Away We Go

Dear YOU + ME*,

I am getting ready for a trip to Italy and am having the hardest time finding good shoes for the amount of walking that we are going to do and a purse/bag (preferably a crossbody bag even though it is not my favorite style). Tennis shoes for 10 days sounds miserable, so I need some cute alternatives that won't give me blisters after 2 hours. Any suggestions?

Thanks!
G.

Dear G.,

First of all, let's just establish that we're green with envy over your upcoming travels to Italy. Do gorge yourself on pasta and red wine and get your exercise by pretending to chase down a swarthy gladiator in the Colosseum for us, ok?

Now back to your question. We've seen those impeccably dressed Italian women just oozing chic on the Sartorialist. No need to compete with them, at least not on your daytime sightseeing adventures. We would never suggest tromping through Milan in your workout shoes wearing a fanny pack and talking VERY LOUDLY to anyone who didn't seem to understand English, but it's safe to say that the Italian women in their four inch heels aren't spending eight hours of their day stomping across the city. If you plan on walking around all day, you may as well be cute, blister-free, and unencumbered by a handbag that constantly slips off your shoulder. Here are our suggestions:

These Tretorn Mia Mesh flats are my absolute favorites for walking around New York all day long. Although they've logged some serious hours doing everything from hours of errands across town to chasing my daughter on the playground, my feet have never complained. They go with absolutely everything and I've gotten loads of compliments every time I've worn them. I'm pretty sure they're discontinued, but lucky for you, that means you can snap them up for practically nothing right here.

Bensimon sneakers (top row) are to Europe what Converse are to the States, so although they're sneakers, you'll still look cool wearing them. Wearing moccasins always puts a little spring in my step (maybe it's the jaunty little bow, but they make me smile every time I look at my feet). The bottom left moccasins by Darlingtonia are simple and cute (I think I've seen them on A Cup of Jo), as are the Alex Camp moccasins by Frye (in leather here and in suede here).

When it comes to cross-body purses, you have tons of options. Valhalla Brooklyn's purses come in a wide range of styles and colors, plus they have removable cross body straps (in case you would rather go back to your usual style when you return home). It's a little thing, but it makes me oh so happy: you also get to pick the lining! Clockwise from top: Okinawa bag in putty, Willow bag in graphite, and Larch bag in cement.

Good old J. Crew has also come through with a great looking cross body bag (love the zippers!). This is the new Exhibitor tote in beechwood.

Finally, if I could be a handbag this is the one I'd be. Ah, the simplicity of Clare Vivier's messenger tote. DId you hear that? It was me sighing with adoration.

Ciao!

YOU + ME*

Comments

[Meg Blocker]

Those Tretorns are adorable! One question...any insight into whether they run small, large or on-size? I am somewhere between a 7 1/2 and an 8, and I always waffle on which size to buy...

[ME*]

I think they run pretty true to size. I wear an 8.5 or 9 and have them in a 9 because I have an extreme and irrational fear of too tight shoes. They fit just the way I like them. Enjoy!

[Pretty Mommy]

Such great recs...love the tretorns - will have to run out and buy some asap! and love the Clare bag - have it personally and in my shop ;)

[ME*]

Of course you have the Clare bag--everyone knows you have the best taste around!