Packing A Carry-On For Spring Travel

From the archives. Originally published March 2019.

Packing a carry on for spring travel? These are the perfect pieces to use as a base. Ecru jeans to dress up or down, a black cashmere tee to pair with everything from skirts to jeans, a sporty bag that transitions from day to night, sandals with lots of walking in mind and a lightweight trench inspired jacket in pale khaki. I’m gathering my inspiration from Mytheresa on what looks I’ll be able to create with the above pieces acting as the anchor. See additional styling options below.

The cashmere tee serves as the foundation for a number of looks. Warmer and more polished than a tee, it layers nicely under jackets but also easily stands on its own. I’d add to the mix a pair of heels, black slim pants and a textured jacket, all with the requisite of versatility to wear with a variety of other pieces.

I love a head-to-toe base of a single color as the jumping off point for an outfit. It’s a simple formula for a pulled-together, effortless look. Here, I’d work with jeans, sweater, shoes and a bag, all in ecru, and add the pop of a black topper in leather for a chic, stark contrast.

Running around touring doesn’t get better than in streamlined, no-fuss pieces. Flat sandals and a crossbody bag are efficient pieces and in a rich cognac brown add a sophisticated note. Slim shorts, a key piece for spring, can be interpreted in either a cycle inspired or tailored fashion. Personally, I like them best balanced with the layer of a jacket or sweater on top to maintain a flattering look. In the right fabrication, slim shorts paired with an oversized blazer, both in black, could function as a modern twist on the classic suit.

After I’ve established the foundation of my travel wardrobe, I’ll add tweaks depending on what I need for specific occasions. My go-to for an evening out would be either all black or all ecru with one of the jackets and heels. For touring around by bike, the slim shorts, with a sweater or tee and sneakers are perfectly fine. I’d definitely throw in a pair of dark denim, a few silk blouses, tee shirts, several scarves, and a black blazer. Those are tried and true for as long as I can remember and have always served me well.