Where To Wear It

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Dressing appropriately when you're a global jetsetter takes more than a few designer labels in your suitcase. The rule of thumb is that dress standards and trends do not translate between cities.

While in Rio a casual and unfussy way of dressing is the norm - you wear whatever you want when you want to. Travel further West to Hong Kong you would not be wearing a pair of jeans to an informal gathering. That would amount to having a most embarrassing moment of one's life. Worse even; in Asia they don't tell you when you've made a fashion faux pas, you get stared at until you beg your date to take you home.

In L.A., for instance, it is all about comfort. Jersey dresses and Ugg Boots fare better than Manolo Blahniks and Chanel twinsets. It is an athletic culture so looking relaxed is key. When you get off the plane in New York, however, ditch the Birkinstocks for heels because for all that Manhattan is worth, it is still a conservative corporate environment. New Yorkers, as you've probably noticed, are very polished and sleek. Don't deviate too much from black! A simple skirt and poloneck will suffice.

Back in Rome, it's about classic looks. Leather shoes, suits and Italian tailoring are worn with a hint of sex. If you don't feel like dressing up, try Tokyo. The Comme des Garcons suits have been replaced by logo-a-go-go and you can pretty much wear anything as long as there is some designer onboard.

Getting your wardrobe right when traveling is essential. Otherwise you end up buying things that never need come out of your suitcase.