“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.” – Anais Nin
The next summer wardrobe/packing essential is the blouse, the shirt and the tees; the “top it off” pieces that mix and match and create the outfits.
I have three styles in my pack and they include the classic style man’s shirt either slim fitting or over-sized, a peasant/off-the-shoulder relaxed bohemian blouse and a selection of basic tee shirts.
These three take me everywhere and anywhere, they don’t take up too much space in the suitcase and most importantly they look good.
Tops are the hardest pieces to get right.
The shape, the fullness of fabric and the length can make or break an outfit; it is the same with tees. The height and shape of the neck and the length of the sleeve or the quality of the fabric and the amount of stretch can mean the difference between comfort and misery.
The wrong tee-shirt, the one that is too tight around the middle or that gapes at the neckline, makes me cranky. Silly I know, in the scheme of things, but it is the truth. I have spent more hours finding a tee shirt I like than any black tie gala dress or elaborate accessory.
Give me shoes and bags any day.
The beauty of these three to “top it off” is the way they can transform a pair of pants or a skirt in seconds.
A tee or a tailored shirt worn under the linen jacket with a pair of capris ticks the elegant box immediately; throw those off, add the bohemian blouse and the look is totally relaxed. A skirt, midi or knee length and a simple tee is a stylish look when worn with a pair of lace-ups or flats.
The suitcase is starting to fill; we have the jacket, a simple black dress and the “top it off” pieces. The summer is beginning and all we need are some fabulous destinations.
My summer is more about dreaming than travelling far this year but when I do, I know exactly what I am wearing. xv
Three to Top It Off
bohemian style
free people best button front // madewell embroidered // ramy brook paris neck // kobi halperin embroidered
man shirt
eileen fisher big easy // eileen fisher linen // rag & bone cotton // equipment silk // equipment stripe // elsie striped cotton tunic
the tee
eileen fisher cotton tee // eileen fisher silk tee // gap linen tee // gap modern tee
**Save The Date**
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is kicking off for those who have card accounts. It is the best sale of the year and worthwhile to be an account holder. I wish I could; you can apply here.
images louis vuitton and the spirit of travel
