ENJOY SUMMER OUTINGS IN STYLE AND COMFORT
Plenty of fun products to take along for a day or longer of warm-weather travel
Once the nice weather hits I am all about “summer-izing” the house for visitors and weekend guests, but I also like planning my own short getaways.
I spend much of my time exploring the festivals of Montreal and enjoying friends’ backyard parties in Toronto. By the time I’ve gone on the occasional country cottage visit, my annual weekend in Niagara, and a daylong road trip, my summer travel list is complete and it’s time to think about settling in for fall.
In other words: Summer is short but sweet. Making the most of the nice weather is my goal, and travelling with a few stylish accessories will help me bring the comfort and style of home with me.
Here are some ways to up the style quotient while you’re on the road this summer.
LISTEN ON THE GO
Enjoy good tunes whether on the dock, camping or at the beach. Como Audio’s Amico music system is handcrafted with weather-resistant teak veneer and has a half-inch marine-grade plywood substrate for moisture protection. The rechargeable battery ensures up to eight hours of playback time. $500, Amazon. ca.
SWING IN STYLE
Make camp anywhere you see a sturdy branch and swing your way into the lazy days of a summer vacation. CANVAS Cotton Hammock Chair (cushions not included), $192, VdeVMaison. com.
CARRY ON!
Smart, versatile, and summery. This catch-all tote stands upright or folds down and weighs less than a pound, making it ideal for carrying your weekend essentials, visiting farmers markets or shopping in the city. Best of all, its prettiness belies its sturdiness: Pro-grade sailcloth means it will hold whatever treasures you need to transport. Barbara Barry’s Grande Catchall, pink peony (shown) or grey, $500, BraveBrownBag.com.
SIP OR SNAP?
Look like a seasoned paparazzo while sipping your coffee from this witty travel mug that’s a doppelgänger for a camera lens. Bonus: Helps you stay green on the road by avoiding using disposable cups. Caniam Travel Mug, $30, black resin exterior, stainless interior, ZoneMaison.com.
BRUSH UP BEAUTIFULLY
Refresh your breath in style with a luxurious collection of Italian mini toothpastes offering a different flavour for each day of your weeklong vacation. Marvis Toothpaste Flavours Collection, $35, HoltRenfrew.com.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Inspired by hard-shell luggage, this case will protect your cosmetics from impact. A removable strap lets you carry it as a small clutch. Rigid cosmetic case, $39. Simons.ca.
COME SAIL AWAY
Entertaining on a boat just got crystal clear for this summer with this classy, clear acrylic goblet that’s lightweight, unbreakable and stackable. Koziel’s Superglas Goblet, 8.5 ounces, $8, HopsonGrace.com. Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback? You can contact Karl on Facebook or Instagram at Karl Lohnes Designer.
Karl has worked as a home decor expert and product designer for 25 years. He appears Thursdays during the 8 a.m. hour on Global News Morning Montreal.