Travelista European Trend Report - Purple Passion

Purple was a predominant color on the streets of Europe this fall, in line with the trend of bold jewel toned colors. Punches of purple accessories enliven a neutral travel wardrobe and get you in on the trend.

The easiest way to integrate the color purple with your travel outfits is a scarf. A pashmina type scarf looks great especially over a neutral coat. A purple sash belt, purple colored gloves, or a cute eggplant beret provide personality to travel neutrals. A plum handbag provides functionality to the trend.

Several fashionistas were spotted sporting purple tights. This look is doable with a good, versatile travel dress.

Remember when integrating color into a travel wardrobe, a little goes a long way. Stick to using accessories to integrate color with your travel neutrals. Purple complements most travel neutrals. Pair purple with black or brown. Purple gives gray a sophisticated yet fashiony twist.

Travelista European Trend Report - Trench Coats

Every style, shape, and color of trench coat were seen on the streets of Europe. While the trench coat may be experiencing a "trend moment" right now no one can deny it's power as a classic.

Trench coats are a great piece of outerwear for your travel wardrobe. They add instant chic in addition to being a functional piece of clothing. They look great over pants /jeans and pair well with travel dresses and tights as well.

Lightweight trenches can last into colder months by layering over turtlenecks, sweater dresses, or chunkier knits (but not too bulky). Adding scarves and hats will also extend it's seasonal wear.

Choose a style that best works for your body and your style. Classic is always best. However, sometimes an update of a classic can look fresh and modern. Trenches that have a metallic sheen, patterned or short are just a few of the updated versions.

Single breasted styles will keep the lines clean, double breasted styles must be chosen carefully to avoid looking bulky. Wearing your trench belted will provide the most flattering look but the trench can also be worn open with the belt tied in the back.

Your outerwear will be the item most people will see first so make sure it is flattering and comfortable. During the cooler and winter months what you wear underneath your coat won't be as noticeable so a nice coat will take you far.

What to Wear and What NOT to wear in Churches in Italy

Dressing appropriately is required to enter some churches in Italy. A dress code is strictly enforced in places such as St. Peter’s in the Vatican. Surprised tourists may find themselves stranded waiting for less than flattering “loaners”. Don’t find yourself in the same situation, follow these guidelines on the days you are planning to visit Italian churches. If you need more information about what to wear to Europe check out the Travel Clothes Guidelines.

So what should be avoided?
Basically, don’t dress like Britney Spears when entering churches, these are places of worship and therefore appropriate dress is required:

• No mini-skirts

• No exposed midriffs

• No short shorts

• No exposed knees

• No exposed shoulders

• No tank tops

What is considered appropriate when visiting Italian churches?

• Clothing that covers the shoulders

• Skirts, shorts, or dresses that go past the knee or pants (jeans OK)

• Tops that completely cover the midriff area

• Wearing a shawl to cover up bare shoulders is considered acceptable

• If you only plan to wear shorts during your trip use a pareo and wear it as a wrap skirt to cover up upon entering churches

• Men should expect to wear pants to enter most major churches. Also short or long sleeve shirts are fine, NO tank tops.

Not all churches enforce this dress code but it is best to err on the side of caution. Always pack a shawl or cardigan in case you need to conform to dress requirements.