Traveling in Style
We lived in London for two years before moving to Chicago, and in that time we probably took 20 flights (around ten were transatlantic) with our new baby. My main focus was keeping my daughter content, so I dressed primarily for comfort (and nursing), and it wasn't pretty: worn yoga pants, a nursing top and sneakers. My daughter was a good traveler, but I always felt like I was on high alert and could never completely relax. By the time we arrived at our destination, I was exhausted, and looked like I had run a marathon. These days, with older kids and lots of flight time under our belts, I can actually dress like an adult, and arrive feeling more relaxed and put together. On our upcoming warm weather family getaway, I plan on wearing my favorite classic Cambridge blazer from Two Penny Blue, a big, cozy scarf, comfortable jeans, my softest striped shirt from Chance, and flats on the plane. It's taken about five years to get to this stage!
Counting down the days to sand and sun...
1. J. Crew jeans 2. Lanvin flats 3. Hermes Rivale bracelet 4. Two Penny Blue Cambridge blazer 5. Chance boatneck shirt 6. Kelly Wearstler sky marble scarf
CATEGORIES: Kids and family
Traveling with young children
As Spring Break approaches, I thought I would share some tips on traveling with children. It can be daunting, so I've learned a few simple ways to prepare that have helped take some of the stress out of the getaway. My husband books a seat on one side of the aisle, and I normally sit between our kids (as a nervous flier, I need have my children close), so the pressure is on me to keep everyone quiet, content and occupied. I put together a "travel kit" full of a few lightweight items so there is something new for the kids to play witih during the flight (and I never show them until we're on the plane). It's normally a mixture of things that are all easy to find and inexpensive - little games, figurines, notecards, coloring books, and triangular crayons that won't roll off the tray. I get the same, or very similar, items for each child so there is no competitiion or complaining, and I always give each child their own bag. I pack a bag full of healthy snacks (enough for a family of 10 in case of delays), comfort toys, some soft blankets for snuggling and napping, a small stack of light books, an iPad as a last resort, and these headphones (with a volume limit, so they are safe for kids). It sounds like a lot, but it all fits nicely inside a large boat bag that slides under the seat in front of me. I also keep a pack of potty mitts in my bag for the kids bathroom breaks. They don't take up any space, and they keep little hands clean. It's impossible to feel like you have clean hands after washing them in an airplane sink, so these give an extra layer of protection.
Here are some things that kept our crew (3 and 6 years) happy and relaxed on our last flight....
coloring books, notecards, triangular crayons that won't roll off the tray, stickers, puzzles and small toys.
One well-labeled bag for each child. Every item was inexpensive and simple, but it did the trick!
CATEGORIES: Kids and family
Oscar Fashion, by Tina
The Oscars are my Super Bowl. Or rather, the E! red carpet is. This year, the ladies did not disappoint. It was difficult to pinpoint a worst dressed - there was no Bjork moment. There were many very well dressed stars but Naomi, Jessica and Charlize were my favorites! Naomi Watts in gunmetal Armani Prive looked spectacular. From the hair, to the make-up, to the perfect fitting dress, she rocked it. Jessica Chastain also in Armani Prive looked beautiful. The dressed matched her hair and the pop of red on her lips was all she needed to avoid looking washed out. She glowed! It was by far her best look this entire awards season. Charlize Theron looked like a goddess in white Dior. The cut of the dress was elegant and right for her body. In contrast, Jennifer Lawrence, also in white Dior, looked ok. The ball gown was too bridal for me. Given her young age, I would have loved her in something more edgy with color (more in line with her personality). I hope the folks at Dior get it right next time. Another favorite was Zoe Saldana in a lilac dress with ombré at the bottom. Anne Hathaway's Prada dress was pretty but ill-fitting and she said it was a last minute decision. It was a dead ringer for Gwyneth Paltrow's pink Ralph Lauren Oscar dress. I'm not sure why her team of stylists did not remind her. As for worst dressed, it has to go to Kristen Stewart. It looked like she changed from her sweats and put on a dress - any dress. Her hair was disheveled and her face looked make-up free. We get it Kristen - you're not a fashion girl, you're too cool for school - some times you have to just embrace it, especially if you want people to go to your movies! Pick a look that works and stick with it.
CATEGORIES: Beautiful things
