As a recent stopover at Lake Louise's historic railway station illustrates, the best way to spend this year's baggage allowance is on two-toned carry-ons, weekenders and travel accessories
ALL ABOARD
Toting a pair of handsome bags by Canadian brands Want Les Essentiels de la Vie and Ebby Rane is so much chicer than stitching a maple leaf to your rucksack.
424 Fifth coat, $199 at Hudson’s Bay (www.thebay.com). Dress, $995 at Calvin Klein (www.calvinklein.com). Sunglasses, $885 at Cutler and Gross (www.cutlerandgross.com). Manolo Blahnik heels, $625 at Davids (www.davidsfootwear.com). Trudeau briefcase, $1,450 through www.wantessentiels.com. Quartermaster suitcase, $825 (U.S.) through www.ebbyrane.com.
A BIGGER DEAL
The Ela line is known for its compact clutches, but its oversized tote (with tassel to match) is equally desirable.
Dress, $2,845 through www.gretaconstantine.com. Tote, $598 through www.elabyela.com. Wallet, $98 at Roots (www.roots.com).
SMALL WONDERS
Designer passport holders, pouches and dopp kits keep the inside of your bag looking as sharp as the exterior.
From left, Smythson multi-currency wallet, $255 through www.mrporter.com. Coach dopp kit, $135 through www.coach.com. Longchamp coin case, $50 at Holt Renfrew (www.holtrenfrew.com). Etting card case, $269 at Betty Hemmings Leathergoods (www.bettyhemmings.com).
VANITY FARE
Globetrotter creates many covetable bags, but none as nostalgic and luxe as its compartment-filled vanity case.
Globetrotter vanity case, $1,145 at Betty Hemmings Leathergoods (www.bettyhemmings.com). Vintage suitcases courtesy of The Station Restaurant.
GRAPHIC ART
The two-tone looks dominating luggage are especially dramatic in classic black and white.
Serapian bag, $1,365 at Betty Hemmings Leathergoods (www.bettyhemmings.com). Striped wallet, $300 through www.wantessentiels.com. Sunglasses, $565 at Cutler and Gross (www.cutlerandgross.com).
CARRY-ON GANG
An oversized purse and roomy yet compact wheelie provide ample space for getaway sundries, especially if the rest of your luggage has been shipped ahead.
Dress, $2,395 through www.gretaconstantine.com. Sunglasses, $500 at Cutler and Gross (www.cutlerandgross.com). Manolo Blahnik heels, $625 at Davids (www.davidsfootwear.com). Tote bag, $12,960 at Hermes (www.hermes.com). Suitcase, $3,500 at Louis Vuitton (www.louisvuitton.com).
Sweater, $250, skirt, $495 through www.malorieurbanovitch.com. Manolo Blahnik shoes, $625 at Davids (www.davidsfootwear.com). Bayswater satchel, $2,350 at Mulberry (www.mulberry.com). Suitcase, $8,715 at Hermes (www.hermes.com).
ON THE GROUND
THE STATION RESTAURANT
Just north of the village of Lake Louise, The Station Restaurant, which served as the backdrop for this feature, is housed in the town’s 1910 station building. Manager Jerry Cook meticulously maintains the site and serves up wholesome fare daily between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. For special events, diners can book the restored 1920s Delamere dining car, which seats up to 28 people. www.lakelouisestation.com
FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE
Whether you visit in winter or in summer, this iconic chateau-style hotel provides amazing views of the vibrant lake and majestic Rocky Mountains on its doorstep. For fondue fans, its Walliser Stube restaurant offers up an extensive menu of molten cheese and gourmet accompaniments. Room rates start at $299 per night. www.fairmont.com/lake-louise
ROCKIES HELI CANADA
Located just east of Canmore, this outfit delivers inspiring tours over Alberta’s mountainous interior. Standard 20- to 55-minute tours range between $195 and $695 per person and can be customized with exploration hikes and catering options. www.rockiesheli.com
For more information on planning your own Lake Louise adventure, visit www.travelalberta.com and www.banfflakelouise.com.
Photography by Carlyle Routh. Styling by Odessa Paloma Parker. Makeup & Hair by Robert Weir for Tresemmé Hair Care/judyinc.com.