Packing for that Trip

Let's talk about the dilemma of what to pack... I go through this EVERY. SINGLE. TIME that I have a trip on the horizon.  Whether it is a trip for fun or for work, it is something that most of us struggle with with every single time.  So what to do? Well the basic tip for both work trips and vacations is to pack neutrals with accessories that can add that pop of color or pattern.  So I totally agree with that, but frankly I wear classics & basics to the office everyday.  I want to use my weekends and vacation time to wear my more creative and fun stuff.  I am talking some of my favorite pieces.  So here is my approach to this packing struggle every time my vacation trips come around....

• Check what the weather is like there--- well duh, but I look at multiple sources-- people have very different ideas of what the weather is like in a certain place.

• Have a general idea of what you are going to do--- duh again, but it will tell you a lot about what shoes and special items (like a bathing suit) you will pack

• Then pick the favorites that you really want to bring.  Part of having fun on your trip is feeling great about how you look, so pack that cute dress- weather permitting. I try to bring at least one dress--- that way you can wear it as a dress and as a skirt (paring it with a cute tee, top or sweater).  It also comes in handy if you choose to go to a "fancier" restaurant or event

• Also mix in some basics that you can pair with your favorites or something new that you may buy along the way

• Try and pick things that you can wear more than once---- think mix and match

So basically I take out all the pieces that I may want to bring and lay them out on my bed... then I force myself to edit.  This is a must because I love for my souvenir(s) from my trips to be a piece of clothing or accessory--and I don't mean a tourist t-shirt! I love getting a great scarf, pair of earrings or handbag that reminds me of the places that I have been when I wear them.  One example of this is a Burberry scarf that I got on a trip to London, England.  Years later it reminds me of my trip to England every time I wear it.  So that being said, make sure you edit enough to leave room for souvenirs! That is why the editing is so important, not to mention the space and weight restriction of airlines! It is always the hardest part for me.  So as I pack for my next trip, I will  to remember to write about some of my struggles, my process and how I will make my choices work.

Hope this rant is helpful for my fellow fashion-lovers who struggle with packing for that long awaited trip! Happy stylish traveling! Next travel topic.....luggage and packing tools!