PACK LESS, WEAR MORE

Updated February 2026. Similar suggestions for sold out items.

The starting point in packing for any trip is to have a strategic plan. The destination clearly leads the direction, but after that I focus on the color palette. I turn off the noise of distractions on the ideology of what to wear to the beach, the city, a weekend or wherever, and adhere to packing the pieces I’m most comfortable wearing. I’m not one to shop for new things for a trip and prefer to work with what I own.  I’ll consider ways to style them making them appropriate for the setting. Everything is tried on and must be compatible with more than one piece, preferably more. Making due with the items I’ve packed actually creates more stylish looks than if I had tried to pair the perfect shoe with the dress, pant, skirt, etc. Sometimes slightly mismatched or surprising combinations yield the best results. Ultimately, when I travel, I like having less to choose from. It forces me to wear pieces in creative ways.

In today’s packing guide, I’m focusing on the color palette I wear most often at home – black, white and a neutral. Familiarity makes getting dressed quick and assures comfort. Variations on these pieces act as the core of a multitude of looks. I’d add in a pair of sneakers, a hat, and a small day/dinner bag.

Links updated February 2026. Sold out items have similar suggestions.

flat black sandal, tote (similar), beige sandals, black swimsuit, striped dress similar, Alex Mill white pants similar, embroidered shorts, COS striped shirt, white tank top, Eterne tank top and skirt,  black shirt, black slip dress

White pants – either trouser style or denim – are the starting point of both casual and dressier looks. For day time, I’d slip on a pair of comfortable walking sandals and a tank, layer a cotton shirt over for extra coverage as needed and wear it either open or tied at the waist. Another day, I’d just wear the shirt with the pants tucked in for a more polished look. Dressing up, I’d add a special top, like this one shoulder silk piece.

flat black sandal, white pants, one shoulder top, striped shirt, tote, Birkenstock 1774 sandals or Jenni Kayne, white tank top, Eterne tank top, Marie Lichtenberg necklace

Poolside, I’d wear this striped coverup unbelted over a chic swimsuit with flats and a hat. Later the dress will be layered over a black slip type dress with a pair of black sandals and a simple bag.

sandal, tote (similar), Prada sandals, black swimsuit, striped dress similar, black slip dress,   similar hat

Warm days running around, I’d toss on a pair of shorts – plain or something with a little personality like these. A tucked in lightweight shirt adds a more pulled together vibe while tanks or tees make a very casual statement. Flat sandals, sneakers a tote and hat complete either of the looks.

embroidered shorts, K Jacques sandals, white tee,  hat, black shirt, Marni tote, Eterne tank top

A slim straight skirt goes far in styling options and is a must. Paired with a matching tank and you’ve got a clean, minimalist look. Top with a blazer for something more polished or take a classic shirt and tie it at the waist.

black sandal, Prada sandals, stripe shirt, Eterne tank top and skirt, necklace, linen blazer