Monthly Archives: March 2019

Assorted Fab Finds for Fall and Winter

Party looks have started to filter through to brick-and-mortar and online stores. Here are some holiday looks that have worked well on my clients, with a few non-party items thrown in for good measure. Be sure to check out all the colours and extended size options.

1. Karl Lagerfeld Harlow Bootie

This bootie is NOT made in France despite the Karl Lagerfeld label and associations with high-end luxury brand Chanel. They are quite comfortable and look streamlined on the foot. Not great on a narrow ankle, but they fit an assortment of foot shapes. The embroidered version is festive for the holidays, and the dusty rose is unique.

2. Boden Agnes Fair Isle Sweater

A cuddly and classic Fair Isle in both cool and warmer shades has been a hit with some forum members. Despite the alpaca fibre content, the pullover is not scratchy. It has a streamlined fluid fit and is flattering on a range of body types. It looks great styled with a pencil skirt and trendy jeans. Lovely quality.

3. Eliza J Formal Flared Skirts

Flared skirts are an acquired Modern Classic taste because many tend to feel it’s too much skirt and adds bulk. But that’s the charm of the silhouette. These Eliza J darlings are winners every season, and the pattern assortment is versatile. They lay a lot more flat than you expect, are comfortable in the extreme if you enjoy defining the waist. They aren’t overly long and overwhelming. They work best on regular and long torsos who enjoy defining their waist. They can work with a short fitted untucked top to lengthen the waist. Or a buttoned-up short cardigan. Keep the look classic, or add a little unexpected to the skirt by combining it with sneakers, tough boots, a moto, or denim jacket.

4. Express Fold-Over Collar Puffer Jacket

This puffer is FABULOUS if you like an avant-garde fit. It is boxy and creates architectural drape. It’s like you bought it at COS. Some of my clients felt like they hit the jackpot with the look and loved it. Others felt like a gigantic marshmallow. The silhouette is an acquired taste so consider yourself warned. It’s extremely cosy and soft. Good for all neck lengths because the collar folds up and down. If I hadn’t already committed to my new short navy puffer from Boden because the quality and fit is GORGEOUS, I would have this in red.

5. JS Collections Soutache Sheath Dress

Oh my word. Where do I begin with how STUNNING my size US12 client with a larger bust looked in this dress. It’s forgiving of lumps and bumps, and a very elegant length. No shapewear needed. She’s going to finish off the look with leopard pumps and a bright red clutch to amp up the fun factor. It’s best on a rectangular or inverted triangle body type. Can work on an hourglass too.

6. London Fog Petite Faux-Fur-Trim Hooded Down Puffer Coat

One of our petite forum members recently reviewed this puffer in burgundy, and it looks smashing on her. Petite puffers with a streamlined fit and suitable arm length are hard to find, but this one fits the bill for a very cold Winter.

7. Frye Shane Tip Western Bootie

Western Wear is on trend, but cowboy boots are always in style making them a Trendy Classic. They always look current, flattering and right, and can be used in all sorts of outfits. If you’re a black boots wearer, these are a great way to refresh your black boot capsule. They’re comfortable, very well made, fit a variety of foot shapes, and look extremely sharp. They are pricey, but have a high longevity factor.

8. Madewell Delilah Mary Jane Pumps

The Mary Jane pumps are well made and comfortable. Best on a low and regular volume foot. Excellent on those who like low heels and a secure pump. The glitter does not come off the blush version. The surface of the glitter is hard, but the inside of the shoes is very soft. Good with or without hose. Looks like a Jimmy Choo, but at a fraction of the price. The pink glitter earned a place in my wardrobe and is my new party shoe. Dainty and delightful.

9. Rachel Roy Collection Piping Detail Side Slit Midi

This dress works well on a rectangle, inverted triangle and hourglass. It works best on a regular and longer torso, and wider shoulders or a larger bust (you need to fill out the top). The sleeves are long, but can be easily hemmed. The diagonal lines of the piping are magical at creating a vertical and streamlined effect. They create curves for a straighter figure, and flatten curves on a curvier figure. The fabric is substantial and relatively girdling. The length and swoosh of the skirt are elegant.

Chunky Heels and Platform Shoes

Chunky heels and platform shoes are great ways to make a statement with your outfit. When you’re bored of your usual flat sandals and high heels style, you can always count on these versatile shoes to upgrade your boring or simple look.

 

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Wood bottom platform sandals that guarantees you style and comfort in one. You can wear this for casual days or even night outs and parties.

 

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Funky, chic and 100% stylish platform wood bottom sandals with super cool stud detailing, perfect for those who wants to achieve a dressy and rugged look.

 

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You will seriously cause some major shoe envy among your friends when they see you with this open toe boots. Its two-tone leather upper has a flirty open toe that will show off your flawlessly pedicure-d toes. Also, the 4-inch block heels pull the entire look together perfectly. Whether it’s for daytime or nighttime, you’ll look wonderful in this ankle boot.

 

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You’ll be the talk of the party with these 5.5” platform sandals. It has an adjustable ankle strap with buckle closure and an open-toe silhouette with lining and foot bed for total comfort.

 

Purchase it here What do you think of flirty platform open-toe sandals with laces? It’s a cool mixture of boots, sandals and sneakers all in one.

 

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A white synthetic spectator with perforated details and lace up vamp – this oxford shoes have a 3 ¼ inch block heel and low ¾ inch platform giving that menswear inspired look.

 

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A pair of pebble metallic sandals that are perfect for casual wear. It features a cork platform with braided wrap and is simply a classic style with a contemporary twist.

 

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Mix youthfulness and smart attitude with this killer platform. It has a simple yet fashionable style which will look great with so many outfits.

A perfect weekend in Novi Sad

In 2019, tourism’s spotlight will shine on Novi Sad, the capital of Serbia’s autonomous province of Vojvodina. This year the city celebrates the 20th edition of its renowned EXIT music festival, takes over as the European Youth Capital, and begins the countdown to its crowning as the European Capital of Culture in 2021.

What’s particularly appealing about Novi Sad’s moment of stardom is that as a rule, this town, which straddles the banks of the Danube in the Pannonian Plain region, keeps a low profile – even though it’s culturally diverse enough to have six official languages. Ask nearly any local to describe the city, and the most common phrases will inevitably be ‘laid-back’ and ‘relaxed’.

The mighty 18th-century Petrovaradin Fortress on the Danube is today synonymous with the EXIT Festival © Andrej Antic / Shutterstock

About an hour’s drive north from the Serbian capital Belgrade, settlements in the area of the Petrovaradin Fortress – Novi Sad’s calling-card attraction – date back thousands of years. Residents, however, are less interested in foisting their regional importance (during the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Habsburg eras) upon visitors than they are into strolling the main pedestrian thoroughfare, known colloquially as Corso, to meet friends for a glass of local wine.

‘Visitors are usually surprised with how dense the experience is in Novi Sad,’ says Ivanka Tasić, the director of the locally based PanaComp Wonderland Travel, one of Serbia’s most successful operators. ‘By the time you leave, this place gets into your system.’ Indeed, with great wine from the slopes of nearby Fruška Gora mountain, hearty Vojvodinian food, a sandy beach on the Danube and worthwhile galleries and museums, you’re in for a good time.

Novi Sad’s main pedestrian thoroughfare is lined with pastel-coloured Austro-Hungarian architecture © Alex Crevar / Lonely Planet

Friday

Start your pursuit of the perfect Novi Sad weekend where everything began, at the Petrovaradin Fortress. Many today see the ramparts as synonymous with the EXIT Festival, and this is one of the planet’s most iconic and unusual music venues. History buffs, however, see the site’s 18th-century citadel – on a 40m-high rock guarding the Danube – as one of the most ingenious systems of defence ever created. A maze of trenches, moats and walls constructed by the Austro-Hungarians protected its holdings during conflicts with the Ottoman Empire. After perusing the fortress and its museum, be sure to book a tour to 16km of underground tunnels.

Coming down from your strategic perch, cross the river and lose yourself in Novi Sad’s livable city centre. Amble to the Gallery of Matica Srpska for one of the country’s most important cultural collections. Approximately 500 pieces from the 16th to 20th centuries provide a deeper insight into Serbian art, heritage and traditions. After, stroll along the avenues of Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska – a classical Central European cityscape framed by cafes, boutiques, galleries and Austro-Hungarian pastel- and mustard-coloured architecture. A walk through the historic centre between the Roman Catholic Parish Church, the Orthodox Church of St George, the Synagogue, City Hall and the Bishop’s Palace is an architectural masterclass and a swirl of Secessionist, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance styles. Then turn into Misha concept store, which provides a spotlight for around 50 local designers. The well-curated showroom is stocked with clothes, shoes, jewellery and home items.

Fish & Zeleniš restaurant is the place to go for some Mediterranean-style cuisine in Novi Sad © Alex Crevar / Lonely Planet

Make your way to Fish & Zeleniš for an unexpected Mediterranean meal with only organic and in-season ingredients. Servers carry dishes from the kitchen across the street to a dining room with wooden plank floors, blue-and-white checkered tablecloths, and walls covered in old photos and vintage knick-knacks like cooking ladles and scales. Go for the grilled trout served with potatoes and greens, or try the risotto with shrimp, squid and mussels.

Things rev up in Novi Sad when the sun goes down. Get into the mix at PUBeraj, a bar that’s part of three connected establishments. The pub, which serves more than 30 whiskies and hosts DJs and live music several times per week, is sandwiched between a barbershop, called Berberaj, for men and a hair stylist, FeniRaj, for women. ‘Novi Sad feels like a big city because there’s so much colour’, says Andrija Nikitović, the mastermind behind the complex, a barber by trade and a showman at heart.

PUBeraj is a fun Novi Sad pub, with DJs and live music, attached to a barbershop and a hair stylist © Alex Crevar / Lonely Planet

Saturday

Part of the magic of being in Novi Sad is getting out of it – and into the beautiful surroundings south of the Danube on the slopes of Fruška Gora mountain. Here, vineyards stitch together communities and wine and food are life’s essential elements. Drive into the village paradise and reserve a lunchtime cooking class at Banstolka, near the small town of Sremski Karlovci. The owner, Mirjana Hemun, will teach you how to prepare classic soups and dishes like stuffed peppers and zucchini, before crafting sweets such as gomboce (plum-stuffed dumplings). Enjoy your creations while sampling her award-winning plum rakija (homemade brandy).

Come back into Novi Sad to continue your gourmet education. Grab a corner seat inside Wine Therapy, a wine bar and shop that’s a perfect place to learn about the area’s best varieties. This recently opened vinoteka has an English-speaking expert on hand and carries labels from around the world but specialises in Serbian reds and whites. ‘The cultivation and production of wine in this part of Serbia is among the oldest in Europe,’ says Mirjana Maksimović, the president of Žene i Vino, an NGO committed to promoting Serbian wine. ‘Though nearly impossible to choose, try a white blend called Neoplanta, from Šijački Winery in the village of Banoštor. For a red, taste Probus, a blend from Milanović Winery in Surduk village.’

Just outside Novi Sad, Sremski Karlovci and Fruška Gora mountain are dotted with small local wineries © Tatiana Popova / Shutterstock

Later, head to Project 72 Wine & Deli, a restaurant with a cosmopolitan take on local cuisine – and one of the best meals you’ll have in Novi Sad. The ingredients are sourced from small producers in Serbia and the menu changes with the season. Snag a table on the streetside terrace; you can’t go wrong with the duck breast served with carrot puree and broccoli.

End the night investigating the so-called ‘Chinese Quarter’ – a former industrial zone turned creative district comprised of 10 buildings which once churned out metal products. Today the neighbourhood is an incubator for cutting-edge artists and a venue for music and dance. It also represents the kind of forward-thinking, community-driven projects that the titles of European Youth Capital 2019 and European Capital of Culture in 2021 aim to encourage.

Novi Sad’s Wine Therapy bar and shop is a perfect place to learn about the region’s wine varieties © Alex Crevar / Lonely Planet

Sunday

Begin your last day with a stroll to Štrand, Novi Sad’s 700m-long beach on the Danube. Luxuriate on the sand or in a cafe overlooking the water, as boats, birds, fishermen and swimmers go drifting along. If the tide is low, you can even cross over from its western end to the green haven of Fisherman’s Island; or, if you feel like getting active (and the weather is nice), rent a bike or a kayak to explore the river along the Danube Cycling Path or from the water.

For a late lunch, go back to where you started – at the foot of the Petrovaradin Fortress you’ll find one of the most iconic restaurants in town, Čarda Aqua Doria. Make sure to secure reservations early and take a riverside seat inside the seductive, dark-wood dining room with views of the bridge reflecting multicoloured lights onto the Danube. Toast the end of a great weekend with a glass of red from Fruška Gora and the stew starter with big chunks of white fish before diving into the veal roast served with homemade cream.

The sandy 700m-long Štrand beach and Fisherman’s Island on the Danube are Novi Sad’s summer playgrounds © Nenad Nedomacki / Shutterstock

Make it happen

Novi Sad is less than an hour’s drive from Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport, the increasingly popular regional hub. There are multiple transfer options: bus, shuttle, taxi and train. In town, there are plenty of lodging possibilities, from classic hotels to Airbnb. The Sheraton opened a 150-room property here in March 2018. For a homier and more cost-effective alternative, choose the seven-room VaradINN hostel, in historic Petrovaradin just below the fortress.

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Modelling 101

Are you planning on becoming a model anytime soon? Build up your portfolio with these super cool poses and photography just so you could have an artistic idea and inspiration. Learn how to pose without difficulties with the following tips

 

Do you have a model idol? Learn everything from her – from the way they turn their head to their runway walk.

 

Snapshots are important when you want to break into the fashion industry. Have a beauty shot (which is taken from the neck and up) before you head to agencies. Taking photographs of you in black and white is also a must-have in your portfolio.

 

Elongate your neck for maximum extension. It will make you look taller than ever.

 

When posing, you need to have tension in your body. Being limp will show on your photographs and that’s just lousy.

 

Don’t be afraid of posing different types of poses. Be wild, creative and innovative. Being safe will get you nowhere.

 

Just like what Tyra Banks says, “SMIZE!” which means, smile with your eyes. Create intensity for the camera through your eyes.

 

Everybody has flaws. Embrace them and work with it. Having hands on your hips will make your waist smaller. Leaning forward can make your bust appear smaller.

 

Chinning up will make your forehead appear smaller as well. Chin up + elongating the neck is the best combo to hide your insecurities on your forehead.

 

Stand on your tiptoes when you have bigger calves. Having your feet flat will only make them bigger.

 

For slimmer hips, turn your knee in so it will give you a space between your thighs. Emphasize your shoulders if you have narrow hips. All you need to do is turn your shoulder towards the camera and then you’re good to go.

 

Capital getaways: the best day trips from Washington, DC

DC residents may be intent on making the world go round, but even politicos need a break. And the region around the USA’s capital delivers day trips for every mood. Have a hankering for wine-tasting? You got it. How about exploring a super cool new-old neighborhood? Check. National park vistas, Civil War history, sampling oysters? Yep, yep and yep.

Mountains, lakes, an ocean and countryside are within easy reach. Adorable small towns and bustling cities are filled with fascinating history. Day trippers from Washington, DC have plenty of options; here are six, for starters.

Verdant trails in Shenandoah National Park, barely an hour’s drive from Washington, DC © Barbara Noe Kennedy / Lonely Planet

Look for bears at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

One of the greatest perks of living in Washington is that, within an hour’s drive, you can be deep within the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park. Hikes for every taste and fitness level await. For an easy stroll there’s Dark Hollow Falls, leading to a pretty waterfall. More challenging is Hawksbill Mountain, featuring an uphill trudge that rewards with magnificent, nearly 360-degree views from the national park’s highest peak. Wherever you are, you’ll enjoy waterfalls, mountain laurel, stunning vistas, and – if you’re lucky – a black bear sighting. You can stay overnight at Big Meadows Lodge or Skyland, or camp.

Getting there: The best option is to drive. Shenandoah National Park has three gated entrances: the North Entrance at Front Royal (off I-66); Thornton Gap east of Luray (via US 211); and the South Entrance at Rockfish Gap, near Waynesboro. The closest one to DC is the North Entrance, about an hour’s drive west. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle.

Cobblestones meet up-and-coming culture in Baltimore’s revived Fell’s Point neighborhood © Walter Bibikow / Getty Images

Discover Fell’s Point, Baltimore’s comeback neighborhood

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor has long been a draw for Washingtonians. With its shops, restaurants, historic ships and famous aquarium, you can spend a fun day there. But Baltimore is a city on the move, and there’s no place that showcases this better than nearby Fell’s Point. This historic cobblestoned neighborhood is anchored by Sagamore Pendry Baltimore, which merits a walk-through at the very least, just to see its gorgeous interior garden courtyard. Founded by William Fell in 1730 and once a thriving shipbuilding center, Fell’s Point is making a comeback with locally owned boutiques, casual eateries and bench-dotted parks. Take a walking tour with Baltimore National Heritage Area or Baltimore Ghost Tours (this was the last place Edgar Allan Poe was seen alive, you know). Afterwards find a table at The Point in Fell’s for local fare and glorious harbor views.

Getting there: Baltimore is located about an hour’s drive north of DC via I-95 (avoid rush hour). Or hop aboard the Amtrak Northeast Regional from Union Station, which departs several times daily (prices range between $15 and $45, depending on the time of day). You’ll need a cab or ride-share to reach Fell’s Point, a couple miles from Baltimore’s Penn Station.

Crack a claw, squeeze on some lemon, eat and repeat: feasting on the bounty of the seas in Annapolis © Barbara Noe Kennedy / Lonely Planet

Crack crabs in Annapolis, Maryland

Maryland is all about its blue crabs, best enjoyed along a bucolic waterway at a traditional crab shack. One of the best is Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn, tucked away on quiet Mill Creek beyond downtown Annapolis. You sit at a community table covered with butcher paper and join in the fun as a huge bucket of boiled crabs, doused with Old Bay spice, is strewn across the table. The wait staff will give you a lesson on how to eat the guys. (Or avoid the hard work and order a crab cake sandwich!) Walk off the meal in downtown Annapolis, with colonial-era buildings housing art galleries, clothing stores and, if you’re still hungry, local eateries. Check out Ego Alley at the foot of Main Street (aka Annapolis City Dock), where million-dollar yachts strut their stuff. You can also walk around the US Naval Academy, with highlights including the chapel (burial place of John Paul Jones) and a visitor center spotlighting the Navy’s history and greatest moments.

Getting there: Annapolis is located about a half-hour’s drive east of Washington, DC, via US 50.

A fresh haul of oysters in Northern Neck, Virginia, waiting to be prised open and slurped by visiting Washingtonians © Barbara Noe Kennedy / Lonely Planet

Slurp oysters in Virginia’s Northern Neck

Maryland may have blue crabs, but Virginia has oysters. The Northern Neck is the place to discover how these succulent bivalves have influenced every aspect of local life. Rappahannock Oyster Company in Topping provides the 411 on oyster harvesting. This seemingly small operation, perched on a scenic offshoot of the Chesapeake, daily sends fresh, luscious oysters as far away as Las Vegas. Walk out on the dock and see the sorting in action, then sample them at the on-site, waterside Merroir restaurant. You’ll find oyster-related artwork at Allure Art Center in White Stone, oyster-inspired jewelry at Burkes Fine Jewelers, a historical overview of regional oystering at the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum, and oyster and wine pairing at Dog & Oyster Vineyard in Irvington. Consider staying overnight at Tides Inn, where you can sample the signature Angry Oyster (a local twist on buffalo wings) and take part in the inn’s Virginia Oyster Academy – or simply relax by the creek and do nothing at all.

Getting there: The Northern Neck extends east of Fredericksburg, located south of DC off I-95, and requires a car to get around. It takes close to three hours to drive to Irvington, the heart of oyster country.

History, hiking and golden sunsets abound in enchanting Harpers Ferry © MarkVanDykePhotography / Getty Images

Hike through Civil War history at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

History and natural beauty are always a winning combo, and few places do it better than Harpers Ferry. Set at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, surrounded by oak-covered mountains, it’s a sight to behold. Plenty of Washingtonians head here to hike one of its many trails. Most notably, the Maryland Heights trail leads to a stunning promontory overlooking the town (and showing why the heights were such a strategic target during the Civil War). The town’s other claim to fame is none other than John Brown, the abolitionist who led his ill-fated raid here in 1859, setting the stage for the Civil War. Be sure to join a walking tour of the arsenal historic area, delving into the dramatic story, and save time for the excellent John Brown Museum. (Tip: Don’t confuse it with the nearby John Brown Wax Museum, unless you’re into eerily kitsch wax figures crowding a rambling old house.)

Getting there: Harpers Ferry is an easy 90-minute drive northwest of DC via I-270 and US 340.

Wineries like Greenhill create a soundtrack of popping corks across Middleburg, Virginia © Barbara Noe Kennedy / Lonely Planet

Sip wine in sophisticated Middleburg, Virginia

DC is a cork’s toss away from hundreds of wineries. There’s no better wine-tasting destination than the beautifully preserved, colonial town of Middleburg, deep in the heart of Virginia horse country. Greenhill (one of the few wineries to offer sparkling wine) and Chrysalis (advocate of the indigenous Norton grape) are both nearby, where tastings, winery tours and picnicking abound amid rolling countryside. Middleburg itself offers one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique shops, the Mount Defiance Cidery and Distillery and the decadent Salamander Resort & Spa. Market Salamander is a favorite spot to pick up picnic supplies, including cheese, charcuterie, soups and salads.

Getting there: Middleburg is about an hour’s drive from DC via I-66 and US 50.

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  • Explore the best of the USA’s monumental capital with Lonely Planet’s Washington, DC guide.

Fab Finds: Bottoms, Toppers, Pullovers and Booties

Shopping with my clients to refresh Autumn and Winter wardrobes is in full swing, and so far we like what we see. The trends are unfolding and we’re making discerning decisions about how to add that next layer of fabness to our wardrobes. Here are some winners in an assortment of price points, items and colours. 

1. Boden Tilda Crew Neck and V-Neck Sweaters

These are AMAZING simple and versatile pullovers across two necklines. Crisp, polished, and one-up-from-basic with the fun button detailing on the cuffs that showcase a contrast colour. They look fabulous UNtucked and semi-tucked. The buttons on the cuff are a little stiff, but will ease up over time. Lots of lovely colours. They layer well under blazers, jackets and coats, are gently fluid and look professional. Good quality. Fabric is cotton rich, machine washable and feels scrumptious against the skin. The Winter white with the navy cuff contrast in the crew neck is mine.

2. White House Black Market Big Skirts

These Modern Retro skirts are dramatic and gorgeous. They have worked on all of my clients who enjoy this type of silhouette. They look best with a short fitted top, or tucked top. It’s a LOT of skirt, so be prepared to make a statement. Runs a size big.

3. Sanctuary Sneaker Chino Pants

Full-length bootcuts are back with a vengeance, and these are AMAZING. The fabric has heft, drapes well, and is a little soft and stretchy. The rise is a fab mid length, and the hems can be shortened. The cut is forgiving and works on a variety of curvier and straighter body types. I committed to these in toffee, and am wearing them with my white SAS sneakers. A very fresh look for most of us.

4. Sanctuary Faux Suede Leggings

If you like to wear leggings, try these. They are comfy, soft, thick, and have length for taller gals. They look more unique than regular spandex leggings. The faux suede has quite a luxe look to it. The brown is a very cool tone.

5. Pilcro High Rise Relaxed Jeans

This is one of the more current silhouettes of jeans with their cropped roomier hems and high rise. They have worked on straighter and curvier body types. Forgiving, good fit, comfortable and great quality. They do not stretch out. The one pair has fun orange piping down the side.

6. Naturalizer Blair Bootie

A simple and extremely comfortable modern classic bootie that works with most pairs of pants and jeans is not to be underestimated. Clean, crisp, polished and smart casual. Comes in wide widths. Might be a little wide on the ankle in larger sizes, but not too bad. These earned a place in my wardrobe in white, and my feet are in love with how they feel with the addition of a good sock. That one inch heel is the bomb, and will work well with my new sneaker chino bootcuts. The toe boxes are pointier and longer in person. I predict these to become instant workhorses, and I’m wearing them right now! The regular width works well for low-volume feet and long toes.

7. Boden Hengrave Coat

A lightweight but WARM coat that is a simple, practical and versatile “throw-on-and-go” style. It’s a gentle cocoon shape with a tailored sleeve that does not run narrow. The funnel neck is excellent for long necks, but can be folded down for shorter necks. The shoulder width is snug, so it might not work well on broad shoulders unless you size up. I adore the smart casual but polished vibe of the aesthetic. As good with high heels as it is with sneakers. Beautifully made, and fun lining. The leopard print skews both cool and warm. It earned a place in my wardrobe as my nod to the animal print trend.

8. Zara Textured Cape Coat

First, fast fashion giant Zara is more sustainable than you might think. This is a lightweight but WARM coat that is in a chic and fun cape silhouette. Modern Retro and dressy. It’s a beautiful soft shade of tan with a hint of blush. The faux fur collar is best on long necks, but can be removed. An excellent topper for over chunky knits and voluminous sleeves. Flattering colour with shades of blonde hair. It may or may not have earned a place in my wardrobe.

OutfitIdeasHQ’s 15 Best Dressed @ The Met Gala 2015

This year’s Met Gala theme is a bit tricky, don’t you think? The theme of the museum is “China: Through the Looking Glass”. There are so many interpretations of it through dresses and we kind of think the others weren’t even “Chinese” enough or just a little bit offensive, per se. But forget about that. We have picked fifteen of our favorite Met Gala 2015 looks. They are all so elegant, fresh and dazzling and it’s going to make you want to buy these gowns yourself.

 

If we were asked to describe RIhanna’s dress by Guo Pei in one word, well, we couldn’t. There are simply just not words describing this one. She looks absolutely stunning in it.

 

We don’t see much of the Olsen twins anymore but when we do, they always look so fashionable, even in casual clothes. They both are in vintage John Galliano for Dior and David Webb accessories such as earrings, brooches and rings.

 

Emma Roberts looks so grown up and classy in this Ralph Lauren gown, Monique Pean three-tier kite-shaped diamond earrings and Edie Parker clutch.

 

Rosie Huntington-Whitely in Versace is a combination of sultry and elegance. She looks so fierce, like she can’t be tamed. The dress is absolutely breath-taking.

 

Is this look too understated for Kim Kardashian? But no worries, she still looks beautiful in this gown by Peter Dundas for Roberto Cavalli. We feel like she will never not be in the best dressed list of these fancy events.

 

Let’s not forget her not-so little sister Kendall Jenner who wore a gown from the Calvin Klein collection. Too sexy for her age? Well, not really.

 

Cara Delevingne, once again, wore trousers to the Met Gala. She’s wearing a Stella McCartney silk duchess embroidered all in one with tattoos by Bang Bang and a perforated gunmetal clutch and black chain link sandals.

 

Georgia May Jagger in a comfortable lilac Gucci silk georgette belter floor length gown with multi-colored floral and birds, which are known to be hand-embroidered in silk threads, glass beads and crystals. The dress looks comfortable enough to sleep in.

 

Poppy Delevingne in a full gown by Marchesa with pretty flowers. It’s the ultimate red carpet look.

 

Behati Prinsloo’s makeup looks a little awkward here but the gown is on fleek. It’s from Tommy Hilfiger.

 

Jennifer Lopez – she flaunts her best ASSet. Nevertheless, she looks perfect in this Versace gown.

 

Miranda Kerr in a custom dress and clutch by Louis Vuitton. The VS angel is wearing Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and Giuseppe Zanotti heels.

 

Lorde looks glowing and happy here wearing Calvin Klein Collection. She’s always too serious and dark in her other red carpet looks but this time, it’s a different look for her and it’s amazing.

 

Gigi Hadid in a striking red Diane von Furstenberg dress.

 

Doesn’t that ponytail look a little bit familiar? Perhaps’ Beyoncé borrowed it from Ariana Grande, but we’re not too sure. Either way, this daring and wild “peek-a-boo” dress is from Givenchy and with her fierceness, she totally rocks this look.

Simple yet effective: the only travel tips you'll ever need

Travel advice, solicited or otherwise, can range from the misguided (‘Don’t eat the street food!’) and well-meaning (‘Don’t go alone’) to the downright mystifying (‘Don’t go there’). Often based on unfortunate-yet-uncommon personal experiences, or worse – no experience at all, there’s a lot of naysaying nonsense out there.

So what do you do if you’re looking for reliable trip tips? Ultimately, you’ll pick it up as you go – but it helps to start with the basics. Most true travel wisdom falls into one of six categories, which we’ve summarised below – and you can find the full gamut of our expert advice in the brand new edition of Lonely Planet’s Best Ever Travel Tips.

Boots, check. Belt, check. Sprig of pine, check © Pinkyone / Shutterstock

Pack like a pro

First, nail down the essentials. Does arriving at the airport only to realise your passport has expired sound like fun to you? Don’t be that guy. Get your documents in order, pre-book anything that will make your trip less stressful (eg parking, transfers, insurance) and store the details in a travel app, or print them out, old-school-style, if you are that way inclined.

When it comes to luggage, packing light is usually preferable. Use a checklist to help you pack. Items will differ depending on the type of trip you’re going on; do you need hostel-hopping essentials, or kit for hiking in the Himalayas? The contents of festival and family beach trip bags will likely look very different – apart from the abundance of wet wipes, of course.

You don’t need megabucks to enjoy Singapore © HTU / Shutterstock

Save money

Did you know that on average, the best time to book a flight is five weeks in advance of travel? This excludes peak holidays, where high demand means you’re better off booking as early as possible.

But before you start splashing the cash, consider your budget and be realistic. Choosing a good-value destination can make the world of difference, but flashy cities like New York, Singapore and even Monaco can be tackled on a shoestring, if you know where to look. And as Lonely Planet staffers know, a budget trip can bring big rewards.

Natural hot springs: perfect for people watching, relaxing and curing achy shoulders © Olinchuk / Shutterstock

Stay safe and healthy

Jet lag, motion sickness, mozzie bites and more – travel can have its health hurdles, particularly if you have kids. Do your research in advance; get the necessary inoculations, don’t cut corners on travel insurance (ie. read the small print) and eat right on the road to ensure you’re protected. You could centre a trip around wellness itself, choosing peaceful pursuits, testing out traditional saunas or joining a local race.

Lost in the middle of nowhere? Another ‘travel fail’ story to add to the bank © Jacob Lund / Shutterstock

Avoid pitfalls

We all make mistakes while travelling. From regrettable packing errors and solo travel mishaps to road trip disasters, trust us, we’ve been there. Scams and thefts do happen, so stay vigilant, hold on to your valuables and be aware of pickpocket tactics, such as pretending to wipe bird poo off your shoulder while they swipe your wallet.

Lentil as Anything, a not-for-profit community restaurant in Melbourne, Australia © Maridav / Shutterstock

Do the right thing

There’s more to responsible travel than reusing your hotel towel. There are myriad ways to do some good for the places you visit and the world as a whole. For starters, choose a truly eco-friendly hotel and a responsible tour operator; consider alternatives to flying such as overnight buses, long-distance trains and car shares, where possible; ditch the plastic and pack environmentally-friendly kit; and give back to local communities by supporting social enterprises.

When it comes to connecting with locals, learning a few phrases in their language never goes amiss, while a genuine smile can get you a long way. Read up on cultural faux pas in your chosen destination and research their tipping etiquette – in some countries tipping is not expected and may even be considered inappropriate.

Focus on the things that matter to make the most out of any trip © Zephyr_p / Shutterstock

Enjoy every minute

Good weather is never guaranteed, but you can aim to travel during the ideal conditions for you. Remember: the best places to go in November are not necessarily the best places to go in April, so read up on weather patterns wherever you’re going and have a backup plan in case Mother Nature refuses to play ball.

If you’re travelling with kids, let them take the reins for a while. If you’re gearing up for a long-term adventure, keep your ‘Big Trip’ worries in check. Whatever it is – taking a digital detox, practising your smartphone photography or sketching your travel experiences – take the time to focus on the things you enjoy and let go of negative thoughts to make the most out of your travels.

Travel tips from our Facebook community

Take a picture of your luggage before checking it in. This makes it easier if it gets lost – Angela Mallon
Make a plan but don’t be afraid to deviate from it. – Paige Belford Authement
Learn even a little bit of the language the locals speak. – Robert Wilson
Don’t wait for ‘one day’. Go NOW! – Amy Griffey

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First published in October 2018.

Link Love: Holiday Medley 2018

We’re continuing our tradition of ringing out the Link Love year with a collection of style-related stories that didn’t quite fit into the themed Link Love posts we published throughout the year, but are worth a look anyway. Enjoy!

  • Monetising Meghan Markle: brands are getting increasingly better at capitalising on what the royal wears immediately after she’s seen out.
  • The New York Times explains why holiday windows still matter.
  • How designers decide what to wear on the runway.
  • Fashionista published an interesting article on the suddenly surging business of recycled plastic puffer jackets.
  • How Uniqlo’s HeatTech took over the world.
  • I’m a fan of The Gentlewoman, a biannual women’s magazine, and enjoyed this profile of the magazine’s editor-in-chief Penny Martin.
  • The Pool asked 7 women aged 25-68 what they think of the term “anti-ageing.”
  • These entrepreneurs are creating a $750 million bra business by exposing Victoria’s Secret’s weakness.
  • In September a New Jersey art teacher announced she would be wearing the same dress for 100 days to show kids how wasteful fasion is.
  • Is artisanal denim the next chapter of Made in Britain?
  • This Racked op-ed explores why “androgyny shouldn’t just be for thin people.”
  • The Atlantic investigates how athleisure conquered modern fashion.

Fab Links from Our Members

Shevia agrees with Robin Givhan’s take on racially charged items at Prada’s SoHo store.

In her “endless quest to have trends like this not be misunderstood on her (what looks hip on the young can look merely clueless on the not-young),” April enjoyed this guide.

SarahD8 wanted to share this article about an interesting intersection of politics and fashion in the US.

Vildy found this article on how premium mediocre conquered fashion quite interesting.

Versatile and Chic Vests for Women to Wear this Fall and Winter

Vests are simply versatile and chic. It doesn’t really matter if you like your vest cropped, long, denim or puffer. Vests are the crowning piece of any outfit regardless of the temperature.

Vests are the simplest way of adding dimension to an outfit and instantly upgrade your ensemble to style star status.

If you want to incorporate vests into your look but don’t know how, below are some vest outfit ideas to try out this season.

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Wear a pastel or light-colored collared vest for a nice business-casual and girly outfit. It will go nicely with cigarette pants and a white button down shirt.

 

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A denim vest is extremely popular on spring and summer but for fall, you can layer them with long-sleeved tops or sweatshirts for a season-appropriate ensemble – not to mention, a cozy outfit for both fall and winter.

 

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A nice tuxedo vest will add structure and edge to your look – making it drab to fab in an instant. It will also make you look sharper, sophisticated and very fancy.

 

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Wear a cargo vest if you want a not-so-feminine look for the day. Some say it’s very masculine for the ladies but it would look really great with a plaid shirt, distressed jeans and ankle boots for fall.

 

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While a puffer vest can make you look bulky, don’t worry. By styling it unzipped with a scarf or a loose cowl sweater, skinny jeans or leggings, it will easily draw the eye downward.

 

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One way of instantly updating your usual crop top and jeans (or shorts) look is by adding a longline vest with them.