This may sound controversial, but I rarely take checked luggage on trips. When there is no other option (like my wedding where I go once honeymoon, which lasted about a month), I’m worried if my bags will reach my destination. More eye movements are standing around the conveyor belt as the bags slowly roll away. So, if there is a way not take the monster suitcase, i’m in.
Thanks to my mom, I consider myself a master at packing, zipping, squishing, and folding everything into a portable carry-on suitcase and personal items (like my Calpak Ambeur and Luka Duffel). But it is not an easy task. The first step to mastering the art of packing light is having a well-rounded checklist. It takes strategy, playing dress up on the bed and using your itinerary as a guide. More importantly? Access to various styles.
I work in fashion, so a minimalist, capsule wardrobe isn’t really my thing – I love colors, prints, and textures! But being worn doesn’t mean boring. Consider a gingham one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit, or wear a silk scarf as a sash or belt. It takes creativity, but once you get it down, your packing will never be the same.
I take my own advice as I fly to the Dominican Republic, England, France, and several stops in the United States. So, read on for your summer travel game and shop my style essentials.
High Silk Scarves
Silk scarves are undeniably beautiful, giving a touch of glamor to any look. Wrapping it around your neck is the most common way, but you can increase its wearability by pulling it over your hips like a flowing belt. I love the flirty vibe it gives off as a headband, belt, bow, and bag charm. Depending on the size of the scarf, you can even wear it with an open back tube top.
Transitional One-Piece Swimsuits
A swimsuit is a holiday negotiable item, but even if you’re opting for a hot two-piece, I’d urge you to consider adding a one-piece to the list. While they’re perfect for beach days and poolside tanning, the one-piece doubles as bodywear. Dress them up with oversized skirts and kitten heels for a rooftop happy hour, or style them with high-waisted shorts and casual sneakers for a day of sightseeing. Pro tip: Secure a swimmie with decorative details like twists, overlays, and snap closures for a more intentional style.
Do-It-All Linen Button-Downs
Oversized linen buttons are essential to any well-rounded wardrobe – but they play an even more important role when jetsetting. I prefer an oversized silhouette, wear it as a dress to the pool or tucked into shorts for a perfect finish. Billowy button-downs are also great for lounging, thanks to the easy throw-on style that’s great for spa trips, gym sessions, and coffee breaks.
Packable Knitted Toys
Without fail, I take two bags on vacation: a compact, high evening style and – more importantly – a compact, woven tote. The flexible design keeps it from feeling bulky and bulky, making it easy to fold, store, and hide. Take it to the beach, fill it with your flea market finds, and use it as your personal item on flights.
Comfortable, Chic Sandals
Polished sandals are a must, easily becoming your one and only vacation shoe everything. Opting for a comfortable style with straps and pointed footbeds means you can wear them all day, perfect for long days of hiking, resort wandering, and café hopping. But don’t forget to choose a pair with high details to keep them comfortable, allowing you to dress them up for dinner with sundresses and skirts.
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