This may sound controversial, but I rarely take checked luggage on a trip. When there’s no other choice (like my semi-destination wedding and honeymoon, which spanned nearly a month), I worry if my bags will arrive where I’m headed. Even more eye-twitching is standing beside a conveyor belt as bags slowly roll on by. So, if there’s any way to not take a monster suitcase, I’m in.
Thanks to my mom, I consider myself a master packer, zipping, squishing, and folding everything into a handy carry-on suitcase and personal item (like my Calpak Ambeur and Luka Duffel). But it’s not an easy feat. Step one to conquering the art of packing light is having a well-rounded checklist. It takes strategy, splaying outfits across the bed and using your itinerary as a guide. Even more important? Reaching for versatile styles.
I work in fashion, so a minimalist, capsule wardrobe isn’t really my thing — I love colors, prints, and textures! But wearability doesn’t mean boring. Think a gingham one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit, or wearing a silk scarf as a belt or bandana. It takes creativity, but once you get it down, your packing will never be the same.
I’m taking my own advice as I jet-set off to the Dominican Republic, England, France, and a few stops within the United States. So, keep reading to up your summer travel game and shop my style essentials.
Elevated Silk Scarves
Silk scarfs are undeniably chic, offering a touch of glamour to any look. Knotting it around your neck is the most common approach, but you can maximize its wearability by draping it over your bottoms like a flowing belt. I adore the flirty vibe it gives as a headband, bandana, bow, and bag charm. Depending on the dimensions of the scarf, you can even wear it as an open-back tube top.
Transitional One-Piece Swimsuits
A swimsuit is a vacation non-negotiable, but even if you prefer sultry two-pieces, I’d urge you to consider adding a one-piece to the lineup. While they’re perfect for beach days and poolside tanning, one-pieces double as bodysuits. Wear them with maxi skirts and kitten heels for an elevated 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 to make the styling intentional.
Do-It-All Linen Button-Downs
Oversized linen button-downs are crucial in any well-rounded wardrobe — but they play an even more important role when jetsetting. I prefer an oversized silhouette, wearing it as a dress to the pool or tucked into shorts for a sleek finish. Billowy button-downs are also ideal for lounging, thanks to the easy throw-on-and-go style great for spa trips, gym sessions, and coffee-sipping.
Packable Woven Totes
Without fail, I take two bags on vacation: a compact, elevated style for evenings and — more importantly — a packable, woven tote. The flexible design keeps it from feeling bulky and stiff, making it simple to fold, store, and stash it. Take it to the beach, fill it with your makers’ market finds, and use it as your personal item on flights.
Comfortable, Chic Sandals
Polished sandals are a must, easily becoming your one-and-done vacation shoe for just about everything. Opting for a comfortable style with straps and contoured footbeds means you can wear them all day, ideal for long travel days, resort wandering, and café hopping. But don’t forget to choose a pair with elevated details to keep them feeling chic, allowing you to dress them up for dinners with sundresses and skirts.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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