ask stylebook: napa valley?
Suzanne: Going to Napa Valley later this month for some events. What to wear walking around the vineyards and doing tastings? I’m told the weekend is casual wear, to be comfortable. Also that the evenings can be quite cool, so layering, I’m assuming. It’s an all day ordeal with a visit to three vineyards. Thanks!
Alicia, The TulleBox: Let’s start with the two most important parts of your Napa Valley experience…your hands and your feet. Hands need to be free and feet need to be comfortable. Choose your bag and footwear first. I suggest a crossbody bag for essentials–phone, credit card (perhaps having a mixed case of your favorites shipped home), sunglasses, and some brush ups or whitening gum (Bellacara carries one I like a lot) for your teeth. (Red wine is brutal on the pearly whites and you don’t go around the tour with tinted teeth!) Nothing on your shoulder because it will start to be uncomfortable by the end of the day. Since lug soles are in now, this would be a great option to consider for your footwear. There is a tread for uneven gravel or hillsides to keep you steady. The other option is a suede ankle boot with a slight heel (I find they are more comfortable for a long day than the flats). If you already own a pair of Supergas, this would be both comfortable and stylish without overdoing it.
Your attire should be fuss free and comfortable. Avoid your lighter shades of clothing that may risk wine stains – they happen very easily. Denim is always an option and could be easy to pack or wear on the plane. Layering is key and I suggest a tank or t-shirt with a sweater or light jacket. A scarf can be the added interest element but try and keep your other accessories simple, avoiding too many moving parts (tassels, ties, zippers) so you can focus on enjoying the wine!
Last two tips…
Do yourself (and those at the wineries) a favor: choose a lip stain or tinted lip balm in lieu of a gloss or lipstick. It will be easier on you and the dishwasher! My favorite is the Fresh Lip Sugar with a great variety of shades (Bellacara). Also, skip the fragrance. It will interfere with the process and importance of your sense of smell when tasting.
Hope this gave you a few ideas and have a wonderful time!
Cheers,
Alicia
2 Comments
Hi,
From where is the bag from Napa article on today’s post? Thanks in advance for any info you can provide!
Kim
Kim,
The bag is available in chocolate brown at The Shoe Hive or available by special order in other colors as well. Give them a call or pay them a visit if you’re interested.
Thanks!