How To Pack Smart

February 25, 2013

I should start by telling you that I’m no expert in how to pack smart. However, I’m trying. Because every time I go on a trip I feel like I’ve left something out, and I regret not bringing a certain item. Ever since I was going to camp as a kid, I liked making complete lists of everything I’d take with me, from snacks to underwear. Those were the days when I had like one pair of jeans and a couple of t-shirts, so it was fairly simple. In the current state of my closet, things are becoming more and more complicated.

So on Wednesday I’m leaving for Paris. The weather will be rather cool than warm, there will be a lot of walking and I’ll be there for five days. I have a big suitcase so space is not really an issue. Some wild cards are Paris Fashion Week happening, and a few meet-ups. So here is what I plan on packing, for infinite combos:

1. Dresses

Dresses: Little black dress (exact match) – Sheinside | Long sleeve dress – Etrala | Colorful dress – Topshop

I can’t go anywhere without dresses. I decided on a LBD for obvious reasons, a long-sleeve, warmer dress, and something colorful, just in case I get bored with all the black. But there’s a reason to all the black, and you know it: it goes with everything and with any occasion. The last dress I might end up leaving at home…

2. Tops

Tops: V neck – J Crew | Turtleneck - J Crew | White shirt – Monki | Blush blouse – Lipsy

The neutral wool v-neck is perfect over a dress or shirt, and it looks good on its own. Then the turtleneck keeps warm and protects my sensitive neck. The two shirts are both great for layering under dresses or sweaters, and can be worn on their own. In the same category, but not pictured: a couple of tank tops for layering.

3. Jackets & bottoms

Jackets: Shrunken blazer – Vila | Long cardigan – New Look

Bottoms: Pants – Monki | Printed pencil skirt – 4getmenot

My faithful little black blazer goes with everything – same for the long, gray cardigan. They’ll help me out if it’s too cold. Then I’ve got the pants – which I’ll be wearing on the plane – and my favorite fox skirt, which makes any outfit look cooler.

4. Accessories

Tights – Monki | Gloves – Forever New | Black sunglasses – Chicwish | Cream sunglasses – Lulus | Tote (exact match) – KlassDSign | Clutch (exact match ) – Luise Lotte

I’ll be packing a bunch of dark tights, gloves, sunglasses, an everyday tote bag and a funky clutch. These should cover all occasions and weather situations.

5. Extras

Booties (exact match) – BBup | Belt – H&M | Cap – Juicy Couture | Yellow scarf – Monsoon | Blue scarf – Selected Femme | Coat – River Island | Socks – Chicwish | Lace bra – Oysho | Black bra – Oysho | Panties – H&M

Finally, I couldn’t go without my favorite and most comfortable pair of booties, a belt and a funky cap (it is Paris!). Then come the warm scarves and the oversized coat that can fit anything underneath, and – of course – underwear. There will also be a handful of brooches and hair pins, and the beauty products pictured at the top of the post. Whew! These should be enough for at least a week, if not two!. But that’s ok, cause next month I’ve got a longer trip planned ;)

Additional tips:

• Keep in mind layering and possible combinations when picking items.
• Don’t take more than you can carry.
• Roll up everything to make the most of your suitcase space.
• Opt for items you wear most often.
• Make a list and check it as you pack.
• Lay everything on the bed and see how they go together. Exclude the unnecessary.
• Wear the heavier items while traveling, pack the lighter ones.

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