What to Wear: Field Trip

Becca has a week-long trip around Southern California for work coming up soon:

I work for an education organization here in Northern California, and while I often work in a busy office 9-5 (and sometimes 6ish), from time to time I get sent out to schools and districts for observations and meet-and-greets. Next month I’m heading to Southern California, and I’ll visit high schools in Bakersfield, Riverside, and LA. Most of my day will be spent driving, sitting in classrooms, and then driving some more. I might even take the train. Any thoughts on a few outfits that I can mix and match so that I a) don’t have to lug my whole closet down for a week’s worth of traveling and b) ways to blend in better so I don’t stick out like an office worker surrounded by a sea of puberty-hitting kids? I’m 5’5″, size 10-12, with an hourglass figure. My skin’s on the fair side.

The last thing you’ll want to do on this trip is iron. I think you can get away with one dress, one pair of slacks and couple different tops to mix in.

Chinos – A little more casual than business slacks but still sharp. A navy pair can survive a week without washing.
Sweater – Take a handful of your favorite lightweight sweaters in whites and grays. They’re sharp looking and easy to care for on the road.
Jacket – A little jacket adds warmth and confidence.
Shoes – Comfortable from Naturalizer and cute for spring.
Glasses – From Anthropologie.
Tote – For all your daily supplies.
Dress – A jersey DVF dress is my must-have for any business travel. They don’t wrinkle, they don’t stain and look great on everyone. I realize $325 might be a tad too much. If you’re clever, you can usually find them half off at Nordstrom Rack, on ebay or at a consignment shop.

Have fun on your trip! When in Riverside, be sure to drop in for a drink in the courtyard of the Mission Inn downtown. Such a lovely old hotel.