My formula: Pack your most luxe basics. Favorite jeans yes. (IMO distressed is limiting. I bring dark or grey/black wash) Leather leggings if you’re me yes. Black slip skirt yes. Wide leg pull on pants fabric depends on weather. Best t-shirts and tanks. (Silk? Velvet? Absolutely) Your favorite black cashmere sweater (mine’s a v-neck) one pair of perfect black ankle boots that are not heavy on the foot. One pair cute sneakers. One perfect black blazer (mines an oversized theory and travels everywhere) Done. If you want a button down and you’re traveling with a man steal his. Then. I pack 3 silk scarves (Hermes for me. It’s a situation caused my my mother-in-law may she rest in chic peace). At least a half dozen pair of earrings (they take up no space) and at least 3 different lip moods. One sleek bag that can be worn cross body nothing bulky or too precious. Trust me. You will LOVE the way your vacation photos look and your bag weighs nothing. Carryon always. The great Leandra once wrote: STUFF RUINS TRIPS. I live by that mantra. Have a fabulous time!
I love this, and how smart to do one outfit a day during nap time -- and to snap a pic so you have as a reference. I am a TIGHT packer, hate the feeling of lots of stuff holding me back. Some of my musts: everything has to go together, everything has to bring something different (purpose, feeling), pack a few things you can wash in a sink, never skip sweatpants and socks, include at least rando thing (your hat qualifies) that flips the switch on everything else. XOXO
I've noticed that the more interesting my itinerary is, the more "boring" my travel wardrobe becomes. I have to prioritise functionality over style and it's something I have come to accept, even though I admire how great other people seem to look on their vacations. If I get too obsessed about have perfect holiday looks, I end up tempted to shop before a trip which has almost never worked out for me. Have a wonderful time in Denmark!
I fall into two traps; the first is that I think too much about my wardrobe and I overpack and the other is that I end up in very basic outfits. Nothing wrong with basic but I do love feeling like I get to take my best dressed self to my vacation.
I'm glad someone else puts as much thought into this. My only addition is to buy a flight-approved transparent pouch for liquids when travelling to/in Europe as they ask you to take them all out (and fit into a certain size pouch) when going through hang luggage check. I got mine from Amazon. x
I am currently in Copenhagen and highly recommend a lot of layers, including things for warmer weather. When I packed a week ago the forecast was much cooler and there was no rain expected; since I have been here it has been both gorgeous and sunny in the high 80s and now pouring rain in the 60s. I'd probably swap out the suede jacket for something lighter and water resistant.
Definitely leave lots of room in your luggage, the shopping is excellent! There is great people watching and style inspiration here. Lots of practical clothes for getting around by bike, but in fun colors/patterns (so much leopard print).
Cait, I needed this intel more than anything else. Based on your intel I’ll leave behind my ballet flats. What about loafers? Should I leave? 😅 if you say yes that will free up room in my luggage!
Listen, there is no need to apologize for needing inspiration! I literally copy full outfits from Pinterest all the time and I’m just glad there are such good ideas out there!!
Ooh - one more thing - keep track of what you did or didn’t wear (and why - if you didn’t wear it). It can be super helpful for packing for future trips.
A scarf (like a Chan Luu - nothing super fancy) is a “must” for me on the flight because I always get cold and if my neck is warm then I’m usually good otherwise. Those scarves also still look good when all scrunched up and they work in all weather conditions (more or less).
This is great. I would agree on bringing a Longchamp, especially if you have kids and especially if there’s rain in the forecast. It’s also great if you want to shed a layer at some point during the day. I always bring a Baggu (or a foldable nylon bag) even in my smallest crossbody bags in case I buy something. I hate schlepping shopping bags from stores (they’re usually pretty cumbersome and you just throw them away). I would definitely bring a raincoat or because it rains a lot in Copenhagen (unless you pick up one there - they make great rain gear in Denmark) and smart idea to get rid of the heeled boots and fancy shoes (lots of cobblestones). A couple of scarves are always good to change things up too!
No - definitely bring them! Something you can walk in for hours (and not too delicate in case it rains) would be best I think. I don’t know what your plans are…
Ok, 1. I love this. Nothing better in the world (IMO) than saying something you find embarrassing out loud. 2. My closet is SO narrowed down at this point that when I travel I literally pack the whole thing (not my work clothes just everything else for whatever season I’m in.) my husband thinks this is very amusing 3. Seeing your cute outfits is making me want to speed up time so my year of Buy 5 is over and I can shop againnnnnn 4. Have THE best time on your trip!
Eeep! Thank you, thank you! I remain incredibly impressed and inspired by you in your rule of 5 so perhaps we will be trading places next year. Frankly, I find a really narrow, simplified closet easier to look at these days...
I am sitting in Lisbon reading this after dropping my son off for college and then heading to Sicily for vacation!! So this post is very much on pointe for me as of late! I used to totally panic before a trip wanting to bring everything in my closet. Then reality hit and I decided everything has to fit in a carry on or else! And then I had the option to pack a regular sized suitcase that will be checked too 🤯 I can admit I am overpacked but still have room to shop in Sicily/Amalfi and have plenty of room for new treasures from the trail! LOL
I'll be back to packing right/smart when I'm stateside. But for now, I've got a vacation wardrobe in tow and will report back on what I actually wear as opposed to what Is left hanging in my hotel closet.
Isn't that the test! It's like coming home from vacation and realizing what you packed that you never wore or didn't wear much. Mostly I want to see what treasures you bring home from Italy so please do report back 😉 I have fallen victim to shopping online most of the time these days so I'm experimenting with in-person shopping on my trip. Wish me luck! haha.
Will do! And yes, shopping in person for me is a hell of a lot better than on-line. So far, I have three "bottoms" in my carry on that haven't been worn but might be worn in Sicily. I will have a report when I'm back in NYC.
My only tip is to bring a Longchamp nylon bag to fold up and use for the extra bag of clothes you'll be bringing back from shopping! (Just me??)
Ok mind blown 🤯 you are one smart cookie!’
Learned from the best--my mom lol.
My formula: Pack your most luxe basics. Favorite jeans yes. (IMO distressed is limiting. I bring dark or grey/black wash) Leather leggings if you’re me yes. Black slip skirt yes. Wide leg pull on pants fabric depends on weather. Best t-shirts and tanks. (Silk? Velvet? Absolutely) Your favorite black cashmere sweater (mine’s a v-neck) one pair of perfect black ankle boots that are not heavy on the foot. One pair cute sneakers. One perfect black blazer (mines an oversized theory and travels everywhere) Done. If you want a button down and you’re traveling with a man steal his. Then. I pack 3 silk scarves (Hermes for me. It’s a situation caused my my mother-in-law may she rest in chic peace). At least a half dozen pair of earrings (they take up no space) and at least 3 different lip moods. One sleek bag that can be worn cross body nothing bulky or too precious. Trust me. You will LOVE the way your vacation photos look and your bag weighs nothing. Carryon always. The great Leandra once wrote: STUFF RUINS TRIPS. I live by that mantra. Have a fabulous time!
STUFF RUINS TRIPS!! I need that embroidered on my suitcase so I never forget it!
I love this, and how smart to do one outfit a day during nap time -- and to snap a pic so you have as a reference. I am a TIGHT packer, hate the feeling of lots of stuff holding me back. Some of my musts: everything has to go together, everything has to bring something different (purpose, feeling), pack a few things you can wash in a sink, never skip sweatpants and socks, include at least rando thing (your hat qualifies) that flips the switch on everything else. XOXO
I should have known you’d have great tips! I’m going to look at my packing edit and see if everything brings something different! Smart smart smart.
I love this SO much!! Totally stealing this idea.
It will save your life when you have to pack for kids too🫠
Wait, did you just solve packing? Mind. Blown.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who found this simplifying and helpful🫶
I've noticed that the more interesting my itinerary is, the more "boring" my travel wardrobe becomes. I have to prioritise functionality over style and it's something I have come to accept, even though I admire how great other people seem to look on their vacations. If I get too obsessed about have perfect holiday looks, I end up tempted to shop before a trip which has almost never worked out for me. Have a wonderful time in Denmark!
I fall into two traps; the first is that I think too much about my wardrobe and I overpack and the other is that I end up in very basic outfits. Nothing wrong with basic but I do love feeling like I get to take my best dressed self to my vacation.
I'm glad someone else puts as much thought into this. My only addition is to buy a flight-approved transparent pouch for liquids when travelling to/in Europe as they ask you to take them all out (and fit into a certain size pouch) when going through hang luggage check. I got mine from Amazon. x
Running to Target tomorrow thanks to this 🏃♀️
This is genius!! As a visual person, printing and adding notes would be so helpful for me. Going to try this next time!
I hope you have the loviest time in Denmark!!
Thank you so much 🤍
I am currently in Copenhagen and highly recommend a lot of layers, including things for warmer weather. When I packed a week ago the forecast was much cooler and there was no rain expected; since I have been here it has been both gorgeous and sunny in the high 80s and now pouring rain in the 60s. I'd probably swap out the suede jacket for something lighter and water resistant.
Definitely leave lots of room in your luggage, the shopping is excellent! There is great people watching and style inspiration here. Lots of practical clothes for getting around by bike, but in fun colors/patterns (so much leopard print).
Cait, I needed this intel more than anything else. Based on your intel I’ll leave behind my ballet flats. What about loafers? Should I leave? 😅 if you say yes that will free up room in my luggage!
This. Is. GENIUS. ❤️
Anna, I’m blushing! Thank you for saying so 🥹
Listen, there is no need to apologize for needing inspiration! I literally copy full outfits from Pinterest all the time and I’m just glad there are such good ideas out there!!
Haha Dacy thanks for reminding me that we are all just human!
Ooh - one more thing - keep track of what you did or didn’t wear (and why - if you didn’t wear it). It can be super helpful for packing for future trips.
A scarf (like a Chan Luu - nothing super fancy) is a “must” for me on the flight because I always get cold and if my neck is warm then I’m usually good otherwise. Those scarves also still look good when all scrunched up and they work in all weather conditions (more or less).
This is great. I would agree on bringing a Longchamp, especially if you have kids and especially if there’s rain in the forecast. It’s also great if you want to shed a layer at some point during the day. I always bring a Baggu (or a foldable nylon bag) even in my smallest crossbody bags in case I buy something. I hate schlepping shopping bags from stores (they’re usually pretty cumbersome and you just throw them away). I would definitely bring a raincoat or because it rains a lot in Copenhagen (unless you pick up one there - they make great rain gear in Denmark) and smart idea to get rid of the heeled boots and fancy shoes (lots of cobblestones). A couple of scarves are always good to change things up too!
Great advice!! I was considering a nice pair of loafers, would you recommend leaving those behind?
No - definitely bring them! Something you can walk in for hours (and not too delicate in case it rains) would be best I think. I don’t know what your plans are…
Ok, 1. I love this. Nothing better in the world (IMO) than saying something you find embarrassing out loud. 2. My closet is SO narrowed down at this point that when I travel I literally pack the whole thing (not my work clothes just everything else for whatever season I’m in.) my husband thinks this is very amusing 3. Seeing your cute outfits is making me want to speed up time so my year of Buy 5 is over and I can shop againnnnnn 4. Have THE best time on your trip!
Eeep! Thank you, thank you! I remain incredibly impressed and inspired by you in your rule of 5 so perhaps we will be trading places next year. Frankly, I find a really narrow, simplified closet easier to look at these days...
I am ITCHING to shop 😂 but thank you! It’s been illuminating!
I am sitting in Lisbon reading this after dropping my son off for college and then heading to Sicily for vacation!! So this post is very much on pointe for me as of late! I used to totally panic before a trip wanting to bring everything in my closet. Then reality hit and I decided everything has to fit in a carry on or else! And then I had the option to pack a regular sized suitcase that will be checked too 🤯 I can admit I am overpacked but still have room to shop in Sicily/Amalfi and have plenty of room for new treasures from the trail! LOL
I'll be back to packing right/smart when I'm stateside. But for now, I've got a vacation wardrobe in tow and will report back on what I actually wear as opposed to what Is left hanging in my hotel closet.
Isn't that the test! It's like coming home from vacation and realizing what you packed that you never wore or didn't wear much. Mostly I want to see what treasures you bring home from Italy so please do report back 😉 I have fallen victim to shopping online most of the time these days so I'm experimenting with in-person shopping on my trip. Wish me luck! haha.
Will do! And yes, shopping in person for me is a hell of a lot better than on-line. So far, I have three "bottoms" in my carry on that haven't been worn but might be worn in Sicily. I will have a report when I'm back in NYC.