Things We Love | Gwen's Birthday Adventure

For travel-loving Laundress cofounder Gwen, the best way to celebrate another trip around the sun is a trip around the world. The birthday girl recently touched down in both the UK and India where she worked, shopped, savored and sight-saw her way through each country. Here, she shares her travel tips and some of the treasures she brought back from her journey.

1. TRAVEL TOTE | THE LAUNDRESS

Our Travel Tote is such a versatile travel accessory. On departing flights, when I have a smaller load, I can pack it in my suitcase. On the way back, it doubles as a carry-on for the treasures I collected along the way.

2. THE ESCAPIST 2018 MAGAZINE | MONOCOLE

I ALWAYS consult my GURU Tyler Brule before any journey. Monocle travel guides are a must.

3. COMPRESSION SOCKS | COMPANION

Logging lots of miles on long-haul flights, I’ve discovered compression socks really help reduce jet lag and swelling. I love this brand for fun, comfortable options.

4. ON THE SPOT KIT | THE LAUNDRESS

With carry on sized versions of essentials like Static Solution and Stain Solution, our On the Spot Kit has gotten me out of many a clothing catastrophe on the go.

5. ULTRALIGHT CANVAS MAIN LINE | PARAVEL

This lightweight cotton canvas duffel still manages to maintain its structure. Perfectly sized for a carry-on.

6. HAT HOLDER WITH LUGGAGE TAG | TOPTOTE

Hats are so difficult to travel with. I love this simple and handy holder. Genius!

SHOP SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY ADVENTURE

I’ve long considered London my second home. It’s no surprise my ancestors hailed from the Mayflower and ultimately, I returned to study, live, and work there throughout the last 20 years. It’s a place I never tire of visiting and I have my beat down! One of my favorite spots on this trip was a stay on Burgh Island in Devon UK. This stunningly beautiful tidal island has a rich and fascinating history.

1. PACKABLE RAIN BOOTS | HUNTER

No need to leave your boots behind anymore when you can get a packable pair! Rain boots are a must traveling the UK countryside!

2. POLO NECK CABLE KNIT SWEATER | HIGHLANDS STORE

One of my favorite stores—a cream cable is a staple at home or across the pond.

3. MUESLI | DELICIOUSLY ELLA

I always have to get a lunch in at Deliciously Ella and nab some muesli bags to bring home. I have gotten so many onto it I have turned myself into a muesli mule. I also check her blog regularly for delicious recipes and food inspiration.

4. VIRGINIE HAT | MAISON MICHEL

I consider a versatile hat one of my favorite travel accessories, especially in London. I love this blue on blue fedora from one of my favorite hat makers.

5. RUANA IN GREY & ECRU | JOHN HANLY

I love British woolens! I have several of these ruanas (otherwise known as a wrap). It can be worn alone, as a shawl or used as a blanket in-flight.

6. FACIAL WORKOUT | FACEGYM

I am a product and spa hound always seeking out an interesting local service, from Hammans in Paris, reiki in India, saunagus in Denmark, or facegym in London. Now I can get my face workouts here in NYC at their new flagship studio.

India is a mecca for craftsmanship with experts in textiles and jewelry, just to name a few. The changes I have seen with each visit over the last 20 years is truly amazing. A new adventure each time, this visit I was able to spend an afternoon with Tara (short for Ishtara) at the elephant sanctuary.

1. DELILAH DRESS | RHODE RESORT

I loved this dress, but now even more as it reminds me of my special afternoon with my favorite elephant friend, Tara!

2. FIAN DROP EARRINGS | BLOSSOM BOX

Who doesn’t love a fun bobble to dress up any moment? These are fun to wear with just about anything, even just a t-shirt.

3. EMPORIO SIRENUSE | GIADA ARETUSA PRINT KAFTAN

While nothing beats shopping this brand at the hotel in Positano, you can find many of their gorgeous Indian block print kaftans online. They’re a must for any summer or holiday.

4. TATO DECORATIVE PILLOW | JOHN ROBSHAW

John is the MASTER of Indian block-printing- his prints and colors are always such a perfect touch to any room.

5. TULSI MASALA CHAI | ORGANIC INDIA

I always love bringing back my favorite treats from foreign places. I picked up some boxes of this Masala Chai Tea to take home but was excited to find it’s available in the states too.