Traveling Without Looking Like a Tourist
Q. I love your website- and especially love reading your advice. So here’s my question for you: I will be traveling to Iceland in May. During this trip I will also be traveling to England, Scotland and Ireland. Can you recommend what to pack for such diverse climates, an easily totable bag since I will be frequently on the move, and a stylish jacket that will keep the wind out and keep me warm without looking like the marshmallow man? I’m in my early 30s-and certainly do not want to look like a tourist! -Don’t want to pack a million bags
Alison: I’ve been to all of these countries and I can attest to a need for a coat in all four, though you will need more protection in Iceland. I visited Iceland several years ago during the month of July when they had finally cut a path through the snow up to the ice covered lands and glaciers. If you stay in Reykjavik, you can get away with a warm wool or cashmere blend coat and warm layers. Stick to a 3/4 length coat that hits just above or below your knees so your butt is covered for more warmth. Cashmere or wool blend knee socks, thin layers that insulate like silk long underwear, tights and cashmere turtleneck sweaters are a must to pack.
For the European countries, you’ll get a chance to enjoy Spring. Bring a small umbrella (there’s a reason it’s so green, it rains for short periods often.) The coat design should be simple so it matches more of your wardrobe and can be worn open in warmer temps. Keep it out of your bag so you have more room for clothes and toiletries. Pack only essential toiletries. Wear your boots or sneakers on the plane so you again save room in your bag. A blazer style jacket or short thin trench can work double duty as an indoor jacket when worn with a t-shirt or button down and as outerwear when layered with a sweater underneath.
April 1st, 2010 by Ali
Black Leggings a NO-NO on the Beach
Q. I’m having a dilemma with my mother. I want to know if wearing a gold dress with black leggings would look nice for a beach wedding in Mexico.
-Shine On
Alison: NO black leggings at a beach wedding in Mexico. And what kind of gold dress? What kind of material? Go for a fun, flowy colorful sun dress or maxi dress if you want to cover your legs. It’s going to be hot and you’ll want to wear something light and adorable.
March 15th, 2010 by Ali
Into the Blue
Blue needn’t be dominated by denim. This season turn to blue for fun and flirty styles.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Gabrielle striped dress, $298
neimanmarcus.com
Celine dress in small gaucho stars, $345 (tip-add your own belt)
dvf.com
J. Crew’s Blakely wrap blouse, $98
jcrew.com
Candy stripe dot bangle, $55
katespade.com
February 28th, 2010 by Ali
