Michael Bastian for GANT

One place that inspires me the most is definitely the Big Apple aka concrete jungle aka New York City. I have the urge to visit the city at least one time a year and it always gives me a break from my everyday life in Hamburg.

I've always wanted to go there for Fashion Week but never made it. But then again I don't have any friends who work in the fashion industry who could have gotten me in. So I was happy and excited when my friend (journalist and former PR manager) told me that I could have his invitation for the GANT fashion show which took place on Sept 15. Luckily and coincidentally, I had already planned my vacation wround the same time as Fashion Week.
I was thrilled to attend my first real fashion show. And it was everything but disappointing.

If you think every fashion has to have a runway with models walking up and down while trying to look as bored as possible, you are on the wrong foot. What I actually saw wasn't much different from an art exhibition at a fasionable NYC venue. No catwalk but installations with different scenes and models in various outfits posing and moving (yes, also laughing and having fun). You could basically walk around and look at all the different setting while sipping on your glass of champagne and exchanging thoughts with the fashion crowed.

1950s meets classic American: I really enjoyed it but I have to say I do like the fashion from the 50s and 60s in general. You are absolutely right if you think it's all been done before and there is rarely a new take on retro fashion. True but somehow designer Michael Bastian managed to let his line look new and fresh. Up until now he has only created fashion for men. The GANT collaboration was a very good opportunity for him to start designing an entire collection for women as well. And I'm so glad he did. My favorite was the movie scene and the partly lace sweetheart dress. Definitely a classic piece and very wearable.

Let the pictures speak for themselves ;-)

What to pack... when going on a trip?

Departure time is almost there. I'm going to the Big Apple tomorrow :-) I've been there so many times but every single time I have to think about what to bring and what not again and again. I think it's good to get organized ahead of time so you don't have to worry about forgetting anything or stress out. Make a list - ficticious or real - if it helps you. I lay every single item on the bed and try out different combinations. Pack only half of what you think you need (especially if you plan on shopping). How many times have I only worn half of the content of my suitcase.

I checked the weather forecast and it's supposed to be cooler (around 18 degrees C) and rainy. That means to take any umbrella and closed shoes or booties. I know I'll be walking around a lot and although I do love my heels I pretty much only packed flats. I'll probably buy one or two nice pairs of heels anyway which I will need when we're going out. For that case I also packed some dressier pants that can easily transition from day to night and sequin leggings and skirt.

My color palette seems pretty plain ranging from heather grey to black but it will be much easier to combine the clothes that way. I took cardigans to wear over dresses for when it's a little cooler. And a must is also a trench coat. Mine is from Polo by Ralph Lauren in a dark blue color. I think every woman should own one as it's a classic and will never go out of style. It will keep me safe from the rain and also warm without being too hot and sweaty.

Shirts are of course also a must. Mine are a bit longer so I can wear over leggings. I'm not a big fan of jeans in general as they are usually too tight and squeeze my tummy but I packed one pair of plain skinny jeans by J Brand.

I'll also take my LV leopard scarf on the plane because it's always chilly with the AC on and I don't want to get sick. It's jst big enough to wear as a pashmina over the shoulders.

What's your travelling wardrobe like? Do you have a favorite piece that you always take with you on your journeys?