As I look out my window, all I see is muddied snow and a deceitful patch of ice that brought me to my behind, not once, but twice this week. With the holidays behind us and the warm weather nowhere in sight, times feel pretty bleak. However, for myself and I’m sure many of you, the tiny light at the end of the never-ending tunnel is the well-deserved vacation I have planned. As I mentally pack my suitcase, I can’t help but think about and become mildly infuriated by the stereotype of the American tourist. Why must people travel in sneakers and sweatpants, or even worse – the velour jumpsuit? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style, and you most certainly do not have to pack your entire wardrobe to look great (though I fall fault to this quite often). Here are some of my favorite travel staples that defy that horrid stereotype. 
I recently made the mistake of wearing a heavy coat with an even heavier fur collar to the airport. By the time I got to security I thought I was experiencing early menopause. In retrospect I should have worn my trusty trench coat. This versatile staple keeps me warm enough outside, yet can be worn inside without ruining a perfectly good hair day. This JNBY Paddle Trench Coat has an incredibly cool, understated military vibe to it. 
Unless it’s snowing out, I will almost always travel in a pair of ballet flats. These looks great with everything from jeans to shorts to dresses. My brand loyalty is to French Sole. Not so ironically, the “Passport Flat” is my favorite for traveling – I can
walk around cities for hours in these. They are truly the best.
Though I’m tall enough that I don’t necessarily need a heel for height, I think a couple of inches can make the world of difference in appearance. These Coclico boots add height and sophistication to any outfit, yet the heel is barely noticeable and thus incredibly comfortable.
While I’m a bad handbag junkie and usually pack at least three, I find that more often than not, I never take my wallet out of the first. This Malene Birger tote on Sabot is large enough to carry all your needs on the plane, yet chic enough to wear around. I often need a bright color to spice up my look, which is why I also 
love this red Jerome Dreyfuss Bag.
Although I live in my dark skinny jeans
most of the time, I will admit that they are not the most comfortable on a six-hour plane ride. And although I am usually against the idea of “jeggings” (a cross between jeans and leggings) I have to say that they are genius for long plane rides. These Kollins Trousers are Italian made with all the features of a real pant, but with the comfort of a legging.
By far the most versatile piece you can pack is this Gunex fitted capsleeve boatneck dress found on Taigan‘s G. Gilbert. 
It never wrinkles so you can throw it in your bag, and can also wear it casually during the day or dress it up at night through all seasons of the year. Add some texture and pattern with this featherweight cashmere oblong scarf which is small enough you can stuff in your bag if you need to.
Luckily for product junkies, we don’t have to sacrifice on quality if we want travel-size bottles. Frederic Fekkai makes an incredible Technicolor Travel Set, complete with a carrying case so you wont have to worry about leaking. 
And finally, very few things are more taxing on skin than traveling, so be sure to take care of yourself with this Obagi Nu- Derm travel set.
So next time you are packing, forgo your favorite sneakers, and pack a happy medium between comfort and style. Bon Voyage!
