Travel Style: Dressing For Heat And Humidity Overseas
I pack my clients for all sorts of trips and vacations. Most recently, I created looks and put together a carryon (only) of outfits for a trip to Prague. Most of our clients’ vacations include activities that require casual chic looks and include some slightly dressier outfits for events like dinners out, etc. I am layering, pairing, accessorizing, and more.
As I am sitting here in Bangkok, Thailand, I am giggling about how different the packing for my trips here are compared to what I do for clients going to, let’s say, Prague. Thailand isn’t so much a vacation destination for me. My family lives here (follow along with Stories on Instagram @dcstylefactory to follow us around the city) and although we are doing some vacation stuff, we are mostly city livin’.
I definitely don’t layer here in Bangkok and I definitely am not rocking my Rachel Comey fringe top. I don’t bring anything I would be sad to have ruined. So, what do I wear here when fashion is not my priority — but I still want to feel like me each day?
My requirements for outfits are:
- · Machine washable
- · Doesn’t show sweat easily. I’m not as worried about items that don’t make me sweat. If you have
come to Thailand you know sweating is just part of the package. I opt for colors that just don’t
show it as much. - · Comfortable and lightweight.
- · Sporty chic style where there is some structure (either in the bottoms or in the tops) so I can
incorporate comfort, but still feel like I’m not rolling around in ratty tees for weeks on end.
Building Outfits
With any trip, I start with the shoes. What 2-3 pairs of shoes will I realistically wear during the trip? Once I have that down, I build the outfits. If I am in my Adidas slides 95 percent of the time, how can I make a cute, sporty-chic outfit that has a little of my French Chic style still incorporated? It’s all in keeping those silhouettes current, bottoms first. Cotton utility pants, high-waisted khaki shorts, high-waisted denim shorts.
1.) Bottoms. In Thailand, I live in denim shorts and lightweight cotton pants. This Nili Lotan pair are perfect for the plane and also look great with a muscle tee and Adidas slides for hanging out in Bangkok.
Nili Lotan Pants $325, available at The Hive
2.) Shoes. Sneakers that offer enough support for walking are a must. These Tretorns have enough cushion and support for a day of exploring Bangkok..and they look cool. We are always on foot jumping in taxis, riding trains and even hopping in Tuk-Tuks!
Tretorns $75, available at The Shoe Hive
I also spend a lot of time in my Adidas slides. They can get wet if we head to a waterpark and they are just easy for everyday visits to family when I am taking shoes on and off (Thai folks do not wear shoes in the home). Another option for this could easily be the Johnston & Murphy slides at Kiskadee.
Johnston & Murphy Jenny slides $158, available at Kiskadee
3.) Tops. Binding clothing need not apply. If I am wearing denim shorts, I love a boxy button-down and Adidas slides for a day with family. The button-down top makes me feel a bit more dressed. This Birds of Paradis top is perfection.
Birds of Paradis Shirt $100, Available at The Hive
I also like sleeveless tops, but not necessarily tank tops, which feels a little bare. I am not a backpacking tourist here in Thailand, but more or less a local so I like to dress in a way that still is who I am, but also fits in with my family’s culture. These two tops from Kiskadee hit the mark perfectly. I would wear both of these with denim shorts and slides or cotton pants and slides.
Lilla P Short Sleeve V-Neck Cotton Top, available at Kiskadee
CP Shades Simone Tank $188, available at Kiskadee
4.) Accessories. I wear very little. I stick to earrings and mostly studs that don’t dangle.
Anna Beck Earrings $100, available at The Hive
- About the company
DC Style Factory is a personal shopping and styling service for men and women looking to add polish and individuality to their wardrobes. We believe personal style is for anyone who wants it — regardless of age, size or budget.
