Shoe color suggestions with wardrobe.

I can't really help with your quandary, but I do have a few comments about wardrobe when traveling. If this is not how you normally dress, as you say, you will not comfortable. I'm nobody's fashionista, but I dress when traveling the same way I do at home, unless I have specific events or something during my trip. If you don't wear skirts, don't take skirts. Late summer will likely be very hot, so I would stay away from dark colors (though dark bottoms hide dirt better - lighter seems to attract dust and dirt). Whatever shoes you end up with, make sure you break them in well before the trip. Don't assume, because they are "walking shoes" that they will instantly be comfortable or that they will work for you.

I would go with the cranberry red. It actually goes with more colors than the blue. ( I have a pair of light blue Merrell sandals that I never wear because the only time they look right is when I am wearing blue).

I agree wig the red as opposed to blue shoes. I don't wear red anything, but am surprised by how neutral it really is. It goes with everything. So does mustard yellow.

As far as dressing, I take a few stretchy , fitted skirts. I have one black, one blue and one coral colored skirt. I mix and match solids and striped tank tops and t-shirts with them. And I actually do love wearing scarves with them even when it's hot. The lightweight, gauzy type of scarves don't really add any heat and they are nice to have in case you need to cover your shoulders.

How do you normally dress? You don't want to be uncomfortable in clothes you don't normally like, and you don't really have to buy travel clothes unless you just like them or want an excuse to expand your wardrobe. :-)

I pick a color tone group (warm or cool) and make sure all my colors are in that group so everything can be mixed and matched. I bring neutral bottoms (black, grey, beige, taupe), and tops in a variety of colors.

I wear Keens all summer long, and find the bright colors far less ugly than the neutrals. The red sandals might be able to coordinate with warm and cool tones, but if you like blue and your color palette tends to be cool, go for it!

I agree if you don't want the pewter (I'd like that color, though), go with the red. No one is really going to look at your shoes- or your clothes for that matter. So go with what YOU are comfortable with. I don't wear skirts/dresses or capris at home, so I don't take them when I travel. I find pants comfortable and practical, even in hot weather. I take cotton blend light weight pants for spring/summer/fall travel and slightly heavier ones for winter. I take black, dark grey or khaki colored pants. I take black, red, cobalt, purple, grey or teal tops because they are my 'good' colors. Thin cotton, chiffon or light silk or silk-like scarves will work for dressing up an outfit at night, even in hot weather. Just don't take your winter weight wools or heavy cotton! Scarves can be draped over your shoulders, tied around your neck or tucked under collars. They basically sub for necklaces, though you might want to take a scarf pin. Think practical, comfortable and multi-use. You'll be fine. Don't worry about what someone else thinks is 'perfect'. Go with what works for YOU.

Here's the clothes I usually take for summer trips of about 9-12 days-
Wear on plane- black pants, T type top with a 'big shirt' (button up that can sub as a light or dressy jacket and that goes with all or most of my tops- usually black or similar), cotton blend socks, black walking shoes.
Pack- 3 pants (black, khaki or grey or all black), 3-4 short sleeve, cotton blend Ts, possibly 1 long or 3/4 sleeve top if going to mountains (Scotland), maybe one other big shirt, waterproof windbreaker type coat with hood, enough undies and socks for trip- usually 5-9 pair each, 3-5 bras. It works for me and my total suitcase weight is usually 18-25 lbs. (sometimes less).

I agree with others on the dress issue. If you don't normally wear a dress or a skirt then don't bring them. Go for elegant pants instead.

Here's what I would do:
First off, you don't normally wear skirts. How about a knit palazzo pant as an elegant substitute for a skirt or dress? If you have a black palazzo with a black top it will look just as dressy as a dress.
I would choose two neutrals that look good on me. Then I'd make the majority of my clothes in those neutrals. So pants, cardigans, and tops in each of your two neutrals. That's 6 items.
Next, you pick an accent color. You have red in your shoes so why not pick it up in your clothes too? A print top with red, a red purse/clutch, red jewelry.. Your print top is item 7.
You mentioned grey. Do you like that color? If so, add in a top in that color too. It's a neutral so it will go with all your other clothing pieces. Item8.
How about another top - maybe a red one? Item 9.
Go wild! How about another print top with your neutrals and red in it? Item 10.
Are you a capri person? ? Bring another pair. Item 11.
If you want more colors then you can add them via statement necklaces, belts, earrings, and a chiffon scarf.
On scarves - just because it is hot doesn't mean you have to abandon a scarf. Tie it around your waist, tie it to your purse, tie it as a necklace, wear it as a head scarf/band.

I love the pewter in the Clarks and the beige in the Keens. I'm not too fond of blue shoes. Red shoes can be cute!

In a hot summer climate, you want all light colors. White or pale beige linen camp shirts would be my choice. Linen is a natural, breathable fabric; don't worry about the wrinkles. Wrinkles are a natural look for linen. I would wear black clothing at night, not in the heat of mid-day.

I would go for light colored linen slacks/capris also--unlined--in white and beige. A classic look would be beige linen slacks/capris, white linen camp shirt, linen scarf that has splashes of color. Another color of slacks/capris would be pale gray, to go with the pewter in the Clarks shoes. Add silver jewelery, and that's a great look.

For tops, a coral linen top would look great with either beige or white pants/capris, and give a real splash of color. Add a scarf with coral and other colors for an accent.

Bonus: Linen is super lightweight for packing. Two short sleeved linen camp shirts and two pair of linen capris (rolled together to avoid wrinkling), weigh less than a Rick Steves guidebook.

Between muted medium blue or cranberry red Keens, the cranberry wins.

"As far as skirt styles, I'm am 5'8", weight between 135 -140. This is not how I normally dress, so am baffled."

I would skip the skirts. For sightseeing around Italy, I can't imagine anything better than all capri pants. If you will be attending a church or cathedral service where you feel you must wear a skirt, then by all means, take one. Otherwise, I would not take a skirt.

You guys are fantastic! So much to read, reread and write down. First, I didn't make myself very clear. I do wear skirts, but never with walking sandals, I wear them with heels (shoes or sandals) and boots in winter. I'm a high- heeled sort of gal. In summer I never wear pants..just light weight capris...and lots of shorts. So, I won't wear shorts in Italy, and thought skirts would look cuter with these sandals than mostly capris...although I will take one pair.

Love the suggestion of tying a scarf around a purse if too hot to wear. Plus,I'm can whip it off to cover my shoulders if need be. Because majority vote says cranberry red, not blue...that's what I'll do. I like that color better anyway. I can also buy a cranberry pacsafe purse to pull the color up.

I think this will work. 2 neutral colors like someone said. That will be grey and white, and then I can mix in cranberry, black and another pop of color. I will take my beige capris to go with the pewter Clark sandals....and be able to wear all the tops in white, or color with that, too.

I have read about the mix and match several times and have always was dismissive of it...but when really sitting and thinking about it, it makes so much sense!

Want to know something funny. Last summer we went on a family vacation to California from LA to SF for 10 days. We had a rental car, do I could take anything I wanted. My carryon bag was a duffle bag filled with 12, yes count 'em, 12 sandals for all my outfits. It was summer so not so heavy, but I know it would give Rick Steves a heart attack. I wore every one of them.

"2 neutral colors like someone said. That will be grey and white, and then I can mix in cranberry, black and another pop of color. I will take my beige capris to go with the pewter Clark sandals....and be able to wear all the tops in white, or color with that, too."
I love your color palette you have chosen! And the cranberry pop of color will be just lovely!

As I and others so often do, I'm going to recommend a visit to the Vivienne Files, especially the postings on packing: http://www.theviviennefiles.com/p/packing.html and more especially the ones on 4x4 wardrobes: http://www.theviviennefiles.com/p/four-by-four-wardrobes.html.

Look at the well-illustrated concepts and ideas and don't be freaked out by the prices of some of the things you can click through to, or by the number of items she takes. She thinks she packs light, but it definitely ain't RS style. Also don't be too annoyed by the seeming emphasis on things more appropriate to cool weather than to the warm and humid weather you will experience in Italy. For me the gift is the color combinations and the kinds of accessories that add punch.

In response to what others have said, I agree about a lightweight scarf or 2. You will be surprised at how many women you will see wearing them and they can relieve the boredom of all neutrals all the time. They can also absorb a bit of sweat and be easily washed at night. And they can act as a bib to catch that red sauce instead of your top. You can also take a print top that is red sauce ready.

I have taken skirts before and find that I just do not wear them as much as pants on a trip, so I took/wore my last skirt on our trip this past fall. I find they take up more room in my little spinner than they are worth and I just look and feel better in pants.

I have made 2 trips with all blue all the time, just different shades of it. Almost any blue makes me look better and I love blue shoes and always have.

Black hasn't ever been much of a friend to me on our trips. My husband absolutely refuses to wear black because it gets so much lint on it in so many situations. A lot of how dirty anything gets may depend on the fabric itself more than the color.

Please heed the advice of others about the comfort of your shoes. You will walk and stand more than you can possibly anticipate. Try to imagine 6-8 hours per day. Keens and Clarks do not work for me at all, but if they work for you, wear 'em. My latest faves for comfort and support are Abeos from the Walking Company (https://www.thewalkingcompany.com/abeo-casualshoes-womens). I had an employee once who swore than red is a neutral color. If you stick with the Keens, be bold, get the red and coordinate your other clothing around your silver and red shoes.

Being baffled when you don't normally dress this way is a challenge. What I've learned here about packing light in combination with what I've learned from the Vivienne Files about coordination has actually changed the way I dress. It's hard to believe, but my closet now has fewer items and is more versatile.

And I have a blast each trip deciding what I'll wear on it, "shopping" in my closet for things that will work and for real to add to them. Including what I wear in transit for our month-long trips, I usually take 3 pairs of pants, 8 tops (including tanks) and one outerwear piece (like a cardigan or a rain jacket). I take 2-3 pairs of shoes that I wear outside the room, depending on the destination. If time permits, I do like to change my shoes after a long day of being on my feet.

lo, that is too funny. I'm just went to The Walking Store at our towns Fashion Mall today. Never been there before. They had a machine that read my feet and I have high arches. They said the majority of thei summer stock will be there in about 3 weeks. I'm going to have to slowly change many of my shoes and sandals to ones with arches. I won't give up my heels, but will wear these specialized shoes/ sandals more.

I do agree that not one shoe is comfortable for all. I've tried on Almost all the expensive brands that others fit in. Most would be comfy just for at home, but not miles of walking for the issues I have with my feet...we are all unique with our foot comfort that is for sure. But I never would have known all the ones to try if it weren't for these boards.

I definitely will check out the vivienne files and Polymore. I took a lot at the fashion girl one and liked the 12 piece option. I believe this will be a fun challenge, and since not many pieces are needed, not too overwhelming. Thankfully scarves are still quite in fashion still...so many choices to choose from.

Just an FYI – it's possible to get by on much less, and you'll probably enjoy your trip much more if you're not lugging heavy luggage. This is what I bring for one-month trips, sometimes covering multiple climates (egypt and rome in very late fall). This includes what I wear on the plane, as well as what i pack.

Two pairs of pants, one black that can be dressed up when needed; five tops, with mix of LS and SS depending on the season, including at least one Oxford shirt; One cardigan sweater or light weight fleece zip-up; One rain shell (for example from REI); One pair of black walking shoes which I wear on the plane; one pair of flip-flops for the hotel; something to sleep in; four sets of undies; and an umbrella. I buy one or two scarves and/or shawls in Europe – a nice souvenir and it also dresses up the look. This has carried me from hikes in Tuscany to the Paris Opera, with no problems or embarrassment. I pack the same for every trip… And if a special need arises I can always buy something in Europe. That is much better than carrying heavy luggage.

I do a little hand laundry every two or three nights, and it doesn't take much more than five minutes.

Hi, I would vote for red or black shoes. I love the Keen Rose sandals, and their toe protection has saved my toes on some uneven stones, etc.

My advice differs a little on clothes. The first time I went to Europe I brought tops & pants that all mixed and matched. By the second week I felt like I was always wearing the same colors. Afterwards, I realized that I only bring enough clothes for 5 days and need to wash clothes every other day, so everything doesn't need to mix & match. I know I'm going to wear each outfit every 4th or 5th day, so I can bring some unique tops, etc. or dresses that I like and normally wear, and it doesn't take any time to figure out what I'm wearing the next day. I would suggest a couple of cute light cotton tops and your capris (I was so much more comfortable in cotton in Rome when it was hot than synthetics.) Scarves are too hot during the day but nice for the evenings.

Enjoy Italy!!

First off, I want to say how happy I am to find a board where we can talk about things like this and ask questions without being made to feel silly.

I totally understand what you mean by getting tired of wearing the same colors...I imagine it could get monotonous. We are there 10 days, 3 different locations basically. I think if I throw one light weight printed dress in there that doesn't have any cranberry in it, that might help break the monotony.

That is what I was thinking about scarves...I don't wear them at home at all in the summer, but I do like the idea of tying it around a purse for color and use if I go in churches and need it.

I'm going to be wearing a travelers black skirt most evenings, with black wedge heels and fancier tops. I'm do want to get a little dressed up in the evenings. I am bringing one maxi dress that I love for evenings, too. I will probably end up with 15 items instead of 12.

1 maxi
1 black skirt
2 evening tops
1 beige Capri
1 grey skirt
1 white skirt
1 day dress
1 sweater
6 types of tops
Thank you for pointing that out!

One dissenting vote in favor of skirts -- I wore a knee-length cotton blend loose skirt in Italy and found it MUCH cooler than pants. Also wore an ankle-length skirt in Israel for the same reason. Air flow!!

Heck, I wish I could get away with a skirt when it's sweltering.

Also,... if you're in Spain, call it cordovan instead of cranberry... ^_^

I would not take a white skirt/pants/capri if I were going to be using public transport or in a big city. I just always get so dirty that the white item would not be useful.

You can wear a scarf when it is hot. Go to the MaiTai Collection and look at her instructions on tying scarves. For summer, I do a bias fold with a square scarf, knot it in the middle, then put a knot on each side halfway between the middle knot and the end. It is then more like a necklace as not much touches your neck except across the back.

I agree with taking a cotton skirt.
As someone else said: air flow!!!!
It's much cooler in a skirt in the heat of an Italian summer than capris, but take those too.
Have a wonderful trip!

Hi, 6 tops plus a day dress is 7 tops. I would drop that down to 5 at the most. Also, the maxi dress will take too much room if you're packing a carry-on suitcase. You'll want at least 1/4 of the suitcase empty, so you can bring home something fun.

Well, this is nuts, but I woke up thinking about your wardrobe in the middle of the night. I agree with Jean that you probably have too much for 10 days. You really are not going to get bored with your colors in 10 days. Really, you will be so caught up in the beauty and amazing sights in Italy that after a day or so you are not going to give what you are wearing a thought.

So, setting aside your maxi dress and pants/2 tops for evenings, you have 3 bottoms, a dress and 6 tops for your days. All of your tops should go with all of your bottoms so that gives you a potential of 18 outfits plus your dress. You are not going to be gone for 18 days, so no need for that many outfits! Not knowing your dress and tops you may have more potential there as well. Are any of the tops button ups that can be worn over the dress? Do you have these items in your closet right now? If so, I would probably take an afternoon, lay everything out and try everything on including every top with every bottom to see if they work. If there is a top that does not go with all 3 bottoms, set it aside and make it earn it's place on the travel team. Even though you may have something you love on your list, if it doesn't work with everything else in your suitcase it will be at home waiting to welcome you when you get back!

On the other wardrobe thread, someone mentioned having a solid top to match your pants/capris/skirt to give you a solid column. I love this idea and have seen it used on some of the VivienneFiles wardrobe suggestions as well. So, if you have shopping to do, keep this in mind as you look.

I also would leave out the maxi dress. You have 2 outfits for evening already. You may find you don't dress up every evening as you may go to dinner straight from sightseeing if you are in an interesting area or you just may be tired!

You are going to have such a wonderful time!

LPam, that is too funny! Actually, I do know I am probably taking too much. The only thing I don't have is a grey skirt and I might need to buy some more updated neutral tops, or something with cranberry in it as that is one of my colors. I agree with all you said. Once I get everything I think I need, i will take an afternoon and start putting together outfits. Everything I read says to do that, then put half of it back....LOL! I knew I had too many tops...part of those were tank tops to wear alone if hot or under something if cooler. I could always bring way less tops and buy some things there. ;)

The only thing that won't be pried away from me is that maxi dress! I bought it in Venice, Florida last September and have saved it for this trip. It's light and chiffon looking, but deep gorgeous colors. I feel beautiful every time I try it on and plan on wearing it in every city we are in.

Although I don't comment on every reply, I have taken them all to heart and have reread. Unfortunately, these boards don't allow us to scroll down while we are in Reply mode, so I can't remember everything I wanted to respond to...so forgive me if I didn't acknowledge yours...it's not that it was ignored.

I like to take a skort for day wearing; much dressier than shorts. I wear a skort at home a lot too.

I think the cranberry Keen color is fabulous. Go for it! I have a pewter color Naot and love the flexibility. I have been known to travel with only 2 pair of shoes though! A walking shoe and one sandal.

Scarves, do take them. Weather changes quickly; a scarf can keep you warm if the evening vools down. Also, they are good for covering shoulders in a church if you happen to have a sleeveless top.

I do not travel in summer but attend many festivals at home. I always have a scarf or 2 when I am out all day; sometimes I leave the house at 0630 and return after midnight. That is a lot of temperature variation.

Have a great trip.

As someone who sold shoes for 12 years - I love red. When we'd go do our buying for the season, my department head always laughed because I'd be pushing for red shoes...red looks great with brown, black, grey, blue, white, khaki, tan...it really is a great neutral...and metallic were another fav of mine. I had a lovely pair of Naot sandals in a pewter and they went with pretty much everything as well!

I've never owned Keens, but people loved them and we always had rave reviews. I've owned many pairs of Clarks over the years, and always go back for more. My go-to sandals for travelling for awhile were Naots (a little more dressy, but still oh so comfy) but last trip I got some Tevas, which were great. And I always wear my Blundstone boots on cooler/rainy days.

As some others said - you really should wear what you are comfy in at home. I bought a skirt to wear when we went away in 2012...I always used to wear skirts, but not so much when I bought the one for travel. I have worn it exactly 0 times since we came home...so if you are buying new clothes, make sure it will be something you'll wear again (I really am loving capris now for travel). I tend to stick to neutrals for my tops - navy, brown, olive green or tan...tho I do throw in a cranberry red shirt as well. Bottoms last year I had 2 prs jeans, black capris that were a little dressier and olive green capris that were more casual and super comfy that I mostly lived in. I'm not sure what kind of skirt would look good with Keens (to me, they are more capri/pants/shorts sandals)...but you could just say the heck with it and not care what people think and do what is comfy for you!

I just want to mention the white thing...I wore a white North Face jacket on my trip in 2012. I wasn't even out of Heathrow before I had a big black mark on it. Luckily, we were staying with someone who washed it up for me, and it washed up well...but at the end of three weeks...it was so grimy - the sleeves, around the zipper...just - uck. If you aren't going to have access to laundry, I'd veer away from white pants. I learned my lesson and on last years trip I got myself a nice light grey North face jacket - much better at hiding dirt.

I decided not to take a white sweater, and yours is the 2nd mention of that...I think I'll take grey, or some other neutral...so thanks. I don't know if this will link or not, but i found this skirt on Amazon in grey. Not something I normall would wear, but might be cute with the cranberry sandals. I do have my capris to wear, but would like to have a skirt. What do you think...honestly?

http://www.amazon.com/Royal-Robbins-Womens-Discovery-Charcoal/dp/B00378QBV4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1424712163&sr=8-2&keywords=grey+travel+skirt

That is actually a cute skirt - not too dressy or casual - I could see it working with Keens - but will you wear it again after your trip? Colour would def be good for hiding dirt/stains. We generally go to Europe mid-Sept and I find the temps fairly tolerable, but last year we went the first two weeks of Sept (Amalfi, Rome, Venice) - and it was so hot! I think at least half the days I ended up taking two showers. And most days we'd retreat back to our apartments to cool off mid-afternoon. I greatly appreciated having the capris!

That skirt is cute and Royal Robbins stuff is usually nice. It looks like a good fabric blend for easy washing. HOWEVER, you will have to be careful on the days you wear it as many Italian churches will not let you enter unless your knees and shoulders are covered. You would be fine in capris with sandals, but no knees. Also as Nicole says, if you would not wear this at home it you may not get a good return on your investment.

Do you have an REI near you? They often have Royal Robbins brand clothing.

The color is good and I would go for a sweater in this color. It is not going to show city grime.

Thanks! I feel better about that purchase, it will be $50. I would not wear it at home, but I'm hopeful that this will be the beginning of more traveling ( as we will be empty nesters starting in the fall.) - so will be catergorized as a travel specific item. I doubt I'll wear my keens much either, if at all.

I would like it better without all the pockets, but I guess it's supposed to be considered a Traveler Skirt.

Nicole, My sister was there at the same time as you last year, same places, and remarked at how hot it was.

Here's another one I found in grey with some interest. I normally wear right above the knee, straighter skirts so was more drawn to this. I think I'm just going to have to order and try!

http://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/womens/shorts-dresses-skirts/katerina-skirt/

Echoing Pam on the Royal Robbins suggestions. One thing I've found is that REI doesn't carry the variety that is available from the Royal Robbins website. The RR website has a LOT more clothing choices and extended sizing that REI just doesn't carry. For example, I have a beautiful and stylish fleece jacket from RR that you won't see anywhere near REI. That's also true for tops. REI just doesn't carry the full color selection that is available on the RR website.

On Skorts - my favorite is the Athleta Whatever skort. It is knee length and very comfortable. Athleta stopped manufacturing them around a year ago, but I have found several on eBay.

At least by the time we got to Venice in mid-Sept, it was cooling down enough - it's amazing what a difference a few weeks will make! And heat makes me cranky, but my mom accompanied me and hubby so I had to be on my best behavior ;)

I forgot about the no bare knees/no bare shoulders thing when visiting churches - that is when a scarf can come in handy...I saw a few ladies in tank tops turned away from churches - some others just wandered in and no one stopped them...but one super practical lady had a scarf tied to her purse and she whipped it around her shoulders as she was going in...

...and you may end up living in your Keens - I figured my Tevas would be more for just vacay, as I'm kinda lazy and just like to slip my feet into a sandal and not mess with Velcro - but the support was great (as the Keens will be) and when walking my dog on trails - perfection!

http://www.teva.com/sale/tirra-leather/4177.html?dwvar_4177_color=BLK#start=2&cgid=

This was the sandal I went with - the Teva Tirra in black leather. I generally think of Teva as a more rugged sandal, but I figured with the extra straps on front, it dressed them up enough so they looked fine with my dressier black capri!

I wore a grey cardigan similar to this (without the hideous flower all over Italy last july when needed....this, under a rain poncho, was all I needed. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Womens-Gap-Button-Up-Cardigan-Sweater-Size-Small-/141579383773?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20f6c9f3dd
mine is a poly cotton blend

Doric, I actually have an Ann Taylor medium grey cardigan that is very light weight material (not for winter)...so I will take that and won't have to purchase one. I found it at a consignment store about a year ago for $4, so that makes it even better.

I looked at those Teva Terri sandals, those are adorable! I'll be getting my Keen's today from Zappos!

so funny, my grey cardigan was also thrifted.....and the tags were already cut out so I don't know what the brand was..... enjoy the filth hiding properties of gray!!!!

Got my cranberry Keen Rose sandals today! The color is gorgeous, and it sort of mutes out the black rubber that comes up the toe. They make my feet look smaller and not stand out so much like the beige color. Perfect for my wide, plantar fasciitis feet! Can't wait to break them in on springbreak. They just look fun!

Lulu,
I just read all the comments on this thread & enjoyed it very much.

I just want to tell you that I also purchased the Keen Rose sandals & wore them on my recent trip to Italy & loved them!

They are very comfortable, honestly, I don't consider them to be "cute" per se, but I must confess, they are the most comfortable sandals that
I own.

You may like a skirt similar to this one: http://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/womens/shorts-dresses-skirts/splash-skirt/

I actually purchased the 'Kulh Katerina skirt' at REI and have worn it many times.
I love the pockets, since I don't carry a purse when I travel, I used the pockets to carry my daily cash.

I usually pack 6-7 tops, 3 bottoms (2 pants/capris & one skirt) plus the clothes I wear on the plane. I plan to do laundry every 6-7 days. I have not traveled in Summer but if I did, I would take 2 skirts, and one pants/capris plus 6-7 tops.

Have a wonderful trip!

EDIT: When is your trip? You say late Summer but would that be August or September?

My recent trip was at the end of Sept/ Early October and the weather was starting to cool off.

Priscilla, thanks for replying and starting a skirt discussion! I actually have looked online at that skirt you linked and the Katerina skirt too....which I love that one. Did you not mind the pockets? Isn't that the one with pockets on the back? Some reviewers said that they found that it took away from the streamline look of the skirt, but I thought the picture looked fine..it's not at Zappos, so I would have to pay shipping charges and was hesitant...but with your review, that makes me want to try it. Does it run true to size. One more question about this skirt...from the different pictures on kuhl's.com, it looks like it is straight and then other pics show it as more A-line, which I don't like. Do you pull those ties at the side to make it straight? Sorry for all the questions.

I got the first one I linked yesterday. It's a nice skirt, but it fits weird, and I was prepared for that. I'm a pear shape and It sits low and feels uncomfortable like that. Would fit an apple shape perfect. Not sure I like it well enough to get it altered, that would run about $25. I think I can find something better.

About yhe Keen Roses, did you find you big toenail would touch the rubber toe part. That is the only uncomfortable think about these, but everything else feels great...it's nice to have a thumbs up from you.

We will be there the 10 days smacked right in the middle of September, so I'm anticipating warmer days.

Priscilla...sorry about the above post...too early in the morning. I see that I did indeed link to the katarena skirt. We must have the same taste. Nw hat colors did you buy in the skirt and sandals. I see the skirt is streamlined. I actually like this style better, more of what I wear rather than ruffles. Again, how is the fit, true to size?

I think with this clunkier looking footwear, a leaner look in skirt might look better on me. Straighter, like a Capri. The flouncier ruffle skirt might look better with a streamlined shoe.

Where in Italy did you go?

Lulu,

I actually have looked online at that skirt you linked and the Katerina skirt too....which I love that one. Did you not mind the pockets? Isn't that the one with pockets on the back? Some reviewers said that they found that it took away from the streamline look of the skirt, but I thought the picture looked fine.

Sorry for the confusion; I actually only purchased the Kuhl 'Katerina skirt' & I don't mind the back pocket since I don't put anything in them. This skirt is fairly straight but I like the way it fits me (true to size) & it's comfy. I only tie a bow at the end of the side strings, but you can pull the strings & make it go up on the sides, however, I don't like it that way.

The link I'd sent you was for the Kuhl 'Splash skirt' that looks nice but I didn't find this one at REI last Fall when I was shopping for my trip.

The 'Splash skirt' does look like it's more A-line but I like this style.

I prefer to try-on the clothes I buy to make sure they fit right, so I seldom buy them on-line.

EDIT: I forgot to answer your question about the Keen Rose sandals. My big toenail does not touch the rubber toe part, perhaps you need the next size up? I purchased mine at REI (on sale) last Fall and at first I didn't really like the look of them but then I was sold when I tried them (because they are so comfortable) I wore them before my trip and actually have washed them a couple of times & air dried them I they still look just like new!

Tisa82,

I sent you a private message answering your questions. ;-) We wouldn't want to hijack Lulu's post!

Lulu,

I just did a search for the Kuhl Splash skirt and you can order it on this website & it's free shipping for orders over $50!

http://www.campmor.com/Product___93111

Skirt is $60 (Item# 93111)

I may just order one for me to wear this Summer!

EDIT: They actually have both the Katerina & Splash Kuhl skirts on Zappos.com!

Hey, i saw on this site a variety of really nice casual shoes. So many colours and types, it will definitely inspire you to make the best choice, you can check it out http://stonecreek.eu/en/men/shoes/casual.html 

Priscilla, my Katerina skirt came in today....very cute and fit perfect. I really liked the very slight A line, I didn't think I would. It makes my hips look smaller. I also didn't like the ties drawn up. It's not a bad look, just not with the Keens. I might like it with a sleeker looking shoe. They didn't have my normal size, so I ordered one size down. I've lost a little weight, and it fit perfectly....but I would have to keep that weight off....I guess a $60 skirt might help. I don't normally spend this kind of money on just a cotton skirt...I almost have to just pause and wonder if I couldn't find something this summer for half the price. Zappos has such a generous return policy, that makes it easier to keep for awhile.

I wish it came in cranberry...waiting anxiously for the Kuhl Free Range to come in.

Lulu,

I'm glad you liked the Katerina skirt.

The Kuhl Free Range skirt is very cute too! Where are you ordering this skirt from?

Hi Priscilla,
I purchased the Karetina from Zappos, and the Kuhl Free Range from Titile Nine...received their catalog in the mail for the first time, I couldn't find that skirt anywhere else.

Thanks for the info Lulu!

I just got back from my trip to France and had to share my shoe experience. I ended up taking 3 pairs: black ballet flats, waterproof trail running shoes, and canvas Doc Martens that I found on sale at Nordstrom Rack the day before we left. The canvas Doc Martens are extremely comfortable for walking (I did 7.5 miles in one afternoon), but do not meet the general fashion advice of being a solid dark color. In fact, they are this very flowery pair: http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Martens-Hackney-Eye-Boot/dp/B00I8GVR1E/ref=pd_sbs_shoe_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0JQT60PN36VV3X7MWWNS
However, the colors complement most of the shirts I packed and look good with my jeans and hiking pants... I love them.

In Paris, I noticed a lot of Parisians going about in solid (no patterns) canvas shoes with their jeans cuffed, so I thought it might be fun to cuff my jeans too. My husband assured me I didn't look silly, but I sure felt silly since the last time I did that was in my pre-teens. No one pointed and laughed when we stepped out of the hotel, so I felt okay and we walked over to a famous chocolatier's store. While picking out some treats, I noticed a man staring at my feet. He had on a leather motorcycle jacket and what looked like chaps, so I ended up staring at him too (my husband explained later that the chaps were for riding in the rain, and it had rained earlier that day). He stared at my shoes for a good minute or two before realizing I noticed he was staring... Then he goes over and starts arranging the chocolate art displays, and I realize he was THE chocolatier. I have no idea if he was staring in horrified shock or awe, and whether he was staring at the flowers or the cuffed jeans (or both), but I really love the chocolate.

Rain - those Doc Martens are da bomb! Too bad I've already found my "Europe" shoes.

Skirts or pants??? I don't wear skirts at home very much but I REALLY like to have one along in the very hot summer. They are much cooler due to the circulation advantage. I don't know how the tight ones would work though. I don't want mine to be ankle length, even though they are really cute and stylish. They are really tough when going down stairs as the tend to drag on the steps behind and get very dirty. Generally, they take up more space in the suitcase too. I don't wear ones above the knee either but that's just because my knees aren't as nice as they used to be.(: I also take light weight pants and a pair of capris and NEVER go without a pair of tried and true jeans. You never know what the weather will be. We were in Rome in June and I wore jeans and a sweater for several days! Unusual but it happens. I don't want to walk around shivering with my arms crossed or spend precious time shopping. I try to take everything light weight - except the jeans. I still keep my bag weight between 20-25 lbs. We travel for a minimum of 3 weeks and cover a lot of different weather conditions. For shoes - 1 pair of grey light tennis, 1 pair of red ballet flats and 1 pair of tried & true black Sketcher sandals. I am planning my 15th trip and this is what works for me.

Barb

I own the taupe and black RR skirts with the flounce at the bottom. In my opinion, Cute with tank tops and work best with sandals. I like to be dressy and struggled with having casual enough tops to go with the skirts. By all means, bring a skirt if you are anticipating hot weather. Way cooler than capris. If you choose a straight skirt, make sure that you can step up into buses. A slight a line might work better.
I found a cotton knit skirt for this summers trip to France. Looks better with the shoes I am taking, the pewter naots and black and white open back naots. Good luck with your planning. I am doing exactly the same as you. Just tried on things again this morning and took out two more items.