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If you're headed for Alaska, put down those bejeweled sandals and go for something woolen instead. While you don't need to pack for a North Pole expedition, you need to be prepared to face the elements -- rain, wind and cold. Alaskan weather varies dramatically from winter to summer and even time of day. For this reason, Alaskans are pretty casual and informal about fashion. So, think practically. Consider protection and comfort in high-quality winter clothing; it's all about fabrics and layers.
Wear the Perfect Core Layer
Get the first layer right and you'll be OK. So invest in some quality thermal underwear (yep, that includes long johns) to wick moisture from your skin while keeping you warm -- sticky and stinky never work. If you're the eternal glamour queen, you can still get your fix of luxury with silk underwear. It's a natural insulator, regulating your body temperature perfectly and feeling amazing against your skin. Now how's that for multitasking?
Insulate Your Body
This is when you introduce a knitted layer. It insulates your body and allows you to react to different weather conditions. So choose a fleece or sweater. Don't get heavy-handed; the Abominable Snowman look is not chic. Go for wool or one of the technical fabrics, designed to hold body heat. These are both lightweight and warm. Look out for zipped sweaters, so you can whip them off or on in different weather conditions.
Wrap Up in Good Outerwear
Packing waterproof, breathable and warm rain gear is a must. The website InStyle suggests traveling with an all-weather anorak; the "waterproof fabric will go with everything in your vacation wardrobe." We're not talking torrential rain here, but it rains enough in Alaska to get in the way of your hairstyle and makeup. Planning on staying outside for a while? A pair of waterproof pants and a hood will top off your look. Who wants to walk around looking as soggy as the weather?
Protect Your Skin
Believe it or not, the sun in Alaska can be as intense as it is in El Salvador. "The farther north you go, the longer the days and the brighter the nights. In Fairbanks, the sun does not set until after midnight in June and much of July," explains the Alaska Vacation Store. So protecting your beautiful skin is a must. In addition to sunscreen, bring your shades, a pair of gloves and a brimmed hat. Think of them as your hands-free parasol.
Tip
Practical doesn't have to be boring. There are a host of outerwear suppliers who sell cute, fashion-forward pieces for women. And you can jazz up your Alaska-ready clothes with colorful accessories and pretty prints.
