Ask Camp Comfort: Weekend Trip

It's been a while since I answered one of your Ask Camp Comfort questions... And truthfully work & life are so busy for me right now that I hardly have time to read your style-inquiry emails. So, I have resolved to temporarily remove the Ask Camp Comfort feature from the blog. No worries, it will be back as soon as I have the time to thoughtfully and thoroughly answer your questions.

That being said... Here's a parting Ask Camp Comfort post:


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Since I get a lot of emails asking about packing for trips, I thought I'd show you what I took for my recent 3-day work trip to LA. For short trips, my packing philosophy is Keep It Simple... staples, neutrals and a few hits of color. And my carry-on bag of choice: LeSportSac Large Weekender


Packed: Gap Jeans ($69.50), Karen Walker Sunglasses ($170), Swedish Hasbeens ($162), Steven Alan Shirt ($158), A.P.C. Top ($70), BDG Ankle Skinny Jean ($54), F21 Sweatshirt ($10.20), AG Pixie Shorts (which are apparently sold out), TOM'S ($44), Pendleton Dopp Bag ($48), F21 Tee ($6.80). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Baggy Sweatshirt

OK, I have been majorly slacking on Ask Camp Comfort lately... Apologies to all the readers that have written in to no avail!

In a attempt to do some catching-up, I stumbled across Isabella's Ask Camp Comfort inquiry (from November!)... Isabella was looking for outfitting tips for her new T by Alexander Wang Baggy Sweatshirt. You know I am a huge fan of stripes, so this laid back style is right up my alley!


Here we are cozy-ing-up the sweatshirt with warm layers. I think my favorite part of this outfit is that it just ever-so-slightly does not match... brilliant :)

T by Alexander Wang Sweatshirt ($118), J Brand Skinny ($160), Creature Comforts Sweater ($74.99), Pendleton Dopp Bag ($48), Barbour Socks, Palladium Boots ($55). Read More.. Read More..

How To: Red Tights

I love red tights! In my younger years, I fondly remember sporting red tights while working as a shopgirl at Kate Spade in San Francisco. As I get older I feel like I am walking a fine line between looking smart and modern vs. too sweet and juvenile in red tights. Sure, they look wonderful in polaroid-romantic photos floating through blogland, but how does one pull-off red tights in the real world?

I was recently pondering this dilemma when the lovely Raya of The Paper Pony wrote into Ask Camp Comfort looking for ways to wear red tights without looking like a clown.

So, after doing a little research, here are my how to's for wearing red tights:

Playing it safe: Paired with a tailored tweed dress and black accessories the red tights look sophisticated. Add quirky accessory (here a leopard bag) to take some of the pressure/attention off the tights.



Having some fun: Paired with a floral skirt and nautical top the red tights take on a sexy/playful vibe. Keep the outfit fairly tonal to avoid looking too silly.


Tights by Banana Republic ($15) - Loving this berry-red!
Outfit 1: Dunderndon Dress ($228), ModCloth Pine Cone Necklace ($15.99), F21 , Coat ($42.80), Jerome Dreyfuss Bag ($835), Steve Madden ($79.95).
Outfit 2: APC Sailor Top ($80), F21 Skirt ($16.90), Topshop Leather Bag ($100), Marais Oxford ($88). Read More.. Read More..

Incase You Missed It

Just incase you missed it, here is the Ask Camp Comfort post that I featured on Unruly-Things a couple weeks ago...

Recently Camp Comfort reader, Sarah, wrote in looking for some style suggestions for her long distance plane ride to Australia. Looking great while also feeling comfortable for a long flight can be a challenge – Here’s my foolproof outfit for flying in style.


A cute knit dress, leggings, soft-soled tennies, a large scarf to double as a blanket and a big tote to carry all the necessary plane-ride entertainment and accessories. And P.S. don’t forget to pack a pair of cute socks in your carry-on, planes are ALWAYS cold!

Uniqlo Dress ($19.50), F21 Leggings ($4.50), Gap Plaid Scarf ($16.99), LL Bean Boat & Tote ($49), TOM’S Shoes ($54). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Fall Shoes

We are in full-Fall-swing (fashion speaking, the weather may not have caught up yet). I have been busy posting some of my favorite shoes for Fall (Low Suede Boots and Pre-loved Classics). Which has lead many of you, dear readers, to write in to Ask Camp Comfort looking for outfit suggestions for some of these new styles.


Have no fear - Today I'll show you two easy ways to wear Suede Ankle Boots and Clarks. As a matter of fact, these outfits are so simple, you probably have the basic ingredients in your wardrobe already - Imagine that!

Masculine-Feminine: Add a feminine touch to these menswear shoes by pairing them with a girly dress and tights. Mixing patterns/prints is about to become all the rage - so start to get your feet wet by sporting a patterned tote with your printed dress. (P.S. I will get more into the art of print mixing soon)


Casual Cool: I always think of Clarks in a sort of 60's way (Beatnik meets Mod), so I tend to pair mine with something super casual with a vintage feel. Both skinny jeans and flares look good with Clarks. And they are perfectly paired with Earth tones!


Outfit 1: Rachel Comey Dress ($395), Gap Cord Hat ($12.99), Banana Republic Tights ($15), Sibilia Mixed Metal Bracelet ($135), Opening Ceremony Desert Boot ($382), Gap Wool Duffle ($49.50).
Outfit 2: Lutz & Patmos Cardigan ($525), Citizens of Humanity Paley Jean ($192), Iosselliani Feather Cuff Bracelet ($178), Clarks Wallabees ($105), Anthropologie Plaid Top ($98). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: 10-Year Reunion

Last night I had the totally awesome pleasure of meeting one of my new Portland neighbors, Jess of Heartthrobs & Villains... She's fantastic and has very cute style! Anyways, Jess has been looking for something to wear to her upcoming 10-year High School reunion and asked if I might have any suggestions, so I thought I'd go ahead and post a couple for Ask Camp Comfort.

Jess noted that she was possibly looking for a silky black romper and some cut-out shoes.... Now, I have to insert here that I actually skipped out on my 10-year reunion last summer, so I may not be the expert on appropriate attire. But I do know it's absolutely essential to look natural, at-ease and of course, stunning! So, without further delay, the outfits:



All clothing, shoes and accessories pictured via Anthropologie (with the exception of the first romper which is from Uniqlo). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: 70's Style Special

Lovely reader, Nicole, recently wrote in to Ask Camp Comfort looking for some recommendations on how to achieve an "all 70's, all the time" look! And she came to the right girl because I LOVE 70's style!


Obviously, it can be hard to narrow a 10-year span into one specific look, so I'd like to break this down to my two favorite 70's looks: Collegiate (ala Ali Macgraw) and Country Loving Post-Hippie (ala Emmylou Harris). Luckily the wardrobe staples are pretty much the same for both:

Cropped Tees (for your high waisted pants - lots available via Topshop)


High Waisted, Flared Jeans (JBrand is currently the master at this style - here and here)


High Waisted, Denim Short Shorts (the dolphin side hem is always a nice touch - these style from Urban Outfitters)


Wedges (of course! Kork Ease and Vintage Cherokee are the best, the right pair by Delia's are also an inexpensive option)


Throw Back Tennis Shoes (Adidas, Asics, Nike - they all do remakes of their 70's styles)



And now for a little added fun - I asked Stephanie of Even Cleveland to help us out with some outfit styling. She put together a look for the 70's Tomboy (think Farrah Fawcett on a skateboard):


Info for Stephanie outfit here.

Finally, here's my modern update on the 70's Campus look:


Top ($23.99), Skirt ($39.99) and Earrings ($13.99) from Mod Cloth, Chickadee Vintage Coach Bag ($22), Frye Campus Boot (278). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: A Day In Paris

Ahhhh... A summer day in Paris.... Sounds fantastic, doesn't it? Well, it's the topic for this week's Ask Camp Comfort inquiry! Reader Elise wrote in looking for the perfect outfit for a late-July day exploring Paris... Lucky Girl!

So many things to consider when picking an outfit for the ideal Paris day... Comfort for lots of walking, Style because it's Pairs of course, A Camera for some pretty snaps, and a versatile tote because you'll need something to carry all your lovely finds!


Topshop Check Playsuit ($80), LeSportsac Folding Tote ($88), Topshop Brogue ($90), Blackbird Camera ($119.99), Fred Flare Sunglasses ($11).

Enjoy your trip, Elise! Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Knit Tunic

This week's Ask Camp Comfort is all about the tunic... Delightful reader, Caitlyn, wrote in asking for some ways to outfit her new James Perse tank tunic. A few details: The tunic hits mid-thigh and has rather large and open arm holes...

Playing it Safe: For summer, tunics are easily layered over a striped tank, bermuda length cut-offs and cute sandals...



A Little Daring: A simple tunic is a great excuse to push the limits with your pairings - Why not try a bright colored bandeau, patterned leggings and playful sandals...


James Perse Tunic ($65), F21 Stripe Tank ($5.50), F21 Frayed Cuffed Denim ($15.80), Jeffrey Campbell hurache ($92), Eloise Bandeau ($18), BDG Native Geo Legging ($28), Marais Crosby ($68). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Boy + Wedding

Katey recently wrote in to Ask Camp Comfort with a small style dilemma, not for herself, but for her boyfriend. Katey and her Boy are attending a friend's wedding and Katey's looking for some ideas for what her boyfriend should wear. She lovingly described her boyfriend's style as plaid, skinny-jeans and Vans wearing, "sexy/rugged bmx rider with a mustache"... Cute!

Well, as I've learned from my music obsessed, history teaching, plaid flannel wearing, beard sporting husband... don't expect him to want to buy anything new for the event! Trying to make something work out of what he has is key!

Dress up dark jeans with a nicer shirt, add a little plaid in the tie, and Clarks are the best "hipster boyfriend plays dress up" shoes around!


JCrew Washed Graphic Check Shirt ($59.50), Levi's Skinny 511 ($79.50), Steven Alan Plaid Tie ($29), RayBan Eyeglasses ($94), Clarks Wallabee ($120).

So, now I am curious - Do you help your boyfriend/husband select his clothes? Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Floral Skirts

Camp Comfort reader, Esther, recently wrote into Ask Camp Comfort needing some suggestions for a top to pair with her new floral skirt. Generally Esther would gravitate towards a solid tee or tank (always a good option), but wanted find another style of top to spice up the look.... Here are my recomendations:

Got a mini or ditzy floral skirt - Try a plaid top!




Found a bold floral beauty - Try a stripe top!



The key elements to mixing patterns are... Keep the general color theme the same between top and bottom, Stick to one outfit theme (i.e. Bohemian, Preppy, Grunge, etc.), Try to balance a bold print with a subtle print, When in doubt keep it simple, And don't forget silhouette balance!

Clothing: F21 Ruffle Plaid Top ($24.80), A.P.C Skirt Hamilton Skirt ($200), Kimchi Blue Plaid Top ($48), Steven Alan Boardwalk Liberty Skirt ($205), F21 Stripe Pocket Tank ($11.80), F21 Distorted Floral Skirt ($13.80), Topshop Cropped Stripe Tank ($28), Mink Pink Senorita Skirt ($69.99). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Dresses to Elope In

Let's start this week's Ask Camp Comfort with a big congratulations to reader, Jennifer, who is eloping in Maine this September! Congrats!

So, Jennifer wrote in looking for some suggestions for a casual dress with a bit of coverage (for Maine in September) to get married in. And she was sure to qualify that the dress did not have to be white (and I agree)! So here are some pretty and slightly alternative dresses to get hitched in...




Rachel Comey Observation Dress ($430), Rebecca Taylor Lace Dress ($395), Rika Anastasia Dress ($247), Toast Coco Dress ($235), See by Chloe Wave Print Dress ($366), See by Chloe Floral Smock Dress ($600).

I think if I were to elope now, I would go for a mini-dress look inspired by Audrey Hepburn...



Tibi Dress ($428), Ban.Do no.94 ($165), Rose colored Repettos ($235). Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Spring Essentials

Lovely reader, Jenn, wrote in to Ask Camp Comfort with a rather over-arching style delimma.... What do you do when you want to achieve a certain look, but can't manage to pull it together?... Well, of course Jenn already knew the answer - It's all about stocking your closet a few important essentials!

So, how to pull off that "quirky, sweet, gamine" Camp Comfort style... You may remember when we chatted about The Staples, but since that was in January and fairly cold-weather focused, let's refresh with some Spring Essentials...


1. A light weight blouse/shirt: Easy & breezy but still looks pulled-together (Anthropologie, $88).
2. Short Shorts: I love the railroad print and button details of these shorts (Forever21, $19.90).


3. Long Cardigan: Because let's be realistic, it's not all sunshine (Forever21, $19.80).
4. Easy Dress: I am a huge fan of dresses you can throw over you head, slip in some cute shoes and head out the door... This Loyale dress is just perfect (Loyale, $184).


5. Flirty Skirt: Skirts are so easy to throw on with almost any tee tucked in (Urban Outfitters, $58).
6. Cross-body bag: This is a staple for me in any season, but particularly I find that when the weather warms up I don't want to be weighed down by a large bag (Vintage Coach, $155).


7. Light Tennies: I am a creature of comfort and TOMS are just the thing, love the awning stripe! Ked's are also a good option here (TOMS, $50).
8. Strappy Sandals: I like sandals with cross-foot straps and a sort of "grandma" look, is that strange? (DV, $55).

Of course I would LOVE to hear what your Spring Essentials are! Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: One-Piece Swimsuits

We have a couple exciting new installments of Ask Camp Comfort this week!

First up - One-piece swimsuits! Camp Comfort reader, Jane, wrote in asking for some fun and flirty one-piece swimsuits that don't break the bank (why are swimsuits so expensive anyhow???)

Here are a few sassy and vintage-inspired one-pieces for Under $100:




JCrew Retro PolkaDot ($76), Aerie Nautical Halter ($39.50), Delia's Plaid Boyshort ($48.50), Delia's Cinched Bandeau ($38.50), Gap Leaf Print Halter ($65), Insight Tie-Back ($98).

I know some women have a hard time wearing one-pieces if they are long-torsoed (I don't think that's a word, but you know what I mean)... Well, Delia's has a huge selection of one-piece swim made especially for those with a longer torso! Hooray!

P.S. If you're looking for a good deal on swim, try waiting to buy at the end of the season when literally ever piece of swim will be deeply discounted... and then save it till next year. (I know, the waiting is the hardest part!) Read More.. Read More..

Ask Camp Comfort: Turbans and Headwraps

Ask Camp Comfort is off to an exciting start and this week we are addressing the style inquiry of Tamarah from cutey blog Dolly Varden Vintage. Tamarah has been loving the look of Turbans and Headwraps like those from Prada's S/S 2007 collection, but is struggling to find the perfect way to wear them...

(Prada S/S 2007)

The turban/headwrap has made many appearances in women's fashion over the years. The first images that come to mind when I think of headwrap fashion are those of actress Gloria Swanson and the legendary fashion house Biba. Decades apart but oozing with the same sense of bohemian chic.

Since I will definitely not claim to be a pro at the tying portion... I am a fan of the pre-wrapped versions...

These headwraps are easy to throw on with a sleek ponytail or long tossled hair:

Beau Oise Silk Turban ($85), Jacqueline Lamont Liberty Print Turban ($50), UO Rose Headwrap ($16), F21 Turban Headband ($3.80).

And what could be easier than a headband! These have that fantastic Prada-esque knot on top:

Jennifer Ouellette Ikat Turban ($70), Jennifer Ouellette Double Layer Turban ($70).

Lastly there is the always-classic head scarf.... Twisted around and tied in front or left long in the back:
(Chloe A/W 2007)

So, what do you think? Would you sport the headwrap??? What's your favorite version of the look?

If anyone has any tips on headscarf tying, we'd love to hear them!

Read More.. Read More..

Introducing: Ask Camp Comfort

Camp Comfort is all about enjoying fashion and inspiring you to make a look your own! It is with that philosophy that we are introducing a new service to our readers - Ask Camp Comfort. Readers can write in with fashion and style related questions/problems - Anything from "How do I interpret this new trend?" to "I am looking for the perfect pair of flat riding boots!" and we will do our best to help (p.s. it's FREE)! Just look for the link to email us on the right hand column of the blog!


Anyways, welcome to the first posting in our new feature Ask Camp Comfort! Let's get on with the show...

Lovely reader, Courtney, recently wrote to us looking for some help picking an outfit for a special at-the-beach photo shoot with her friends. Courtney is a self-proclaimed "plaid/buttons/hoodie/sneaker kind of gal". She is looking for a dressier option for the shoot to match her friends, but does not want to compromise her style.

Here are a couple of options...

New Bohemian - This long flowing cotton dress has a fantastic care-free summer feel while still looking pulled together. The gold sandals and chunky necklace give the look it's more special quality, while the hat adds a bit of personal style.

Rika Dress ($319), F21 Straw Fedora ($10.80), Anthropologie Necklace ($38), Matt Bernson Gladiators ($170).

Quirky Vintage - This look is definitely channeling Zooey Deschanel! Your friends will be too busy asking you were you got that adorable dress to notice that you aren't super dressed-up. And of course a great pair of over-sized shades helps everyone to look chic at the beach!

Tulle Nantucket Dress ($94.99), Karen Walker Sunglasses ($200), F21 Macrame Belt ($6.80), A.P.C Espadrille Wedges ($250). Read More.. Read More..