I Like That: Travel Essentials

When traveling, I like to pack light. But I also want to look good and have choices for what I can wear. Possible? I think so. 

My key tip for packing is to plan ahead. I want to make as many outfit combinations as possible with just a few items. This might sound ridiculous, but I try on every outfit before making the final decision to allow it into my suitcase. That way, when I'm traveling, I know what my options are and I don't have to put any thought into what to wear. 

I start by packing my basics- denim shorts (or jeans depending on the weather), a black skirt, a few plain tees, and a light jacket or blazer. Then I add in some variety with a few patterned pieces and accessories. I like to stick to a color scheme so that each item can be worn interchangeably. For the set below, I've picked  black, cognac, yellow, and pink. 

1. yellow flats- modcloth 

2. striped maxi- top shop

3. linen tee- jcrew

4. panama hat- anthony peto

5. aviators- armani exchange

6. scarf- nordstrom

7. reversible stripes and dots bikini- madewell

8. tote- anthropologie

9. striped skirt- dorothy perkins

Why it Works: 

These accessories should go with everything in your suitcase. The bag is the perfect size to carry everything you might need during the day, but it's also stylish enough to take out to dinner. If you want to recycle an outfit, add in the scarf or hat to make it feel different. Wear the sunglasses and yellow flats with everything.  

Wear the maxi dress with the scarf and the hat for a laid back feel. Or turn into into a skirt by wearing the linen tee over it. Tie the tee into a front knot to create a sleek waistline. You can also use the dress as your bathing suit cover-up. Speaking of bathing suits, this one is reversible- so you get 2 looks, but only pack one. 

Wear the tee with the striped skirt. Or with any other bottoms you brought along. Wear the skirt with any other tops you packed because yellow stripes go with almost everything. The key here is that there two items  will add attitude to any outfit individually, but they can also be worn together.