The Knitty Gritty
Summer is almost here, and many of us are also planning our summer vacations. Whether we're headed on a trip to the beach, mountains or city, there is a way to look fashionable and flawless while packing light.
Nothing is better for summer dressing than light, soft, cotton knits. They are both easy on the eyes and on sensitive skin. But there is an even better reason to wear knits. They are versatile, they pack easily, take up little space and are easy to wash and dry. They breathe well on hot days and generally do not wrinkle. They can also be worn to dress up or down with the right accessories.
The Power of Three
To look your best, focus on knitted pieces in three coordinating colors. Since combinations of black and white and navy and white are hot this summer, I recommend picking pieces in these three colors. You can do so much with a pair of black slacks, a white skirt, a white boat neck T-shirt, a black square neck tank top and a light summer weight knitted navy colored sweater for layering.
European Vacation
If you decide to take a trip to Europe this summer, there is an easy way to look chic with the outfit pieces listed above. On Monday, choose black slacks and a white boat neck T-shirt for exploring the Coliseum. On Tuesday at dinner, wear your white skirt and black square neck tank top as you sip wine on a sidewalk café. Pair it with a chunky necklace and sandals. On Wednesday for a shopping excursion, go for all white by pairing a white skirt and your white boat neck T-shirt. Tie your navy sweater around your shoulders as a wearable layering accessory. On Thursday, pull on black slacks, your lightweight navy sweater and a chunky necklace for touring museums. On Friday, go for all black by wearing your black slacks and your black square neck tank. Wear bold and bright accessories and red lipstick. You can go anywhere with this classic look and never go out of style. Of course, there are more combinations to be worn with these pieces, but it goes to show how many classy outfits can be made from a few key pieces.
Packing Perfection
Head to your local sporting good store and pick up square, mesh, zippered bags in small, medium and large. Small bags are for undergarments and socks. Medium-sized bags are for shirts. Large bags are for skirts, pants and sweaters.
When you're ready to pack, gently roll up your items and place them side-by-side in the mesh bags. Not only will this prevent them from wrinkling, it will also maximize space in your suitcase so that you have more room for souvenirs.
Finally, don't forget sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat and your sunscreen!
