The Black Dress Traveler

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!

Little Black Travel Diary: Fashion Designer Abby Z

 

www.abbyz.com

Fashion designer Abby Z is on a mission to make sure that women feel sexy at every size! Her elegant and sexy designs have been a long time favorite of celebrities like Rosario Dawson and Camryn Manheim. And, I am proud to say that I have a few fabulous Abby Z garments in my closet!

Now fashionistas everywhere can experience the magic of Abby Z when she makes her debut on the Home Shopping Network on Friday, September 18. Available in sizes 2-24 and nicely priced from $40-$90, Abby Z's designs fill a void in the retail market for fashion-forward apparel that will accommodate all women! In addition to being a talented designer, the vibrant Abby Z also loves to travel. Let's take a peek inside Abby Z's Little Black Travel Diary!  

My first memory of traveling is taking my horse when I was 6 years old to Texas.

I never travel without my pillow and my camera.

My favorite destination is recently, Brazil.

The taste of chocolate reminds me of birthday parties.

My favorite traveling companion is my mom.

Traveling alone inspires me for my next collection.

I dream of visiting Africa and going on a safari.

A film, book, or song that awakens my wanderlustis Wycliff and Shakira's song, "My Hips Don't Lie"; it makes me want to get up and dance.

My favorite traveling outfit is my maxi dress and open-toe sandals.

My most unforgettable traveling experience is when I was in the Amazon in Brazil sleeping in a tree house.

When I have been away from home for a long time, the thing I miss the most is New York City.

If I could travel back in time, I would love to meet my grandpa, Albert and tell Versace thank you for making women look sexy.

My must have beauty product when traveling is my Kiehl’s face cream, my Bad Girl mascara, and my Laura Mercier

My words of travel wisdom are make a copy of your passport and give it to two different people, travel as much as you can in your life, and welcome new experiences wherever you go.

Click here to read the Little Black Travel Diaries of other fabulous women!

Travel Essential: Hollywood Nights Evening Bag Kit

I have a weak spot for travel pouches chock full of cute and useful goodies and this sweet Hollywood Nights Evening Bag Essentials kit caught my eye. Priced reasonably at  $16.50 at Beauty.com, it includes:

• 1 pack 36 strips Hollywood Fashion Tape
• 1 pack of Hollywood Oil Blotting Film to keep your face shine free
• 1 pack of Hollywood Touch Ups- lint removing sheets
• 1 tin of Hollywood Make Out Mints
• 1 travel tin for carrying along fashion tape, credit cards and cash
• Hollywood Light Up Mirror

In case you're wondering, Hollywood Fashion Tape is a clear, double-stick tape that you can use to secure your sexy clothing. Not only is it discreet, but it is also very gentle on fabric. Use the tape to hold your clothing in place, hide bra straps, eliminate blouse gaps, anchor shoe straps, close wrap styles, fix hems fast, secure revealing necklines, and hold up strapless tops.  

Shop Macy's.com with the Black Dress Traveler

One of the best parts of the summer season is the virtually endless opportunity to wear a variety of great dresses. I spent a few minutes browsing Macys.com to check out the latest deals on frocks. My picks include dresses from Calvin Klein, INC, London Times, and Alfani. Every dress pictured is on sale (price range is $33.99 - $151.99). Click on each image for more details. Happy shopping!

Black Dress Beauty: Christiane Amanpour Trades Her Safari Jacket for a Sexy Dress

CNN's Chief International Correspondent, Christiane Amanpour, has always wowed me with her intellect, fearlessness, and cool demeanor as she delivers hard-hitting reports from war zones around the world. Safari jackets have become Amanpour's trademark and completely make sense in her line of work: she needs to be comfortable and often works in areas where it is not culturally appropriate for women to reveal too much skin.

So I was stunned when I saw  Amanpour in Harper's Bazaar (August 2009) looking absolutely glamourous and sexy in an  elegant Donna Karan dress. Not a safari jacket in sight. You can tell from the big smile on Amanpour's face and her confident stance that she is loving how she feels and looks in her glammed out ensemble. Amanpour said, "[This] is a real luxury for me because it introduces me to clothes and options I would never dream — well, it's not that I would never dream of going and getting in a store, but I would not know where to look," she says. "So it was a real help to put on those clothes and have somebody to pick them out and then say, 'Oh, wow, that looks really good!'"

Score another one for the little black dress!

Click here to read the full article in Harper's Bazaar.

Selve Swept Me Off of My Feet!

The Black Dress Traveler was absolutely delighted to be the guest of honor at an elegant champagne reception at selve shoes in Red Bank, New Jersey. The perfect little black dress deserves a perfect pair of shoes and selve specializes in made-to-measure bespoke footwear. Headquartered in Munich with a second store in London, the Red Bank store is selve's first location in the U.S. 

I had such a great time oohing and aaahing over the gorgeous selve footwear and meeting so many of the dynamic and gracious Red Bank businesswomen. Even Mrs. Red Bank attended! Thank you selve for an unforgettable and special evening!

DonnaLyn Giegerich (Mrs. Red Bank), The Black Dress Traveler, and Karin Lund (Owner, selve)

Four Tips for Traveling with Jewelry

Diamond in the Rough Solitaire Stack Rings

Just because you are going on vacation, doesn’t mean that you have to leave your fine jewelry locked in a safe at home and jet-set with fakes. 

Anjanette Clisura, President and Co-Creative Director of Diamond in the Rough says, “Jewelry is given to be worn. I’ve heard so many women say they travel with “fakes” – why? If you’re careful and traveling somewhere safe bring some of your beautiful baubles with you on vacation, especially if you have plans to go out.  Unless you’re going somewhere on a peace mission or yoga retreat - then it might be best left at home!” 

Their innovative use of natural, uncut and unpolished diamonds has made Diamond in the Rough a favorite of celebrities, socialites, and fashionistas so they understand that women want to wear their treasures, not leave them behind. Ms. Clisura offers these helpful tips for traveling with jewelry. 

1. Decide on the pieces you’re taking and take inventory. A simple way to do this is to make copies on the photocopy machine so that you remember exactly what you took. Keep a copy at home and a copy somewhere in your luggage. Check the photocopy to make sure that you return home with all of your treasures.

2. Travel with a jewelry roll which will separate your jewelry into sections – earrings, rings, etc. and rolls up for compact, safe packing. 

3. Don’t pack your jewelry in your checked luggage -  keep it in your purse, or carry on. 

4. To keep your jewelry clean, carry a little polishing cloth with you. You can use also use regular old toothpaste, yes ladies, its better than soap. Use Windex if you have it handy. It has ammonia in it – dab on an old toothbrush and clean away! 

Black Dress Beauty: Natalie Portman

One could have easily confused the red carpet at this year's White House Correspondents' Association Dinner for a major Hollywood awards show extravaganza. (Hmm, maybe Joan and Melissa Rivers can do commentary next year?) Mingling with the politicos and beltway regulars were many of the biggest names in film, television and music. However, one black dress beauty stole the show: actress Natalie Portman was elegance personified in this long and sexy Balenciaga halter dress. If fashion were a political party, Ms. Portman would win the nomination in a silky landslide!

 

Black Dress Beauty: Halle Berry

Shapely thespian Halle Berry rocked basic black with a sexy twist at the red carpet premiere of Wolverine. Sheer paneling added a dash of naughty to this va va voom black cocktail dress by French designer Herve L. Leroux. Ms. Berry kept her look sleek and elegant with minimal accessories and strappy sandals. Bravo Ms. Berry, you are a black dress beauty!

 

Little Black Travel Diary: Maria Pinto (Fashion Designer)

Maria Pinto

 

www.mariapinto.com

Chances are that if you've gazed longingly at an ensemble worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Brooke Shields or Susan Sarandon and said, "I want that NOW", it was designed by Maria Pinto. Known for her unique ability to meld artisanal textiles from around the world with modern American design, Maria's designs are wearable classics with an edge that exude confidence and sophistication.  Not just for celebrities, Maria creates tailored silhouettes that fit into a variety of lifestyles. Maria Pinto's collections have been featured in Vogue, Elle, InStyle, Harper's Bazaar, Town & Country and many other prominent fashion publications.

An alumna of Chicago’s School of the Art Institute, Pinto also attended New York's Parson’s School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology. Soon after graduation she landed a coveted position working for legendary designer Geoffrey Beene. Maria has received many prestigious design and fashion accolades throughout her career, including the Best of Fashion Award from Chicago Magazine (2000); and the Gold Coast Fashion Award, previously won by Anne Klein, Donna Karan and Bill Blass (1998).  In 2009, Maria Pinto will receive the Legend of Fashion Award from the School of the Art Institute. The Maria Pinto Collection is available at her flagship store in Chicago, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s New York, Takashimaya and other fine boutiques across the country. 

Let's peek inside the Little Black Travel Diary of Maria Pinto!

 

My first memory of traveling is with my first great love Bill.

I never travel without a candle, the scent reminds me of home.

My favorite destination is Bali.

The taste of Jasmine tea reminds me of Bangkok.

My favorite traveling companion is my best friend, Mr. Coe.

Traveling alone can be very inspirational, but choosing the right destination is key. It can create many opportunities for self discovery.

I dream of visiting India.

A film, book, or song that awakens my wanderlust is my favorite film, In The Mood For Love, by Wong Kar Wai.

My favorite traveling outfit is depending on the weather and the destination (usually Chicago to New York) my black Morgan leather coat with a cashmere wrap from my own collection, and a pair of jeans.

My most unforgettable traveling experience was after a struggle to get there, waking up Sunday morning in Hong Kong and experiencing the scent of incense throughout the city.

When I have been away from home for a long time, the thing I miss the most is my two adorable cats.

If I could travel back in time, I would go to Egypt and watch the pyramids being built.

My travel icon is Karen Blixen.

My must have beauty product when traveling is Smith’s Rosebud Salve, I can’t live without it.

 

My words of travel wisdom are always be prepared, for anything! Even if it sometimes leads to perpetual over packing. But you never know when your casual weekend trip might turn dressy!

Click here to read the Little Black Travel Diaries of other dynamic women!

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.

New Essential: Disposable Dainties

The Black Dress Traveler loves featuring the latest in must-have travel items. Don't leave home without these new essentials. You'll wonder how you ever traveled without them! To submit a product for consideration, e-mail wanda@blackdresstraveler.com.

Disposable Underwear by DNA Products

www.dnaproductsonline.com

I know what you're thinking - why in the world would anyone need or wear disposable underwear! Believe me, I had the same reaction initially but I gave these wear-today and  toss-tomorrow dainties a trial run and I plan to always keep a pair in my purse and carry-on bag. Made of extra-soft polyproplyene, DNA Products offers a women's brief (with cotton crotch) and thong. Gentleman can choose from boxer and brief styles. Why polypropylene? DNA chose this modern synthetic performance fabric for "its ability to wick away perspiration and moisture, keeping you dry - and comfortable."  They do feel soft and just like fabric against the skin.

Ok, you're still wondering why you might need disposable undergarments? DNA makes a great case for their product and cite camping, hospital stays, and spa visits as situations where it makes sense to go disposable. Also, ladies, the DNA dainties are great to wear or keep in your purse during that time of the month so you are prepared for any accidents and don't have to worry about messing up your everyday panties.  And wouldn't it be great to have a fresh pair of underwear available if you are spending an unexpected night away from home?

   

And, maybe you just hate doing laundry! You're in good company - Danita Harris, the owner of DNA Products said, "I've always been a bit of a clean freak (some may say I'm borderline OCD). So for as long as I can remember, mixing dirty clothes with clean clothes (inside of luggage or elsewhere) has made me a bit paranoid.  Add to that the fact that doing laundry is my absolute least favorite chore (Wash the windows, handwash all the dishes, polish the wood floors?  No problem, I gladly tackle those chores.  But laundry made launching a disposable travel underwear business almost a no-brainer."

 DNA sells their undergarments in packages of 5 (the brief) and 7 (the thong) for a very affordable $3.50 per package. Each panty within the package is individually wrapped in a tiny package (about the size of tampon) that fits conveniently inside the smallest handbag.  The final verdict: DNA's disposable underwear is a practical and affordable essential.

For more information or to place your order, please visit www.dnaproductsonline.com.  

 

 

Join The Black Dress Traveler for Hot Dresses & Cool Drinks at the Kathlin Argiro Showroom

SOLD OUT!

Don't miss The Black Dress Traveler Official Launch Party!

Friday, March 13

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Kathlin Argiro Showroom

265 West 37th Street, 7th Floor. New York City.

Wine & Cheese will be served.

Courtesy of Bath Junkie, NYC's best beauty store, guests will receive a sample of Spicy Georgia Peach scented bubbling bath crystals. (while supplies last) Read about how this scent was inspired and created.

THEVI Cosmetics will offer 5 minute makeup touch-ups.

No charge to attend. RSVP required. To reserve your space, please send an e-mail to wanda@blackdresstraveler.com by Friday, March 6.

Communicating in cyberspace is great but the Black Dress Traveler is all about getting out and enjoying life! Yes, I am encouraging you, my wonderful readers, to leave the computer behind for a few hours and join me for a fun and chic evening of hot dresses and cool drinks at designer Kathlin Argiro's showroom in the heart of Manhattan's garment district.

       

A dressaholic's best friend, Kathlin Argiro's designs have been worn by many celebrities, including fashion authority Stacy London and news anchor Katie Couric. Designs from her ready-to-wear collection have been featured in VOGUE, In Style, Women's Wear Daily and The Washington Post. I am a big fan of Kathlin's chic and travel-friendly jersey wrap dresses that flatter all figures and are priced at a recession-friendly $95. Argiro has also earned rave reviews for her bridesmaid, graduation, and evening dresses.

Have dress - will travel, I always say, so I have invited STG Tours and  Italian Days (Iyengar Yoga Retreat in Sicily) to the party to give us inspiration for our next getaway!

Hope to see you on March 13!

Cultural Couture at the New York Times Travel Show

I just spent a whirlwind afternoon at The New York Times Travel Show and my shoulder hurts from the mountain of brochures and swag I loaded into my oversized bag. The gold Mardi Gras beads with a playa' worthy plastic medallion branded "Forever New Orleans" was my favorite freebie. (No, I did not have to flash anybody to get the beads!)

From Maine to Malaysia, Puerto Rico to the Poconos, Anguilla to Alaska; exhibitors representing virtually every corner of the globe filled the Javits Center. To keep it upbeat, small stages throughout the venue showcased music and dance representative of each region. While the music certainly provided an auditory treat, I was most intrigued by the beautiful attire worn by many of the performers and staff. The  bright colors and intricate patterns of the traditional clothing added vibrancy and authenticity to the event. Here are a few of my favorites.

 

Puerto Rico

 

 

Indonesia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aruba

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South Africa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maine

 

 

 

 

 

 

Panama

Our First Giveaway: Win a Fabulous Laptop Bag from Donnella's Closet Designer Handbags

  

 

 

The contest has ended. Congratulations to Megan S. from Georgia on winning this very chic bag!

 

I am so excited about the very first Black Dress Traveler giveaway! Every traveling diva needs a fashionable laptop bag and this chic bag from Mango Tango fits the bill and everything else!  A very big thanks to our friends at Donnella’s Closet Designer Handbags for providing this fabulous prize.

 

With a retail value of $69, this Pretty Pink Classic Quilt bag in butter-soft faux suede with coordinating tassel is an absolute "must" for every woman on the go. Pretty and functional, the bag boasts an interior organizer for cell phone, writing instruments and business cards, and padded protection with elasticized convertible straps.  Zip and outside pockets make it easy to tote the bag on your suitcase but still grab your passport while on the go! Fits 16” laptop.

 

How to Enter

To enter the giveaway, take a moment to visit the Donnella's Closet website at dcsbag.com and browse their site. Then come back to the Black Dress Traveler and leave a message in the comments section following this post and let me know which Donnella’s Closet bag best fits your personality. Do you like your bags more conservative? Or a little wild? Are you a trend setter? Or do you prefer a classic look? This is great way for me to learn more about you!

 

A winner will be chosen at random from all readers who leave comments. The comments must include your full name and e-mail address so that we can contact you in the event that you are the winner of the Mango Tango Laptop Bag (Pink). By entering the contest, you agree to receive future notifications of giveways, sales, news, and other information from the Black Dress Traveler and Donnella’s Closet. 

All entries/comments must be received by 12:00 PM (EST) on Friday, January 16, 2009. Only one entry per person.

The winner of the Mango Tango Laptop Bag (Pink) will be notified by via e-mail on Monday, January 19, 2009. The winner has 48 hours from prize notification to respond to an e-mail announcing them as the winner or another winner will be selected. The bag will be shipped to the winner within 2 weeks. The prize can be shipped to U.S. addresses only. By entering the contest. the winner agrees to let us use their full name, city and state when the prize is announced. 

Have Dress. Will Travel!

Put on your favorite little black dress and join me on April 8 for a great evening with Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go. The evening will also feature sweet treats from Dolce Italia and delicious wine! Click here to order your tickets!

No matter where I travel, I always have at least one little black dress in my suitcase.  I don't   pack a dress just in case. I bring a black dress as a PROMISE to myself that my trip will include at least one outing that is elegant and special. There are very few places in the world where a little black dress and simple jewels don't fit the bill for proper attire.  And, being a "dressaholic", I tend to have a few more dresses, of all colors, in my valise.

The little black dress is not just a garment but a reminder to live life with a dash of flair whether you are traveling to work or circling the globe. Try to have a little black dress approach to life no matter where you are or what you are wearing.

I  love exploring my hometown of New York City just as much as venturing to far-flung destinations and I truly believe that travel is a state of mind.  There are places right in our own backyards that can elicit powerful feelings of wonder and inspiration. Films, food, books, fashion and music can all transport us to new places.  

Remember, adventure is always in fashion!

Wanda

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Plane Style: Chic at Any Altitude

As a little girl my Technicolor travel fantasies were very influenced by Hollywood. From Doris Day in That Touch of Mink to Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca, whether they were frolicking with their handsome leading men or fleeing villains, these ladies always traveled in style.  Their tailored dresses, precisely painted lips and couture coiffures defined glam on the go. 

Ah, those were the good old days. In the golden age of air travel regular people really did get dolled up. Boarding a plane was not just a form of transportation but also a metaphor for moving up in the world.  Certainly, one did not move up only to dress like they were down and out. So why in the 21st century are so many of us traveling like we just rolled out of bed?

Granted, flying for the average person is far from glamourous these days. Maybe the lint covered sweatsuits and faded flannel pajamas that some passengers choose to wear are a psychological response to the mistreament from the airlines. Who needs to get dressed up when you are packed into a tiny coach seat that seemed like the bargain of a lifetime when you ordered your ticket online but SMACK, you were sucker punched with exorbitant fees to check your luggage and your gourmet meal consists of stale Doritos ($3 extra please!)

Even the most fierce fashionista might resign herself to frumpiness in the face of such obstacles. Call me silly but I prefer to hold on to the fantasy and board that plane as if the runway were my catwalk.  For short flights, I have more casual little black dresses (and other colors too) that are comfy and still stylish. Longer flights call for stretchy black slacks and a cute top. And, no germy blankets for me. My oversized soft wool wrap keeps chilly cabin air at bay.

My fellow travelers, the airlines have taken away our meals, our comfort and too much of our money but please don't let them steal our style!