Away x La Ligne: Stripes & Travel Gear
Summer of the Stripe. The Spritz & Cabana Edit With Away x La Ligne. Two brands I love, one great capsule.
Last month I wrote my first post in the Brand Crush Series all about La Ligne. I’ve long admired the brand for their business model, high quality basics, stylish pieces that can be worn year after year and super approachable vibe. If you're a fellow admirer of La Ligne's timeless, stripe-centric fashion, then this summer's wanderlust-worthy collaboration is sure to be a "brand crush" moment for you too.
I have raved about their innovative spirit, versatile designs, affordable luxury positioning and dreamed up a few collabs that I thought made sense for the brand. Little did I know, the brand was about to check off one of my collab wishes - a partnership with a travel/accessories brand Away. My crystal ball was on fire!
Cue Away, the sleek luggage brand that disrupted the market with their modern hard case suitcases and travel essentials, and continues to deliver with amazing collabs. In an inspired meeting of aesthetics, Away has joined forces with La Ligne for an exclusive summer capsule. The limited 20-piece collection infuses Away's signature suitcases and leather goods with La Ligne's iconic stripes and classic but modern style.
Jetsetter-approved, modeled by Natasha Lyonne and styled by Jamie Mizrahi (think Adele and Jennifer Lawrence.) The collection is available in a vibrant "Spritz" orange and classic "Cabana" navy color story. the range makes it easy to travel light without sacrificing style. Prices span $30 to $345 across pajama sets, knits (for men too), tees, and Away's beloved Bigger Carry-On. It's the perfect fusion of form and function for your summer getaways.
The pieces I’m most excited about in this capsule collection are the cabana packing cubes (I do not pack without the Away packing cubes.) I also love traveling with an extra sweater as I’m often cold on the plane or in a car so the Leo Sweater works with everything I wear and easy to toss on or stow away in my bag. The Marini Sweater for kids in the orange and cream stripe would also ensure that I could easily spot my kiddos as they are surely running away to beg for a souvenir or hunt for shells on the beach.
Let’s breakdown some of the details of this experience:
Check out this Landing Page!
Clear headline: Away x La Ligne: Summer of the Stripe (A+ we know what we can expect.)
Great visuals: inspirational travel pictures which showcases the cool style, durability and functionality of the products. Plus Natasha Lyonne and her adorable pup.
Simple & Intuitive Navigation: go right to the Away site to shop travel products and the La Ligne site to shop the clothing items.
Consistent Branding: this is what I was really blown away by. The products are clearly both Away and La Ligne. The best of both brands and they fit together so well. This is what made it a collab in alignment
Urgency - limited edition collab. Get it while you can (and early so you can enjoy for summer travel.)
Shop on the La Ligne website and use code SARAHS10 for 10% off your first order.
To celebrate the launch, I've gathered travel and style tips straight from a La Ligne co-founder, Valerie Macauly, and Jen Rubio, Co-Founder and CEO of Away (they are both experts in travel and styling) and some of my favorite travel & fashion creators here on Substack. After pining for this exact pairing, I'm overjoyed to dive into the collaboration - proving sometimes our biggest brand crushes can materialize in delightfully serendipitous ways.
🧳 Quick note: I write a lot (too much good stuff to share!) so if you’re reading via email only, you may need to click through to the web version or read on the Substack app. I promise it will be worth it. 🧳
Valerie Macaulay - Co Founder at La Ligne
What is your go-to travel outfit formula? Do you have one?
I tend to pack a few good sets that you can wear together and break apart like the Leo Sweater and Pant1. Not only is this a great travel look, but you can wear the pant with a swimsuit as a chic cover-up and the sweater over shorts as alternate looks. This works well with button downs and boxers too, like our Macaulay shirt and short.
How do you stay true to your style while traveling? Do you like to pack something new to wear or a uniform of items you already know and love?
It's a mix of both as there is nothing quite like wearing something for the first time, especially in the fantasy location you envisioned wearing it when you bought it. This usually applies to a printed dress (right now it's the Carole Dress for me) and then the usual suspects follow as my go-to's for travel: oversize knits, linen button-downs, wide-leg trousers and easy tees with flat sandals.
What is the first item you always pack in your suitcase?
Our 100% cotton Solid Marina Sweater because you never know if the weather will turn or if the AC will be too high and it always looks good with anything, even over the shoulders with a dress.
Valerie Macaulay - Co Founder of La Ligne
Jen Rubio - Co-Founder and CEO at Away
How do you pack? Packing cubes or rolling clothes? Do you have a method you always use? How do you maximize suitcase space? Any special packing techniques or hacks you'd recommend?
My packing style has evolved as I’ve gone through different phases in my life. In the early days of building Away, I would be gone for weeks at a time with just a carry-on—essential as I bounced from store opening to factory visit to launch events to photo shoots with very little time in between. Now, as a new mom of two, I’ve been known to check a cartload of bags. But how I pack inside is the same: packing cubes, usually split by category (dresses in one, shirts in another, etc.). For multiple destinations, I use different colors of packing cubes 2so I don’t have to unpack everything. My little secret is the garment sleeve: that’s where dresses and shirts go to stay semi-wrinkle free. It folds in half and fits perfectly inside the suitcase. And, as always: clothes on the right side of the bag (under the compression pad) and toiletries, bags, and shoes on the left. Trust me, you fit more this way.
Even when I say I’m not going to shop, I always end up getting something. I pack my bags pretty full, but our Flex bags have an expandable zipper that affords me space for my new wares on the way home.
What is your go-to travel outfit formula? Do you have one?
I’m a big fan of sets, especially on days in transit. You can’t lose—you look put together and coordinated without trying very hard, and you can split up the set for more outfit choices on your trip. Natural fabrics are a must, too. I begged for a striped set when we were doing this collaboration, and the Leo sweater and pants are perfect.
How do you stay true to your style while traveling? Do you like to pack something new to wear or a uniform of items you already know and love?
Depending on the trip, I’ll either go the minimal/uniform route with clothes and then over index on shoes, bags, and jewelry to dress things up or down, or the other way around: pack lots of dresses, outfits with prints, and then keep the accessories simple with a couple pairs of shoes and a bag that goes with everything. I always like to have more options than I need, but this keeps me from going totally overboard. And I always have a leather jacket or blazer, or a pair of leather trousers (like the washable ones from Stouls)—you’d be surprised how this can disguise a multitude of outfit sins.
What is the first item you always pack in your suitcase?
I have an always-packed toiletry bag that I’ll replenish between trips, but it somehow makes it 100 times less of a chore to pack if I know my skincare, contact lenses, and other essentials are ready to go. And I always bring a bathing suit, even when I don’t think I’ll need one!
Dream destination this summer? Any item you would make sure to pack?
Aspen—most people only come in the winter, but summer in the mountains is majestic. Every year in the first week of August, the Aspen Art Museum hosts Art Week and there’s an influx of artists for talks, hikes, and celebrations. (Shameless plug, because I’m a co-chair this year!) It’s a fun mix of nature, social events, and culture, and a nice contrast to the typical summer destinations you see all over Instagram.
Jen Rubio, Co-Founder and CEO of Away
- Sarah’s Retail Diary
How do you pack?
Packing cubes are essential for me and I love how the Away ones fit perfectly in my suitcase. Additionally, the different shapes and sizes help identify which items go where (largest for denim and sweaters, smallest for underwear and socks.) I love the puzzle and making use of every inch of my suitcase. I make detailed lists (ChatGPT has been great for this!) I also created the Joan Didion style packing list and keep one of those for easy or quick trips too.
What is your go-to travel outfit formula?
Being comfortable is most important to me. Black pant, black sweater, tshirt for layering, comfortable shoes (socks for the plane) and a cashmere wrap for the plane. I will usually wear my blazer or heaviest jacket on the plane too - depending on the weather/time of year. For road trips I love a comfortable pair of pants and again layers up top. A lightweight sneaker or loafer is usually my travel shoe of choice.
How do you stay true to your style while traveling?
When I travel I like to take my absolute favorite pieces from my uniform. I’ll save a few images ahead of a trip with a special event (like a friend’s wedding or special restaurant I can’t wait to check out) but usually whatever pieces are my favorite in my rotation are going with me.
What is the first item you always pack in your suitcase?
I keep my toiletry bag and tech case always packed with the essentials. I love that my tech case also includes a few other on the plane essentials (aquaphor, lotion, a pen) so I don’t have to scramble through my whole tote bag. I’ve forgotten specific chargers in the past so I finally bought an extra of each type and just keep it ready to go.
Me on vacation with my family at Ojai Valley Inn.
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How do you pack?
I consider myself a terrible packer! I’m either overpacking or under-packing, never striking a balance. Despite this self-proclaimed title, I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. To avoid wrinkles, I prefer to pack clothes fresh from the dry cleaners. If I need to pack something that hasn’t been to the cleaners recently or that I don’t dry clean, I give it a light steam. One of my best tips is to pack your shoes in shower caps to put a barrier between your clothes and the bottoms of your shoes.
What is your go-to travel outfit formula?
When it comes to traveling, I, of course, want to be comfortable, but at the same time, I want to wear something that I feel would be appropriate for dinner (e.g., jeans and a knit top, a t-shirt dress, or a button-down shirt and louche pants). As for footwear, whether I am traveling by train or plane, I always opt for slippers paired with wonderful cotton socks I get from Front Street General Store.
How do you stay true to your style while traveling?
I am a very emotionally driven dresser, so I don't plan outfits by the day or anything like that. This is how I stay true to my style. I usually pack a mix of pieces that I’ve been gravitating toward lately, along with a few items I either haven’t worn or haven’t worn in a while. Including these forgotten pieces feels like a fun challenge, and it keeps my creative wheels turning while on vacation.
What is the first item you always pack in your suitcase?
My Charvet loafers and monogrammed pajama set. Technically, that’s three items, but I consider them a unit since I often wear them together.
Dream destination this summer? Any item you would make sure to pack?
My boyfriend's father and stepmother live on the Cape, so we usually visit there at some point during the summer. However, my ultimate goal this summer is to go out to Martha’s Vineyard (fingers crossed it happens this year!). Ever since I finished a biography about my style icon, Jackie O, I have been itching to explore the island. And it's safe to say, I won't be going to Martha’s Vineyard, or in fact anywhere this summer without my latest obsession: the Xero rope sandals.
from on vacation at Palm Heights
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How do you pack?
I am a self-professed overpacker, and every inch of every piece of luggage I bring is accounted for. You know how chefs have that principle of mise en place, or, “everything in its place?” That’s how I approach packing for a trip. Everything has to have a home of some kind before it goes into my luggage. All of my clothing gets packed into packing cubes, my hair tools and toiletries have individual travel cases, and everything else—from my undergarments to my sunglasses—has dedicated organizers. You'll never catch me just aimlessly throwing things into a suitcase. This system is my biggest travel hack and best investment. It keeps me organized in my suitcase and hotel room and really makes unpacking a breeze once I get back home.
What is your go-to travel outfit formula?
I always wear a variation of the same outfit so I never have to waste time thinking about what to wear to the airport. My formula is tank+sweater+flowy pant+sneakers, always in all black to make it look more put together. I start with a sleek, form-fitting tank top as my base layer. The material is so comfortable to me; I never have to fuss with making it lay right on my body. On top, I wear some kind of sweater. Even if it’s going to be warm, I like to pack a sweater just in case. For bottoms, I’ve found flowy pants to be the most comfortable option. Finally, I finish off the look with a pair of sneakers—whichever I love most at the moment. Right now, it’s either my Nike Vomeros or my P-6000’s.
Dream destination this summer?
I’m dying to go island-hopping in Spain’s Balearic Islands. I’m obsessed with this brand Louis Abel right now—I gifted myself a necklace for my birthday that I’ve been getting non-stop compliments on—and I’d pick up a few more pieces to accessorize with. The organic shapes and textures compliment a beach vibe really well.
from on vacation in Tokyo.
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How do you pack?
I have packing lists in Google Docs for various types of trips, i.e. Europe summer, Ski weekend, Beach holiday. I’ll refine the list for a specific trip and print it out; I find crossing off items on a physical list much more visually reassuring. My main tip is to edit ruthlessly. A bag that's quick to pack up means more time on the beach sipping spritzes!
What is your go-to travel outfit formula?
I start with a base of a simple tee/tank and comfy pants—either baggy denim, linen, or cashmere. I’ll typically layer on a knit, like a lightweight cotton sweater in the summer, or a chunkier option in colder months. Lastly, I’ll throw on a topper that I can wear at my final destination, like an oversize trench or robe coat. I usually wear sneakers on the flight—cloudlike Onitsukas are my current go-to.
How do you stay true to your style while traveling?
Occasionally, I'll use a trip as an excuse to add something to my cart that’s been on my wishlist. But I generally resist the urge to shop for a single holiday. Instead, I hone in on versatile pieces that will have an enduring place in my wardrobe. My “jewelry capsule” is often a through line for my looks—I’m usually wearing a cocktail of baroque pearls, simple gold pieces, and my grandma’s watch.
from on vacation in Oaxaca, Mexico.
What is your best travel tip? Is there one item you always pack? Share in the comments.
Huge thank you to the La Ligne & Away team for sharing details on this fantastic collab. I was gifted some items to try from the assortment (thank you!) and they are amazing. I have purchased many (many, many) from both brands before and this was a true dream to get to try the new collab. I have already used on a Napa road trip and will also be using for upcoming travel so follow along on my Instagram to see how I organize, pack and style. So far I’m loving the Leo Sweater - it is the perfect light but cozy piece to throw on when you need to run to the Hotel Lobby or keep handy for the chill in the car or on the plane. And as La Ligne has proved - stripes are a neutral! I’m also taking Jen Rubio’s suggestion of using different colors of the packing cubes to organize better. I already had a set of the navy packing cubes and now the cabana stripe helps me separate and quickly identify exactly what I need. The bag charms - you can pick your own bag out of a line-up of similar looking bags, grab your AirPods without having to search your whole tote and these are super gift-able.
I also want to thank
and for sharing their travel and style inspiration. I love their Substacks and always find inspiration for how to think about my own style and considered travel tips. Go check out their Substacks and follow too.❤️ If you love finding travel inspiration here.
📧 Maybe even share with someone else who would enjoy.
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Also brilliant how the PDP links directly to the Away Bigger Carry-On to cross promote.
It wouldn’t be Sarah’s Retail Diary if I didn’t also point out that I love the merchandising strategy around this. Organizing encourages you to also buy multiple sets. I also think it is smart to use different colors for different family members.
Love this! 🧡
Also, would you ever share your Joan Didion style packing list? That sounds so fabulous!
This is such a fun collaboration!!! And I loved all of the travel tips.