I recently saw the film Eat, Pray, Love and was struck by the simplicity and practicality of the outfits Julia Roberts wore when traveling. Many elements definitely embodied the Travelista aesthetic. Her wardrobe consisted of chic, simple, and practical pieces that you can use as inspiration next time it comes to packing for a trip. In this post I’ll focus on the clothing she wore for her travels in Rome.
This is one of my favorite looks and one that you can easily cop. The lightweight denim shirtdress could work for Spring and Fall travel and maybe into the Summer as well. The gladiator sandals are a practical yet trend conscious choice for wandering cobblestoned streets.
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I last attended the mayhem that is Paris Fashion Week two years ago. I’ve since learned a lot about pulling an outfit together by scouring the photos of fashion magazine editors and tastemakers that I took during that trip. Seeing how the most fashionable women in the world show up to fashion shows can inform our choices when it comes time to pack our bags for a trip. Though these photos are from seasons past they still contain valuable information.
1. Black is always in fashion
Attendees of fashion shows and Europeans in general favor black and dark colors. Choosing mostly black clothing makes packing easier and of course black clothing flatters and camouflages our figures. Look for items made in travel friendly materials such as synthetic blends: rayon, polyester, lyocell, etc. Accessories keep the look from being boring.
Both these looks are easy to pull off. Tight but stretchy skinny black pants, an interesting black tee. Top it off with a long, loose cardigan and a necklace.
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I’m a fashion fanatic I’ll admit, but sadly I can’t pursue my fashion desires with the reckless abandon that I would like. Bank balances and credit limits stand in the way of me and Miu Miu, Balenciaga, Prada and Gucci.
Well thanks to the outlets in Italy, your fashion dreams are no longer relegated to lustful longing of the pages of Vogue. Before you scoff at the idea of an outlet, let me tell you this is no ordinary outlet scenario. There is not a Gap or Nike factory store in sight. All the heavy hitters of fashion have a presence on the outlet scene in Italy. To name just a few: Prada, Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana, Armani, Burberry, Fendi, YSL, McQueen, McCartney, Marni, La Perla. That’s not even the full list, now that I have your attention let’s figure out how to get there.
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Skirts are an easy item to throw into your bag for your bon voyage. Skirts pair easily with other travel separates to complete your travel wardrobe. The tops you would wear with jeans or pants could easily be worn with skirts as well.
Skirts provide versatility to your travel wardrobe. Worn with a casual tee or tank during the day they provide comfort but with the addition of a cardigan or a blazer they can be dressed up. If you wear a sleeveless top, keep handy a wrap or cardigan to cover your shoulders upon entering some churches in Italy. A motorcycle style jacket adds an urban chic vibe that works day and night.
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Summertime travel in Europe demands clothing that is functional and fabulous. Nobody wants to be a hot mess when travelling. Don’t bust out your Karl Lagerfed fan just yet, a breezy travel dress can help conquer those hot days.
Dresses are a natural for traveling. Instead of packing several seperates to complete one outfit you are only packing a single item. Dresses easily take you from your daytime sightseeing to evening activities. A great travel dress will make you look totally chic and put together no matter what the occasion.
When selecting a travel dress, fashion takes a back seat to comfort and fit. Shirtdress styles, wrap dresses, and longer tunic style dresses are flattering choices and easy to dress up with just a few accessories. Mini-dresses (unless worn with leggings), constricting styles, or silk and dry cleanable dresses are best left at home while traveling. Some Italian churches have dress codes, such as requiring that shoulders be covered (who knew shoulders could be considered so forbidden?). If you choose a sleeveless style dress remember to keep a wrap or cardigan on hand should you want to see the Sistine Chapel (they take the dress code quite seriously and will deny entry).
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In Europe, flats have moved beyond trend and into a wardrobe mainstay. For those of us wishing to blend in while traveling through Europe this is great news. Flats are versatile and can easily take you from daily touristy activities to an evening show or dinner. More importantly, flats are comfortable. If you select the right one it can withstand all the walking you will do while exploring European cities.
A flat worn with super skinny jeans is the most prevailing look in Europe now. Fear not if super skin tight jeans are not your thing, a straight leg or slight boot cut jean will also work. Flats pair well with a great travel dress, leggings, or skirts.
A flat with comfort or ergonomic properties will be the most functional while traveling. A rubber sole will provide gripping traction on cobblestone streets. A simple ballet flat style is classic and complementary of many styles. A black flat will blend in with your travel neutrals but you can also choose to pop neutrals with a metallic flat. There’s a tremendous selection since they are popular here in the states as well, so happy hunting.
Here’s a few more photos for inspiration:
And a few options to get your search started:
