16 Jun How to Pack Like a Stylist

We’ve all had that vacation moment, standing in a hotel room, staring at a blouse that’s begging for the pants we decided weren’t going to fit suitcase lineup. Let’s fix that.

Packing for a trip can often feel like a game of Tetris…trying to fit every possible outfit combination into a single suitcase. There’s a method to the madness… other than bringing a portable closet. Here’s how to pack smart, mix and match like a pro stylist, and save space without sacrificing style.

Begin by selecting a color scheme that allows for maximum mix-and-match potential. Neutrals like black, white, navy, or beige serve as a solid base layer. Add in one or two accent colors, like a soft pink or vibrant red. Throwing in a few animal prints, stripes, or any florals is another great way to bring your outfit from basic to fantastic.

 The 4-3-2-2-1 Packing Formula

• 4 Tops: Think versatile pieces like a chambray shirt, basic tees, and blouses.
• 3 Bottoms: Include a mix of blue jeans, tailored trousers, and easy-to-style skirts.
• 2 Dresses or Jumpsuits: It’s one outfit to pack, and one outfit to put on. Go for styles that can transition from day to night.
• 2 Jackets: The perfect light denim jacket for when it gets breezy at night, or a classic trench to keep you chic, should do just fine.
• 1 Pair of Shoes: The safest and chicest bet is to stick with an elevated sneaker or a walkable flat.

Stylist Tip: Roll, Don’t Fold.

Rolling your clothes saves space and keeps them ready to wear, no hotel iron required. Not only will this keep your suitcase neat, but you should have some extra space left for swimsuits, toiletries, and anything else your summer vacation might require. That way, your suitcase feels more like your wardrobe than a game of closet roulette.

OUTFITS THAT MIX, MATCH & SAVE SPACE

 You wouldn’t build a cake starting with the icing, right? So, build your outfits starting with the base layer. Lots of neutral cotton tees are the way to go, they’re light to pack and easy to pair with almost any bottom. Taking on the Canadian Tuxedo, by pulling out the chambray blouse paired with jeans, brings a simple spruce to your outfit lineup. Last but not least, pack a pattern or two—they go a long way.

Staying chic and comfortable calls for silks and denims. A pair of tailored shorts or cargo skirt paired with a striped tee or a button down brings the versatility of being prepared for a heavy tourist day and elevated enough to go to a nice dinner reservation in the evening. Never forget your denim! It’s the timeless piece that pulls together any outfit and never asks for attention, but always gets it.How to wear less while looking like you’re wearing more…Accessorize. Pack those light neck scarves for the perfect touch to make your base layer look like it’s more than basic. A little trick for when you don’t want to pack those hard-to-fold belts is to pack a silk scarf that can double as a belt. For your purses, keep them as versatile as possible. It’s the icing on the cake! Black or brown leather is the perfect answer to versatility.

Packing outerwear can be tricky. You wanna be warm but still look fashionable. Find pieces that can play the part more than once. A tailored blazer, a light denim jacket, or a cropped leather jacket can elevate even the simplest outfit while keeping it effortless. Never stop with the accessories, specifically jewelry, adding layers of gold necklaces and bracelets can bring any base layer to the next level.

If there’s one thing to bring in any suitcase, it’s a dress. The best way to look put together without hardly putting in any effort is to throw in your favorite maxi dress. It’s only one thing to pack, and one thing to put on.

The hardest part is limiting your shoe selection. Shoes can be bulky, so keeping them selective and versatile is best. To keep things simple, start with an elevated sneaker that can be dressed up with a midi skirt or keep it casual with jeans. Depending on your destination, a brown or neutral tone heeled boot paired with pants and a leather jacket will keep things elevated and stylish. And if you’re beach-bound, a minimal flat sandal with a flowy skirt, adds that effortless elegance without sacrificing comfort.

Final Tip: Style outfits ahead of time. The easiest way to get a visual of your outfits is to snap a mirror selfie as you plan them out. This saves time on outfit planning the morning of a busy travel day when you’re running out the door to your next destination. 

Request a box today and let your stylist help curate a series of personalized outfits that will mix and match perfectly and fit seamlessly into your suitcase!