When I’m traveling and on vacation, comfort is certainly key. But as I’ve said before (in this How to be a Stylish Traveler post), I believe it takes as much effort to dress like a schlep, as it does to throw on something cute. (Don’t
misunderstand, of course I own and wear clothing that should never see
the light of day, I just reserve them for days I don’t leave the house!)
Sundresses,
skirts with tees, well-fitting jeans and cardigans are just as
comfortable as sweatpants. And especially in the Summer months, sandals and flip-flops are more comfortable than athletic shoes. But let’s face it, I’m never actually running, so why would I need to wear running shoes?!
On our recent beach vacation, I took a hiatus from the hair dryer and make-up, and lived in mostly swimsuits. But I did pack a simple dress that I wore for most every outing that didn’t involve the beach. Well, I did wear it as a swim suit cover-up one day. I chose this dress because it’s lightweight and comfortable, took up virtually no room in my bag (we rarely check bags, remember?), and stayed wrinkle-free. And by simply swapping out a few key accessories, it took on a different look with each wearing.
Earrings and necklaces are the easiest ways to add polish, and make even a basic outfit look pulled together. Since my hair, when air-dried, would frightened small children, I kept it pulled back and hidden under a hat. But by choosing a fedora instead of a ballcap, the look is instantly more chic.
On another day, I swapped out the bag and jewels, and added the scarf. I always travel with scarves, not only for jazzing up outfits, but to double as pillows or wraps on chilly planes.
Wayfarer-style Sunglasses | Watch | Chain Bracelet | Earrings | Ring | Flip Flops
And for a final look, I threw on my ever-present jean jacket.
Wayfarer-style Sunglasses | Watch | Chain Bracelet | Cross Cuff | Earrings | Ring | Flip Flops
When packing and traveling, it’s all about choosing the smallest items that create the biggest impact. In this instance, all the jewels fit in a small pouch, the large bag served as my carry-on, and the jacket and scarf kept me warm during travel…and everything for the week fit in a single backpack! I was always comfortable, and it required minimal effort to stay looking stylish. Well, as stylish as one can look with a barely-contained Afro.
The sexy shape of this dress also makes it my go-to for date nights…see it glammed-up here, and check out the 1 Dress 5 Ways post for styling the pink version for everything from work to brunch. Clearly I’m a fan of this dress. Oh, and don’t forget I’m giving away the big tote…have you entered yet??
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Um, you look fabulous in that dress! Absolutely gorgeous!
Um, I love you! Thanks so much sweet friend! xo
Okay, so I've held out because I don't always love razor back on me because of the bra issue it creates….BUT I CANNOT HOLD OUT ANY LONGER! That dress really is super cute and sooo versatile! And just fyi, it's such a good price, I'm thinking about ordering it in both colors. Yes, I think I will.
Good call. I knew you were a smart and clever girl! xo
ive been tempted to buy that dress for a while now! i should just do it 🙂 xo jillian – cornflake dreams
The pink would be too cute on you, Jillian!
I couldn't take it anymore!!!! I finally just bought that damn dress 😀 Cannot WAIT for it to come in.
You've got a lot of time to make up for…you could have been wearing it all summer! Good thing it'll be africa-hot here for another 2 months! 😉
Adorbs in every way! I love all of your tips!
Thanks, Heather! I hope they are helpful! xo
I'm so bummed. I ordered that dress a few months ago and had to return it. Boo! The arm holes were way too big – the fit was like a huge workout tank, and I don't think an xs would have fit in the hips. Story of my life. It looks so adorable on you! But then again, most things do… 😉
Bummer about the fit! The arm holes seem to be a bit bigger on the black dress, but not the pink. I either go braless #scandalous or wear a bright colored bandou tank under. So at least the part peeking out under the arms is cute. 🙂 But my racerback bra works under it, too. I'm wearing the XS…so you might want to give it a try!
Cute dress! And hey real afros can be freaking awesome and super stylish. Trust me, I wear my naturally afro-textured hair in a variety of cute styles 🙂 Maybe try to work with your slight frizz? Have you tried sea salt sprays? I hear from friends with hair like yours that they work wonders. Or maybe coconut oil? That's also good as a body moisturizer.
If I had a true Afro, I'd work it and wear it proud. I love that look! But my hair, when air-dried, just kinks and frizzes. I've tried a few serums and potions, and the salt-water spray seems to do a pretty good job. In my everyday life, it's best to just stick with the blow dryer! 😉 xo
I don't believe you have two school-aged kids! So beautiful and fresh, Cassie!
Such cute outfits! You are so good at styling one piece multiple ways! I need to do this on my next vacation…it would save a ton of room!
xo, Taylor
P.S. You look beautiful!
You are so adorable I can't stand it! Love each look!
That dress is so cute on you. I think you have convinced me that I need to invest on a dress that can be so versatile and make weekend trips much easier!
Totally agree! Love it!
Leslie
House on the Way
You look adorable! Love that dress!