One of the best parts of traveling is surveying the fashion situation in any given city. In recent trips, I’ve learned that Utah cowboys really do wear old-school Wrangler jeans; Miami ladies can’t get enough of body-hugging Herve Leger ; and Boston boys are rocking the East Coast prep look including knit ties and newsboy caps. Perhaps, then, no occupation is better to read a city’s style barometer than the hotel publicist. Think about it: thousands of people passing through its halls; constant events, receptions, and parties; a bustling bar scene and usually home to a restaurant with reservations booked weeks in advance. A main job requirement of the media gatekeeper is to stay up on what’s hot, what’s not, and what could be potential competition.

I wear a Herve Leger Skirt in New York...for some reason, my Chicago friends have so many beautiful clothes in neutral colors. The browns in my closet never leave the closet.

New York fashion is much more experimental; Chicago is more casual and down-to-earth. Since the winters are so cold, there's a lot of layering and people are less likely to dress up. I, on the other hand, will wear a sequin mini or feathers any day of the week.

Richard Chai, Chris Benz, Alexander Wang, Prabal Guring, Herve Leger ,and Yigal Azrouel — because I have to look put-together, approachable and fashionable, these designers seem to fit the bill both for work looks and events. Here's a toast to safe travels and dangerous dressing, wherever you might find yourself…