travel - Q the Stylist

Spotlight: Ready-Set-Go! Travel Companions

Q the Stylist — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 16:44:07 +0000

I believe Larry David said, “packing is the worst part of going anywhere.” I couldn’t agree more. You must think through anticipatory weather in sometimes unknown destinations/terrain, size and weight restrictions, and the always evolving travel regulations. It’s a reason people enjoy returning to the same place again and again – removing a few variables makes a big difference. It’s also one of the reasons I like road trips so much – you get to leave whenever you want and bring anything you want. You can even bring a blender, which I have.

With all the travel I do and all the packing I do for clients – I should be able to pack for myself in record time, but this is not the… case. 😉 However, I have found a number of items that make packing slightly easier by helping you maximize capacity and organization while preventing wrinkles and temporary insanity.

For any trip longer than three days, I use Knock Knock’s PACK THIS! notepad to help me think through weather, special events, and all the items I may need or want to bring. These few minutes make the task much more manageable. Once my list is done, I put everything I may want to bring on my bed and then edit along the way. I do toiletries first because that is usually/mostly ready to go from the last trip. Outerwear and shoes are next because those take up the most space – and as you may know from working with me – I typically build outfits from the ground up. So once I know what shoes are making the trip, the outfits practically build themselves. Accessories, workout clothes, and pajamas are next, and finally any trip-specific or work-related items.

I put off buying Eagle Creek Pack-IT cubes for a bit because they seemed counterintuitive. How could having more things to pack make it easier? But once I succumbed, I wish I had done it sooner. The Garment Folder L is a game changer for blouses and lightweight knits (pack knits on the bottom). For suitcases and bags, I am always looking for great functionality and design. It has to be comfortable, flexible, high quality, look good, and anything but black is easier to spot. I want something that can be repaired if it takes too many beatings on cobblestone roads or during airport baggage handling. And I’ll only buy a carry-on bag that provides quick access to my laptop, chargers, and a book.

Wherever you go, whatever you pack, hopefully these make great travel companions.

PRODUCTS
(clockwise from top left)

Knock Knock Pack This Note Pad ($12.99)

Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set ($55)

Toiletry Bags:
I like when I can open my toiletries and see it all at once.
These are three great options:
1. Etoile Jet Setter Travel Case ($95)
2. Katadem Travel Bag ($23.99)
3. Lay-N-Go Cosmetic Bag ($29.95)

Not pictured: an additional option for those who like to hang their toiletry bag: State Benson Toiletry Kit ($68)

Away Large Flex 29″ Luggage ($425)
I have the Away Large and very much wish I had bought the Large Flex. I did not buy the Flex because I feared I would constantly be overweight at check-in, but my love of chunky sweaters n e e d s space and they aren’t that heavy. My mistake! FYI – my Away bag did need to be repaired and they were awesome about it.

Arlo Skye 23″ Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket ($395)
Lightweight with a hard exterior. Front pocket fits a 15” laptop, a pullover or scarf, and in-flight essentials. Charges phone in 1-hr with USB-C and -A ports.

Beis 19″ Weekender Bag ($108)
For weekends or extended travel, with a bottom compartment for shoes and extra pockets for a laptop and other travel essentials. Features a trolley-sleeve to fit over a rolling-luggage handle.

The post Spotlight: Ready-Set-Go! Travel Companions appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Spotlight: Get Carried Away

Q the Stylist — Sun, 06 May 2018 18:50:42 +0000

Get Carried Away

I travel a lot. I’ve seen my way through many suitcases and carry-ons. When I moved to New York, I stopped in LA for a full day shopping trip with a client and my carry-on broke upon landing. I had my Uber driver stop at the nearest location for a replacement, and I ended up spending $100 at TJ Maxx for a bag that tipped over if anything was in it. The Maxxinista in me was bummed. It didn’t even hold much to begin with; once my toiletries and a pair of shoes were in, it was full. I decided I would just deal with it until it broke. It never did, and I finally decided it was ridiculous to still have it and upgraded recently.

The main reason I had it for so long was because I didn’t use it that often. Lojel bags won my search for the lightest and best looking and yet still affordable suitcases. So for the past few years, I’ve used either their large or medium suitcase and carried on a men’s black leather duffel that fits everything I need during the flight and all the extra stuff I collect on the road.

Which brings me to Away, hard to ignore with ads all over NYC and mailers to boot, but what sold me was their promise of easier packing. I went with The Bigger Carry-on which has two compartments, one designed for clothes with a compression level, the other for shoes, toiletries, and other hard objects. Genius! And it actually works!! I was able to put way more in this carry-on than I have ever been able to. The bag comes with an ejectable battery that can charge any phone up to 5x – which I wasn’t sure if I would use – but thanks to it, I’m writing this very piece on a flight. And with my schedule, their 100 day “use and abuse” trial is no pressure. My first trip with it was a 3 full day trip to Chicago. Ample space. Even handled all the bounty I bought on a Target escapade.

But the real test was packing for 2 weeks to Portugal (and a few days in Ireland at the end) – I knew my black duffel would handle some novels for the beach, my hat, and my sandals to make it work but I packed last minute (not concise) and it fit everything beautifully. I just landed in Dublin for my connecting flight and spotted my gorgeous colored bag on the carousel immediately. After I threw my knee up to prop the bag… I realized happily, that habit can die now.

Away we go.

_______________

Here is a link for a $20 referral coupon from me!

The post Spotlight: Get Carried Away appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Vogue City

Q the Stylist — Fri, 20 Mar 2015 21:31:26 +0000

Vogue City
Strike a Pose, Here

Vogue has decided that its jet-set readers deserve to have top spots at their fingertips. Launched in February, The Vogue City Directory is a rundown of the most needed services traveling and exciting spots to visit in some of the world’s biggest cities. Those in or traveling to NYC, L.A., Milan, Paris, Shanghai, or London area, can check out the resources immediately, with other cities slated to be added (SF, Chicago, Miami fingers crossed). Go online and select your city, and search through Vogue approved listings for anything from a blow-out to the best croissant or local boutique. You can set up an itinerary as you travel, or use on the go. While it is not an inclusive list of every top place in these top cities, these “secret” places of style influencers are unveiled to all.

The post Vogue City appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Spring Arrives with Sanity and Trends in Tow

Q the Stylist — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 16:55:28 +0000

The weather in NYC finally turned warm on Sunday just as I returned from a chilly weekend in Vermont. That was my second trip to Vermont this winter, as the first was to work with an extremely creative and talented couple to rebuild their wardrobes as they moved into new chapters in their life and work. Boston proved to be a last minute, but great trip. I caught up a client who moved from San Francisco and we had such success at the Nordstrom Rack that they said it was their largest item purchase to date, even garnering a tweet from management. So, though cold in New England, it’s filled with good cheer and warm hearts.

Back in San Francisco in February, I was delighted to see a number of familiar faces where I shopped for seasonal wardrobe updates and created looks ranging from wine-country casual, SF “office”, weddings, gallery openings, bridal showers, vacation trips, 50th birthday parties, and red carpet looks. I created 186 looks on my last visit and I enjoyed every second of it. I love when you send me your photos with the looks in live-action. Keep them coming!

Back in New York, I ran into a few designers I know from SF at the CAPSULE tradeshow that day. It is wonderful to see the San Francisco talent growing.

This Season’s Spice
head-to-toe white
navy instead of black
yellow
gingham
culottes and cropped pants
kimono inspired details
the shirtdress
the 70s: wide legs! suede! fringe!

Look for these Spring trends to see which resonate with your personal style. Continue the work we have begun and make sure it is you, as your best wardrobe is the current representation of your personality, preferences, and lifestyle. After sending my winter coats to be cleaned today, all I know is that I can’t wait to wear a new navy linen one-piece with wide, cropped legs. Trendy, maybe. But me, definitely.

Work With Me

I will be in Chicago April 19-27 and even head down to Indianapolis to work with an author for her upcoming book tour. I’ll be back on the west coast for the last two weeks of May for work in the Bay Area and LA. I hope that helps you plan, but if you know you want to work with me drop me a line so that I can be as accommodating as possible. As always let me know if you need anything in the meantime check my website for my most recent finds.

Lighten Up with Neutrals and Blues

Hers
Gap Leather Bomber, $348
Club Monaco Lillian Fringe Scarf, $99
Balenciaga Ombre 59MM Square Sunglasses, $330
Rebecca Taylor Poplin Shirt with Eyelet Detail, $250
Reiss Pisa Floral Trouser, $230
Kendra Scott Hazel Stud Earrings, $45
Essie Cream Nail Polish in Petal Pushers, $9
Pour la Victoire Zen Slingback Pumps, $100
Sophie Hulme Adjustable Leather Tote, $795
Marc by Marc Jacobs Round Peephole Cuff, $88

His
Steven Alan Optical Breakwater Sunglasses, $195
Folk Navy Vincent Slim-Fit Unstructured Cotton Jacket, $550
Brooks Brothers Saffiano Leather Slim Briefcase, $798
Etiquette Clothiers Abby Stripe Socks, $24
To Boot New York Grant Double Monk Strap Shoe, $227
Tumi Pebble Stitched Reversible Belt, $115
J.Crew Bowery Pant in Cotton-Linen, $88
Daniel Wellington Classic St. Mawes Watch, $230
Club Monaco Slim-Fit Dobby Dress Shirt, $140
Isaia Knitted Silk and Linen Tie, $175

The post Spring Arrives with Sanity and Trends in Tow appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Bella and Bird Makes a Great Gift

Q the Stylist — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:11:39 +0000

Another great add to your holiday shopping list, a six-piece travel set by newly launched Bella and Bird. These ornate sets protect clothing, shoes, and accessories from damage while traveling. You can choose from four different designs and also add personalized embroidery for the extra-special touch. Friends of Q the Stylist receive 20% off entire order before Dec. 10 with free gift box and wrapping.

The post Bella and Bird Makes a Great Gift appeared first on Q the Stylist.

The Eye Has To Travel – Diana Vreeland Biopic

Q the Stylist — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 20:38:09 +0000

The incomparable Diane Vreeland, born in Paris during the Belle Epoque to an American mother and British father and with no formal education, transformed the world of fashion and with it a culture, through her eye and spirit during her time as the Fashion Editor of Harper’s Bazaar. Her life is beautifully depicted in the documentary, “The Eye Has to Travel” playing at the Embarcadero Theater until October 18th.

She introduced her signature style and opinion with the column, “Why Don’t You?” and from the very beginning her Diane’s perspective stood out. She didn’t focus on formal dressing for high society ladies like other magazines and because of that she revolutionized the fashion magazine, giving voice to the new post-war woman. Diane showed how women could express themselves through their clothes, instead of being restricted.

Diane had a very clear concept for every photo shoot she did and was extremely detailed. She never published anything she didn’t love, often making her photographers reshoot multiple times to get it right. Insufferable at times – people loved Diane for her talent, innovation, and for discovering a new phenomenon in every fashion editorial.

After 26 successful years at Harper’s Bazaar, she continued her work at Vogue for nine years as Editor-in-Chief. She ended her career leading the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

“I think part of my success as an editor came from never worrying about a fact, a cause, an atmosphere. It was me — projecting to the public. That was my job. I think I always had a perfectly clear view of what was possible for the public. GIVE ‘EM WHAT THEY NEVER KNEW THEY WANTED.” -Diana Vreeland

Get your ticket to “The Eye Has to Travel” here.

The post The Eye Has To Travel – Diana Vreeland Biopic appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Treasures From a Far Away Land

Q the Stylist — Tue, 01 May 2012 01:30:04 +0000

Bali is known for its batik fabric made by using traditional methods. First the pattern is hand drawn on to the fabric with wax and then the fabric is dyed. This is done repeatedly until they get the color and pattern they desire.

Another thing Bali is famous for is woven fabric that is made on a loom, especially the ikat pattern. I learned how these beautiful fabrics are made and all of the lengthy steps necessary to make one.

Bali also produces all of the jewelry in the Indonesian market. People in Bali have the best skill to make these items so all of the raw material from the other Indonesian islands are sent there to be made. All of the detailed work is done by hand, hardly any machines are used!

At the silver workshop I was able to see how certain items are made. The video shows a ring, a bracelet, earrings, and pendants. There is also an option to make your own jewelry under professional guide. I didn’t get a chance to create a piece this time, so a return trip is a must!

Below is a video of my experience at Artika’s art shop and Legong fine art of Batik. I hope you enjoy it. Until next time Bali!

The post Treasures From a Far Away Land appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Where in the world is Q the Stylist?

Q the Stylist — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:36:41 +0000

Dreamland Beach

Today I’m off on an overdue and highly anticipated honeymoon. We were married last May over an incredible weekend in Palm Springs. During the wedding preparations the honeymoon was long talked about, but never planned. The tropical South Pacific destination known for it’s incredible beaches, friendly people, and beautiful crafts wasn’t settled on until this January. And as I write this, I’m wondering if deciding on a location might be the only New Year’s resolution I’ve ever kept!

We waited through the first few months of this year to allow the rainy season to pass. And now, with less than 24 hours to go – the 10 day forecast still predicts rain nearly everyday. But I could care less!

Bali, see you tomorrow!!

The post Where in the world is Q the Stylist? appeared first on Q the Stylist.

Shop/Give. At the same time. Now, didn’t I just make your life easier?

Q the Stylist — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 06:52:14 +0000

If you travel- at ALL… you have to know about Give. Give is a fabulous collection of travel accessories that marries the concept between fashion, function, and philanthropy seamlessly – a portion of the net profits is donated to designated charities. Founded by designer Christine Valenti in April of 2004, the company took off quickly, with rave reviews from local, national and international magazines and a celebrity following that includes Christina Ricci, Rachel Bilson, Samaire Armstrong, Jessica Alba and Sheryl Crow to name a few.

This week Marina boutique, Two Skirts, is hosting a special event with Give to benefit the San Francisco Parks Trust. Since the Founder, Christine, is a San Francisco local, I would have to assume that she enjoys digging her toes into the grass around SF as much as she enjoys traveling with her accessories. All I know is that I sure am glad she keeps her feet planted firmly on the ground, yet knows her way around a small overhead compartment. See you there!!

The post Shop/Give. At the same time. Now, didn’t I just make your life easier? appeared first on Q the Stylist.