SHORT STORY:
If you go far back enough on my Instagram, you’ll notice I carried quite the aesthetic when traveling. Made sure to pack those kelly green pants to match my Donatello beanie or the baby pink patent leather boots (I actually wish I still had those.) But these of course, outfits I wouldn’t get caught repeating. I’d travel with a fifty pound suitcase for a four-day trip, holding more shoes than there was ever time to wear.
Fast forward to Milano living in 2014 for five weeks. An experience challenging to forget considering it taught me about the versatility of an outfit and how to maximize my wardrobe. For a 5-week living scenario you better believe the fifty pounder was with me, in addition to a carry on and my favorite Herschel Little America Backpack.
My friends, let’s get one thing straight about Europe.. CARRY ONs ONLY!! Traveling between classes made it very clear to me that if I wanted to continue traveling after my design course ended I was going to need to move efficiently.
A quarter of the way through the trip, the fifty pounder went back to the states with my boyfriend who traveled home for work. My options were reduced to a minimum of looks that needed creativity and resourcefulness thrown into the mix. And so, I developed a new habit. :)
Now listen, I’m still a fan of a bright colored pant or a bold patterned dress, however, learning how to mix + match changed the packing/traveling game for me and is something I'm happy to share with my over packer, friends.
So, here we go!
CURRENT PACKING PROCESS:
Choose a color scheme: A few years ago I found myself packing for an 18-day trip across Europe knowing I needed efficient yet lightweight clothing to fit a carry on. It was then that I learned the importance of using a three color palette system for packing. Most recently I've chosen a black, gray, blue combo as well as a black, nude, brown situation! This is something that can be played around with. Feel free to go bold as long as you have options to mix + match. You'll be ok!
Take the time to see how many outfit combinations there are: A few tops, bottoms, a dress and shoes! *See my packing list below.
Never pack less than two pairs of shoes, never more than 3 but always a pair of slides: Ok, so I'm speaking to the under packers in the first part of the sentence.. You need at least two pairs of shoes. Why you ask? I can't forget that time during Lolapalooza in Chicago, where my boyfriend's shoes were trashed due to the rain and mud. Guess who had to go buy new shoes for him? ME! --- I suggest no more than three pairs because let's be real, you can make any basics match without complicating your life! --- In addition to a shoe selection I make sure to pack a pair of slides. They will be more necessary than you think. Love the Eva style Birkenstocks which are water friendly.
Keep it simple: Use accessories to edit your look! Scarves, hats, lipstick etc. Quality vs quantity.
Shopping: This one may be personal but I ALWAYS shop wherever I go! If you're like me, this will add an outfit option that you didn't have to pack. A little hint I'll give ya is to start your trip with an UNexpanded suitcase so that along the way you can collect your souvenirs.
Roll up the clothes: This was great for me to learn as well. Roll everything for packing and stuff shoes that need molding with your rolled up socks.
Take a travel back pack: My Herschel is a necessity to make the carry on suitcase possible. When traveling it tags along as my personal item and carries the more expensive, important items such as makeup + electronics + snacks.
Stock up on travel minis: Whenever possible shop your favorite products in travel size. I've got my hair + skincare routine are down to a science and have absolutely checked a carry on just to take full sized products with me. LOL! Guilty!
Special occasion: Got a special occasion to attend? Have the outfit details chosen before traveling.
Always pack a bathing suit: Yes, even when you're traveling into a blizzard. You'll thank me later when you're able to join the jacuzzi hangout.
I'll leave you with my very last piece of advice and that's to unpack the very next day you get back from a trip. It makes adapting to your regular routine much easier. And in the mean time, enjoy your future adventures, have fun packing and keep an eye out for a tropical whether packing update, February 2021 when I'll get to go on my very first, all inclusive company trip to the Dominican Republic. EXCITED!!
-V
What I packed for five days of travel:
1 Coat, 1 Jacket, 3 Sweater tops, 2 long sleeves, 2 tank tops, 2 pairs of jeans, 2 pairs of shoes
These are a few of my favorite things:
Clothes: Abercrombie Jeans + Sienna Top, Nordstrom Rack Black + Bone Tops + BP Stretch Camisole
Sunnies: Feroce: The Lauren, LeSpecs: Outta Love, LeSpecs x Adam Selman: The Last Lolita
Skincare: Monat: Be Gentle Line
Haircare: Monat Wash, Prep, Style
Backpack: Herschel Little America Backpack
Shoes: Uggs, Vans, Birkenstocks - Not available
Purchased:
