When I leave the house in the morning I usually make sure that I change out of my pajamas, but it feels like every time I travel I’m surrounded by sleep-walkers. It seems that sweats and flip flops have become the socially acceptable travel uniform. As uncomfortable as traveling is; the crowds, small seats and bad food, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to make a statement on arrival. Here is a great look that will hide any signs of jet lag.

Tank Top: Layering is the best way to stay comfortable when you’re traveling. Look for light layers that you can add, when your neighbor’s air vent invades your space, or remove once you arrive. This one from banana republic is thin enough for layering with another tank and a sweater, but creates interest with the wispy flower detail.

Cardigan: The heavier the sweater the more difficult it will be to stow when you’re trying to lug your suitcase off the luggage carousel (either my suitcase gained weight or those conveyors are moving faster!) This knit cardigan from Urban Outfitters is so light but the long sleeves will keep you happy and comfortable the entire flight.

Boyfriend chinos: Leggings are always comfortable and one of my favorite travel standbys but the thought of wearing dark colored leggings when traveling during the summer is almost unbearable. These light boyfriend chinos are so relaxed but keep it polished in a slate grey. Whether you wear them with sandals, ballet flats or for true travel trendsetters; heels, they keep you looking classy the entire trip. Even though these are chino material they are meant to look worn and lived in so don’t worry about wrinkles from all that sitting.

Shoes: This look may seem dark and dreary, but as any traveler knows really anything can happen on a flight and the best way to hide life’s spills and surprises is with a dark palate. Shoes are always a great place to add color and sparkle. A pair of comfortable ballet flats make the look polished and helps you breeze through security checkpoints, giving you more time for duty free shopping! These glittery flats, reminiscent of Dorothy, are fun and eye-catching, they’ll brighten up any dreary terminal.

Handbag: A great bag is essential to comfortable travel. Backpacks can be great but are only cute until a certain age (I’m thinking of a number less than seven). The grown up version of this, is the messenger bag. Many bags today can act as a purse and a messenger bag with a longer extendable strap. This Lucky Brand Abbey Road bag looks vintage but in an unexpected coral color and it’s big enough to store all of your at-hand travel necessities.

Hair Accessories: No matter where you’re traveling always keep a stock of bobby pins, clips and pony-tail holders. These metal flower bobby pins are a new spin on the original, and add some excitement to your everyday pony-tail. See how easy it is to look chic, even at 35,000 feet in the air?

It’s the weekend and you’re heading out with friends or your significant other for a bike ride and picnic.  Here’s some inspiration for what to wear in order to stay practical but still look stylish for a casual ride:

• Wear a tank to stay cool but try one like this supima raw-edge Henley tank by Michael Stars, $58.
• Pair it with these cute Lolë Walk 2 Bermuda shorts in a steel blue (size 2-14), $62. The hem flares out a little giving a nice balance to any gal with hips
• If you’re starting your bike ride early, it could be a bit chilly so try something like a great North Face Ramble jacket (not shown), $65. Or, try this amazingly cool motorcycle jacket by Betsey Johnson, $178.  Perhaps we could convince Ms. Johnson to change the name to bicycle jacket!
• As far as shoes, any comfy sneaker will do. If it’s a casual ride and not too strenuous, try either these Converse slipons, $46, or these Privo Darebin slipons, $75.
• Last but not least, don’t forget to pack a picnic and carry it in a simple Backpack picnic set.

I just came back from Disneyland and had a wonderful experience. It is a crazy time of year to go, however, it can still be fun if you plan accordingly, including what to wear. If you are headed there this summer, here is an outfit recommendation to help you look fashionable in a casual and comfortable way. If you are like me, you will be running non-stop from ride to ride. Just remember to get your fast passes for the main attractions so you can avoid the long lines.

The Splendid V-neck pink top is versatile and lightweight for those hot days.  Pair it with the Calvin Klein Crop Cargo Cotton pants that have a mid-rise and include ties to cinch the hems. Finding the right shoe is essential as you will be likely on your feet all day. If you don’t want to sport a tennis shoe look, the Sketchers Active is the perfect choice. The rounded-toe suede mary-jane style is incredibly comfortable and you can even fit your orthotics in them -  I personally own a pair. Another option is the MBT Baridi if you prefer a strap across your foot. Of course, some of you can only wear a sneaker so look for one that has cute colors such as the New Balance 556.

Remember to protect your face with a hat. Juicy Couture’s Annie Floral Floppy is savvy and provides plenty of coverage from the sun. The Juicy Couture Terry Floppy also comes in  8 solid colors which makes it easy to mix-and-match. Both styles of hats have a chic tie in the back. You will need a bag to tote your personal belongings along with your kid’s stuff. I like the Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Backpack since it has style and plenty of room.

Have a magical time!

If you’re planning a weekend getaway to the pool, lake, or beach, then you want multifunctional items to keep the suitcase from overflowing.  Versatility is the name of the game with this beach dress by Echo Design.  Here, we show two looks for how to wear it with style.

BEACH LOOK:

The medallion print tunic with butterfly sleeves works perfectly as a cover-up with this Alexis ruched halter one-piece.  The suit hails back to a different era yet still looks modern and hip.  The right accessories are important for the beach, especially Echo Design’s floppy straw hat— the wide brim adds a glamorous vibe and at the same time, protects your face from the sun’s harmful rays.  For a beach tote, this shoulder tote by Echo Design is the perfect size to fit everything you need.  And, the Michael Kors Leather Toe Ring Sandal completes your beach day look.

EVENING LOOK:

For evening, the key to this look is the accessories and attitude! Dress up your medallion print butterfly dress by wearing it over some white Tommy Bahama cropped pants.  If you’re the adventurous type, mix some attitude with a pair of cream platform shoes by Velvet Angels. Carry something modern like this Jimmy Choo silver mirror clutch. For jewelry, try some gold hoop earrings and a large gold feathers ring by Banana Republic.

Win the Dress!

Just in time for Mother’s Day, you could win this Medallion Print Butterfly Dress from our friends at Echo Design.  To enter, think of something wonderful your Mother or female guardian did or said to inspire you through your life’s journey.  Add your inspirational story in the comments below — all we ask is that you keep it short and sweet (50 words or less). Contest ends midnight May 2, 2010 PST.  The stories will be judged and a winner will be selected by May 5, 2010. You must have a U.S. mailing address to win.

We look forward to reading your inspirational stories!

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Don’t Forget! Free Standard Shipping (US& Canada) on all Body Type Recipe Boxes (rectangle, hourglass, inverted triangle and triangle) until May 8th. Utilize coupon code: 911SPRSHIP at checkout.

You’re heading off for a sexy getaway and are looking forward to some warm weather and a night of dancing or hitting a hip restaurant.  The perfect getaway dress is this animal jacquard mini shift by Tibi.  It has an exquisite racer back with an exposed zipper detail.  It’s sexy but not overtly so.

A good rule of thumb to dressing sexy and not tarty is by only exposing one element of your body. If you wear a short dress, the cleavage shouldn’t be showing and if you show cleavage, the legs should be covered (to the knee if it’s a skirt.)

The suede sandals by Diane von Furstenberg (sizes 5.5 – 10) have a slashed cuff which plays perfectly off the pattern of the dress.  Wear a simple, smooth textured cuff bracelet or stack three twisted silver bangles together like we show here.  Add a complementary color with this fun pink Rachel Leigh Millie ring. Don’t forget to paint your toes – we love this Essie nail polish in “Need a Vacation” pink at Ulta.

Las Vegas is a popular destination for a weekend with the girls or your significant other.  I have a couple of friends who are going soon, and they asked me to recommend a chic evening outfit that they can wear to dinner and a show -  Cirque de Soleil’s  “O” and Le Rêve are not to be missed!  The Las Vegas ambiance puts you in a glamorous mood, so here’s an outfit with glitz!

• Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent V Neck Drape Chain Tank – The color of this V-neck silk top is striking and the hip chain-mail panel on the shoulders will definitely fit in Las Vegas.  The panel will bring attention to your shoulders and works well if they are narrow. The self-belt tie highlights your waist which is perfect for the hourglass and triangle figures. Check out the sexy  V back. You will feel like a million bucks if you add a Faux Fur Collar Vest by Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent .

• Joe’s Jeans Honey Booty Fit Bootcut Jeans – these are perfect for the gal with curves!

• 7 For All Mankind Neely Cutout Suede Booties – the patent-covered heel gives the booties an evening flair.

• Banana Republic Leather gathered clutch – the pewter compliments the tank’s  shoulder detail and can transition from day to evening.

• CC Skye Pavé Stud Bracelet – add some bling to your outfit with the pavé rhinestones.

There’s no need to “roll the dice” with your wardrobe choices, so start this year right by purchasing a Wardrobe 911 Recipe Box.  The silhouette recommendations will ensure that you are buying the most flattering pieces for your figure.  We strive to provide fashion advice for all body types in our posts, and the realistic recipe box’s outfit cards will guide you during your shopping trips.

I hope you have a chance for a getaway, and remember, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!”

Reader Question of the Week:

I’m going to Disney World in February and I’m wondering about shoes. I want to be comfortable because I will be on my feet for 12 hours at a stretch and nothing can ruin a good time like aching feet. But I’d also like it to look a step or two above a sneaker. Is there a shoe I can wear that will be comfortable AND stylish?

Wardrobe 911’s Style Prescription:

Finding great shoes to wear that will last you 12 hours is fairly easy.  Finding the stamina to stand for 12 hours straight may be a bit more difficult — especially on Day 2!  To make it a bit easier, I pulled together a few shoes that I know are comfortable AND stylish.

First off, I can’t tell you how many times I see a client’s eyes light up when she tries on the Tory Burch flat.  At first, they are “No way. I’m not wearing that logo on my foot.”  But…the shoe is really comfortable.  It’s certainly a contender and the Snake Print Reva Flats are a nice style to have for everyday, and they go up to 11.

Another shoe I love for comfort is Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole.  The sole probably has about a half inch of padding.  They are really comfy and the black Buckle Bay flat is super versatile. It goes up to 11 but there are limited sizes online.

If you are more price conscious, then the more casual but still fun Skechers Sassies are great ($55, up to 11.)  If  you plan on hitting the water parks, then you want to wear a sandal. I love the padded soles on the Corso Como Santorini Sandal — it’s a stylish shoe and really dresses up shorts, capris, and dresses. ($90 up to 10.5)

For what to wear, try channeling Audrey Hepburn with a boat-neck tee (tons of colors at Old Navy) and these adorable Skimmer pants from J.Crew.  The pants go up to size 16 and are the perfect alternative to the ever-present shorts. Add a simple accessory like this animal print scarf – you can wear it long tied just once loosely, or in your hair as a headband (bobby pins not included.)

And, since you’re headed to Disney, did you know you can get one of your days comped by them?  This year, they’re running a great program called “Give and Get a Day at Disney.”  You need to sign up to volunteer for a day and then once your service is completed, you get a volunteer voucher for a day at Disney.  You can sign up the whole family and make a wonderful day of it.  They didn’t pay me to say this, I just thought it was a brilliant way of promoting volunteerism.

La bella figura, which translates to “the beautiful figure,” means more than just dressing well – the term encapsulates the Italian way of life, which emphasizes beauty, good image, aesthetics and manners. When planning your evening ensembles, keep these words in mind to display your bella figura: elegant, chic and modern.

• Graceful and timeless, this matte jersey dress from Anne Klein is a cinch to pack and flatters most body types.
• The stylish necklace will look fantastic with the dress’s neckline (and a bargain at only $132).
• Sleek and sophisticated, consider splurging on these suede booties from Stuart Weitzman.
• Here’s the frosting on the cannoli: a clutch bag in this season’s yummiest purple. Bellissima!

If you find yourself sitting in a waiting room or know that you’ll have a long layover at an airport, then you want to be wearing something effortless and comfortable.  This is just the ticket:

Wool cowlneck dress with a nipped waist is great for all body types.  This black dress hits mid-thigh so a sophisticated ribbed opaque tight is perfect. Try the tight in a heathered gray or yummy steel blue ’shadow’ to maintain a long visual line but still have a bit of fun with a different color.

Since the dress is short-sleeved and it is cooler weather, wear a long lightweight merino wool sweater in a heathered carbon – it adds a sophisticated vibe without adding bulk.  The length of the sweater will hit about 1-2 inches above the dress.  You can leave it open or button it in the middle and add a colorful belt. If you do the steel blue tights, I’d keep the belt a neutral black or metallic silver.

Add a cute cutout bootie (cuffed version has only 1 size left) and cool gray handbag and you’ll find the waiting less monotonous.

With the transition to fall comes the perfect opportunity to visit the wine country. And of course you want to dress fashionably for this excursion. In the San Francisco Bay Area, the harvest creates a buzz throughout the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, and the transition to the fall foliage creates a beautiful backdrop to your experience.

If you head to Napa, I recommend the East side of the valley and the Silverado Trail. Some of my favorite wineries can be found within a few miles of each other and include Darioush, Pine Ridge, Duckhorn and Stag’s Leap. Looking for a less crowded wine country adventure? Head north on 101 to the Russian River. This beautiful and less developed landscape gives way to small wineries, reflecting Napa of 20 years ago.

Whichever adventure you choose, I also recommend a car service so that you can enjoy the wine, and/or a fabulous lunch, without worrying about who is driving. And your selection of clothes is also an essential part of your day.

This entire outfit flatters the inverted triangle figure. Inverted triangles tend to have broader shoulders, narrow hips and thighs. You want to wear clothing that doesn’t expand your shoulders such as white tops or detailing on the top. The Inverted Triangle Wardrobe 911 Recipe Box outlines the basics that work for this body type and outfit ideas. There are also recipe boxes available for hourglass, triangle and rectangle body types.

• Bailey 44 ‘Strange Jest’ Jacket – this knit jacket will keep you warm and it is easy to carry if you take it off in the winery.  The belt cinches at the waistline and the jacket creates balance between the shoulders and hips. This jacket also works for hourglass and triangle body types.

• J Brand 12″ Pencil Cord – thin wale corduroy is a fashionable alternative to jeans and can be flattering to the legs. These pants have stretch so they will feel similar to leggings. If you prefer a corduroy bootcut, the Red Engine Scarlett Bootcut Cords (not shown) in navy works well with the jacket and top.

• Michael Stars Scoop Neck Cotton Tee in Gypsy  – gives the outfit a burst of color and fits well over skinny jeans.

• Donald J Pliner Arlie Flat – the lizard print has a slight sheen and can be worn day or evening. I personally love them since I own a pair!  You can always transition to a heel if you decide to stay for dinner.

• Aridza Bross Celia Shoulder Bag – the silver hardware adds a fashion accent to your look. This purse has a detachable shoulder strap so that you can wear it as a clutch. What a great idea!

Enjoy the wine country and let us know about your favorite wineries.

Let’s take a look at what a savvy traveler should pack when touring one of Europe’s most stylish cities.

• Shoes with pants – Yes, be comfortable on those cobblestone streets and look great at the same time with this stylish ankle boots in charcoal suede.
• Shoes with skirts – You’ll be comfy and chic in this Cole Haan Fiona Low Air pump with Nike technology. The chocolate embossed snake is perfetta!
• Handbag – If Gucci or Prada are too pricey for you, try this Carmen Zipper Tote by Furla, on sale for under $500.
• Wrap – In October you will probably get by with just a cashmere wrap instead of a coat, and it’s so much easier to pack and more elegant, no? This one from Nordstroms comes in 7 colors.
• Dress - For dressier days, this black dress from Eileen Fisher is a winner with its classic bateau neckline and three-quarter sleeves.  It will even take you from day to evening in a pinch.

Rome is not in any way, shape or form Six Flags or Disney, so kindly leave your walking shorts, running shoes and fanny packs  at home. (Editor’s Note: don’t call them ‘fanny’ packs in Europe or Australia since they mean something entirely different.)  Romans are very conscious of the way they look and make every effort to shine even while running errands. Make a great impression and step it up a notch during your trip. Buon viaggio!

This week we’re touring the English speaking countries around the world to help our global readers find something cute in their locale — or at least online places that ship internationally. First stop, Australia.

Spring is just around the corner and short skirts and dresses abound. Unfortunately, if you’re over 30 you really want to be careful about how short is TOO short. A good rule of thumb is to stand up straight with your hands at your side. If your skirt is shorter than the tips of your fingers, it’s too short.  And since we’re talking spring weather here, tights are not an option. But, a cute cropped pant is!

Here we show a embroidered lace day dress in black paired over a zip-leg cropped pant in grey. I prefer the day dress in white but the picture was just too difficult to feature  – the picture shown obviously isn’t so hot either.   I think the Australian online shops will need to train their models to stand still and show the product, don’t pose! It doesn’t help  shoppers in figuring out if it looks good on a body.

Okay, back to the outfit: accessories. Wearing a thin, patterned scarf instead of a necklace is a wonderful and stylish option for spring.  Or, you can try a long, ruffled owl necklace instead.

For shoes, a simple t-strap sandal will do in either a tan or black. Both are from US retailers that ship internationally — and the great thing is they are on sale!  The raffia rope bag is the perfect addition and will carry you through Summer.

For our North American readers, sizes in Australia are all over the place just like we are! But to determine your size, they are just like the UK where you add 4 (eg If you’re a size 8, then you want a 12.) Remember, it’s just a number.

If you plan on taking a mini-vacation over an extended weekend, you don’t need to lug a suitcase full of clothes.  Instead, you want to have a couple of outfits for day and evening tucked into a cute carry-on.  Since most women over 40 (not all!) like to cover their arms a bit, you want an easy dress that is perfect for a casual chic weekend that can be worn over a bathing suit,  for site-seeing during the day, or for a casual evening out. Here’s an outfit for inspiration:

• Vince shirred yoke dress in a comfy jersey fabric that looks fantastic worn with a contrasting green belt instead of the fabric belt that is included.
• Keep it stylish with a wedge cuffed leather sandal.
• Minimal jewelry is usually best when the belt and shoes take center stage so a simple cuff bracelet for evening or teardrop earrings for day are perfect.  And, don’t forget some stylish shades!  These black sunglasses look amazing on a longer face and the inside teal color adds a unique element.
• You want luggage that has enough room for a weekend’s worth of clothes but isn’t too big.  This stylish nylon weekender is the perfect solution.

Does the thought of traveling in the summer with your kids stress you out?  Whether you’re going to Disneyland or a tropical vacation,  you can still look fresh off the plane if you plan your wardrobe in advance. The outfit is key along with some fun activities for the kids. I find that surprise gifts keep them occupied along with a movie or two.

These versatile Bop Basics Istanbul pumice pants can be worn long or rolled up and come in 3 colors. The fashionable cotton pants are light which is a plus especially if you are going somewhere really warm.

It can get chilly on the plane so bring a sweater. This Gap Superfine cardigan comes in seven colors and it complements the pants.

Add a little pizzazz with this  Michael Kors embellished tank.  When you take off your sweater at your destination, no one will realize that you were traveling! You are ready to go out even with your kids!

I recommend closed toe shoes because it is safer when you are traveling. The Juicy Couture Dara sneaker is a fun shoe. And don’t forgot to wear or bring your socks or peds in case you have to take your shoes off at security! You can always throw a pair of sandals in your bag to change into if you are going somewhere hot.

A lightweight tote such as  the  LeSportSac in black patent is a perfect carry-on for your essentials. Your kids should have their own small carry-on luggage unless you have a baby. If that’s the case, you should try the Skip Hop ‘City Chic ‘ Diaper Bag (shown.)  It has a removable clutch purse which would be helpful during your travels.

The jewelry should be kept simple and these mini hoop earrings add a nice touch.

And finally, don’t forget that hand sanitizer. Happy travels!

Please share your travel tips.

With summer in full swing, vacation time is now upon us.  With 2/3 of Americans taking a vacation this summer, half of them will be staying closer to home.  That means “road trip!”

Whether you’re in the car for a few hours to a close-by destination or decide to take some roads less traveled and experience a week in a rental car, here’s something to keep you comfortable and wrinkle-free.

• James Perse drape tank – this is the perfect compromise between the slouchy tee look and something more fitted. Layer it over a colorful fitted tank.
• A performance pant that is perfect for being in the car or getting out to hit a trail.
• A sporty Swiss Military watch with a timer and luminous date display so you don’t forget what day it is and some hip Ray-Bans (3341) to keep you looking cool.
• For $30, try Kavu’s Seattle Sling bag. The fabric prints are summery and the bag is just about the right size so that you don’t feel like you’re lugging the kitchen sink.
• FitFlops – which are supposed to tone your legs and butt when you walk in them but I’ve never noticed anything. They are comfortable though and perfect for slipping off in the car.

Where are you heading this summer?

After three straight years of working 60-hour weeks and not taking a vacation, you’re ready to explode.  If you’re a small business owner like me, you’ll understand where I’m coming from.  Perhaps your ‘vacations’ end up in work-mode since you figure, “Well, I don’t get paid vacation or any bene’s so I need to pay my way!”  <feeble ‘ha ha’>

Seriously, you (I!) need to take off for a weekend and get far away from the computer, your blog, crackberry, twitter, etc and spend some time with the people you love.  Only a spa getaway will do where someone is physically kneading and fixing all the tensed-up muscles in your back and shoulders.   You won’t be able to think about anything by the time they’re done with you — let alone what you’re going to wear for the evening’s sumptuous dinner!

So, let me do the thinking for you (while my brain is still working):

• Rachel Pally jersey dress – this is the perfect dress for throwing on after a spa treatment to enjoy lunch and a stroll, or in the evening for a casual chic dinner out.
• For the daytime, choose simple jewelry such as a leather necklace or bracelet (it’s both) and a flat gladiator-style sandal.
• For evening, try something long and ornate like this antique coin tiered necklace with a sexy espadrille from Stuart Weitzman.

There’s really not much to pack.  Perhaps a pair of jeans and a couple of cute tops to take with you and you’re done!

And, if you’re horrible at figuring out where to go and what to do on your trip, check out uptake.com.  They provide lots of ideas and even have a button that says “Just Get Away” — for some strange reason I think if I press it, I’ll immediately be there.  Maybe that’s coming soon in Web 3.0.  Wouldn’t that be great??

You’re getting ready for a weekend Spring getaway and plan on hanging out near the pool, beach, or under a beautiful tree.  And although it sounds peaceful, how do you keep your anxiety at bay with regards to avoiding a sunburn??

For those of us who grew up slathering ourselves in baby oil, we now know what the sun can do to our skin…and it’s not pretty.  Nowadays, protecting your skin stylishly is really easy because there are so many wonderful products.  Here is a great outfit and ideas for staying cool and sunburn-free as you venture out in the sun.

• A sun-proof, wide-brimmed resort hat. Or if you’re traveling, take a packable sun hat –both hats have an SPF of 50.
• Rachel Pally long full skirt in a wonderful print modal jersey that will keep your legs protected. The hem is unfinished which means if you need to hem it, you just cut! Have a professional do it for you though.
• Shirred tube top in a comfy jersey looks great with the skirt.  Wear your sunscreen and if you start to feel the sun, reapply and throw on this…
• Sun-proof beach tunic with hood.  This lightweight, tunic has SPF 50 protection and will keep you covered and cool throughout the day.  Wear it over your swimsuit or unzipped with your skirt and top.
• Lisa Curran halter tankini swim top and bottoms. This swimsuit goes easily from the pool to paired with the skirt for later.

Try these gold accessories to pull it together:

• Leather sandals in a muted gold
• Tom Ford ‘Angelica’ sunglasses which are an oversized wrap frame with total UV protection – super sexy.
• Kenneth Jay Lane gold hammered stretch bracelet that lays flat on your wrist — no jangling!

To keep your face looking fresh and protected, try Aveda’s mineral foundation.  I swear by it when in the sun.  Sunscreen is only effective for a couple of hours and by doing quick ‘touch ups’ throughout the day, you’ll not only protect your skin, you’ll be shine-free.  Get the mirrored compact and add the dry powder in your skin color.  Bare Minerals also has a new SPF powder brush which is fab but until they can figure out how to get a mirror on it, I’ll stick with Aveda.

What are your tricks for staying protected and stylish in the sun?

With airfares at rock-bottom prices, it’s tempting to take off for a much-needed mini-vacation.  Since most people want to hit someplace warm, here’s an outfit that can be worn on the plane or out enjoying the locale. It’s classic and casual at the same time — even though the fabrics are soft and comfy, it looks effortlessly pulled together.

Start with a simple white sleeveless cowl and pair it with a soft camel capri. Mixing neutrals is one way to create a classic look so try this light gray one-button cotton  jacket which is by European Culture. European Culture hails from Italy and is best described as “creatively classic” – they do a nice mix of structured pieces with a twist.

In order to achieve this look, you need to invest your money in the accessories. The one that really pulls this look together is the long Pucci scarf. Wear it in your hair (you’ll have to wrap it around twice) and add some over-sized sunglasses to create the perfect look for driving in a convertible.

Pair it with either a low-heeled leather sandal or a Tod’s loafer. The structured camel bag is perfect and appropriately called the Jet Setter.

This outfit is perfect for hip women over 40 who need an outfit for one or all of following:

• Wear something cute to go with the riding boot trend
• Wear something casual yet comfortable (and non-wrinkly) for travel to a big city
• Wear something for going out shopping that is easy to pull on and off in the dressing room
• Wear something for the afternoon mom-taxi duty

The jersey skirt and top are the same color so you can wear them together to create a long, lean body line.  They look great on all body types — if the top is too cleavage-baring for you, simply add a black tank underneath.  Pull your outfit together with a beautiful colored cardigan like the one shown and pair with a simple cross-body bag to keep your hands free.

Outfit as shown:

• Cotton jersey twist top, Velvet
• Gored jersey knit skirt, Velvet
• Clean-lined cardigan, Elie Tahari (limited sizes at Bluefly)
• Black Riding Boot, Franco Sarto
• Slouchy cross-body bag, Lucky
• Gray stained glass necklace

It’s time for that long overdue vacation, and there are many sights you plan to see. You want to bring some wardrobe basics, but need comfortable walking shoes–no heels! Here are some great basics to bring that will keep you cozy and stylish on your trip.

A classic black jersey knit BCBG high-waist pant is a great piece for traveling because you can mix and match it with numerous tops and wear it casually for day or dress it up for evening. It is also a great medium weight fabric that remains relatively wrinkle-free and is easy to pack.

Pair your pant with some versatile blouses with interesting details, like this beautiful silk print top for evening or a simple pleat front top (not shown). When traveling during seasonal changes, it’s always a smart idea to dress in layers, and packing a great Vince kimono cardigan for chillier weather will not only keep you warm, but also fashionable.

Finish off your outfits with some walking flats like a soft loafer, or a comfy flat by Taryn Rose. Don’t forget to bring along a great cross-body bag like the HOBO Explorer bag.  It is medium size so that you can store your water, maps and have room to pack a light wrap and camera.