On the road, the film of Jack Kerouacs semi- autobiographical novel, hits cinemas this October. In homage to the book that chronicled the beat generation and has inspired to many a state-side adventure, I’ve picked 10 essentials for an all American road trip. Think bleached cottons, slouchy tees and streaming sunshine…
1. Just one dress
This gorgeous bleached denim dress with a lace panel back is a perfect blend of feminine hippy and cool casual. It has a slightly lived in look already, crumples from sitting in the car won’t show and it will dry quickly from being hand washed. It also features a pretty dip-hem, giving it a day or night-time edge.
2. Hoody
A snuggly jumper is a must; sadly not all days are sunny, so a comfy and cosy hoody is the ideal cover up. This super dry option is a lovely white-flecked dusty red with a preppy design, giving you a varsity twist on a plain old jumper.
3. Bralet
The characters in OTR get naked whilst driving… If thats not for you, keep stripping down legal with this floral Bralet. Perfect for super hot days when the air-con is broken or for wearing with a long hippy-style skirt. The pattern does all the work, keep the rest of the outfit simple.
4. Bleach skinnies
Washed out denim is the staple of any holiday wardrobe. Unlike dark denim, these bleached beauties won’t be as warm and they’ll put you in a bright sunshiny mood. pair with pastels and plimsolls.
5. The slouchy vest
Excess fabric is almost a guarantee for comfort. This floaty vest is super basic, but that’s perfect when you’re going for a scruffy chic look. Best bit: it comes in 7 colours.
6. Sandles
A holiday necessity for one. Second these will go with a dress, skirt, jeans or shorts, so you could technically wear them every day! The pale green and tan are a good combination, the colours feel so soft and cosy. These will quickly take on a slightly battered, well travelled look.
7. Hot pants
Kitsch but cool, these hot pants will get you noticed. Possibly a little over the top, so dress them down with leather sandles and a loose tee.
8. Satchel
A ‘sensible’ sized bag is a good idea. This can easily fit a purse, phone and camera with room to spare. The shoulder strap is handy and the floral print makes this satchel feminine and pretty whilst totally functional.
9. Plimsolls
Comfy shoes! Necessary for driving long distances and a good choice if you’re planning on stopping on dustier or unsurfaced roads. Pick these lower cut vans to avoid feeling too sensible. These also have a vulcanised rubber sole and will probably last forever.
10. Print tee
This hazy-hued tee is gorgeously soft cotton, with a roomy cut. The colours are bright but the bleached effect gives an ethereal quality. the symmetrical tie-die feather pattern is pretty in a subtle an carefree way.
I hope thats put you in a holiday mood! What would your road trip essentials be? Planning any epic adventures? Let us know in the comments.
About Alex Bucktin
I'm a graphic designer for a London ad agency but being creative isn't just a 9-5 thing for me. Its part of everyday life. I have an unhealthy obsession with typography, I ski like I have a death wish and my ideal afternoon would be spent walking the dogs and baking french macaroons. I collect china tea cups and shoes, and have no idea what I want to be when I finally grow up.
FACEBOOK PINTEREST