You Already Know How to Pack Like A Pro

If you've embraced capsules, you understand the versatility of a small and mighty wardrobe. But even the savviest capsule gal gets anxious when tasked with vacation packing. 

Deep breath.

You already know the secret to mastering minimalist packing - strategy. In fact, it's the same strategy we learned in the Tiny Closet, Tons of Style® Essential Survival Guide.

The Essential Capsule Packing Strategy

Step 1: Critique 

Much like TCESG instructs we craft capsules reflective of our lifestyle and daily activities, the first step in strategic travel packing is equally basic: Critique where you are going (think about the weather, culture and occasion) and what you'll do when you get there (will you sunbath, party, explore or network?).

Next, make a simple list broken into events that require outfits:

Step 2: Determine Staples, Palette, Prints & Texture

Start With Neutral Staples

Now that we are clear on how many outfits we need, it's time to curate a travel capsule. Start with an edited assortment of core neutral staples. For a beach weekend, consider:

• (1) Versatile dress appropriate for travel, that can be dressed up for dinner
• (1) Neutral easy bottom (think linen or denim, can be worn over bathing suit)
• (2) White, black or grey tank top or tees

Shop Denim Travel Dress

Shop Neutral Beach Bottoms

Shop Neutral Tanks + Tops

Pick Your Palette From Your Prints

Next, select 1-2 printed garments to inform your accent palette. I almost always start with a wrap or scarf, this example uses a print beach coverup. Make sure your bathing suit can be worn with the printed garment. It's also fun to add a print cotton top or tank that can dress up your neutral bottoms enough for lunch or shopping. 

Shop Printed Swim Coverups

Shop Graphic Print Top

Now, select versatile solid colored separates to fill in the outfit gaps. Afraid solid colors are boring? Add interest with textural details like ruffles, eyelet or cut outs. Consider a flirty top to pair with neutral bottoms for lobby cocktails, accent beach bottoms to wear with a neutral tee or tank for shopping or brunch and a bright accent dress to elevate with accessories for a night out. 

Shop Accent Tops

Shop Accent Beach Bottoms

Shop Accent Dresses

Step 3: Add Accessories

Jewelry | In addition to forever, sentimental jewelry staples, I opt for a 3 piece costume + trend strategy:

1. Statement earrings
2. Pendant or lariat necklace
3. Bangles or a cuff

Go for color! These items can be worn together or separately, layered over forever, personal jewelry (wedding bands or diamond studs, for example).

Shop Accessories

3rd Items | A wrap or shawl is a multi-functional travel staple and a near necessity if you are traveling by air. For a beach destination, make it cheap and cheerful. The perfect vacation wrap transforms from shoulder warmer to bathing suit coverup to impromptu skirt with ease. Sunglasses and a sun hat are easy ways to add interest and (in my opinion) as non-negotiable as SPF 50 for sun protection. 

Shop Wraps and Shawls

Shop Hats and Sunnies

Shoes and Bag | Keep shoes neutral (for summer/beach opt for nude or metallic) and limit yourself to 2-3 pairs (2 flats, 1 heel or wedge). Your travel capsule bag is in addition to your travel tote and carry on. A convertible cross body clutch covers all bases, but woven bags are so hot for Summer 2017, I just had to pick one for this capsule. 

Shop Neutral Flops and Wedges

Shop Woven Bags

Step 4: Fashion Show

Just like the Ruthless Wardrobe Edit, your ultimate travel capsule only works if everything fits, flatters and makes you feel fantastic. So - the week before you depart, make sure to try on every item and assure each fits, flatters and makes you feel fantastic. Remember, every sample travel capsule looks pretty on a Pinterest board. It's how it looks on you that matters.

Your Turn!

Let me see your vaca style! Join the MappCraft | Tiny Closet Survival Guide FB group for daily outfit shares, live videos and lots of capsule chatter and fashion inspo.

If you love this post so me some love with me a sweet click on the little heart below. LOVES YA!

Be the Bright!

Jenn

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MappCraft | Tiny Closet Essential Survival Guide is the definitive source for creating a customized capsule wardrobe (full of color, texture and personality) and cementing your personal style in the process.