Three Aventura dresses for summer travel

I didn’t used to be a ‘dress’ person, until I started traveling regularly. Suddenly, I understood the convenience and comfort of wearing dresses while on the road. Dresses take up less room in my bag than a top and pants, and they give me a pulled together look with little effort. Add a scarf or fun hat, and I’m good to go! Of course, any dress worthy of my carry-on has to be practical, comfortable, and made of quality material, ready for adventure.

dresses for summer travel

Dresses for summer travel:

As an Aventura Clothing ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity to try many Aventura dresses. These three are my top favorites for this summer.

Lidell dress: The Lidell dress is your go-to casual summer dress, ideal for travel days that take you to the farmer’s market, the beach, or the boardwalk. I’ve used mine as a cover-up when wearing my swimsuit, as well as to a casual meal out (pair it with the cute Redford jacket on cooler evenings).

It’s made of 95% organic cotton, with just a bit of spandex for stretch. You get the popular ombre look with stripes, and the hem is 37″, which is pretty generous. My favorite feature is the bra-friendly tank bodice. Pick it up on aqua, dahlia (coral), or high rise (gray tones) for $79.

Garland dress: The Garland might be my absolute favorite, because it looks fitted and tailored, but is in fact soft and stretchy. The Garland is a combination of organic cotton and jersey, and feels very lightweight (I’m wearing last year’s chevron print in the photo below in humid Miami). You get cap sleeves, a faux wrap front, and cute keyhole and belt details. As I noted above, it looks really put together: feminine and sophisticated. The all-over medallion print is trendy and fun.

I really liked wearing the Garland on cruises this spring, and it was my go-to outfit for a semi-formal outdoor dinner event while I traveled last month. Pick up the Garland dress for $82 in Dutch blue, black, or cardinal (which is really more of a soft brick red).

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Joni dress: The Joni is the only dress listed here that’s 100% organic cotton. Of course, each of my picks are at least mostly organic. That’s because organic cotton is not only great for the environment but also super soft and wrinkle-resistant. The Joni shines as a casual all-around-town dress with a space-dye fabric that creates a tonal striped look that’s understated. You can easily pair it with a scarf or even a wide belt since its pattern is really neutral. I like the Joni for city touring, and on long car or train rides when I know I’ll want to look nice when I arrive.

The Joni has a high tank upper design and comes in spiced coral, black (with some white tones), rock ridge (gray with white tones), and Viridian green (which is more of a sea green/blue combination). Pick it up for $77.

Don’t forget! We are still handing out 60% off coupon codes for any Pit Stops for Kids readers who want to try Aventura! Subscribe to our Pit Stops for Kids newsletter, or if that’s not your thing, just email us!

Aventura Clothing capsule wardrobe for spring travel

This spring, ‘capsule wardrobes’ are all the rage, and I understand why. The idea of putting together a collection of coordinating and complimenting pieces of clothing makes for a more organized day-to-day life and certainly makes packing easier for any trip. I’ve actually been creating capsule wardrobes for years, without knowing it had a name…I’m minimalistic by nature and probably just couldn’t be bothered with too many outfits in my closet!

spring capsule wardrobe

But if you ARE interested in creating a capsule wardrobe for spring travel, Aventura Clothing makes it really easy, because their pieces already compliment each other. As regular readers know, I’ve been an ambassador for Aventura for years now, and this quality brand keeps me coming back because it consistently offers high quality, organic clothing that’s comfortable, stylish, and practical.

Creating an Aventura capsule wardrobe for spring travel:

Here’s what my Aventura wardrobe looks like this spring, utilizing new pieces from the spring 2017 catalogue, plus a few classic extras. Forgive me if my ‘capsule’ isn’t by the book; I may have fewer pieces than a traditional capsule, but wanted to stay true to what really does go into my bag for an average spring trip.

Note: if you’d like to put together a winter/cold weather Aventura capsule wardrobe for travel, check out this post from Atlanta 365.

One of the most important ‘rules’ of creating a travel capsule wardrobe is color coordination. Pick a basic color scheme, and stick to it. I often choose black/gray/white, but I’m boring that way.

  • I start with two pairs of pants: one capri and one light pant. (You could substitute shorts here, but I like to have one lightweight pair of pants for inclement weather, historic sites or cathedrals where I need to cover my knee, and chilly air conditioned buildings.) For me, the Titus Ankle pant is the winner; it’s a very classic style that comes in basic colors. I have the white. For the capri, I love the new Addie capri, because the length is adjustable from a long pair of shorts to a full capri. Versatile pieces are key!
  • I add two tank tops: one undershirt-type, and one dressier type. For my undershirt/base layer tank, I have two favorites, and what you choose will depend on your style and body type. The Zelda Tank is a nylon/spandex blend that almost works as a spanx (I said almost!). It can be worn alone, or layered with a light sweater or dress, which is what I do. If you want more of a camisole style, go with the Aster cami.  For the dressier tank, I am currently in love with the Pearson Tank, which has really stylish cross-straps in the back to dress it up. It comes in several color patterns; I recommend the gray/black, because it’s classic and will go with your other pieces.
  • Next, add two tees or blousy tops: These are your main tops, that can go from cool spring weather to warmer days. The Sonnet hoodie is a winner in this category, because it’s made of soft organic cotton that’s lightweight and doesn’t wrinkle, has 3/4 sleeves so it doesn’t get too hot, but has a cute hood just in case. I got the spiced coral color, because it goes well with my gray/black tones. For the second tee, I love the Sonnet top. It has a similar weight and feel (and similar brushed heather look), but is a fitted tee with short sleeves. You can get more adventurous with different styles, but I stay true to one or two basic themes in my capsule wardrobe, so items can better mix and match.

Don’t forget! If you like what you see here, you can get a 60% coupon code to Aventura Clothing just by being a Pit Stops for Kids reader! Email for the coupon code at amy(at)pitstopsforkids(dot)com.

  • Add two dresses or skirts: At least one dress should be ‘dressy’ for nice evenings out. My pick is the Garland dress. This cute wrap-style dress is so light and breathable, it was my go-to choice while touring ruins in humid Central America, but also went out to dinner with me. For a second dress, the Hollis is simple, comfortable, and ready for adventure, especially if you pair it with Aventura’s new Go Anywhere Shortie that fits under any dress or skirt.
  • Finish with one light sweater and one wrap: You need at least one sweater that can be worn as a layering piece. The new Liv Sweater is thin enough to pack down small, but warm when worn over a tank or tee. You’ll be shocked to hear I went with gray. It fits down in my backpack for day trips, too. For evenings out, I am in love with the Kyle wrap, which goes perfectly with any dress, tank, or top, as long as you pick a nice, neutral color.
  • Don’t forget to include a few scarves: This is my #1 tip for successful capsule packing…accessorize with items that pack down small! Scarves take up almost no room, yet give boring outfits new life faster than anything else. The Madeline scarf can be worn multiple ways, and is very light cotton so it won’t cause you to overheat.

Depending on your destination, you might also need: 1. rain jacket or fleece, 2. swimsuit and cover up, 3. sun hat or beanie. Don’t forget: you only need two pairs of shoes: comfortable walking/active shoes and sandals.

Be sure to check our past posts of Aventura Clothing reviews…many of the older styles are still available!

Central America packing list and gear picks

Heading to Central America? You’re going to need to pack smart, for both sun protection and insect protection. And of course, you’ll want to be comfortable in humid and tropical weather. We just returned from Panama and Costa Rica, where we stayed relatively cool and safe from the elements by following this Central America packing list.

central america packing list

Central America packing list:

  • 2-3 lightweight, long-sleeved travel shirts
  • 2-3 lightweight t-shirts or tank tops
  • 2 pairs quick-dry, wicking travel pants (convertible a plus)
  • 2 pairs of shorts, skirts, or dresses
  • 4-5 pair quick-dry travel underwear/bras (trust us)
  • 1 swim suit (preferably a ‘sporty’ type for activities)
  • 1 light pullover, sweater, or cardigan
  • 1 breathable rain jacket
  • 1 pair walking or hiking shoes
  • 1 pair water-ready sandals
  • 3-5 pair hiking socks (preferably lightweight wool)
  • 1 wide-brimmed, lightweight hat (think safari style)

Gear picks: the brands and products we recommend:

Look for clothing that’s specifically designed for hot, humid environments with lots of bright sunshine and more than its share of insects. Your clothing needs to be breathable, loose enough to be comfortable while you’re active, and quick-drying for water sports (and humidity and sweat). Here’s what we took to Panama and Costa Rica and loved:

Toad & Co Debug line: Toad & Co’s ‘Debug’ line comes treated with insect shield technology that lasts through years of washes. It’s much safer to wear bug-treated clothing than to spray insect repellent directly onto your skin, and because Toad & Co’s Debug line is designed for tropical environments, most items are also very breathable and lightweight. I wore the Debug Hike Thru shirt both onboard our UnCruise on travel days and in the jungle. Their bandana scarf is also a great item to accessorize with, giving your debug benefits without buying a whole outfit.

Craghoppers Insect shield line: Craghoppers’ Insect Shield line is made for men and women, and offers both long and short-sleeved ‘Panama’ shirts, lightweight jackets with multiple pockets, and hiking pants. Our Pit Stops Dad loved the NatGeo Insect Shield cargo shorts and I liked the NatGeo adventure shirt. Best of all, there’s a nice line of kids’ insect shield clothing, which can be hard to find elsewhere! Our son wore the Insect Shield half-zip.

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ExOfficio BugsAway line: I’ve always loved ExOfficio for travel wear, and their BugsAway line is fashionable and comfortable. I’ve worn their Damselfly pant in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Costa Rica. And ExOfficio is absolutely where to go for quick dry underwear for your trip!

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Columbia Sportswear: Columbia doesn’t make insect-treated clothing (that we are aware of), but they do make some of our favorite hiking/travel shirts and pants, and are less expensive than most. They come in kid sizes too, and our son’s favorite is the Bahama long-sleeve. Definitely shop Columbia for zip-off convertible hiking pants, too.

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Mountain Khakis’ Equatorial shirt and pants: This line isn’t insect-repellant, but it IS SPF-blocking and when we wore Equatorial shirts in the jungles of Panama and Costa Rica, these were the ONLY shirts that stood up to more than one wear. Somehow, the sweat wicked off; we called them our ‘magic’ shirts. MK also makes an Equatorial pant that zips off. Both are recommended.

Aventura Clothing: Again, no bug-proaction line (but maybe if I keep hinting?), but Aventura Clothing makes THE best after-adventure clothing out there. When you get back from your paddle boarding session or jungle trek, put on soft, organic cotton for your evening indoors. This spring, I am loving Aventura’s Hannah cardigan and Pearson tank for layering. The men’s line, Ecoths, makes really stylish and comfortable short-sleeved, button-down shirts perfect for cocktail hour and dinner. Pit Stop Dad’s favorite: Garrick Polo.

See also: our most comfortable travel pants for moms!

Sun hats: The most important thing about sun hats in Central America is…wear one. So pick a wide-brimmed style you like, and bring it along! It helps to pick a style that flattens easily for travel, and has a strap to secure it both when wore and when you want to strap it to your bag or backpack. We love the sun hats for kids at Sunday Afternoons and Columbia, and the adult offerings at Tilley.

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Travel Gear We Use: Ecoths shirts for teen travel

We’ve been singing the praises of men’s clothing line Ecōths for several years now. Part of my favorite clothing company, Aventura, Ecōths is all about comfortable, practical men’s wear that’s environmentally and socially responsible. Not only are many of the offerings made from recycled or organic materials, Ecōths’ GOOD SAM program has donated over 150,000 meals across the US to local food banks. How do they do it? Ecōths provides a minimum of three meals for every garment sold in America to someone in need. Make a purchase of Ecōths, and in turn you will be donating three meals to someone who truly needs it.

 

ecothslife

While my husband loves wearing Ecōths, no one is more excited about what this company is doing that the resident Millennial in our family, our 16-year-old. He’s all about environmental stewardship and the outdoors, and always needs quality travel clothing. If you have a teen boy who needs clothing that won’t wrinkle in the suitcase, will last through many washings, and will look good enough to pass the teenage test, read on!

My teen’s favorite Ecōths shirts for travel days:

Chandler Tee:

chandler-tee

This raglan-sleeve tee is trendy and casual-looking, but made from an organic cotton blend. This means it’s very soft to the touch, and will not wrinkle…even when my teen balls it up and tosses it in his duffel. Pick it up in four neutral colors in sizes M-XL. Our teen is tall and slim, and the medium fits him nicely.

 

 

 

Hendrix:

hendrixOur teen is all about plaid. And flannel, but in summer, mostly plaid. He spends a lot of time in the outdoors, so he needs shirts that provide sun protection and breathability. The Hendrix short-sleeve is organic cotton and Coolmax polyester  blend that ensures it’s moisture-wicking and wrinkle-resistant, even when my son is hiking or biking. As a bonus, he loves the built-in microfiber Handy Cleaning Cloth in the front interior of the shirt. It comes in two colors in M-XXL. Note: the Monroe is similar, but just a little bit more ‘rugged’ looking, in our opinion.

 

 

Beckett V-Neck:

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The Beckett is 100% organic cotton jersey. This is as pure as it gets when it comes to a boy wardrobe, so pick up a couple (they’re on sale)! Our teen loves the Beckett because it’s fashionable with its horizontal stripes and V-neck, and I love it because unlike his other t-shirts, it’s high quality. No holes here! It comes in three colors in sizes M-XXL.

Ecōths discount for you!

I didn’t include pricing in this post. Why? Because I want Pit Stops for Kids readers to get 60% off! Hey, boys grow fast, and we need all the help we can get keeping them clothed, right? To get 60% off your entire Ecōths or Aventura clothing order, subscribe to our FREE travel newsletter email list (at the top of our page), then leave a comment below. I’ll email your discount code for ANY order up to $250 (while supplies last)!

#EcōthsLife:

Instagram users, share your photos of how you live an #ecothslife everyday! Each month, Aventura will pick one winner who has posted a picture using #EcothsLife and they will receive an outfit from Ecōths.

Travel Gear We Use: Spring travel wear from Aventura Clothing

As you may have seen if you follow our Pit Stops for Kids social channels, I am again an ambassador for Aventura Clothing this year. What does this mean? It means I help Aventura promote their products with my honest reviews and endorsement of the spring travel wear I think works well for women traveling with their families. You can see my photos on the Aventura website, which is as close as I’ll ever come to modeling, and you’ll see me wearing Aventura in my Instagram feed and Facebook posts, because I authentically do wear it all the time.

Basically, my job is to show how the brand works for me, in my daily life and in my travels, because I genuinely love the products Aventura sells.

Why I love Aventura Clothing:

Aventura-clothing

It’s comfortable, practical, and stylish. Those who know me well can attest that I barely remember to check a mirror before walking out the door, and rarely take the time to put together a killer outfit. When I find a brand that’s stylish without much effort from me, I’m sold. And Aventura Clothing is designed to fit regular, healthy women…no tiny sizing here that will depress you. Best of all, most of Aventura’s pieces are organic cotton, which is environmentally-friendly and also helpful when traveling…shirts won’t wrinkle!

What I’m loving from Aventura this spring:

One of the perks of my ambassador position with Aventura is the opportunity to try out quite a few pieces each season. Yes, this is very fun! This spring, Aventura has quite a few new looks, ranging from fun tie-dye prints to floral designs to classic layering pieces. My absolute favorites are rounded up below.

aventura-clothing

Brielyn Striped Dress: I absolutely must have cotton dresses in my spring wardrobe. Dresses take half (or less) the room in suitcases as pants and shirts, and they look dressier and more festive when traveling. The Brielyn is a striped jersey dress with elbow-length sleeves that’s 50% organic cotton. It comes in four bright colors with crisscrossing contrast seams. Pair with: Wesley Sweater, an awesome cotton-cashmere sweater wrap ideal for chilly nights by the pool or on the plane.

Fleur Dress: This dress is v-necked and sleeveless, but still very casual. I love it because it’s stretchy (an organic cotton-spandex blend) and can go from day to night. Again, no extra packing needed. You can tell I’m a minimalist! It comes in three colors with distressed stripes on the hem.

Poet Tank: You’ll need at least two of these, which works out, because it comes in two color patterns. The talisman print on the Poet Tank dresses it up, so you can wear it to dinner in addition to yoga class. This is going to be a summer staple for me. Also needed: Bienne strappy camisole…under-layers are crucial when traveling.

Hathaway Top: Everyone needs at least one collared, button-down shirt for those days you need some coverage on your shoulders. Maybe you need to give your skin a break from the sun, or maybe you’re visiting a place where you need to cover up, like a cathedral. The Hathaway top is done is pastel colors for spring, is organic cotton, and feels very light when worn. It goes in my bag every time!

Galina Capri: I know skinny jeans are popular, but I just need a pair of pants with a little more give when I’m traveling. The Galina is just form-fitting enough to look tailored but still be roomy enough when I’m sitting a lot on airplanes. It’s cotton-spandex with a 26″ inseam, and comes in four colors.

Hats and scarves! Just get some! A hat or a scarf will instantly add class to any summer outfit, guaranteed. My favorite hat this spring is the Cruz sun hat, offering serious sun protection while looking cute and a little bit funky. But there are quite a few to choose from! The Cruz will be joining me on a cruise very shortly (how apt!) and I’ll be wearing the Phoebe this summer as well.

Want to try Aventura for yourself?

Get 60% off your order with one of my exclusive codes! I’m offering three ways to get one. Comment below, then: 1.  sign up for our free e-newsletter (sign-up bar is at the top of your screen), 2. subscribe to our feed, or 3. email me at amy(at)pitstopsforkids.com.

You can also join the #AventuraLife loyalty program! Those who join the #AventuraLife get discounts and free shipping depending on their level of membership…the more you spend, the better discounts and gifts you get. It’s more than just discounts though…#AventuraLife members embody the adventurous spirit that drew women like myself (and you!) to the brand.

Need more Aventura Clothing inspiration? Check out my archives for MANY more reviews of this brand!

Travel Gear We Use: Fall styles from Aventura Clothing

I’m happy to announce that once again, I have signed on to be an ambassador for Aventura Clothing. What does this mean to you? Just like last year, Pit Stops for Kids readers will get 60% off all Aventura Clothing. To get a 60% off Aventura Clothing code, leave a comment and it will be emailed to you, or opt in for our quarterly newsletter (see banner on homepage).

aventura-clothing

I also get to tell you what’s new at Aventura each season. Clothing lines vary by year, of course, and this year, I have to tell you I am in love with every item I received. That almost never happens! I love each item because everything I picked out A) feels as comfy as wearing sweatpants, and B) does not look like I’m wearing sweatpants.

Jaylee Dress: I am a big fan of wearing comfortable dresses and tights on travel days. It’s important to keep circulation going on airplanes, and who likes to feel their waistband of their jeans dig into their stomachs on road trips? The Jaylee Dress is a knit sweater dress that is fitted but not clingy, and oh-so-soft. It’s 90% organic cotton, as most Aventura items are, with indulgent cashmere (7%) and some nylon mixed in for stretch. The length is 37″, which means the hem hits just about at my knee. It pairs great with leggings (I wear Aventura’s Bienne legging), and the design and colors are very simple, which I appreciate. I can add a scarf to dress it up, or pull on a hoody to dress it down. As the weather starts to turn, the Jaylee has been my go-to dress.

Keltie skirt: Skirts are perhaps even more versatile than dresses for your fall travel wardrobe. You can pair with the same leggings or tights, and wear the same skirt with multiple blouse and tee options. One solid skirt usually helps me create 3-4 outfits while away from home. The Keltie skirt is super classy-looking, made of an organic cotton/viscose blend. It’s knit, which means it will keep your bum warm on cold seats, yet not at all bulky (it can easily go from outdoors to dinner, for instance). It comes in three muted colors to go with everything. I might get one more, come to think of it. The only downside of the Keltie: it’s hand wash or dry clean only. Uh oh.

Spectra Dress: With its sporty, drawstring waist and sweatshirt-like feel, I wasn’t sure about the Spectra when I ordered it. Would it be too casual even for travel days? Nope…it’s my favorite piece in the fall line! It’s a cotton/poly blend, machine-washable, and looks adorable with a simple pair of boots or mules.

Farrah Cowl Neck sweater: I love sweaters, but rarely travel with them. They’re just too bulky in my luggage. The Farrah sweater is the exception to this rule, because it’s thin while still being substantial enough for fall travel in northern climes. Plus, the cowl neckline gives the Farrah a sophisticated look without adding any pieces, which makes me look dressier than I am (always a plus). It’s a poly/wool blend, and while it’s also hand-wash only, it seems to be able to go through quite a few wearings before it needs to be cleaned.

Want an Aventura code? Leave a comment!

Spring travel wear picks and 60% off Aventura Clothing

I’m an ambassador for Aventura Clothing because I believe this brand is one of the absolute best in women’s travel clothing. Their clothing is affordable, comfortable, stylish, and high-quality, plus can easily be mixed-and-matched on travel days. Many items are made of organic cotton, which I find packs well and doesn’t wrinkle. Every spring and fall, Aventura Clothing comes out with a new line. Here are my favorite picks from this spring.

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The first 20 readers to like the Pit Stops for Kids Facebook page or follow us on Instagram will receive 60% off Aventura Clothing in their next order! Details below.

Rory dress:

We’ll start with my absolute favorite. Aventura has many cute summer dresses on offer this spring, but if you can only buy one, make it the Rory. This organic cotton blend is stretchy, soft, and so flattering! It’s very simple, too, which makes it a great travel piece. The Rory can be paired with a cardigan or even a hoodie on cooler days, or worn solo in summer. It’s meant to be active, so go ahead and run to catch that train. You can dress it up with a scarf and nice shoes and it’ll be ready to go out at night, too. I’m going to need one in at least two colors!

Hartley hoodie:

Layering is key when selecting travel clothes, so you need at least one good hoodie in your suitcase. I usually have two. The Hartley hoodie doesn’t look like an afterthought: it’s bright, cheerful, and high quality, so it looks like part of your ensemble. It comes in really pretty jewel tones with a stretchy, flattering fit, with nice detailing on the arms. Oh, and it’s organic cotton, too.

Rowan capri:

I like to be comfortable when I travel, and the Rowan capri lets me feel like I’m wearing my favorite sweat pants on the plane or in the car, not a cute pair of capris. Thanks for the travel hack, Aventura! The Rowan also comes in a short, and has a stretchy drawstring waistband. I’ve found the Rowan runs big, so order down a size if you want it to be fitted. Comes in five neutral colors so one pair will go with several tees or hoodies.

Tillie top:

The Tillie top was kind of a departure for me. It’s an organic cotton tee, so you get the softness and comfort, but also has an interesting back detail: a polyester Georgette back panel. This detail adds interest to the tee, and dresses it up a bit, so it can easily go from day outing to a nice brunch or cocktail hour. There’s a cute front pocket and floral detail on the neckline, too. Basically, the Tillie is the tee that isn’t. Comes in gray or flamingo, which is actually more like a tangerine. I definitely recommend the latter.

Add a few basics like tees and a pair of jeans, and you have the makings here for a weekend away. All the above was packed in my carry-on for a recent review trip to Texas, and served me well!

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Don’t forget about accessories!

It’s easy to pack a scarf or two, a belt, or a strappy pair of sandals, and these details go a long way toward changing up any outfit for a second wear or evening attire. Wear a hat on the plane to save room in your luggage!

Monica fedora:

Oh my. This fedora is so adorable, even if you’re not the hat type (I totally am). It’s colorful and cheerful while still remaining understated enough to go with multiple outfits. I wouldn’t pack a fedora in luggage (will hat boxes ever make a comeback?) but if you can wear it to and from a destination, do so! It looks great on any causal outdoor excursion while traveling, and saves you from potential bad hair days, too.

Saphira infinity scarf:

I am a huge fan of infinity scarves. Even I, the least fashion-forward person I know, can figure out how to wear one! And infinity scarves make any outfit, even a tee and jeans, look classier. Plus they take next to no room in your bag. The Saphira is lightweight, with a burnout floral design that’s very understated. I got the white, which doesn’t show the floral at all unless you look closely.

Studded belt:

A belt, much like a scarf, can make any outfit look more complete, and therefore, makes you look more pulled together on a travel day. The Aventura studded belt has just enough detail to make it interesting, but not so much that it’s a focal point of your outfit. I pair mine with jeans and khaki pants.

Bienne capri leggings:

Here’s another travel hack, ladies: when you really want to wear that cute sun dress but it’s too cold outside, pair it with Bienne capri leggings. Like all Aventura leggings, the Bienne is super warm and very comfortable (they never sag…I promise!), but made to be worn in spring with a pair of ballet flats or sandals. The shirring at the bottom really completes the look. I am in love with these leggings, since every other spring day in Oregon is more like winter.

Want to take 60% off your next Aventura order (including sale items)? Be among the first 20 readers to like our Facebook page or follow us on Instagram. Simply follow, then leave a comment below with your user name. I’ll send you an unique coupon code good for 60% off one order! 

Fall wardrobe essentials for carry-on friendly travel

If you’ve ever tried to fit everything you need for a week away in a carry-on  bag (or even a weekend’s worth), you know it’s essential that every clothing item have a purpose…or two or three. When we travel, we pack carry-on only, and to be honest, I never have trouble fitting all the kids’ clothes they’ll need. It’s my wardrobe that’s often out of control. The first rule of carry-on friendly travel: make sure every item you pack can do double-duty (especially if you’re on a seaplane in which every ounce counts!).

fall wardrobe

Last spring, I became an ambassador for Aventura Clothing. Many of the clothing picks below come from this brand (you’ll see why as I describe them). Others are favorites from the dozens of other brands I review in my capacity as a writer for Practical Travel Gear. In other words, a lot of travel-specific clothing comes across my desk (and into my closet). Below, you’ll only see what I consider the absolute best. Need carry-on luggage that can go the distance? Check out our carry-on luggage picks for kids!

Essential clothing pieces for a fall carry-on:

1. Organic cotton:

A few organic cotton shirts will last you more than two days on a trip. Organic cotton is extremely soft and comfortable (crucial for long travel days), but more importantly, it doesn’t wrinkle easily. Roll your cotton shirts instead of folding them in your carry-on, and you’ll not only save space, but prevent any creases. One of the reasons I love Aventura Clothing is because so many of their pieces are organic.

Top organic cotton pick: Aventura’s Erin Top. This top is basic in style, which means it can be worn with jeans, slacks, or a skirt, but has just enough detailing to be dressed up in the evenings. The ruching on the sides is very flattering. Pack two of these (in different colors), and you’ll be set for a long weekend.

2. Scarves: Want an easy way to dress up any outfit? Add a scarf. Scarves take up very little room in the carry-on, yet pack a powerful punch when worn. I love something sheer in the summer, then switch to a knitted infinity scarf in winter. Plus, scarves are a fun souvenir to pick up in different destinations. I love wearing scarves that remind me of the places I’ve been.

Top fall scarf pick: Aventura again! Their Alisha infinity scarf is elegant while still soft as a pillow around your neck. Bonus: you can use it as a pillow on the airplane.

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3. One lightweight jacket: 

I love bringing one lightweight jacket in my fall carry-on (or better yet, wear it on your travel day to make room for more things). I prefer a tailored look, so I can dress the jacket up or down. Pick one that will look ok if you need to wear it to an outdoor event or dinner, when fall nights can get chilly.

Top jacket pick: Every fall, I reach for my Mountain Khakis Americana jacket. I love this jacket with true devotion. It’s warm, but can also be unzipped and used as a casual covering when just my shoulders are chilly. It has numerous pockets, and looks good with just about everything.

4. Khaki or cotton pants: 

The workhorse of your fall carry-on wardrobe, 1-2 pairs of solid, high-quality, khaki or hemp/cotton pants is crucial. You can re-wear them several times, they’ll match everything, and never go out of style.

Top pant pick: The Aventura Arden pant is a consistent winner in my closet. It’s made of organic cotton, has a brushed finish that looks great, and while they’re fitted, they’re roomy enough that I’m still friends with the Arden after sitting in a car or on a plane all day. (I can’t say the same of my skinny jeans.) I’m also a huge fan of my Sherpa Naulo pant. These stretchy nylon/spandex pants resist stains, move with the body, and look good doing it.

5. Layers!

Layers are your best friend when packing carry-on only. I bring at least 2-3 camisoles or undershirts that can be layered over lightweight sweaters or pullovers and hoodies. If you think you’ll be in extremely chilly weather, bring a thermal undershirt that can be paired with a vest (and discarded when the day warms up).

Top layering pick: I own a collection of hoodies and pullovers, but my new favorite is Aventura’s Amelia hoodie. Why? It’s extremely lightweight thermal, so it takes up next to no room, and its fitted, so it won’t make me look bulky or overdressed. I pair mine with a camisole, because the ‘whisper white’ color is a bit transparent, but the other solid colors could be worn solo. It has cute accenting and snap buttons, too.

6. Minimalist shoes:

I can only live in flip-flops until October or so, and when I do need to confine my feet, I go with a minimalist shoe (or ‘barefoot’ shoe). I pack this type of shoe not for the health benefits to my feet (though the zero depth means I am free to walk with the most natural gait). I pack them because they’re lightweight and compress down small.

Top minimalist shoe pick: I love kigo shoes. They’re environmentally friendly, and cute as button. These shoes breathe well and feel good even after lots of walking.

What do you pack in a fall carry-on?

Travel Gear We Use: Favorite organic travel clothing for women

When I travel, it’s crucial for me to have an easily-matching, comfortable, stylish yet utilitarian wardrobe in my suitcase. Because I believe in the brand and wear it regularly, I recently became an ambassador of Aventura Clothing. I’m excited to devote a Travel Gear We Use segment to a few of my favorite Aventura travel outfits for spring and summer. If you’re not familiar with Aventura, as many are not, they take environmental stewardship seriously, from box and toner recycling in their warehouses and offices to their organic materials. I love their cotton blends for four-season travel, and because Aventura clothing is so versatile, I can pack less and still look good while on trips. Three Aventura pieces I’ll be wearing this spring (and why):

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1. Audra Dress paired with a fedora:

I love packing cotton dresses for travel. Why? I have a complete outfit with only one piece instead of two or more, and the right dress can be dressed up or down, ensuring multiple uses. The Audra Dress is my new favorite because it’s flattering while still loose on the body, which means I can feel comfortable during a full day of museum touring or city walking with the kids. It’s casual enough that I can slip it on over a swimsuit for a trip to the resort pool, but pair it with a scarf and fedora and nice sandals, and the Audra can go out at night, too. Pick up the Audra Dress for $67: a good price for a dress you’ll use all summer.

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2. Newberry sweater and Arden Capri:

Next to a light cotton dress, a basic pair of capris are my favorite spring and summer travel piece. The Arden Capri  is extremely soft and light, but comes to mid-calf for almost full coverage (or buttons up for warmer weather). I always need a good layering piece when I travel, and the Newberry Sweater fits the bill by being stylish, extremely soft, and of a good medium weight. I pack mine with a few camisoles, and have a warm cover up for spring days that could go either way. Tip: the Newberry is also my new best friend on chilly airplanes. Pick up the Newberry Sweater for $82 and the Arden Capri for $56.

3. Mayfield Top and Georgia hat:

Everyone needs at least two solid-colored, flattering sleeveless or short-sleeved tops in their luggage. My pick is the Mayfield Top: it’s long in length so it doesn’t ride up when I bend for suitcases or reach for my kids’ gear, and it’s just tailored enough to look fantastic under a dressy jacket or cardigan. I have worn the Mayfield to professional conferences paired with slacks and at roadside BBQs with my kids. Win-win! The Georgia hat goes with everything, shields me from the sun, and is perfect for uh-oh-I-can’t-wash-my-hair days (with happens to me a lot). The Mayfield is $47 and the Georgia hat is $29.

If you’re looking for additional eco-friendly, travel-friendly women’s clothing brands, I recommend MountainKhakis and Horny Toad. As stated above, I am an Aventura Ambassador. What this means: I am able to sample Aventura clothing picks and pass along my favorites to my readers. I am not paid for this position.

Find more gear in the Travel Gear We Use series (click below):