I’m sure that there are countless people out there who would never travel with jewelry, for fear of being a target for thieves. But me? You should know me well enough by now that I don’t go anywhere without jewelry! (except perhaps the shower…) Granted, I won’t bring my better pieces to certain places, but I will be adorned in some way, shape or form on each and every trip.
Getting your baubles from point A to point B with ease is easier than you might think. The first and MOST important rule is to carry your jewelry with you. Never put it in a checked bag, or you may not have your lovelies with you when you land. There are many products made for travel which are really quite convenient. I recently got this one made by Cathayana for a client in a local travel shop. (This is another cool version that you can hang as well.)
Jewelry travel roll
It has a good amount of storage space in various sizes, and I like how the sheer pockets allow you to see what you’ve got with you, as well as adding a nice layer of protective fabric for when it’s rolled closed.
travel bag-inside
A peek at what’s inside
The one thing that organizers like this often don’t have room for are the larger bangles or over-sized necklaces. For these, I usually tuck them into a small clutch or evening bag. It’s something I would bring on the trip anyway, so why not use it for a dual purpose? Here’s what I often use:
Small bag I use to carry bangles & over-sized necklaces
A final concern are those long, thin necklaces that invariably get tangled no matter what you do. I’ve got the solution for you! First, take a piece of paper towel that’s about the same length as your necklace. Lay your necklace down near one edge of the paper towel.
Next step…lay your necklace on the paper towel
Next, carefully roll the necklace up in the towel.
Finally, fold up this roll and put it into a baggie for tangle-free travel.
I hope you find these hints helpful. Enjoy your next trip while looking fabulously accessorized!
Divas who love Chanel, Prada, Celine, YSL and other top designers have a new place to shop online for great deals – The RealReal. The RealReal, a refined, stylist-curated designer consignment store, opened its doors for sales. Fashion items are sold as flash sales – offering the consumer 72 hours to take advantage of great deals.
All items on The RealReal are hand-selected by stylists across the U.S. under the direction of Marcy Carmack, Creative Director and Co-Founder. “I love great deals, beautiful designer clothing and helping women make the right choices for their wardrobe. The RealReal embodies all.” Ms. Carmack is a well-known stylist in the San Francisco Bay Area. Trained in New York City, Ms. Carmack is applying her fashion expertise to make sure that all items on The RealReal are of the finest quality and are authentic.
The RealReal offers luxury designer items for sale for 72 hours at a deep discount off of the original price. All items in the 72-hour sale have been authenticated and approved by a team of stylists. The designer items offered in the 72-hour sale are in excellent condition; some have never been worn.
The RealReal also offers items for sale on a continuous basis in its warehouse sale. The warehouse sale will carry secondary lines and designer items that have slight imperfections.
Consignment Gets Easy and Fun
“We are making it easy for women to find the best deals on beautiful designer fashion and we are making it extremely easy for consignors to work with us,” said Julie Wainwright, co-founder and CEO.
It is easy to consign with The RealReal.com. The company is offering consignors 70% of the selling price if you consign before September 1. Call The Real Real on their toll-free number at (855) 435-5893 during business hours and a stylist at The RealReal will schedule a UPS pick-up of the items. Or a consignor can fill out a form online and send in their items for sale. San Francisco Bay Area consignors fair even better as stylists working with The RealReal will pick up items at your home or office.
Join today and get a special DIVA DISCOUNT of 10% off your order when you purchase between now and August 31st. Just enter the coupon code: 10% when signing up.
October is the perfect month to embrace all things noir, edgy and provocative. Wear it in fur – one of season’s strongest trends – and you’re set for the season.
More for the feet, Alexander Wang’s goat fur boots with a fringe of mane that might even make you think of packing a brush for yourself and your boots (for needed touch-ups, of course).
If fake fur is more your style, try a KTZ trapper hat in white tipped black faux fur.
Creepy, but creepy-cool, is the human hair zip necklace by Bitching and Junkfood. For those home crafters (etsy anyone?)… I can just imagine.
As New York, London and Milan attract fashion-conscious moguls from around the world this month, Madrid’s own Cibeles Fashion Week, which ended on Wednesday, showcased the very best of Spanish designers. The Spanish fashion industry is beginning to gain major traction on the world stage, with designers such as Adolfo Dominguez, Victorio & Luccino and Ana Locking being increasingly noticed. The opening was attended by Princess Letizia, Spanish Royalty who easily gives Carla Bruni or Michelle Obama a run for their money in the fashion stakes. With 40 different collections on display, here are some of the highlights, main trends and designers to watch out for from Madrid Fashion Week.
Up-and-coming designers
The Ego is a new creation of Madrid Fashion Week, an opportunity for ten new designers to display their collections among more established brands. First up was Beba’s Collection, designed by Belén Barbero, who focused on floaty, simple dresses with sharp lines in turquoise, lime green and bright red. Similar colours were found in the Cati Serrá collection by Catalina Serrá Coll, this time using more translucent and playful materials and cuts, including playsuits, shorts and cutaway dresses, with models balanced on stacked platform sandals. Maya Hansen, whose dramatic gowns with their fitted bodices and floaty skirts were topped with tall up-dos, won the L’Oreal prize of 6000 euros, while Cruz Castillo featured printed silk T-shirts and dresses with asymmetric cuts.
Big Names
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, one of the biggest names in Spanish fashion, lived up to expectations with her eccentric collection of neon coloured, over-the-top dresses, adorned with plastic balls, asymmetric goggles and her signature hearts – think a Spanish Vivienne Westwood. Adolfo Dominguéz, whose designs were worn by Princess Letizia on the first day, evoked a glamorous art deco vibe with a space age edge: his flowing dresses, worn by models with Grace Kelly-style swept back hair, included cut outs and geometrical shapes which revealed a little more flesh. This space-age theme continued in the Amaya Arzuaga collection, who stood out for her geometric shapes and armour-like breast plates, detailed with stripes and bright pops of red.
Ones to watch
Elisa Palomino was the big name on everyone’s lips this week. Formerly a designer for Dior, John Galliano and currently at Diane Von Furstenburg, the Valencian designer’s debut collection under her own name was filled with cascades of petals, ruffles and standout red flowers. The Duyos collection was also notable, not just for its eye-popping colours and watercolour prints, but also for its use of models in their sixties alongside the usual teenage waifs. Hannibal Laguna meanwhile seemed to take a hint from the new Darren Aronofsky film, with his “Black Swan” collection heavily featuring dramatic black lace and jewel tones, creating volume with tulle and draping.
Overall, the main trends for Spring/Summer 2011 showed that designers veered from one extreme or another – no room for middle ground here. Colours were either muted or brassy – some designers stuck to pale pinks, beiges and cream shades, while others favoured bold reds, oranges, greens and turquoises. Drapery and ruffles proved popular, pointing to a more romantic look, while a military and even space age aesthetic pervaded various other collections. What’s clear is that these fresh, innovative designs mean that the Spanish fashion industry truly deserves its growing reputation.
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Lindsey Ford is a writer and translator who splits her time between London and Madrid. She can currently be found blogging about Madrid hotels, restaurants and other helpful tips at SubwayHotels.com.
I have an inexplicable fear of insects … to the extent I can barely dispose of one unless I am faced with the realization that if I don’t, it might very well crawl into my bed at night and take a bite. Contrast this to my Mother who has a “pet” spider who has taken up residence in her shower and who scoops up found insects in her bare hands. Ewwww, it’s enough to make one’s skin crawl…at least mine.
Knowing I have no predilection for insects, it surprises even me that when it comes to accessories: I swing the other way. I have been amassing bug- and spider-themed accessories for years. Every season – whether ladybugs or spiders — insects have persevered in fashion. In the recent past, we saw butterflies in the 1980s with Dolce and Gabbana taking the lead. The motif persists for the brand today. In this very column about a month ago I covered the Academy of Art’s student exhibition that featured some outstanding and excessive bug-centric garments. This season I am seeing some extreme (see above for an ant crawling experience) as well as beautiful options.
photo credit: japanprobe.com
Not a modern day phenom, Egyptians embellished jewelry with scarabs and often depicted the beetles as pushing the sun along its course in the sky… an ode to the Sun God Ra. In Japan, Samurai warriors adorned their armor with dragonflies as symbols of strength and bravery. But it was the beetle that was prized and remains so to present day. Recently, I read about the annual summer bug season in Japan where they sell bugs everywhere — from grocery to hardware stores. It’s a status symbol and a national obsession. The commonly found beetles live but a few months and can be purchased for less than five dollars a pair, but the more majestic beetles with long mandibles run in the thousands of dollars and force some connoisseurs to seek bank loans.
Bottega Veneta is having its own Beetlemania this season and it’s worth taking note. These fine specimens are an easy way to get on the bug-wagon for fall. You can be sure that imitation will be sure to follow at lower price points.
The dung beetle, seeing its child on the wall, thinks it sees a pearl on a thread. ~ Arabic
Whether you’re roughing it or relaxing in a hotel, traveling can take a toll on your hair. Specifically, how dirty it can get! In between the beach, sightseeing, nightlife, and shopping, your hair can get unpleasantly greasy. But who has time to get back to the hotel when new opportunities present themselves around every corner?
Dilemma solved: dry shampoo.
While not a new concept, companies are still trying to perfect the dry shampoo product. Some are too stiff, some are too weak, but some can be just right. Some finds that got it right:
Best Powder: ALTERNA CAVIAR Anti-Aging Dry Shampoo
Powder can be messy, but its effectiveness in absorbing oil is undeniable. This formula is gentle on hair and noticeably improves softness after use. If you have hair that needs long-lasting help between washes, this dry shampoo is a good option, especially while traveling, as it’s packaged in a small bottle. And it smells good, too!
Best Invisible Sprays: Salon Grafix Dry Spray Shampoo
This shampoo spray is clean, easy-to-use, and invisible. It works for all hair types because it’s a lightweight spray. For curly or styled hair, powder can be hard to comb out or disguise, so this works well when you need some freshness to your style without having to completely re-do your do! They also offer an invisible dry spray conditioner to moisturize hair when parched from soaking up the sun.
Kevin Murphy Fresh Hair Dry Cleaning Spray Vogue stated that Kevin Murphy is the one who invented the iconic “beach hair” look (a travelers signature look, no?). This spray kept my hair soft and fresh. Antioxidant rich, paraben free, and for every can sold a financial contribution is given towards reducing global carbon emissions. So shake well, and be fresh!
Best for On-the-Go: Batiste dry shampoo original, On-the-go size
Excellent at absorbing oil, but not invisible. This is best for women who have no problem brushing through their hair after spraying (i.e. straight, un-styled hair). It makes your hair perky and soft, but I love how you can keep it in your purse for touch-ups anytime, anywhere.
Best Alternative:
“Cornstarch! I swear. I use it almost weekly to extend the time between washes. Cheap, natural, throw it in a small bottle for travel. It is my miracle secret. One diva to another.” Kate Horan, Tango Diva Style Blogger
Pickpocketing is a major problem in certain cities. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the land, it’s important to prepare yourself. As women, one of the best ways to avoid theft is (as silly as it sounds) accessorize correctly! Certain purses can make you more of a target.
Check out this pickpocket-proofing article for tips, suggestions, and Tango Diva discounts on featured purses! Happy (and safe) travels!!
Summer travel is particularly hard on feet. Liberated of socks and the protection of boots, peds are front and center and therefore demand attention. Besides, most likely you packed a great pair of vacay sandals with high hopes of adventure. Do those sandals justice and assemble this survival “foot kit.” You’ll find yourself in good standing.
My good pal gifted me with the PedEgg and – I must admit – I was skeptical as I peered at what reminded me of the goose egg-sized shells from the 70s that held supermarket pantyhose (maybe they’re still around?). The PedEgg, actually closer to the size of a duck egg, removes calluses, rough spots and dry skin for smooth civilized feet. It has more than 135 stainless steel precision micro-files that are not unlike a small cheese grater. The marketing materials claim it’s so gentle it “won’t even bust a balloon” (not put to the test by this writer). It fits into the palm of your hand and a storage compartment collects the shaving debris so you can use it anywhere with no mess. While I’m not recommending this sort of grooming should be done outside of the bathroom, this actually does give you some mobility. Note: held at a particular angle, the shavings do fall out. Measures 4″ L x 2 1/4″ W x 1 1/2″ D. Priced from 7-13 dollars at various retailers and online.
Summer begs for painted toes yet it’s a challenge to keep up polish over a several day trip, let alone a few weeks abroad. Paint & Peel takes half the hassle out of the equation by simplifying removal. This product requires no nail polish remover when the time comes to change your polish. Two coats are needed for complete coverage. Paint & Peel is a “Big 3-Free” formulation which means it is free from Formaldehyde, Toluene and Phthalates. It is also free of the remaining cancer-linked ingredients still found in standard polish. For longer wear, either apply a new coat of polish daily or use a base and topcoat (though may make it more difficult to remove). My color choice: Dove … a neutral gray/taupe color that will carry through fall. (Heavy on the bird references, I know.)
While the aforementioned nail polish negates the need for this product, the Girl Scout in me always wants to be prepared. Tuck a few Cutex Nail Polish Remover Pads in your nail kit for good measure. Individually wrapped pads soaked in nail polish remover get the job done and there is no danger of spillage (disastrous considering the strong chemicals). One pad removes nail polish for ten nails.
Scaly and chalky looking heels will detract from all the hard work you’ve devoted thus far. Shea it isn’t so has the trifecta of ingredients: shea butter to moisturize; avocado oil to condition; and eucalyptus extract to refresh and cool. Apply after bathing or at night, before bed. Feet will not only look but also feel better.
Also in my travel kit:
Washcloth. I wash my feet nightly after a day of open shoe walking and nothing does the job better than a washcloth. Interestingly, my international travel often takes me to Italy and I find washcloths are seldom available. The washcloth not only removes dirt but also exfoliates which is the perfect preparation for realizing maximum benefits from a moisturizer.
Emery Boards.
Perhaps an obvious but I always bring several. Indispensable for maintaining nail shape and smoothing out breaks and peels.
I’m a multi-tasker. Aren’t you? Dodge a bullet, spin plates on sticks, keep an eye on the ball, hop up and down on one leg and smile all the while. It’s expected of us these days, and we’ve dutifully risen to the occasion. We must to survive in our fast-paced, changing environment… and as women, we’re the best at it.
Should we expect any less of the items we so carefully chose to pack in our ever-shrinking suitcase? Absolutely not. I have always sought out travel items that do double-duty. Hair conditioner I use as shaving cream; belts that can be worn as necklaces; pareos that transition from sand to dance floor; scarves that serve as a hair accessory, a makeshift top or an arm sling after a tumble on cobblestones (check out this great instructional video starring very clever founder of Splendora for six ways to tie a scarf).
As a sundress with sandals and a straw hat, or shimmy it down to your hips as a skirt with a breezy top or tank. Winterize it with a heavy sweater or turtleneck, a wide leather belt and boots and it’s carried you into another season. Material is cotton/rayon/spandex.
Brilliant solution for anywhere, anytime. Moves from day to night, casual to dressy. Accessorize with flats to heels, jean jacket to sequined wrap. Layer with a thin jersey top (as shown) or under a structured jacket for business.
The dress morphs into at least six different styles. The jersey fabric is ideal for packing and provides a flattering drape.
Victoria’s Secret introduced a “7-in-1″ dress that gives Donna Karan a run for her money, coming in at a fraction of the cost. Same concept and an array of available colors (pictured above in red, green, fuchsia and black),
This active-fit pant (read: close to the body) has two hand pockets, one back hook and loop pocket and one side-zip security pocket. The pant legs zip off just above the knee to transform to a longer length short. Synthetic fabric wicks away moisture and has a UPF of 50 to provide sun protection.
Wear them as pants with athletic or walking shoes, zip off the legs, add heels and a sequined tank and you’re set for a night out.
Two styles are currently shown on the website — this red bucket tote and the fold over. Both are convertible and reversible to an alternative color.
But my favorite for function is the more roomy, backpack to shoulder bag which debuts in August. Made of nylon, it’s all-weather and seasonless, easy to pack, provides numerous pockets and storage and can be wiped clean. I see this making its way on a back along the cliffs of the Cinque Terre and then over the shoulder shopping through Portofino.
A chain belt has been one of my travel staples for more than 10 years. Slung around the waist with a bikini, Ciao Capri! It’s the perfect accent for jeans or skirts and worn long around the neck it can up the style quotient on a simple button down blouse.
Double-wrapped it makes a chunky, more substantial statement and balances a shift dress. If the chain has a secure clasp, it can also be wrapped multiple times around the wrist for maximum impact. One piece, many looks.
With the “what to wear” part of your trip figured out, you can now focus on what to do.
As consumers, we are quickly moving from a group that pushes carts to one that pushes computer keys.
Online shopping, in some categories, has usurped the bricks and mortar experience: think movie rentals and travel. Consumers opt to buy online for convenience, price and broad product selection. With the present economic downturn, price has come to the forefront as the driving force for online shopping.
Shopping online for deals: How low can prices go?
For those who have made the transition to online consumerism, obtaining a promotional code is the Grail Sangraal of Internet shopping … ensuring the lowest possible price on the purchase being made. Offered by retailers, those short strings of numbers and/or letters are proffered to thank consumers for past patronage, as a promotional offer or to make amends for a service problem. Promo codes most often come in the form of a discount or free shipping. The downside is that they are bestowed upon us at the retailer’s whim and tend to appear post-purchase. They are only of use if we plan to return to the retailer to purchase again, and usually within a limited time window. Bottom-line: we are not in control.
Ever the deal hunter, I was thus intrigued when I learned about CurrentCodes.com. Touted as a clearinghouse for promotional codes, it follows more than 2,000 top retailers – everything from fashion and computers to travel and food – and offers timely and accurate lists of coupon and discount codes. The site also lists sales and other discounts that are in effect at the retailers it follows. Now, with some sleuthing, the “control” shifts back to the consumer.
According to CurrentCodes, when the site launched and began sharing promo codes with the public, retailers resisted. Promotional codes are a marketing and customer service tool and there was a logical desire by the retailers to control distribution and usage. However, once the benefits became evident – increased traffic to their sites and a measurable uptick in sales – CurrentCodes was seen an ally. Now, mega-stores such as Amazon.com and Overstock.compay CurrentCodes for every customer who links to their website from CurrentCodes and makes a purchase. The site also receives a certain percent of the amount spent. The customer saves money, and both CurrentCodes and the retailer make money.
A visit to the site on July 5 – with fashion as my focus – found promo discount codes at numerous retailers, including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Bloomingdale’s, BlueFly, Chico’s, Gap and Saks Fifth Avenue. The site is easy to navigate: browse by merchant, alphabetically, or by category. A quick Google search uncovered additional sites such as promotionalcodes.com, RetailMeNot.com, CouponCabin.com and DealHunting.com and using similar parameters (women’s fashion) found Calvin Klein, Linea Pelle, Kate Spade, Steve Madden and many others.
Now if only I can locate a code for that cute Pucci handbag….
is clean, easy-to-use, and invisible. It works for all hair types because it’s a lightweight spray. For curly or styled hair, powder can be hard to comb out or disguise, so this works well when you need some freshness to your style without having to completely re-do your do! They also offer an invisible dry spray conditioner to moisturize hair when parched from soaking up the sun.
! I swear. I use it almost weekly to extend the time between washes. Cheap, natural, throw it in a small bottle for travel. It is my miracle secret. One diva to another.” 
I wash my feet nightly after a day of open shoe walking and nothing does the job better than a washcloth. Interestingly, my international travel often takes me to Italy and I find washcloths are seldom available. The washcloth not only removes dirt but also exfoliates which is the perfect preparation for realizing maximum benefits from a moisturizer.
