I'm a huge fan of 'Soirée Entertaining with Style' and I love reading your blog and following you on Facebook and Pinterest.  You have such great fashion sense that I thought I could get your advice.  In a couple of weeks, I will be traveling to Bali and would appreciate your input on what's best to wear in a country known for it's stifling heat.  Thank you so much for your inspiration and I hope to hear from you soon!

Gratefully, Becky S.

Dear Becky:

Thank you so much for your kind words.  Fashion is one of my passions so I must admit I'm slightly gratified when receiving questions like this.  Bali is such a beautiful province of Indonesia; I'm sure you will have a marvelous time.  So in order to make your visit comfortable but fashionable, here are my suggestions:

First & foremost, wear clothes that are loose but tailored in breathable fabrics - linen, cotton & things that are lightweight.  I'm a huge fan of  100% Capri, J. Crew, Leggiadro and  Loro Piana and religiously wear their clothes during the hot summer days in Atlanta and when I travel.

I love shorts no matter the age. I know there's a popular adage that a woman should not wear shorts past the age of 35, but I have had a change of heart in this matter.  When I had lunch with Oscar de la Renta in Dominican Republic,  Carolina Herrera had on short shorts so I decided then & there if she could, I would!

I make sure to make sure the look is tailored & coordinated when I wear shorts out. A tucked in linen blouse & cuffed linen shorts is one of my favorite looks!

Tailored tunic-style dresses -- long or short.

Long skirts & lightweight knit tops or maxi dresses with flats only please! Heels or the chunky wedge doesn't make you look taller it just makes you look out of place.

And for accents,  layer on accessories, but think longer necklaces, chandelier or dangly earrings & things that don't 'touch'! Wearing your hair up also takes the degree factor down a bunch!

Think natural-woven beads, wood bangle bracelets, a tusk of horn on a gold chain. Or a pile of the always classic Hermes bangles on your wrist to add a dash of color.

I love Hermes scarves & wear them year round, but for summer they always serve as a belt around my waist or chic head wrap. For travel they can really lighten the load & double as a halter top or a purse with just a few quick twists & knots!

I live in Panama hats in the summer to keep the sun off my face.   And a bonus is not having to worry about messing up my hair!