Most of us will be gearing up with excitement as we prepare for Summer holidays. Some will be jetting off to exotic destinations, some doing city breaks and some enjoying the spoils of different regions of good ol’ Blighty.
Whatever your summer schedule looks like, packing with finesse can sometimes elude us. Most of us are guilty of overpacking, only to discover when we get to our chosen destination, we have either too much or not what we need.
Here are some easy formulas and tried and tested points that I use whenever I put together a packing list for a client or myself.
If you have a portable clothing rail, it is a great time to get it out and use it. Hanging the items you are considering taking in a separate space allows you to see clearly and helps you edit things out of the mix that don’t work so that you don’t overpack.
Start with a colour palette. Having a simple colour palette of three or four colours can be a real game changer. Make sure all your basics, tops, trousers, skirts, and dresses fit into this colour palette. For me, I often go with neutrals, black, blue, white, denim or tan as my base. You can then add pops of colour or pattern that will compliment the base.
Cohesion is key! All base items need to work harmoniously. Meaning, you can interchange them all to make many combinations to change up your look daily. You would be amazed what you can do with five tops, three bottoms, two dresses a blazer and a jacket. No more than three pairs of shoes. This will of course depend on your destination. A pair of walking shoes, a dressy flat and a dressy heel. Ideally, your shoes work well with all hem lengths of your trousers, skirts, and dresses.
And finally, accessories. Great accessories are always your best friend. A fabulous scarf doubles as a beach wrap, a statement necklace can lift a basic t-shirt, and a heel can take you from day to night. Belts and jewellery can change the flavour of an outfit in an instant. A couple of great handbags, something big for the plane to give extra room and something small that works as both a cross-body for hands-free touring or a clutch for dinner or cocktails out.
Need help with your Summer Holiday Capsule? A Power Hour could be your ticket to clarity.
Happy packing and safe holidays.
Till next time… StylePixie.
