Travel Diaries: Lauren Anderson’s Mediterranean Tour

Rip & Tan: Talk to us about these dreamy destinations. How did you land on an Italian and Grecian holiday?

Lauren Anderson: My family and I had originally planned this trip to Greece 3 years ago, but due to COVID travel restrictions, it kept getting pushed until we were finally able to go this year. Our plan was to travel to different Greek islands on a small catamaran. It was serendipitous when Jenni Kayne announced that our summer break would land the week before the trip. What luck!

My boyfriend and I decided to head to Europe early and explore the island of Ischia, Italy. It’s now my favorite place I’ve ever traveled to! It’s eclectic, slow, and welcoming. We rented a charming house on a local’s beach that was buzzing all day with kids playing soccer, girlfriends gossiping by the water, and teenagers working at the local beach café. I already can’t wait to go back. 

Rip & Tan: How would you describe your travel philosophy? Are you an early rising adventurer or do you tend to prefer a more relaxed itinerary?

Lauren Anderson: My travel philosophy is to go where the wind takes you! My favorite memories involve stumbling upon a secret swimming spot or getting a last-minute restaurant recommendation from a local. It’s nice not to structure plans so the trip doesn’t feel rushed! 

Rip & Tan: How do you typically plan outfits? What’s your general take on vacation style?

Lauren Anderson: I have a confession—I never plan outfits for trips. I tend to always bring basics that I can swap in and out with ease to create different looks depending on the mood I’m in that day or night. Vacation style to me should be effortless, but fun! Let’s be real: there’s something about a vacation that makes you wear things you would never wear at home. 

Rip & Tan: It wouldn’t be a proper vacation without some Jenni Kayne. Which pieces did you bring along?

Lauren Anderson: What’s a vacation without our Crochet Raffia Sun Hat? I wore it every single day! I love how it fits in your travel bag without losing its shape.

The Riviera Slip Dress is also a favorite because you can dress it down or up so easily. The Leather Knot Sandal was a total lifesaver—one day I walked five miles in them!

Rip & Tan: What are the top 3 must-haves for traveling in a seaside locale? 

Lauren Anderson: A big hat, backgammon, and comfortable pants to throw on when it cools down. 

Rip & Tan: Whether it’s your skincare routine or a good book, what’s one thing you always keep in your carry-on?

Lauren Anderson: A deck of cards!

Rip & Tan: Trips like this can go by so quickly—how do you keep yourself in the moment?

Lauren Anderson: I try to practice mindfulness whenever I can…taking in the small things really helps slow time down! 

Rip & Tan: As much as we love planning, memories often happen in the spontaneous moments—what was the most pleasantly unexpected aspect of your travels?

Lauren Anderson: One night on our walk home from dinner we stumbled upon the most incredible sculpture studio. Each sculpture was entirely unique.

Rip & Tan: Difficult as it may be to choose—perhaps cooking with local produce or watching the sunset over the ocean—was there a particular moment of the trip you’re most fond of?

Lauren Anderson: I ran into one of my best friends in Italy! We both were in Rome for a travel day unexpectedly. It was over 100 degrees in Rome, so there wasn’t much else to do but sit in a courtyard, drink Aperol Spritzes, and talk about our travels.

Rip & Tan: How do you define a perfect getaway?

Lauren Anderson: The perfect getaway is sharing a moment with someone you love, whether it’s near or far.