TOP TEN – AT HOME & AWAY

This week’s Top Ten is inspired partially by what I observed on a recent visit to Copenhagen. The weather was pleasantly warm and fortunately void of summer heat, so the looks that caught my eye leaned more transitional. As expected, jeans (loose and relaxed) anchored the majority of outfits followed by long dresses and flats. New Balance sneakers were worn with everything by both men and women, young and old. I packed my 990‘s and they got plenty of wear. When a sneaker wasn’t worn, its replacement was a Birkenstock sandal…again men and women, young and old. Interestingly, the only shop in Copenhagen with a line to get in was the Birkenstock store.

The outfits that carried the most cache for me were ones that looked effortlessly pulled together in a classic but unexpected way. The formula was based on pairing a tailored piece (trouser, pencil skirt) with a simple tank or tee, then anchored with one of the above mentioned casual flats. There’s a practicality element in how to dress when navigating a city by bike or walking on cobblestone streets. That’s where the practical sturdy shoes come in, but a low heeled sandal could dress up these looks in a breeze. (Lots of options below.) Pearls and layered gold necklaces seemingly tossed on without care added an interesting contrast. The overall look was polished but undone which appeared to be achieved with ease.

Add these pieces to your summer packing list. They’re classics to wear at home or away.

1. Tank Top: A summer staple. I prefer ribbed or thick cotton so the piece can stand on its own if needed. Best cuts for me are from AGOLDE, CDLP, and COS.
2. Nili Lotan White Poplin Shirt: An oversized shirt is key for layering. I always pack at least one for any urban travel. It works as a casual, lightweight jacket over a tank, but can be dressed up – tucked in or tied at the waist. A shirt also steps in as a cover up if the sizing is generous. Definitely pack white, with a stripe option as an alternative. This one from Nili Lotan is a beautiful shade of blue. And this one from COS is a price friendly buy.
3. Sportmax Trousers: I love a good trouser for travel! Depending on destination and climate, the perfect pair could be in a lightweight wool, soft cotton or relaxed linen. I packed a pair of oversized black linen pants from Farm Rio and wore them numerous times day and night. They are very oversized, but so comfortable and chic.
4. Allesandra Rich Straight Skirt: This piece falls in line with my new maxi obsession. I loved seeing it styled on the street with sneakers, Birkenstocks, ballet flats and low heeled pumps. With a tank top and denim jacket for day, or a tucked in shirt and pearls for night, it has loads of versatility. I just bought this one on sale (50% off on Net-A-Porter) and can’t wait to try the fit. Frankie Shop has a price friendly option if you want to test drive the silhouette. Additionally, if a maxi length is not your thing, the silhouette in a shorter length works beautifully too.
5. New Balance Sneakers: The most visible brand on the street in a wide variety of styles – preferably in white or pale shades. Mytheresa has a very good edit if it’s overwhelming to make a selection. My favorites are the 550, 990 and the 2002R. I like to walk everywhere when I travel and have put miles on with my sneakers.
6. Birkenstock Big Buckle Sandal: I was trying to kick my Birkenstock obsession, but no, they’re just so perfect for travel. I packed a pair in black and they’ve now had five or six rounds in Europe. I can’t part with them. I added a pair of Big Buckle Arizonas in gold to my collection and am wearing them as a neutral. My current favorites are from the High Shine collection in Army Green , Black, Chocolate, and Butter.
7. The Row Heeled Sandal: A pair of low heel sandals always make it in my suitcase for the times I want to dress up an outfit. I opt for a chunky or block heel that can manage uneven cobblestone streets. This style from Ferragamo is excellent. I like a strap at the ankle for extra security.
8. Loewe Mini Hamock Handbag: Simple, understated and versatile…that’s what I want in a travel bag. Loewe’s Hammock fits the bill. The mini intrecciato from Bottega has been a long time favorite too. Other suggestions below.
9. Toteme Hat: I brought both bucket hats and caps on my trip. The cap had more wear and felt a little more sporty this round. The fit on Toteme’s cap is outstanding and I’m considering buying it in another color. Low key, subtle logo, well made, what more could I want?
10. Jennifer Behr Pearls: I wish I had this double strand of long pearls with me last month on vacation. I’d have worn them with tees and tanks or dresses for night. Incredibly versatile and a little less serious than a perfectly matched set. I’d love it doubled up and worn close to the neck too.