The holidays are over, but it’s still winter, right?  If you are lucky enough to squeeze in a couple more good ski trips in through March, then good for you!  I got some great insight from John Gates over at the fabulous European-based ski-wear boutique Jet Set for trends and tips on what to wear in the ever-popular snow sport destination, Aspen, Colorado. Thanks for the great advice, John!

by Renae Virata

The weather’s finally cooled down, and the gang wants to get together for some good old-fashioned camping!  Nothing beats the fresh air, togetherness, and good-for-the-soul type of activity that spending time outside can bring.  And your friends may laugh at your obsession with planning “what to wear” for such a trip, but you and I both know that when you look good, you feel good, so plan away!  Here are some style tips to make your friends wish they‘d put some thought into looking good.

Putting together a great camping look can present some challenges.  How can you incorporate fashion without sacrificing the function in your outfit?  After all, you are not going to TOTALLY sit on your tookus, right?    That’s why I love this look, below, from Athleta. It’s practical and comfortable yet still includes all the elements of a great picture-worthy look.  You can vary this look depending on your weather by substituting shorts, a button-up shirt, tee, lighter-weight jacket, etc.

The practical

This time of year can bring some chiller weather, especially if you find yourself near higher elevations and mountains.  Warm up with several layers.  This great fleece jacket, for example, employs much-needed pockets to carry the essentials on a quick hike and has a high color that can be zipped up to protect your neck when the wind blows.  A thinner layer of a breathable knit works great underneath – as you sweat, you want to be able to shed your jacket and still have coverage.   Lightweight fabrics are key.  Theses breathable pants make it easy in a water-resistant style and stain-hiding muted color.

Shop this outfit for details and more colors by clicking on any item: Osa earflap hat $36, Athleta top $84, Minka mountain jacket $148, Isle half mitts $30, Athleta pants $118, Merrell boots $200.  Find them all at Athleta.

Having the right accessories can really help protect you and prevent injuries.  Don’t you hate when you wear gloves and you keep having to take them off and put them back on when you have to work with your hands?  I do, too!  Fingerless gloves in a warm knit are the answer.  An earflap hat protects your ears and keeps your head warm (not to mention makes a bad hair day obsolete with some strategic tucking or braiding underneath).  A good pair of boots or shoes probably trump any other accessory you will need for your trip.  Rubber soles to grip the ground and a high ankle to provide stability over uneven surfaces.

The fashionable

So can you look fashionable while being functional as well?  Of course!  Pops of color help make an outfit a little more exciting.  The hint of purple peeking beneath a neutral jacket in the outfit above, for example, brightens the entire look and makes it look less structured.  Check out the boots, too!  The bright pink is an unexpected surprise that makes the outfit more sweet.

Mixes of texture also add an element of fun by creating dimension and style.  The lush jacket, cozy gloves and slight sheen in the boots combine to make this look purposeful without looking looking like a camp costume.

Go for “basics” with a little panache.  One of my FAVORITE outerwear pieces is a water-resistant hooded jacket I got from REI.  The cut is urban, the print is urban (it looks like a wool texture!), and the color is a cool silvery gray, but it’s gotten me through a number of city and outdoor adventures.  Zippers like in the pants above, too, make a look more contemporary, as does the slim fit.

Try accessories to liven up your look.  A colorful scarf or bandanna to wear around your hair, funky hats, bright socks peeking over your boots, and additional jewelry that can work with the elements (studs, natural necklaces in shell, leather, and wood).

Some more helpful tips:

• Look alive. You don’t have to leave your makeup bag at home.  Just change your routine.
• Don’t overpack. Especially if you have to carry your own pack with a tent, food, water, etc.  Your boots will be all you’ll need, so don’t treat this excursion like a typical trip – relax and make it simple!
• Wear sports bras. They’re more comfortable, breathable and are acceptable to wear alone if the temperatures rise significantly.
• Avoid jeans. Unless they are treated specifically to be super breathable and water resistant, leave your favorite pair at home.  They’ll show dirt easily and are not nearly as comfortable as a stretchy pair of pants made for the outdoors.
• Opt for flexible flats versus flip-flops. Crocs’ Crocband flats are perfect!  They’re flexible, great near water, keep those nasty sticks and burrs from clinging to your feet, and come in a variety of colors to suit your mood.
• Have fun! Heed these tips to look and feel great while you enjoy your outdoor adventures.

]]> http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/how-to-look-cute-camping/feed/ 0 http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/new-england-what-to-wear-for-a-fall-foliage-tour/ http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/new-england-what-to-wear-for-a-fall-foliage-tour/#comments Thu, 06 Oct 2011 18:20:22 +0000 Renae Virata http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/?p=335 by Renae Virata

It’s time to break out the cozy sweaters and cords!  Nothing says fall better than a crisp drive through the country’s best display of autumn splendor – New England.

If you are lucky enough to make it to this region of the US in September, October, and November, you can take any one of dozens of recommended fall foliage tours in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont that can range anywhere between 30 to 200+ miles.Warm, moist air from the south and cold, dry air to the north make the weather there a little unpredictable this time of year, so layers are ideal instead of packing hard cold-weather items like a parka or long johns.   Style-wise, while trends are appreciated here as in any other part of the country, New Englanders seem to always maintain that sense of classic simplicity with a twist of individuality here and there, so that special key fall piece like your furry vest, tailored hat, or funky scarf are a go.

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What else should you wear for your trip to Boston, Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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Color choices tend to be richer and deeper.  Neutrals like mushroom gray, tan, beige, and black are also great options layered together or with brighter colors.

Make sure you have layers that can withstand any extreme changes as you peel each one off.  Simply wearing a thin layer, like a tank or tee, under a super-thick jacket might not get you through a rise or drop in temperature between 45 and 80 degrees (yes, this can actually happen!).

________Vermont foliage.

Instead, opt for a three-layer plan: A thin layer of a slim tee, tank, or dress; a second layer of a light cardigan, knit vest, fleece, hoodie, or light knit sweater; then a water-repellant jacket, leather jacket, or cropped trench to pull it all together.  Leggings, a skirt or fall shorts with tights in a fabulous color, jeans, or other casual pairs of pants like velveteen or corduroy have you covered on the bottom.   Don’t forget your knit cap, tailored hat, or thin knit scarf for cooler days or nights.

Hopefully you will be doing some walking to truly enjoy the foliage and fresh air.  Street-ready sneakers, low-heeled or flat boots (LOVE the plethora of slouchy suede styles out there!), or a comfortable pair of flats will let you cover miles (or, ok, YARDS) of enjoyment.

And after a long day of driving through the autumn wonderland, why not relax in your cozy room at a quaint bed and breakfast? SO New England!

Although October tends to be generally clear, our rule is: You just never know! And this year’s Farmer’s Almanac seems to predict an unusually rainy forecast in October.  Prepare for a random rainstorm with a water-repellant jacket (places like REI and LL Bean carry investment pieces in more tailored-looking styles), a classic rain slicker, or a great trench, which can all act as your top layer.  And, if you planned it just right, wellingtons to suit your style will complete your fall rain look.

Remember that the more inland or west you go, the cooler the temps will be while the coast tends to be warmer due to the heating of the Gulf stream just offshore (the Atlantic tends to be warmer than the Pacific because of this). Check out My Stylist for weather conditions and to help you plan your wardrobe!

Jessica Alba

Modified equestrian is always a good fall look.

Ashley Tisdale

•    The Village Shoppes at Salzburg Square | An collection of boutique stores housed in tudor-style Bavarian architecture that you’d swear you were in a German forest; visit Roxie’s Fashions for fabulous finds; Amherst, NH.  And don’t forget – tax-free shopping in New Hampshire!

•    Galapagos Boutique | An a-DOR-able old South County farmhouse filled with everything from Spanx to Hudson jeans and Alice + Olivia; Charlestown, Rhode Island.

•    Brass Mill Center and Commons |125+ mall stores, including H&M; Waterbury, Connecticut.

•    Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets | 70+ outlet shops, includes Barneys New York, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, and Kenneth Cole; Clinton, Connecticut.

•    Ralph Lauren | Classic American style that keeps evolving.

•    Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire | Hundreds of well-known and local boutique stores; visit Puttin’ on the Glitz for some awesome and affordable pieces that are vintage or from around the world; Portsmouth, NH.

•    Vermont Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Maine Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Massachusetts Fall Foliage Tours | Mass.’s Office of Travel and Tourism website with recommended tours.

•    Connecticut Fall Foliage Tours | Official Visit Connecticut site featuring recommended tours.

•    New Hampshire Fall Foliage Tours | The New England Times guide to recommended tours.

•    Visit New Enland | The best online tourism guide to the New England experience.

•    Farmer’s Almanac | Chillier and rainier weather this fall, but don’t let that stop you from visiting during peak fall foliage.

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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]]> http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/new-england-what-to-wear-for-a-fall-foliage-tour/feed/ 2 http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/08/what-to-wear-sailing-on-the-east-coast/ http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/08/what-to-wear-sailing-on-the-east-coast/#comments Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:47:25 +0000 Renae Virata http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/?p=5428 Bohemians go to the beach for the summer and the preppies go sailing! Sailing is a traditional summer luxury along the East Coast. Many Eastern seaboard summer vacation spots were formerly ports for British ships and from a history of Naval seafaring places like Cape Cod are now full of yachts and sailboats. If you happen to be invited to the Hamptons, the Cape, or St. Michael’s for the weekend don’t forget your boat shoes or sailing stripes!

by Sinta Jimenez

Nautical fashion is one which is extremely practical. Quite simply put, being on a boat requires specific kinds of clothing, being that you are engaging in sport.

• Sweaters, knits, pullovers of all sorts are required for a day at sea even during the warmest months as it is always colder on the water. Late afternoon and sunset sails get downright chilly.
• Chinos are always a good idea as they withstand sea water just fine and aren’t damaged by salt. They are warm as they breathable and they dry quickly.
• Boat shoes are great though not required for more luxurious cruising. The rubber bottom heel which can grip the floor are great for boats sailing low on the water.
• Nautical trends have lasted for a good hundred years. Stripes, reds, whites, and blues will never go out of fashion!

For a day sail: Sunblock, a brimmed hat, a tank top and light knit to layer, shorts

Click an item to shop this look: Alba Hawaiian Natural Sunblock with Green Tea, SPF 45, $7.19; Delia’s crochet cardigan, $14.99; Miss Sixty singlet tank, $19.47; Southpole cut-off shorts $33.99, Crocs flats $34.99,

For a sunset sail: A medium knit sweater or pull over, close-toed boat shoes, a jaunty scarf

For a dinner cruise: Dinner cruises rarely require seaworthy duds!

• Saint James

• Le Minor

• Sperry

• stmichaelsmd.org
• www.capecodtravel.com
• www.mvy.com
• www.capemay.com
• www.sailingmontauk.com

About Sinta

Sinta Jimenez’s previous incarnations: rolling stone, financial analyst, law student, herbal specialist, waitress, model, wild child, ballet dancer, student, surfer, world traveller.  Current incarnation: mother, lotus amidst fierce flames.  From birth to death: artist, writer, poet.  A lifelong student of the arts, she received her Masters in Fine Arts from Otis College of Art and Design in 2010. Born in Manila, raised in DC, she currently lives in Los Angeles.  Check out her fabulous blog Hail to the Chic.  Photo taken in Los Angeles.

Photo credit: NOLA Arts District

by Renae Virata

Leave it to New Orleans to provide a supercool (literally) tradition like White Linen Night!  When there was no air conditioning way back when, merchants got together and held a block party around dusk to night to encourage people to come out, sample wares, shop, eat, drink, and socialize.

White Linen Night is August 6, 2011!

Why white linen?  It’s light, airy, and doesn’t absorb the sun like darker colors do, helping people keep cool as they hung out.  Today, the tradition (which takes place in NOLA’s Warehouse Arts District) continues the first week of August each year and with more of an emphasis on the arts.  Houston’s Heights area even has their own version that plays perfectly into the historical and walkable area’s charm.

The perfect white linen night dress - only $59.70 at Esprit! Click item to shop.

Do you have to wear white linen, though?  White, probably.  Linen, no.  You don’t want to be left out! And it’s fun to see the sea of white as you stroll the streets with friends.  Here are some outfit examples and tips to make your White Linen Night experience fun and comfortable.  Create your own outfits like this by using our My Stylist app, creating an outfit, then clicking on “Print This Look.”

Click here or on any item to shop this look: French Connection scarf $48, Isabella Oliver dress $89.50, Miz Mooz wedge boots  $129.99.

Click here or on any item to shop this look: Daytrip vest $25, Esprit ribbed tank $25.50, ApartStyle shorts $88, Carlos Shoes $69.

Click here or on any item to shop this look: ModCloth tank $39.99, Old Navy trouser jeans $29.50, Steve Madden sandals $69.95

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What else should you wear for your trip to New Orleans or Houston?

Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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Tips:

- Wear flats or comfortable wedges / platforms.  You will be doing a lot of walking, so also make sure your shoes won’t nip your feet after a few hours.

- Don’t limit yourself to wearing just a white dress – although it IS a great excuse to!  Get creative and find all-white looks you may not have thought of before.

- Many people see this event as an excuse to dress up just a bit…what we called polished but relaxed.  Try a white capri and cropped jacket, white shorts and a cute knit top.

- Accessorize with some punches of color!  A colorful belt, fun jewelry or different shoes will help break up your all-white look.

- Keep cool…Bring a fan – hand-held electric (I’m serious!) or a cute manual one – and drink plenty of water, especially if you plan to do some drinking.  You will be surrounded by body heat galore in addition to the hot and humid weather.

For more info on White Linen Night, check out New Orleans online!

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Make sure you have the soundtrack to go along with your trip. Check out our Travelista playlist for great music on the road or on the go!

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Click to shop.

by Renae Virata

For years now, so many women have yearned for a figure-flattering yet still sexy one-piece.  Gone are the days of plain, mo-mo swimsuits – this is the summer of the sexy one-piece.  From cut-outs to slimming silhouettes to delightful details, many retailers are offering single-piece swimwear for every body.  Two pieces are also kicking it up a notch with mix-and-match pieces, delish prints, and fun details.  Here are our twelve picks for the season!

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: Billabong $69.50; Betsey Johnson $180

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: Stella McCartney $219, Delia’s $41

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: Delia’s $35, Boden $54

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: L’Space Jet Set $127, Spiegel $29

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: Marc by Marc Jacobs $95, Heidi Klein $235

Click on a swimsuit to shop the look: Freya Mystere $74, Ted Baker $84

Praia Urbana, the all-day music festival in Houston that takes place four times a year, was bigger and better than ever this past weekend.  I captured a few great examples of what to wear for such an outdoor concert as I danced my way between the two stages.

Outdoor concerts and festivals require attire that is comfortable (i.e. not binding, breathable, quick to dry and low-maintenance).  But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style.  The weather will usually call for something that you don’t mind sweating in (although we were lucky this weekend at a high of 80 degrees F).  Here’s a checklist of other essentials:

• Shades, of course.
• A fabulous fan (the old-school kind that folds up nicely in your purse – it’s a summer staple wherever I go).
• Once it really starts to heat up, bring a bandanna or scarf to wick away heat, to dip into water for cooling off, or to tie your hair back from your face.
• Baby wipes in a plastic baggie to “wash your hands” with, wipe away sweat, or to use in port-a-potties.
• Suntan lotion / sunscreen!
• Lots of water
• Cross-body bag to keep your essentials close to your person and to make it easier to carry all of the above essentials!

Just type in a city, select a date, and choose a type of occasion.

Are you planning on going to any outdoor concerts soon?  Drop a line in the comments section and/or send us a pic of your outfit to info@wearevertheweather.com. We’ll include it here and also in our “What They Are Wearing In…” street style section!

Look 1: Festive, feminine, and put-together. Great mix of color, light cotton tube dress, slightly embellished (but not too much!) flat sandals, big shades and artful but not over-the-top wooden jewelry (in complementary colors, no less).  It’s sweet and gets anyone who sees her in the mood to enjoy a beautiful day!

Click here to see the complete outfit created by our My Stylist app or on an item to shop this look: Hessnatur scarf $25, Delia’s dress $39.50, Steve Maden thong sandal $49.95.

Look 2: Fun with color. The chick on the left had a blast – right down to her yellow shoes!  Her funky-printed, airy dress; teal frames; and casual crossbody bag added to the fun atmosphere.  And you couldn’t beat her awesome attitude, which is, most of the time, half your look!

Click here to see the complete outfit created by our My Stylist app or on an item to shop this look: D&Y by David Young hat $26, Cross Stitch in Time tank $39.99, Hali shorts $228, Steve Madden wedges $89.95.

Look 3: Simple chic. For a more subdued look, the chick on the right had it down to a T.  If you never thought to wear a hat, this is a great time to do it!  Her cotton tank dress layered over a simple black tank created some dimension while her comfortable natural wedges added height.  And the green crossbody bag was the perfect punch of color to this simple look.

Look 4: Sporty feminine. When I came up with this look, I simply wanted a touch of spring and natural elements while still maintaining my personal style in comfort.  I thought I captured it well in a racer back tank, gray gladiator sandals, worn-leather satchel and necklace made from seeds (that I had strung myself!).  Unfortunately, I didn’t capture the best part…the ruffled number on the back of this simple, lined cotton-blend skirt for an extra touch of fun!

Photo | Nassau Paradise Island

by Renae Virata

You’ve been waiting all winter for that tropical beach vacation, and it’s finally here!  Make the trip a little easier with these tips and ideas for packing and traveling in style.The main things to consider for your travel wardrobe are your destination’s particular customs, your activities, and how long you will be there.  Many Central American locales, for example, are considered dangerous outside of the resort or hotel property, so if you should venture out on your own (or even with a trusted local), you should err on the conservative and cover yourself with a light shawl, long-sleeve shirt or t-shirt.

Hot, beachy weather, no matter where you are, calls for a little more punch in your wardrobe.  Bright colors and bold jewelry are acceptable anywhere, anytime.

The Weather

Humidity can be overwhelming for many people who are used to cooler, drier climates, especially when the moisture carries into the night air.  But it offers a certain advantage – no matter where you go and what you do, you will always be sticky, sweaty or both, so comfort trumps worries about style, leaving you with many as many or as few options as you choose.  One of the easiest tips to keep cool is to keep fabrics light and airy – light cotton, rayon, jersey knit, and linen are all good options to keep you cool in hot climates.

If you are lucky enough to hike or zipline through mountains, don’t forget a light rain jacket or long-sleeve shirt and, preferably, light capris to cover your legs as you walk through jungle areas.  Temperatures can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler and much drier in those areas, making it even more of a change from the warm, humid temperatures by the shore.

Some good advice because of the hot weather: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!  It’s always a good idea for your skin and muscles, but there’s nothing worse than getting heatstroke that lasts for two days and missing part of your vacation (been there, done that, hated it!).   The general rule when you’re out and about in the heat and especially when consuming alcohol is one glass of water for every two drinks.

What to Wear

Packing for a tropical destination might seem as daunting a task as any other vacation, but you have more room to play with your wardrobe (literally and in your suitcase!).

For a ten-day trip, you can be comfortable with two pairs of walking shorts, a pair of board shorts, a pair of lighter casual pants in cotton or linen, a few knit tees or woven tops in bright colors, a couple of basic-colored tanks (great layered under a long-sleeve shirt), a pair of capris for traveling to colder climates, three swimsuits, a long-sleeve shirt, sarong, two casual dresses, and one nicer dress that can be worn for a more special occasion.

On your feet: Haivianas for the beach, pool, and (in some cases) the shower (I know, YUCK!); a pair of neutral wedge sandals to go with black or brown-based outfits for fun, non-walking day trips and at night; light summer flats; and a pair of thong sandals that can be worn anywhere in brown, tan, or white leather.

Versatility, as with most vacations, makes your trip wardrobe easier to manage and less of a headache though not as key for a trip to a warmer country since each piece you pack won’t take up as much space AND you won’t care as much when you are sticky and sweaty most of the day anyway.  A sarong, for example, doubles as a cover-up at night or when traveling in the city or as a cover-up for the beach and pool.  A long-sleeve shirt can be your travel top, a “jacket” in the mountains, or a cover-up for the beach and pool.  A light jersey halter dress can be worn both during the day with casual sandals or at night with wedges.

In general, you will likely be by the pool or beach most of the day, so you can re-wear two or three cover-ups over the course of your trip.  For the sake of pictures, a good tip is to wear an outfit at night then wear it on an excursion or during the day when your are likely to sweat so you don’t waste an outfit by sweating in it the first time it makes its appearance.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

Photo credit | Victoria's Secret

Photo credit | WhosDatedWho.com

Jamie Lynn Sigler. Photo credit | Gustavo Caballero, Getty Images.

Photo | SodaHead.com

by Renae Virata

You’ve waited all spring since spring break or President’s Day, and it’s finally arrived:  Memorial Day.  Memorial Day not only gives us a time to honor and remember those who have given their lives to protecting our great country – it also signifies the unofficial start to summer.   So don’t wait for June 21st (the official first day of summer!) to get bright and light.  Below is a list of different activities that you might partake in this Memorial Day and what to wear.

Backyard Barbecue

Add some panache with fun shapes like a racerback tank versus a regular one, metallic gladiator sandals, and cuffed shorts. Add panached with a straw fedora.

Click on an item above to shop this look or click here. Daytrip vest, $25; Oneteaspoon tank, $97.78; Bailey shorts, $24.50; Steve Madden sandals, $79.95

A Little Fancy

Dresses are huge this summer, so wear your favorite sundress and stave off the heat.  Add some height with platform wedges.  If it’s a little chillier, try a light cardigan or cropped jacket.

Click on an item to shop this look or click here. Zhenzi cardi, $60.16; Doo-Lally day dress, $155; Steve Madden shoes, $89.95

Pool Party

A fun bathing suit, a tunic, straw hat, waterproof sandals is all you need to make it a great day.  This season, it’s all about prints.  Layer on a funky print in a sheer tunic over a differently printed suit in complementary colors.

Click on an item to shop this look. O’Neill swim top, $32; O’Neill swim bottom, $30; ApartStyle tunic tank, $110; Old Navy thong sandal, $10

Extra Tips

• With great celebrations comes great food and lots of outside activity, and Memorial Day is no exception.  You might be able to wear whites now (but we always break that rule, anyway), but leave them at home unless you plan on covering up with a bib or apron.  Grass stains, barbecue sauce, and other unexpected messes could leave you with a stain that won’t last you past Monday.
• It’s a happy time, so no matter the temperature, don the bright colors of the season.
• If you get chilly, bring a light scarf in a bright color that can act as a shawl.  Lend as much to the season as you can despite the lower temps.  Or cover up in a light and sporty jacket.
• Add some height with

Photo | FitSugar

by Sameera Ahmed

Outdoor Weekend Packing list:

Sleeping bag…check
Hiking boots…check
Water bottle…check
Makeup bag…duh!

As a travelista, you’re always looking your chic-est, even in the middle of nature.  Being surrounded by our plant and animal friends calls for a low-key, natural look… a kind of easy-breezy beauty.  Here are some essential products and tips to keep you looking your best on your outdoor excursion… naturally of course.

Hydrating SPF moisturizer – pick an oil-free lotion or cream with an SPF of at least 30.  Go for something lighter than your usual daily moisturizer, as you want your skin to be able to breathe through all the hiking and outdoorsy-ness you’ll be participating in.  Also pick a formula with zinc oxide for maximum protection without the chemicals.  I like Devita’s Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30+.

Next, go with a powder or mineral foundation.  These are great all-in-one products, and you can change the amount of coverage you get by switching up your application techniques.  Combine a dab of moisturizer with a dash of mineral powder for a tinted moisturizer-like consistency.  Then, use your finger or a small concealer brush to concentrate coverage on blemishes or under-eye circles.  Finally, finish with a light dusting of powder over the face using a fluffy powder brush for an even finish.  Et voila – a finished face all with one product!  I like bare Minerals Matte SPF 15 Foundation.

Add some color to your complexion with a cream blush formulation that can be used on eyes, lips and cheeks.  Stick with a matte formula, which will look more natural than shimmery colors.  Try Bobbi Brown’s Pot Rouge for Cheeks and Lips in Blushed Rose, a gorgeous brown pink that looks great on every skin color. Just use fingertips to dab a bit on cheeks, lips and eyes for a naturally flushed look.

Finally, finish eyes with a clear mascara, which will help group lashes together for a more defined look, and will tame unruly brows.  Sephora’s Professional Clear Natural Mascara is a great, affordable and effective one.

If you want to darken lashes, choose a waterproof mascara with natural volume and length – no spider lashes!  Going with a  waterproof formula means you won’t have any mascara streaks from any sudden rainfall or from perspiration.  I like this waterproof formula, also from Sephora Collection.

And your “I came out of the tent looking this way” look is complete!  By sticking with products that mimic your natural beauty, you’ll look naturally luminous and no one will be the wiser!

Be sure to remove makeup at night with cleansing wipes so you don’t wake up with raccoon eyes and breakouts.  I like Josie Maran’s Bear Naked Wipes – they remove all traces of dirt, oil and makeup and soothe skin with Vitamin E, aloe vera and chamomile.  Plus they’re biodegradable, so you won’t be harming the beautiful environment you’re spending time in.  As if that weren’t enough, a portion of the proceeds from this product goes to protect endangered Polar Bears.

So there you have it, beauties!  You are ready to frolic away in the outdoors, as your naturally beautiful self.

About Sameera

Sameera Ahmed is a Denver-based freelance writer, makeup artist and skin care consultant.  Bitten early on by the travel bug, her dream is to seek out indulgent spas and well-kept beauty secrets in every corner of the world.  See her tips on her blog Makeup by Sameera and follow her on twitter @makeupsam.