I just got back from a great vacation, and I’m here to tell you a secret. You don’t need to check a bag. You can fit everything you need in a carry-on. It’s time to start thinking about packing smarter, not harder. It’s all about picking pieces in a color palette that you can mix and match. Personally, I’m drawn towards a more neutral color story so I can throw in fun pops of color.
A vacation is all about the long, lazy afternoons by the pool or the beach, so don’t forget a swimsuit! This Tommy Bahama shirred white swimsuit is chic enough that if you slip on bottoms and head to happy hour, you can still feel put-together. And speaking of double-duty, grab a kaftan-y dress that you can wear as a coverup and a showstopper, like this blue-and-white printed one.
Dresses are a packing MVP, because you just throw it on and you have a full outfit! I love this blue-and-white striped one from Honorine that I’m wearing in the header, and this ladylike cotton dress from Gap. Just throw in some gold Birkenstocks and a raffia tote, and you’re ready for the day.
When it comes to putting together outfits, I tend to start with the bottoms. Am in the mood for pants or shorts? These Frank & Eileen Wicklow chino pants and these J.Crew stretch bermuda shorts have a similar cut and vibe, so I can wear them both with the same tops. This is where your favorite essentials do a lot of heavy lifting. I’m talking about your trusty white button down that you can wear out or as a coverup, a classic white cotton t-shirt you can dress up or down, and a trusty layering piece for late nights like this J.Crew cashmere cardigan.
Half the battle of packing properly is making sure you have the right equipment. Paravel’s Cabana set is a gorgeous cream-and-ten duo of a suitcase and travel tote bag that makes traveling a well-organized dream. The monogrammed tote bag fits on the handle of the suitcase, which wheels a full 360 degrees. And of course, don’t forget the packing cubes!! I swear they really work.
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