How to be a Travel Fashionista

If you are anything like me, then you like to dress up. For me, it’s an all the time thing. Nails done, toes done, eyebrows done, high heels, skirts, the whole works. It’s not extra for me to put so much effort in to my appearance because I’m the girliest girl imaginable and I actually enjoy it. I’m even wearing heels at 7am in the morning (Ask Erica and Shaun from OverYonderlust.com, they can attest to this fact). The whole dressing up/getting ready for the day process is very therapeutic for me and probably one of the things that keeps me somewhat sane.

But when it comes to travel, especially when it’s long term, we can fall in to fashion ruts. The same jeans, same shirts, same shoes can get pretty old, pretty fast. So here are my fabulous tips for all you gorgeous gals (and gents), to look your absolute best while you’re out traveling. Strut your stuff, oh ye fabulous ones!

1. Stick to Neutrals
If you stick to neutral colors while packing, you’ll be able to mix and match your outfits much easier. Don’t underestimate the power of black! Not only is it slimming, but it matches EVERYTHING and will instantly make you look a little more dressed up if needed. I usually stick to a black, cream, gray and white color scheme. Winter, Summer, Spring, Fall, neutrals are always in season. Sometimes I’ll add in a few pops of something pink (my favorite color!).

2. Scarves
I never travel without a scarf, even in the middle of summer. It always adds an extra punch to an outfit, and can easily be used as a shawl if it’s cooler. This is the time you can get a scarf with a little more pizazz to add to those black pants and cream colored top. Voila! Instant chic.

3. Accessories, Accessories, and More Accessories
I cannot press the importance of having accessories. Jewelry and sunglasses instantly add a flair of glamor to an otherwise ‘meh’ outfit. It can be something as simple as black, over sized sunglasses and earrings, or a really pretty ring. My ears aren’t pierced, so I always make sure to stack on the bangle bracelets or a big statement necklace. My favorite necklace is a giant gold chainlink beauty that I got in Greece. I never go anywhere without it, and I always get compliments. You can never have enough of those, right?

4. Just one pair of Killer Ass Heels
I know some people might not agree on the practicality of bringing heels on a long trip, but I say to hell with that. You can be wearing cut up boyfriend jeans, a flowy tank top…throw on some heels, and BAM. Instant hot bitch. I’m short as hell, so I prefer my heels to be sky high, but anything that makes you feel like a sexy goddess is great! If you’re planning on going out for a long night of dancing and drunken debauchery, invest in a pair of roll up flats you can easily stuff in your purse. Don’t be that skanky girl who walks barefoot out of the bar. No bueno.

5. Invest in Worthwhile Clothes
Don’t get me wrong, Forever 21 and H&M are great for budget (aka broke) fashionistas like me. But lets face it, one wrong wash in the laundry and some of those cute (yet cheap) clothes completely fall apart. Don’t waste your money on cheap clothes that won’t last; you’ll only end up buying more somewhere else in the long run. I know I don’t want to end up in Asia where my ass is too big for anything remotely resembling a pair of pants. So invest in worthwhile clothes you know are going to last you for your whole trip. Not saying you have to buy Chanel tweed pants and an Gucci dress, but you know, shit that’s not going to fall apart. My favorites are Joe’s Jeans, J Crew, Banana Republic, and Anthropologie. Gilt.com is an awesome site for high quality brands at greatly reduced prices.

So when you’re making that packing list for your next Round the World, week long, weekend long, or even day long trip, follow these tips! You’ll be the belle of the ball dahhhling.