In the July issue of MODERN, we talk about international style and how it influences us. I recently got an up close and personal look at international style.

As those of you who follow my blog know, I recently returned from a trip to Paris for L’Oréal Professionnel’s 100th anniversary. At the event, I saw the most unbelievable hair show I’ve ever seen in all my years as an editor. It was awe-inspiring and chill-inducing!

However, perhaps just as inspiring was the people watching. The 5,000 attendees at the L’Oréal celebration were from all over the globe and wore the most incredible clothes, shoes, and of course, hair styles. Watching this group of international hairdressers for a few days got my creative juices flowing and hungry to try a new style myself.

Of course, the Parisian people were also fun to admire. The women were extraordinarily stylish with their chic hair cuts, flowing scarves and fitted jackets. I could have been perfectly happy simply strolling the streets and taking notes on fashion and beauty trends based on what I saw.

When was the last time you traveled out of the country (or for that matter, to a different area of the country)? If you’re feeling in a rut or uninspired, plan a trip. Whether you’re a Midwesterner heading to California or a New Yorker going to London, you’ll find fresh ideas in a different locale.

Get out of your vacation rut this summer and visit someplace new—you’ll be surprised how a relaxing vacation can invigorate your career.