Vacation Continued – Sightsee The Chic Way
July 26, 2013
By Brian Maynor
July 26, 2013
This is the second installment in our vacation series that looks at packing smarter so that you get the most number of wardrobe options from the fewest number of pieces. (See the first article: click here.)
When I travel I usually wear my pieces back-to-back so when they go into the laundry bag they are done for the trip. Vacation is the one time it does not bother me to be seen wearing an item two days in a row, because the overall outfit is completely different. Other people like to break it up and wear everything once before reusing pieces. However you chose to work it, here are two outfits that will keep you comfortable and a sight to behold as you are strolling around sightseeing:
1. You are on vacation, not your sense of style. Taking the neutral t-shirt from the first outfit it only makes sense to pair it with a colorful pair of crop pants. They brighten and balance the grey without overpowering it and expose a little leg. I think crop pants are the perfect alternative to shorts. You get to show some skin, but still feel comfortable walking into a nice restaurant or café, and the nude wedges give the appearance of more leg without actually showing it.
2. Don’t forget your cover-up. I always recommend working in a thin, extra layer to your outfit, especially when traveling. While I like the balance and general aesthetic of a three pieces outfit, on vacation it is more for function than form. Popping in and out of air-conditioned buildings can give you a chill, and some destinations do not allow bare shoulders or heads. A scarf, cardigan and hat are easy additions to just about any outfit that are as practical as they are stylish.
This is also a perfect time to encourage researching your travel destination. We do not typically think about being denied entrance somewhere because we are not dressed appropriately, but it does happen, and can be a less-than-pleasant experience. Before you leave the house or hotel make sure your outfit follows the rules, literally.
3. Showing a lot of arm. Tank tops may not be for everyone, but they are popular for summer with both men and women. Pairing one with chinos from the previous outfit keeps the amount of skin shown in proportion and the age-level of the outfit elevated. If you see children and teenagers wearing something, suffice it to say unless you are one of them, you should not wear it.
4. Sneakers vs. athletic shoes. With all of the fashion sneakers available on the market, like these understated, all black classic Chuck Taylors, I do not understand why people still feel the need to wear athletic shoes as a casual shoe. They do little to complement your outfit and nothing screams ‘tourist’, with all of the negative connotation, louder. Save yourself and the rest of your group the embarrassment and keep the athletic shoes in the gym.
5. The finishing touches. I have completed each outfit with a few pieces of jewelry. The goal is to pull everything together without overdoing it. These selections are simple, subtle and just the right touch to complement the other accessories without competing with them.
Sightseeing is fun and a great way to acclimate yourself to a new place. These inspirational outfits will have you fitting in just about anywhere in the world and keep you standing out for all the right reasons.
Women’s Vacation Outfit (Click images below)
Men’s Vacation Outfit (Click images below)
I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
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