Ahh...summer -- warm weather, ice-cream, and of course summer vacation. Almost instinctively as Memorial Day approaches my mind drifts towards thoughts of summer vacation, and the possibilities are endless. I could go somewhere exotic like Tanzania, or stay a bit closer to home and spend a few days in Maine. The sad truth...I probably won't end up doing any of those things, but that doesn't mean I can't put together a few outfits inspired by my "imaginary" travels.
The first stop on my whirlwind tour of the world is Italy. I'm a glamorous woman of leisure, spending my days meandering through museums and immersing myself in some much needed culture. The wardrobe for the la dolce vita -- Dolce and Gabbana of course! D&G's leopard print skirt is bold and stylish, but still fun. A crisp white blouse keeps the look sophisticated, while a unique piece of jewelry and a luxe bag complete the look.
It's safari time! The destination -- an African desert. The look -- lightweight pieces that draw inspiration from the natural surroundings, like Diane Von Furstenberg's Zebra print knit jacket. A bias cut linen skirt will keep you cool, and accessories that mirror the environment will keep you looking stylish, even if the only jungle you visit this summer is of the urban variety.
I am secretly obsessed with Bollywood movies. I love them, especially the musicals where there is a huge dramatic pause then everyone busts out into a song and dance routine. Maybe I'll jet off to India in hopes of getting cast as the lead in an intercontinental tale of star crossed lovers. But I think I'll skip the headshot and resume and fill my suitcase with light flowy pieces and tons of golden accessories. After all, acting lessons are a moot point when you look this good.
Next stop London! I'm an urban anthropologist on a quest to discover the secret of British style. A mix of tailored pieces like this J.Crew pencil skirt, and comfy favorites, like Paper Denim and Cloth's slouchy sweatshirt are perfect for strolling through city streets. A roomy tote, that effortlessly blends style and function, and flats complete the look. Who knows, maybe my next article will be all about witty British style.
A psychic once told me that I was a princess in a past life, possibly a Mayan one. Now I'm off to Mexico to unearth my roots. A long dress in a bold pattern and a knock out necklace won't exactly work for unearthing ruins, but I will look fabulous at the dinner party I host in honor of my new found fortune.
Dresses are a key piece this season, and I'm definitely not one to complain about the emergence of a look that's so flattering. Single's paisley print dress was made for island hoping, something I plan to do lots of. For dinners in Fiji I plan on pairing it with bold flats, chunky bangles, and an elegant clutch. Perfect for sipping cocktails, and enjoying the island breeze.
For some people summer is not a noun, it's a verb. While I don't necessarily aspire to that kind of life, I can't help daydream about spending my days in a cozy New England town. In lieu of preppy staples, I think I'll opt for a comfy jersey dress and pieces inspired by the nautical lifestyle, like La Rok's Mariner Blazer and the aptly named "Sail Away" tote.
Vacation nights out call for something a bit out of the ordinary. In theory I'll be spending some time clubbing in Ibiza, I just need to rent a yacht, and win the lottery. But I do have my outfit all picked out. Wide leg pants have recently become my go-to look, and Anthropologie's Promenade pants are just the thing I've been craving. Paired with a lightweight tube top in a quirky camouflage print and sky high heels, I'm all set for evenings spent dancing on tables.
Admittedly this look is not exactly "practicality is for boring people." And it does rain in the summer...so in theory an occasion could arise where it would make perfect sense to wear wellingtons and short shorts. But enough with the justification. La Rok's kimono top with attached charms funks up a basic pair of linen shorts. I imagine I'd wear this exploring some ancient ruins, kicking butt and taking names Lara Croft style.
The best part of vacations is the vacation shopping. This look is perfect for perusing the offerings of local vendors in a quaint European town, funky, but not over the top. Wai Chung's Victorian skirt and Ben-Amun's chunky gold cross necklace are such knock-out pieces that even if you don't find any hidden gems on vacation your friends will be none the wiser if you tell a little white lie and say you got them abroad.
