying Wi-Fi?
You can buy Wi-Fi?
Do you eat plane food?
Not if I can help it.
But if you need a snack …
Jasmine tea. I bring my own.
Do you converse with your seatmates?
Never, but my husband does.
Worst part of the flight?
Turbulence.
How do you deal with it?
Pray.
As soon as the plane touches down, you …
Ring my family.
What’s your best advice for fellow travelers?
One of my most despairing characteristics is that I am not an orderly traveler. For me, flying generally involves an enormous amount of chaos, indecision, stress, and of course, luggage. Thankfully, I now have the most beautiful suitcases imaginable, thanks to my Vampire’s Wife x Globe-Trotter collaboration.