I don’t know if it is just me, but I never feel that as look as good when I get ready in a hotel versus at home.  I use the same products, apply everything in the same manner, yet I think to myself “eh….it’s been better.”  Then I remember… I forgot my foundation.

Yep, that would explain the difference!

Oh and that new bottle of sunscreen with the light floral scent I bought specifically for this trip…it’s on the shelf in my linen closet.  Sigh…

Perhaps I should have followed this wonderful advice from a 1930’s author:

“Vacation time finds us all atingle.  For aren’t we all going somewhere, even if it’s only for a day or so?  Most summers I’ll warrant you’ve planned for your vacation weeks ahead, and then, at the last minute, as an afterthought, you tucked a jar of cold cream in your bag and forgot to take it out until a night or two before you came home.  And, instead of arriving home a dazzling vision of health, your nose was red and peeling, and you had an unbecoming half-burn, half-tan that took months to wear off.  Skin must be cared for on long trips by motor, train, or boat, and beauty care must be continued consistently just as at home.

Experienced travelers “travel light” for too much baggage is a vexation.  Therefore, preparation is key when it comes to packing.  For skin care, I recommend assembling a beauty kit with all of the essential items of skin care.  In addition to your cold creams and lotions, you’ll very likely need extra cleansing tissues, too, and a roll of absorbent cotton, the latter providing convenient powder puffs that can be used and thrown away.  The small guest-size cakes of soap are very handy, especially for short trips.  A holder for your toothbrush is also indispensable.  Then, of course, you’ll need toothpaste, a nailbrush, and a brush and comb, and you’ll do well to include dental floss.  Don’t forget that care of your hands, either.  You can secure complete manicure sets in flat, easy-to-pack boxes.  And by all means, take along a lipstick.  

Suppose, with these suggestions in mind, you list the most necessary articles for personal comfort and grooming, considering the sort of vacation you plan to take.  Then there will be no last minute confusion and you’ll have a pleasanter and more successful trip.”

I wish you all better luck than I have had with packing, and may your sunscreen always be waiting for you in your toiletry bag!

~Aimee

Source: Fashion Service, 1931

Painting by Emilian Lăzărescu (1878-1934), ‘Cochetărie’, oil on board.