Lori Leven is the world-traveling, impossibly chic boutique owner behind Love Adorned (the ridiculously cool fine jewelry and found-object boutique with locations in New York City, Amagansett and—soon—Santa Monica). If the well-curated items she stocks in her boutiques are any indication of Leven’s eye, we have no doubt traveling with her is an aesthetic experience not to be missed. With that in mind, we asked her to snap some photos for us during her vacation to Mexico City and throughout Oaxaca. Click through to get a serious case of wanderlust.
Photos: All Courtesy
The Tourist Spot Not To Miss
"Frida Kahlo’s childhood home in Mexico City, Casa Azul, is a magical museum to visit. Surrounded by gardens and filled with art from Frida, Diego Rivera and other artist friends, it will leave you inspired."
The Must-Pack Item
"Sunglasses are a must for my summer travels, and Barton Pereira is my go-to designer because of the great shapes, superior quality and tons of options to choose from."
Make It An Adventure
"No matter where I go, I make sure to escape the city to experience tranquility and local spirituality. This is the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan—it's about 30 miles outside of Mexico City.”
The Spot For Retail Therapy
“If you like to hunt for hidden gems, Oaxaca antiquing might be your thing.”
Bring Multifunctional Pieces
"I've learned to travel with multi-use items like this West African indigo textile. It makes a great blanket for long flights, a wrap for evening outings or a shield from the sun (think power naps during a daytime train ride). It's beautiful but tough (machine washable), so you can rough it up a bit without worrying too much."
Be Picky With Companions
“While dolphin tracking, seeing whales and sea turtles isn’t uncommon. I’m here with my friends Leah Bershad and Michelle Tarantelli.”
The Weird Item That Saves The Day
"Use a versatile kilt pin to hold your sweater, scarf or wrap closed; as a key ring that clips onto your purse; or to keep necklaces tangle-free and organized. You can even use it to create a coat hook in a hotel room if there isn't one—the list goes on and on."
Take A Minute To Take It All In
"Playa Zicatela at sunset—the most famous surf spot in Mexico. When you're there, the powerful forces of nature can be felt to your core."
The Beauty Essential
"Not only does this powerful potion make my skin silky soft after a shower, it also works in hair to smooth frizz brought on by humidity."
Seek Out Delicious Bites
"The chef at La Costeñita in Puerto Escondido cooks the freshest fish out of a converted van! His father made the restaurant's beautiful wood-slab tables, and his sister is the nicest waitress in town."
Be Smart About Accessorizing
"Bringing tons of jewelry on a buying trip can really slow you down. To stay accessorized without overpacking, I usually bring a short statement necklace—like this antique men's gold-watch chain. It's low profile yet still glamorous."
