WHIMSY

Fashion emergencies are unavoidable—they happen to everyone at some point or another, so it’s up to us to be prepared for anything. We’re modern women, after all. Luckily, there are about a thousand handy products out there to help us roll with the (stylish) punches and barely break a sweat.

For instance: You’re on a business trip. You’re wearing your favorite tailored blazer, pencil skirt, stockings, a colorful blouse and cute yet professional shoes. You’re ready to go to the 9 a.m. meeting, until you notice that you’re missing a button. And the hem on your skirt is coming undone. Panic attack? Not this time—you, the clever fashionista that you are, packed your K.I.S. Kit.

K.I.S. Kits are basically superheroes for any wardrobe malfunction. The kit consists of no-iron crease removing spray, no-sew seam repair adhesive, press-on buttons, double-sided fashion tape and a shoe shine sponge, all in an on-the-go travel case. Everything’s carry-on approved, so getting through airport security will be a breeze. Each kit is $24.99. I’d throw in my Tide To Go pen for a complete fashion-disaster aversion kit.

Another “emergency” piece in my suitcase is, surprisingly, a bathing suit. I don’t know how many times I’ve accidentally forgotten my suit, only to be the girl sitting on the edge of the pool instead of swimming (and I love to swim). Lately, I’ve gotten into the habit of simply keeping my suit in my travel bag. At all times. Wash it, dry it, pop it back in the suitcase.

Le Doux swimsuits are ultra sexy and can be seen on a handful of Hollywood’s most fashionable women, including Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian. My favorite Le Doux swimsuit is without a doubt, the monokini they dubbed “Perfect.” It’s bright white and, in my opinion, way sexier than any bikini. The shape is great, with rounded cutouts on both sides and a halter top. It’s a splurge at $125, but it’s the quintessential monokini—exactly what I think of when I hear the word. Keep it on hand and always look effortlessly chic in and out of the pool.

A convertible bra is a staple piece in my suitcase, too. I’m really good at packing a cute dress and totally forgetting a coordinating bra. And I hate unintentionally showing off my bra straps! I actually just got my hands on a bra strap solution much like the one you’ve probably seen on TV, which I’ll be writing about within the next few weeks, however, a backless dress can’t be saved without a drastic solution.

Leave it to Frederick’s of Hollywood to come up with the perfect solution—the Natural Solutions Convertible Bra. You can wear it nine different ways: strapless, halter, cross front, one strap, racer back, open back, low front, low back or asymmetric. It comes with a handful of clear and elastic straps for a truly comprehensive list of options for any neckline. It’s offered in nude or black for $39.
(All photos used with permission)

-Keri

This weekend’s abrupt return to warmer weather has gotten me thinking… about sun-kissed beaches, steel drum music, and fruity drinks with lots and lots of rum!

If you’re headed to a tropical locale this spring for some much-need R&R, I bet you’re already thinking about what to pack. The answer? Perfect bikinis by Poko Pano!

This Brazilian swimwear line was launched in 1988 in São Paulo by designer Paola Robba, and since then has become one of the most recognized Brazilian swimwear brands in the world.

Bikini’s by Poko Pano are fully lined and made of premium Brazilian lycra, so they wash and wear incredibly well. Poko Pano also offers an important choice when it comes to bikini bottoms — Brazilian cut (minimal coverage) and American cut (more moderate coverage).

One of my favorites from this season’s collection is the Sahara. I have a long love affair with animal prints and the Sahara’s leopard pattern does not disappoint. The classic black halter top ties in back with adjustable straps which match the sassy double side-tie leopard bottoms. $120

For a more whimsical look, I love the Bali. Adorable, with an eclectic mix of print and stripes, the bandeau top has removable pads, a black buckle at center and back tie.  The tanga single tie-side bottom is completely adjustable along the white waistband. $126

Or, for your next getaway, try the classic Isabelle. The adjustable triangle top has black rope detailing on each side, and ties behind the neck to achieve the perfect fit.  The fold over hipster has shirring at the sides and is fully lined (the white is even triple lined!). $164

Want even more choices? The 2010 Collection is available online at Poko Pano and at fine retailers across the US.

From exotic animal prints, to feathers, blooming flowers, plants, and native Indian motifs, plus details like snakeskin, beads, hardware, knotting, and tulle overlays, you’re sure to find just the right suit for your spring getaway!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!