The Black Dress Traveler

In The Bag: Exceptional Travel Essentials

I've often fantasized about arriving at the airport with just my passport, a credit card, and a little black dress, but a globetrotting girl needs stuff! From a terrific tote to an all-natural bedbug fighter, here are a few exceptional travel essentials.

Diane von Furstenberg Camarque Tote Bag
$100 at Zappos.com
Designing diva Diane Von Furstenberg has expanded her empire to include luggage that is as stylish as her coveted frocks. This bold black & white print tote has an exterior flap pocket and is roomy enough to hold a change of clothes, a pair of shoes, and your toiletries. The pattern is so chic and timeless - quintessential DVF.

J. Crew Featherweight Cotton Cardigan
Select colors on sale for $49.50
A brightly colored cardigan is an easy way to perk up a little black dress. Look stylish while staying warm in chilly airplane cabins in one of these affordable J. Crew sweaters. They are available in a variety of shades, from neutral to bold.

Degree Women Expert Protection with motionSense
Suggested retail price: $4.16
According to the experts at Degree, the average woman moves 5,000 times a day. Surely that number triples when we are getting ready for a trip: packing bags, racing to catch flights, and schlepping luggage.

The only anti-perspirant/deodarant brand with motionSense technology, Degree has micro-capsules that release little bursts of freshness when friction takes place at the underarm. I was sent a sample of Degree and I must say that it does hold up on those days that I am running all around the Big Apple, from morning to night. I tried the Active Clean scent - it is pleasant but not too bold so I did not have to worry about Degree interfering with other fragrances that I wear. It is also available in Cotton Fresh and Fresh Energy.

BedbugLogic Protection & Treatment Spray
$6.25 for 2 oz - TSA approved for air travel
Whether you are staying at a five star hotel or a budget hostel, there is a chance that pesky little bedbugs have checked into your room and want to nibble on you while you sleep. Yuck! Instead of living a bedbug nightmare, spritz some BedbugLogic Protection & Treatment Spray and have sweet dreams. 100% non-toxic, BedbugLogic is harmless to humans and the planet but is clinically proven to kill those obnoxious bedbugs and their eggs within seconds. NYC mom Jill Taft was inspired to create BedbugLogic after her family was attacked by bedbugs on vacation. The company also produces LiceLogic - an eco-friendly solution to lice.

I was sent a sample of BedbugLogic and I was amazed at how fresh and delicious it smells. It comes in 2 scents - Thyme (my favorite) and Cedar. In addition to the travel size, BedbugLogic is available in several sizes - all the way up to 128 oz. You can buy the larger size and use it to keep refilling the travel size.  I hope that hotels start stocking BedbugLogic in rooms as part of their amenities - I really believe that it would give guests peace of mind. Now that I know about BedbugLogic, I will not travel without it.

In the Bag: Tote Fun & Functional Goodies

Of course, you never leave the house without money, your ID card, and keys but are you prepared for aching feet, thirst, and hunger pains? Fill your bag with these essentials that will keep you comfy and satisfied on the go.

THE BAG

Sea Bags Sword Tote
$120
Made in Maine from recycled sails, this sassy little tote by Sea Bags has a black swordfish design wrapped around the bag, giving it a fashionable edge. Not just for the beach, this medium size tote has enough finesse to carry around town. Available in large for $150.

THE GOODIES

ESPRIT Scoop Neck Dress
$59 (and, ESPRIT is having a 40% off sale on EVERYTHING so you can buy this dress at a substantial discount.)
Is it crazy to keep a LBD in your tote? Maybe not everyday but I would certainly make sure to have one in my carry-on bag in case the checked luggage goes missing. This cute little black dress from Esprit can take you from day to night.


Kushy Foot Flats to Go
$8.99 - $9.99
I rarely leave my house without a pair of Kushy Foot Flats to Go. These faux leather ballet style flats are your feet's best friend at the end of a long day of wearing heels or to slip on and off at the airport. Honestly, at only $8.99 per pair, why not buy several pairs to keep in your various bags so you never forget a pair when you switch purses? They are available in several colors to match all of your favorite frocks. Kushy Foot makes all kinds of cool products to keep your tootsies comfy, including pretty cushioned lace foot covers.

 

 
Hint Water
When you are on the go and need to quench your thirst, step back from sugary soda and reach for a bottle of Hint Water. Let's face it, plain water doesn't always hit the spot but Hint is made from pure water that has been revved up with a hint of natural flavor. No sugar, no calories, no guilt. Flavors include Raspberry Lime, Honeydew Hibiscus, Cucumber, Blackberry, and Lime. You can find Hint  nationally at Whole Foods & Starbucks. Or, you can order a case of 24 bottles online.

 
Smart for Life All Natural Protein Bars (Green Tea & Chocolate)
Sometimes sitting down for a real meal isn't on the agenda when you are on the road so keeping a meal replacement bar in your bag can save the day when your stomach starts growling and there is no grub in site. I was sent a sample of this protein bar and was intrigued by the fact that it has only 190 calories and 18g of protein per bar. Ok, we've established that it is healthier than a candy bar but how does it taste? The flavor kind of reminded me of a grown-up krispy treat - chewy and not too sweet. The bar was quite filling though. You can buy these individually at most drugstores or order them in bulk online.

Pretty as a Pirate: Hayden-Harnett Creates Haute Collection for Pirates of the Caribbean

I know more than one lady who watched Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean films only to gaze at Johnny Depp in his portrayal of the charmingly wicked Captain Jack Sparrow. A rogue with a serious fashion sense, Captain Sparrow, and virtually all of the film's characters, have a flamboyant sense of style characterized by rich colors and opulent fabrics. If  you want to add a dash of swashbuckler to your swagger, Hayden-Harnett's new collection will give you the pirate panache that you crave.

 

Galleon Scarf, Scarlett
$98
Perk up your little black dress with this scarlet silk-satin scarf featuring Hayden-Harnett's custom "Galleon" ship print. Measuring a generous 40" x 40", the large dimensions make this a very versatile accessory.

Inspired by the upcoming 3D movie, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, this high-end collection features richly printed silk and chiffon scarves, detailed leather cuffs and fine leather handbags that retail from $78 to $498.  If you see something  you like, don't delay because each item is limited edition and only 50 pieces of each style will be sold. All items are available for pre-order at www.haydenharnett.com. The delivery for the collection is May 1st and all items will be available at the Hayden-Harnett flagship store/studio in Brooklyn and with selected retailers.  As you will see, this line may be inspired by a Disney movie but these luxurious treasures aren't for the kiddies!

 Galleon Satchel, Whiskey
$498
I love to carry a big purse everyday but especially when I travel so that I can tote all of my goodies with ease (travel documents, makeup, reading materials, snacks etc).  Not only is this bag luxurious bag, it makes it easy to stay organized - it  has four exterior pockets, one front fliplock closure pocket, two side gusset pockets and a large rear slip pocket. The interior also has several slip pockets. 


Queen Anne Carryall
$148
A versatile little bag that works well as a clutch or makeup pouch, this leather carryall features Hayden-Harnett's signature Spanish inspired antique brass logo plate and studded leather tassel zipper

  Barbossa Indexer
$168
Keep your dollars, Euros, doubloons and ducats safe and secure in this elegant leather wallet.

To view the entire Hayden-Harnett collection inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, visit their website.

Tote a Bag that Makes a Difference

On your next trip, why not carry a bag that not only looks good but does good? From luxurious leather to artisan fabrics, a portion of the proceeds from each of these bags supports a worthy cause. Don't you just love guilt-free shopping!

Gucci for UNICEF Sukey Bag ($1320):  Purchase this gorgeous bag through February 28, 2011 and Gucci will donate 25% of the retail price to UNICEF. The special edition Sukey bag is made of luxurious La Pelle Guccissima and available in Gucci stores in over 20 countries. The funds raised will support UNICEF’s "Schools for Africa" programs in Malawi and Mozambique, where nearly one million children have been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Gucci has partnered with UNICEF since 2005 and donated over $8 million. Wow!

Threads of Change Batik Weekender Bag ($85) - Founded by two ladies in Los Angeles, Threads of Change's mission is to empower women in the village of Okaruse (Ghana) by building a vocational sewing center. All of the materials for their bags come from Ghana. This brightly colored weekend bag is lined and has 2 large compartments and an interior cell phone pocket - very travel friendly!

FEED 3 Guatemala Bag: Heartbreaking statistic: EVERYDAY 22,000 children under the age of 5 die of preventable causes and malnutrition is the underlying cause in roughly half of these deaths. Co-founded by Lauren Bush, FEED donates a percentage of every bag sold to charities that feed children and has provided more than 56 MILLION meals! The purchase of one of the pictured Guatemala bags benefits UNICEF and can provide 3 children with nutrients for one year. These colorful bags are handmade by women artisans in Guatemala and available exclusively at Lord & Taylor stores and online ($19 for the small zip-close pouch and $45 for the large leather handle tote.) Other FEED bags, t-shirts, and accessories are available at www.feedprojects.com.

'Tis the Season: Twelve Gorgeous & Great Gifts for Gals on the Go

Sometimes the true meaning of the holidays gets lost in all of the shopping chaos but you don't need to max out your credit cards to show someone you care. Traveling ladies appreciate functional gifts that make life on the road easier. I've put together a list of twelve great gifts that will bring a holiday smile to the jetsetting divas in your life without sending you to the poor house. After all, you need some money leftover to treat yourself too!

Samsonite XSpace Expandable Spinner Carryon
on sale at Ebags for $161.99 and free shipping.
Samsonite may not be the sexiest luggage on the market but their bags have a stellar reputation due to their sturdiness and functionality. Also available in Galaxy Black and Mars Red, this brightly colored carry-on has multi-directional wheels that provide 360 degree upright rolling. The case expands but fits easily into overhead bins. 

Le SportSac Large Weekender
$81.48 at Endless.com
Perfect for a weekend getaway, this lightweight bag has a playful pattern, plenty of compartments, and a roomy interior. Various patterns available. 


Packable Down Jacket in a Pouch
$119 at TravelSmith
Water-repellent, tear-resistant and windproof, this sleek down jacket comes in a  drawstring
pouch that can double as a pillow on the plane. Also available in black.

Flip Video Mini HD Camcorder
$199.99 at Amazon
Capturing travel memories on video is super-easy with this compact camcorder. Tiny enough to fit into a pocket or purse, the Flip is big on features, including HD quality video and easy uploads to Facebook and YouTube.




Juicy Couture Leopard Laptop Sleeve
$78.00 at Endless.com
Animal print is all the rage this season  - protect a laptop in fierce style with this glossy vinyl leopard sleeve.


Very Hollywood by Michael Kors Gloss & Rollerball
$18 at Sephora
Glam touch-ups on the go are a cinch with this chic lipgloss and fragrance combo. Airline approved, slip this into your bag to spritz and slick anywhere.

Invicta Women's Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch
On sale for $129.99 at Endless.com (regular price is $695)
Missing a flight is next to impossible with this gorgeous watch on your wrist. Keep track of time in style. Blinged out with 16  hand-set diamonds and a mother-of-pearl face, this watch is also sturdy - it has a stainless steel case and is water resistant up to 330 ft. 

The World Traveler Note Card by She's Got Papers
$3.00 per card or $12 for a set of 6.  Set of 6 personalized cards is $36.
Even in a high-tech world, a handwritten note still has major impact. Give a set of these whimsical cards to your favorite jetsetter so she can send you a note full of juicy details about her latest getaway. After all, secrets are too sacred for a postcard and should be placed in a sealed envelope!

Kate Spade Foiled Again Medium Leila Cosmetic Case
$60 at Endless.com
Flashy and classy at the same time, this medium sized cosmetics bag is a fun way to keep makeup organized. And, that flash of gold will make it easy to spot in the most cluttered tote bag! Also available in silver.

Kushyfoot Flats to Go
$8.99 at Kushyfoot.com
These fun flats are the perfect stocking stuffer for every traveling lady on your list. Made of soft and flexible faux leather, Kushyfoot Flats to Go come in a convenient plastic carrier that slips easily inside a purse. I keep a pair in my bag for instant relief whenever my feet start aching. Available in black, gold and silver.

Little Black Convertible Dress
$155 at NuovaVitaonline.com
One flirty little black dress with 12 different looks is a dream come true for a traveler! Light and flowy, this functional frock is comfy and cute.

PEACE Black Sheer Jersey Chemise
$36 at Peace Love World
Give your favorite traveler a wearable message of peace in this triple-threat chemise that functions as sleepwear, a tank or a dress. With the word "Peace"  imprinted on the bottom, this garment is a perfect sentiment for the holiday season and always.

Very Hollywood, Very Chic, Very Michael Kors

In a world obsessed with Kardashians and Hiltons, a girl could be fooled into thinking that bad behaviour is the only way to get noticed. Am I the only one who reminisces for the days of old Hollywood where celebrities had real talent and weren't just savvy self-promoters? Dorothy Dandridge, Ava Gardner, Bette Davis  - those ladies had style, grace and class.

Maybe a trip to La La Land isn't on your agenda, but designer Michael Kors makes it easy to add a dash of Hollywood glamour to your everyday life. The reigning king of classic American style (and the most lovable of the Project Runway judges), Kors specializes in easy sophistication.  Here are six fabulous finds from Michael Kors that will make you feel like a star of the silver screen no matter where you are!

 Michael Kors Very Hollywood Eau de Parfum ($45-$85) - This sultry scent is a classy composition of iced bergamot, mandarin and gardenia. My beau could care less about what is in the perfume but he did say that Very Hollywood  was very seductive. I call that a five star review!

MICHAEL by Michael Kors Studded Yoke Dress ($120-$130) - The gunmetal studded yoke at the neckline gives this little black dress a modern edge on a classic silhouette.

Michael Kors Tortoise Double Wrap Watch ($180) - Don't keep your fans waiting! It's easy to be fashionably on time for your next appointment or flight with this timepiece surrounded by golden metal and a tortoise double wrap chain. A very elegant bracelet & watch all-in one!

Michael Kors Rehearsal Sunglasses ($350) - Oversized sunglasses are a Hollywood must and the perfect solution for jet lagged eyes.

 
  MICHAEL by Michael Kors Heidi Clutch, Dark Sand Python ($198) - This python print clutch is timeless and perfect for an evening out. I often use a clutch when I'm traveling to stylishly carry my passport and other travel documents - just insert the clutch inside your larger purse or tote.

Limited Edition Hollywood Signature Pen ($25) - Even in a high tech world, an old-fashioned pen is a must - you can't sign an autograph with a Blackberry! Write with this pen and your postcard from Hollywood will make them swoon -  the ink is scented with the Very Hollywood Michael Kors fragrance.

Traveling Green

Being queen of your green castle is one thing but staying eco-friendly on the road can be a challenge. Away from home, many green decisions are simply out of your hands. After all, traveling with your own environmentally sound cleaning products or recycling bin isn't too practical. In honor of Earth Day on April 22, here are a few ways to green up your next getaway!

Make your nest in a green hotel. The Hotel del Sol in San Francisco has been certified as a green property. In addition to their extensive conservation initiatives, this Marina District property encourages guests to reduce their carbon footprint. Their earth friendly packages include bike rentals, sustainable wine, and walking tours. You can even get an eco-friendly pedicure. Starting at $179, you'll be left with plenty of green in your wallet when you book one of these packages. Call 877-433-5765 for more information. Hotel del Sol is part of the Joie de Vivre hotel group and their Green Dreams program is focused on preserving the environment by incorporating sustainability into their core business operations.

Do you want to help conserve coral reefs in Aruba, or restore an archaeological site in New Mexico? Or maybe you want to unwind at The View, a Navajo owned environmentally sound hotel in Monument Valley, Utah? If so, check out these eco-friendly adventures that were featured in the NY Post.

Green up your gear. This TraveLite Wheeled Carry-On by GoLite ($175) is made from Tier 1 Recycled 210 Denier Nylon Double Ripstop and more than a third lighter than comparable bags.

Dress green. GoLite also makes a really cute reversible travel dress. Available in granite/pale blue or black/beet, the Cayambe dress is a reasonable $80 - a great price for 2 dresses in one!

Sip green. If you are traveling to a place where the tap water is safe to drink, reduce plastic waste by bringing your own water bottle.  I'm a big fan of CynerGreen's BPA free, stainless style, usable bottles ($9 -$15). Their motto is "saving the world, one bottle at a time."

Shhhh: Kate Spade Bags Up to 67% off at Row Nine

Are you looking for a stylish new bag to go with your favorite little black dress? Well, shop the Kate Spade sale at RowNine.com and you can get the finer things for less! RowNine is a free invitation only shopping site where members can save up to 80% off of luxury goods including jewelry, timepieces and accessories.

Readers of The Black Dress Traveler can skip the line and get automatic membership. Click on this link to activate your membership and to start accessing these great shopping deals!The Kate Spade sale ends on Weds. April 21 at 11pm ET. Upcoming sales include Amazing Gurhan gold jewelry, Eileen Shields shoes, and Invicta timepieces for men.

This Kate Spade bag is regularly $195 but it can be yours for $136.50. That's a 30% discount.


  This classic nylon Kate Spade bag is perfect for everyday use or travel. Row Nine has it for $139 instead of $195. A cool 29% discount.


This snazzy springy green bag is marked down 33% to $165. It is usually $245.

This timeless tote is 50% off. You can call it yours for $222 instead of $445.

There are plenty more Kate Spade deals online. Click here to sign up for RowNine.com. Happy shopping!

Global Chic: Affordable Luxuries from Iman

 This dreary day in New York City gave me the perfect excuse to spend a little time indoors watching that hilarious haute mess of a talk show known as The Wendy Williams Show.

Wendy's guest today was the gorgeous supermodel and mogul Iman. This ageless diva was promoting her Global Chic line of clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories that are sold exclusively on HSN. I'm pretty familiar with Iman's cosmetics line but really did not know much about her other products. 

Well, I have to say that several of the Global Chic items caught my eye. Best of all, nothing is over $100 and several items have very low clearance prices. HSN also has flexible pricing and many of the goodies can be divided into 2 or 3 payments. These price points make it even easier to follow Iman's advice to "think globally, live fashionably". Here are a few pieces that really stood out for me.

   Handbeaded Parisian Clutch ($69.95) - Love the bold colors. This would be great for an evening out and adding some wow to a little black dress or even blue jeans.  

Parisian Style Open & Airy Braided Cuff (59.95) - Simply elegant! 

 

Venetian Style Multi-Faceted Stretch Bracelet ($54.95) - Playful and flirty. 

Pave Wrapped Stone Necklace ($64.95) - Looks very expensive but only you will know!

Fab Bag: Radley London's Westbourne Bucket Tote

While the perfect little black dress always seems to find me, the search for the perfect bag is never ending. Why is it so darn hard to find a stylish, elegant, roomy tote with plenty of compartments that can transition effortlessly from the daily commute to jet-setting?

Could I have found my dream bag in the Westbourne Bucket Tote by Radley London?  Crafted from the finest quality leather and available in black, tan and pink, the Westbourne is described as "designed for women that like to carry their life in their handbags." Yep, that would be me. I am already picturing my Blackberry, magazines, Metrocard, airline tickets, makeup bag, snacks, and water all neatly organized in the Westbourne. The bag is a bit of a splurge at $395 but the craftsmanship and classic style make it a smart investment.

Radley's founder, Lowell Harder, is also the creative director and she takes her bags very seriously! Lowell originally studied to be an architect but her interest in handbags evolved and she began creating bags that were both practical and beautiful. Each bag also has an element of surprise, or what Radley calls "eccentric Englishness," that manifests itself in colorful linings and accents. Fabulous!

In the USA, you can purchase Radley London at major retailers in several states and at their first store on this side of the pond in Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City, New York.

To learn more, visit www.radleylondon.com.  

Rock the Ziplock: Glam Bags by kiki*c

Ahhh, the dreaded Ziplock bag. I keep praying that the aviation goddesses will work their magic and stop the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) from forcing traveling divas to cram our precious lotions and potions into those unworthy vessels. Not only is it inconvenient but don't our fancy face creams deserve to travel in style and not in a bag created to hold leftovers? I don't mean to seem ungrateful, I know the TSA wants to keep us safe, but there has to be a better way!

Now you can Rock the Ziplock with a snazzy Glam Bag from kiki*c.  Plastic with panache, these bags have a stylish pink and green motif. These reusable quart size carry on bags are sold in boxes of 18 and can be ordered online for $9.95 per box. kiki*c has plans to launch more sizes and designs soon.

For more information, visit www.kikic.com.

PS. Do you have a product that Rocks the Ziplock? Let us know!

New Essential: Jewelry Bags for Travel by Katie James

Toss away those ill-designed jewelry rolls and Ziplock bags - these snazzy bags by Katie James are a stylish and practical way to store and protect your baubles.  Made from 100% raw silk dupioni and lined in a soft polka dot cotton pique, the interior of the bags keeps your gems secure with 5 square elastic pockets, 3 earring straps, and 2 ring/necklace straps. This precious little bundle closes securely with a drawstring and the silk fabric makes these bags elegant and durable.

When asked what inspired her unique design Katie said, "I love organizing things. I made my first tool to organize jewelry when I was about 13 or so, out of cardboard. It was a cardboard post to stick earrings into. These travel jewelry bags were developed after an owner of a boutique expressed the desire for them. I knew there were a lot of jewelry bags out there in the world, but none with the snap ring loop closure (I like knowing my rings are safe), nor could you hang earrings on the outside. I'm very visual. Out of sight is out of mind, so I wanted to be able to see some of my pieces."

In addition to the jewelry bags, Katie James also sells sexy silk sleep masks that make it easier to catch some zzz's in style on planes, trains or buses.

Enter code JDSPRING20 to get 20% off your travel jewelry bag purchase at www.katie-james.com.