Travel Outfit 🧳: Casual In Petaluma
Whew, it was a looong drive from Los Angeles up to the Russian River area of Sonoma! We were glad we hadn’t filled our first full day’s schedule with a lot of activities. It gave us some time to settle in, and to get together with my friend, fellow blogger and style writer extraordinaire Brenda Kinsel and her husband for lunch in Petaluma, and take a stroll around town.
A Casual Travel Outfit
Wearing: Jacket (similar) | Tee (similar) | Necklace | Jeans | Bag | Shoes
The weather was beautiful on Sunday, clear and mild. Yesterday it began heating up during the daytime, though nights and mornings are still quite cool. I’ve been glad to have my jackets! (We’ve heard that there may be power outages due to high winds beginning Wednesday, so may have to keep our plans for the rest of this trip flexible.)
I really like the town of Petaluma. It’s quite charming and reminds me somewhat of San Luis Obispo, where I lived for several years. The downtown area still has lots of small businesses (antiques, artisanal clothing and decor, restaurants, coffee shops).
And of course, Brenda knew where the best walls are for taking outfit photos!
I’m usually pretty organized and rarely forget to pack anything important, but this time I did: my prescription sunglasses! I always keep them in my handbag, but must have pulled them out as I was re-organizing right before we left. So I was really glad I’d brought this straw fedora (purchased on a prior trip from Montecristi Panama Hats in Yountville). It at least cuts the glare in bright sunlight. And here, it served as a hair-tamer when this spot turned into a wind tunnel. 😉 Wish I’d thought to bring some coordinating silk scarves to add as a hatband…
We spent yesterday with a guide, touring wineries and enjoying a fabulous picnic lunch. Today we’re off to explore on our own. I’m taking lots of notes and at the conclusion of our trip will be creating a special newsletter for my email subscribers, a Sonoma-Napa Wine Country guide with our favorite wineries, restaurants, accommodations and activities. If you don’t already subscribe, just use the form below 👇
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You two are adorable! Is she also a gamine? Am excited to check out her blog!!!
Yes, I never thought of BK as a gamine, in word, but surely in style. Great “partners in crime”.
I live in Petaluma now and have lived there more years than anywhere else in my adult life. So sorry I missed you!! I’m glad you liked the west side downtown and I hope you visit us again. Your outfit is perfect
LOOOVE that hat! Perfection!
I’ve been following your blog for a few years now and I just want to say that you look younger, fresher and brighter in your new spring colors and gamine style! Amazing what a difference that makes.
I agree. Those were my thoughts too as soon as I saw the first photo in this blog, so much that I had to make a comment, but your words Barb said it all. Looking good!!!!
You and your Panama hat should be on a magazine cover – a picture of joy!
Susan, that outfit suits you perfectly! Though I’ve never met you, your personality comes through in your writing and, based on that and the results you’ve been posting, I think you’ve nailed your style type. It’s making me “itch” to do a session with Red Leopard in London. I’m no fashionista, but think I could benefit from some good solid advice and a few tools to help me put it all together. Thanks, as always, for your inspiration. Enjoy your trip “north”.
Susan, you look amazing in those jeans. Could you share the make ? And I love the slip on sneakers !
Thank you, Brenda
Hi Brenda, thanks! The jeans are from AG, link here: https://shopstyle.it/l/9nsT
I have been following both of your blogs or several years and look forward to all of your insightful posts. My husband and I were in the Napa area this August an fell in love with the beautiful countryside and the wonderful sights. Seeing you enjoying yourselves and each other brings back so many memories of our own adventures there. Cheers to you both!
I love the hat! Would you consider a post on hats? I love hats but I am unsure of which hat style looks best with my face shape. Hats make the wearer look like they are ready for fun! Have a wonderful trip. Thanks for sharing.
I’m a dedicated follower of bérets. Including one authentic Basque one – don’t know which side of the border – a gift from the widow of a dead friend who loved them. When it is horribly cold I’ll don a tuque, but they don’t suit my face shape. Though better than to lose an ear.
I feel like you’re really finding your stride with your new colors/look! I like the way these sneakers are a shade darker than the bag, maybe even a little green? And the black in the snakeskin pattern/black in the puzzle bag edging, total thumbs up.
Love, love, love the new look! You look great! It’s made me rethink all the black I’ve been wearing. Thanks for sharing the journey.
Love that hat. Never thought about adding a scarf.
Look at these great pictures! This post really puts a grin on my face. It was so fun to have that time together, all four of us. I did my morning writing today and may want to quote something your husband said. It’s been very thought-provoking. Another reason to get together soon.
Cheers, Miss Bright Eyes.
Your Sonoma friend, Brenda
Two of my favorites in one place! You both look happy and wonderful!
After years of following/searching for great bloggers, I narrowed my choices down to just you and Brenda and have been following the two of you for many years. I love that you each have very different styles, but somehow are both relatable to me. Also – you are both eloquent writers and make each of your readers feel like they are part of your circle of friends. Thank you for the time, energy, and creativity you bring to your posts – I am a forever fan!
Me too! Susan and Brenda are the only two fashion bloggers I follow!
Petaluma is a beautiful place but sadly known partly as the place where Heidi Klaus was kidnapped. I always feel a little sad driving through there.
You and Brenda are 2 of my favorite bloggers! I have learned so much from both of you about style and fashion ideas! Your packing tips help me plan my wardrobe for many trips! In a world of disposable clothing and ever changing styles, you offer us the option of investing in good quality clothing and purses, that will last a long time!
I can’t wait to see your recommendations for Sonoma-Napa wine country. I follow both of your blogs. So fun to see you both together!
I love both you and Brenda! Adorable picture of the two of you. Looking forward to your wine country guide!
Love those jeans! In fact, you always wear great jeans and look good in them. But they are terribly expensive! There’s probably a reason why. Maybe you should do a blog on jeans, with explanations and recommendations.
Enjoy your time here in beautiful Sonoma County. I feel really blessed to live here for the past 6 years. The vineyards are our beautiful fall colors. Your colors just go right with nature right now. I enjoy your posts.
You look lovely and vibrant in your colors.
Great look!! Love your glasses and have been meaning to ask where you purchased the frames.
Thanks, Jannie. The glasses are from a French company called Jimmy Fairly.
Love Brenda’s blouse..where is it from?
You and Brenda were looking very stylish. You do us proud.
By the sound of it you are having a lovely time.
Greetje