If you have been following my travel blogs, then you know I always travel with only a carryon. From Rome to Fashion Week in NY always a carryon. So when it came to our most recent trip to Paris, I had to be very strategic with my packing. Everyday was filled with events so I had to stay comfortable, warm and stylish. Here’s how I did it!
So I packed clothing for 5 full days and 1 evening look along with a travel ensemble, so that brings my total to 7 outfits and 2 coats. I’ll show you each and how I did it now!
#1 Plan out your outfits based on the activities you have scheduled in advance
The very most important thing when traveling – if you want to be efficient and see as much as possible – is to have a schedule. Once you know what you will be doing, it is easier to decide what attire is appropriate. For example, if you know you are going to Disney and will be walking around outside all day you are going to want to be prepared for the elements, along with comfortable shoes. – I’m sure you get my drift.
For our first day we were going to ride the subway to the Eiffel Tower and spend some time sightseeing for the first few hours. Since I knew we would be outside and would not be going anywhere fancy I chose a layered-look with a bright mustard sweater and jeans.
#2 Bring one heavy duty coat that will go with multiple looks
Its best to have a neutral coat that will look great with everything, but will also keep you warm! I did not pack this item in my carryon, but carried it over my arm.
#3 Pack an evening, or lightweight coat
This is important because you want to have a separate option for outerwear in case it rains or the temps warm up. I packed this fluffy piece because in a space saver bag it compresses down to nothing! But also because it is warm and such a statement piece!
#3 Layer, Layer, Layer
This is SO important! I packed a turtleneck and a button down that easily layered under my sweater and jumpsuit. This makes lightweight clothing items season appropriate and yet, still fashionable.
Only pack 2 pair of shoes…wear the third, but that’s IT!
This is so hard but you HAVE to stick to this. Shoes take up so much space and 9 times out of 10, you won’t even end up wearing all that you pack! It’s best to plan out your ensembles with shoes you know you will be comfortable in the entire time, but bring that one really fun pair too because… YOLO – lol.
Limit your accessories
Accessories are a space stealer so the more you can limit, the better. Try to bring pieces that will go with multiple looks. I brought: 2 berets, 1 necklace, 3 pair of earrings, 2 scarves, 1 pair of sunglasses, 1 clutch, 1 crossbody and 2 belts – again nothing extra here, everything was planned out to go with the outfits I created.
And most of all: Get space saver bags!
This is my saving grace for all trips! I am able to pack everything I need to with space still left over for souvenirs! Seriously, I can’t travel without them!
So those are my tips for packing stylishly but also compactly. It can be tricky only taking a carryon, but that never means you have to compromise on your style!
One of my absolute favorite accessories to wear in the winter time is a beret! I know, they aren’t exactly the most practical, but this tiny hat sure packs a major style punch! I’m sharing one of my favorite winter ensembles with you that is made perfect with the finishing touch of a beret! In chic maroon with plaid I’ll show you how to pair this accessory seamlessly.
If you are new to the beret, and don’t want to fully commit to the style, or are not sure if its the look for you, I suggest trying a slouchy- less structured version of the beret, like this chunky knit one. It sits more relaxed on the head and requires little to no adjustments.
This look is so cute, and so much fun to wear! I love mixing textures, so here I am wearing a ribbed knit mock turtleneck from Boohoo, a wool cream and tan plaid skirt from White House Black Market, and Over-the-Knee faux suede boots from Steve Madden. The mix of colors, textures and subtle print come together to create such an effortlessly interesting ensemble! For accessories, I kept the look to a minimum with my signature Coach Dinky, and “H” initial necklace from Elizabeth Buena Ventura. The soft chunky knit beret adds the perfect finishing touch to this winter-ready look, and ties in with the color of my boots. Now all you are missing is a plate of macaroons and the Eiffel Tower in the background!
