I would love to consider myself an authority when it comes to dressing for travel, however there is still one frontier I have not conquered in the travel-wardrobe realm. By the way, that is totally a place. Travel-Wardrobe Realm. The shopping is phenomenal. The hiccup in my total frontier domination is in finding the ultimate travel shoe.

Shoes for schlepping, shoes for traipsing, shoes for shuffling along a picturesque esplanade. When you're traveling, chances are high that you will be doing a good deal of walking. Walking is one of the best ways to navigate and explore a city, town, village, or neighborhood. I have yet to find the Holy Grail of Travel Footwear, but I'm trying. One pair at a time.

The Manolos, Louboutins, and Givenchys? Notsomuch for the traveling. Or at least, notsomuch for the walking around. The following are known for comfort, and have shown some success with aesthetics, but the elusive perfect combination of the two has yet to be found.

Sofft - these are the closest I have come to ultimate travel shoe, in the form of flats. Patent leather gunmetal flats, which are not only completely comfortable, but are also surprisingly chic-looking. When people compliment me on these shoes, and I tell them they're Soffts, the nice people are always surprised.

Cole Haan w/Nike Air - I haven't purchased any of these for myself, as of yet. I continue to try them on, and clomp around in them, pretending I'm walking on cobblestone streets in some far-off part of Europe. They are not uncomfortable, but I also wouldn't be able to spend an entire 8 hours walking in them. I think my expectations might be a bit high. But that is what happens when you slap "Nike Air" on a pair of shoes. You expect extreme comfort. And unparalleled athletic ability.

Aerosoles - I used to have a pair of these, but then my level of shoe-snobbery hit an all-time high and I won't wear them anymore. This is probably just barefaced foolishness on my part, as they have a number of cute styles, with very flexible soles. I managed to find this surprising pair of Aerosoles boots:

Dansko - These are worn by medical professionals, and those in the culinary field, who have to be on their feet all day, which is a ringing endorsement if ever there was one. I can't get past how clompy and unattractive they are. I still have a pair. I just wish they weren't so clompy.

Born - These are very similar to Soffts, both in comfort and the fact that they use Scandinavian characters (like the umlaut and slash O). My unofficial opinion is if the brand has Scandinavian alphabet characters in it's name, the shoes will undoubtedly be very comfortable. And not entirely unattractive! These sandals look pretty good for "sensible" shoes!

Tsubo - these are fairly close to Danskos in style, but somehow less clompy, and I've actually seen an adorable pair of slingback pumps that the wearer swears she can walk around in all day.

Donald J Pliner - These are my fashionable concession to comfort footwear. Pliner's shoes are stylish, although not outrageously so, and comfortable-ish. They will not feel like little pillows for your feet, the way Borns or Soffts will, but they do look good. Although I don't recommend anything with a kitten heel when you're in Europe. My DJPs were microfiber pumps with a slight kitten heel. En route to Prague castle the kitten heel would catch, repeatedly, in between the cobblestones, and one time I walked right out of the shoe, which stayed put - kitten heel firmly wedged between the stones.

I really missed my Danskos that day.

I have come to the slow, horrifying realization that I adore "statement" jewelry. Like I need another expensive fetish. Sure, a pair of diamond stud earrings are sparkly, but I would ignore the glare of the carats if these pieces were in the same room.

We have previously discussed accessories, but statement jewelry isn't just garnish. Some of the pieces are bold enough to be the main event. Meaning, you could practically wear a pair of jeans and a t-shirt with any of these, and still be considered dressed-up.

Multistrand turquoise necklace by Bounkit

Black Volcanic Rock Necklace by Siman Tu

The least expensive piece is $275, and the most expensive is $2990. Can you guess which is which? Yes, statement jewelry is not cheap. It's big, it's bold, it's often created from hard-to-find materials, and it always turns heads. The "statement" truly being made, by most of these pieces, is "I spend more on my accessories than you spend on your rent".

Possibly followed by "Neener, neener, neener."

All above jewelry can be found at Vivre.

Having cute luggage will encourage you to travel in the same way that buying a new pair of running shoes will encourage you to exercise. Theoretically. But whatever, we're always on the lookout for fun online shopping experiences, and this one fits the bill!

For your girlfriend getaways, girls weekends or even just a quick business trip, Flight 001 has your packing needs covered. This is a clever, hip, travel-focused site (ahem), with everything from suitcases to travel games to a funny-looking packable bike that we really couldn't imagine using.

Here are a few of our favorite items:

Bamboo blanket and eye mask - Blanket and Eyemask Set made of 100% sustainable bamboo fiber. Includes a super-soft blanket and matching eyemask. 40in X 60in (blanket open). We love to match, and we also love having our own blanket, so we can avoid using the pilling airline-issue ones. Plus, bamboo is eco-friendly, and so are we.

Cashmere travel slippers - Pink cashmere travel slippers for comfort and style while far from home. One pair includes a silk drawstring case. Women's sizes. Large: 9-10 Medium:7-8 Small: 5-6. You can never have too much footwear, and these are adorable and will just pack up into your purse until you're ready to sink your feet into the cashmere deliciousness on the flight.

Traveler Case - ML Traveler Case in Rio print. Interior features 2 snap-out zip mesh pouches, a removable toiletry pouch, a zip compartment, and a mirror. Exterior features two handles and double-zip closure. This is so pretty that we may or may not just try to use it as a purse. It could be Marc Jacobs...

Handmade silk jewelry roll -Silk Jewelry Roll in Berry Gerber print. Organize and protect your jewelry while you travel. Features 3 zippered pockets, large compartment for necklaces and ring bar. Tie closure. 100% Thai silk.
7in X 3.5in (closed). In the past we have struggled with packing jewelry, and it usually winds up sharing a compartment with our toiletries. Toiletries can sometimes explode.

There is much more where these came from, so take a little shop-break and visit Flight 001. You will probably also want to check with our Holiday Golightly Packing List, just to make sure you don't forget anything.

We told you, if you weren't taking an actual vacation this summer, you'd be spending the money online shopping, did we not? Online shopping has officially become a contact sport, in that we are being contacted, via email, with invitations to fantastic online sample sales.

In an effort to look perpetually chic for various events, our girls' weekends or just the random girls' night out, we indulge in the shopping. And the latest hot thing in online shopping is the online sample sale. These occasionally-exclusive, always distracting emails pop up weekly or daily to offer you usually high-end brands at discounts between 40%-70% off the retail prices.

HauteLook tells us "The most exclusive sales happen in private" - they allow you to sign up for free, and have offered brands such as Iisli, Decades Two, and Alice + Olivia. HauteLook does not require someone else to "sponsor" you - you may just sign up at the site, and will then receive daily emails with their sales.

Gilt Group is more exclusive, and to become a member, you must have a current member "invite" you. Although there is a link offering Today Show viewers an opportunity to sign up. Notsoexclusive - who hasn't watched The Today Show? Featured brands include Vera Wang Lavender Label, Thakoon, and Banfi Zambrelli.

Regent's Secret - another exclusive site, where you will need to be invited by an existing member. But if you look more closely, there is an option to register as a non-referral. Brands include Chelsea, Walter, and See by Chloe.

The exclusivity thing is very big, and makes people feel special, so that is some good marketing on their part.

Top Button "For fashion democracy" is more of a social site, complete with blog, user profiles etc., and is less focused on shopping than the other three sites. Some of the brands include Giorgio Armani (fragrance), LaRok, Gaiam and Bare Necessities.

Like anyone else, I adore getting email. So having these shopping opportunities just pop up in my inbox is always a treat. I'll click on the link, do a quick scan: very cute, very cute, would make me look enormous, very cute, I'm not allowed to buy any more eyelet clothing, etc., and then continue on about my business.

I haven't bought anything yet, but still look forward to the special emails, and am confident that my resistance will crumble like cookies if I see a subject line with the words "Christian Louboutin starts now!"

Dress up themes are sometimes a part of girlfriend getaways, bachelorette parties, wedding or baby showers, or just a regular old backyard party. If you've ever been confounded by a dress code, you will relate to this.

I was recently invited to a party where the theme was "Tiki Glam".

What?

So...like a coconut bra and the YSL Tribute sandals?

Or an Alice + Olivia sequined dress with a flower halo?

I get "Tiki", and I get "Glam". What I do not get is how to smoosh those two together into a suitable outfit.

When faced with a confusing dress code, you could just email your hostess and say "HANH???" Or, better yet, ask your friend Google.

I Googled "Tiki Glam" and discovered that I am not hip or cool, and there is a whole movement out there that is Tiki Glam. There is even a website called Tiki Glam, and they explained, via photos, what it is:

Ahhh. I see.

So if you receive an invitation to an event, and are befuddled by the dress code, check with Google.

I am looking forward to the next party that has a "white clothing" dress code. That one I understand. I think.

Oh, you know it's going to happen (again). You will be out with the girls - whether celebrating a bachelorette party, or someone's landmark birthday - and you will suddenly find yourself at one of those bars or clubs that offers up a bar, or some elevated platform, or table for you to dance on. We're here to make sure you're properly attired just in case.

Obvious first recommendation: wear pants. Paris, Lindsay, Britney - we've seen the mess. Pants please. The darker, the better, as one of your friends will inevitably spill her drink on them. White is a colossal mistake, as you will probably have to sit on the table or bar in order to boost yourself up to a standing/dancing position. And who knows what kind of guacamole/barbecue/Jaegermeister residue will be there? Skinny leg pants are better - flares might knock over someone's beer while you're kicking up your heels

J Brand skinny leg jeans - $180 at Net-A-Porter

A top with a bra under it. Keep the girls contained. Please. Your lady lumps deserve a little respect. And we will start by ceasing to refer to them as "lady lumps". We reviewed several convertible, non-strap bra options HERE.

Alice + Olivia Beaded Halter Top - Retail: $396, on sale for $198 at ShopBop

If you must wear a dress or skirt - take a cue from your 5-yr old self and wear shorts underneath. No, we're not kidding. The "shorts" can be boy-short underwear in a non-white color. Just something. Do you remember those "scandalous" photos of George Clooney's now-ex-girlfriend, Sarah Larson? Okay, one of the photos was somewhat questionable, but for the most part they were harmless. The one that I remembered was probably meant, by the slimy photographer, to be lascivious, as it was an up-the-skirt shot. But our girl Sarah? Wearing black boy shorts underneath. Well played Sarah Larson.

Under Armour Active Boyshorts - $19.99 at Nordstrom

Shoes - anything secure (i.e. not mules), that you don't have to take inchy little baby-steps in. I have some shoes I call my "sitting down" shoes - don't wear those. Some platforms usually look difficult to function in, but are actually quite comfortable. Choose shoes at your discretion. Some people really just can't walk in heels, much less dance.

Stella McCartney Strappy Sandal - Retail: $695, on sale for $391 at Bergdorf Goodman

Wristlet purse: these things are invaluable in that they allow you to use both hands for whatever. Holding two shots of tequila? No problem! Grabbing the pole with both hands? No problem! Holding your friends' hair back if she becomes ill? No problem. You're wearing a wristlet! (Okay, a shoulder strap purse would work well also. It's just not as much fun to say.)

LD Tuttle The Wanderer Large Wristlet Clutch - Retail: $257, on sale for $77.10 at ShopBop

We also advise using care when selecting jewelry, as a too-large pair of earrings can set you up with a nice black eye if you're whipping your head around to Rhianna.

Remember: drink responsibly, dance responsibly, and if you can't do either of those, make sure no one brought their camera.

Newsflash: water is wet, grass is green, and summer is hot. And whether you and your girls are taking a girlfriend getaway, or sticking around town - the operative word being "sticking" - you want to try to stay as cool as possible, while still looking good.

Halter tops and sundresses (mini or maxi) are just a couple of the "barely there" styles that are popular in summer. Enter: the bra dilemma. Some of us can get away without wearing one, some of us feel more comfortable with a little coverage, and some of us really need a lot of support.

Obvious nippleage can be a bit vulgar and distracting, so we recommend a little cover-up. They go by many different names (Breast Petals, Fashion Forms, etc), but all look relatively similar.

They're like band-aids, but made specifically for your breasts, and you can find them in the intimate apparel section of most major department stores, or at select online retailers.

Breast petals - $5.75 for 3 sets of 2 at Lingerie Solutions

For those of us who need a little more support, there are silicone breast covers with side adhesive.

Fashion Forms: Extreme Silicone Plunge Bra with Underwire - $30 at Bare Necessities

And finally for those of us who need a lot more support, there are standard bras with clear bra-straps. We aren't posting the photo, because this is starting to look like the lingerie section of the Sears catalog. You can buy them at Bare Necessities.

Another aspect of your loveliness that might need a little help? Hair. Hair is at the mercy of the elements during summer, and if your flatiron isn't quite cutting it, you can turn to scarves. Scarves in summer should be your friends.

Head scarf - $7.99 at Target

And shade is a lifesaver - in all forms - and automatically cools you down. If you can't carry a parasol around with you, at least offer a little shade to your eyes.

Wayfarers - $109 at ShopBop

If you apply all of the above tips, and still feel uncomfortably warm, have a popsicle!

And always think cool thoughts.

If you've ever tried shopping for "travel clothing", you will be familiar with shapeless drawstring pants, boxy t-shirts, and big floppy hats. They don't scream "AMERICAN TOURIST" quite as loudly as a baseball hat and Nikes, but we feel there are still more attractive options. Whether packing for a girlfriend getaway, or any other type of trip, these are a few pieces you can take with you, wherever you're going.

We've combed the official travel gear sites, and picked our favorites that will allow you to wear travel clothing, and still look travel-chic.

Travel clothes need to be versatile enough to be dressed up or down. This tank is stretchy and comfy enough to wear on a day touring ancient Roman ruins, but can also be dressed up for a nice dinner overlooking the Aegean:

Wrap Tank Travel Tank - at ProTravelGear

Every girl needs a good LBD, and one with a built-in bra is like gold when you're traveling:

Little Black Halter Dress - TravelSmith

When traveling, there are no two words you want to hear more than "wrinkle free clothing":

Wrinkle Free Shirt - Magellans

Don't forget to add a little color to the travel wardrobe. This is a great cover-up:

Lost River Knit Shawl - Magellans

Don't you dare buy those Crocs. The comfort is not enough to offset the ugly. These sandals are adorable, and Sofft makes fantastically comfortable shoes.

Women's Sofft Roma Sandal - at TravelSmith

So now you're all set to travel, but don't forget to leave room in your suitcase for the clothes you'll buy on your trip!

Okay, if you're really imposing a shopping embargo, that means you aren't permitted to purchase anything. We recommend a small concession, as full-on embargos are just sad. Accessories are a great way to add a little somethin'-somethin' to your wardrobe.

Think of yourself as a Christmas tree that needs decorating. But try to avoid the garish garland. Rings, scarves, bracelets, earrings, sunglasses - you know, accessories!

Red Seed, Bead & Shell Bracelet - $119 at VivaTerra

All of the above are reasonably-priced options, but we should always have at least one unreasonably-priced option to covet. Enter Nancy Gonzalez:

And if none of the above accessories appeal to you, go ahead and buy yourself a new dress. Embargos were meant to eventually be lifted.

They are not going to wear them again. They will not shorten them, they will not remove the sash or the sleeves or the straps, or God forbid, the hoop skirt, and wear them again.

I had previously written a preemptive boycott on the movie "27 Dresses". I finally watched "27 Dresses", this past weekend, and would like to retract my earlier shunning.

I really liked it! It was not a Meh Romantic Comedy. There was no cheesy Motown-fueled car/moped chase. And the sing-a-long I was so worried about involved excessive inebriation and "Benny and the Jets". I, too, always thought Elton John was singing about "electric boobs and mohair shoes". Are those not the right words?

Katherine Heigl did not, to my knowledge, have to wear mohair shoes, but she did have to wear 27 dizzyingly awful bridesmaid dresses. Unfortunately, sometimes life imitates art, so let us review things the bride should not make her bridesmaids wear.

Shiny & Puffy. And teal.

You've all seen it, and many of you have worn variations of hideousness, in the name of friendship. You will be rewarded for this.

Bride: you will always be the most beautiful, ethereal creature on your wedding day. Always. And no amount of horrible chintz or lumpy satin surrounding you will make you glow any brighter.

If you make your bridesmaids wear unflattering dresses, they won't feel pretty. And if they don't feel pretty, they won't feel like socializing. Or if they are socializing, they're also, no doubt, muttering under their collective breath, and scowling, and plotting revenge, and that stuff will just really show up in the wedding photos.

"But it will look nice for the pictures" is not enough of a reason to make your close friends and relatives miserable. A number of more forward-thinking brides have been more generous in the bridesmaid-ensemble selections. They choose a color, or a color family, and say "Get something that matches this, that you like".

And it looks lovely!

Or they select the specific fabric, and allow each bridesmaid to choose a dress-style that she is comfortable with.

Yes, it's your day. And don't you want it to be a spectacularly happy one? Filled with love and smiles, and warm fuzzies, and possibly white kittens? But we can discuss the wedding processional later.