Jennifer Chan
Fashion Columnist
No matter where you’re headed for Spring Break, the concept of packing for your weeklong getaway is probably one of the few things you are not excited about.
From fun in the sun to hitting the slopes, the events ahead of you will ensure plenty of enjoyable memories so the last thing you want to worry about is what to wear to the next event on your agenda.
Naturally, you should be prepared for a myriad of occasions, and my sincere hope is that we all travel with at least a dose of style in tow. But is it possible to look effortlessly chic and sophisticated 24/7 without having to haul an oversized duffel bag packed to brim with your entire closet’s contents?
Follow along as I navigate your path to packing like pro without foregoing an ounce of style:
Comfort is key. Whether you are standing in long lines at the airport or covering ground on sightseeing tours, chances are, you will be spending a lot of time on your feet, so give up the stilettos and opt for a more practical ballet flat, woven sandal or track sneaker for daytime affairs. For jetsetters, wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off at security checks and dress comfortably in lightweight fabrics that are not too fussy or ornate.
Select articles of clothing that are easy to care for and do not require much maintenance. Layering tees, cropped pants or jeans, breezy skirts, light sweaters or cardigans and a show-stopping sundress all pack well and offer a multitude of fashion combinations when you are on the go.
Pick a Color Scheme. If you want to maximize your wardrobe during your week away, select a color scheme and pack pieces that are no-brainers to mix and match. Doing this eliminates excess in your suitcase and streamlines your options to interchange with one another easily without having an overwhelming number of outfit options.
Popular color schemes are black and white, brights and earth tones. Feel free to throw in one or two items in a poppy color to mix things up, or simply rely on bold accessories to vary your look.
Plan Ahead. Be strategic when you pack. In other words, pack the exact outfit for every single day and event you foresee on your trip and keep things minimal. Sure, this may take more time and strategy than simply tossing a few favorite pieces in a bag and running out the door, but you’ll be glad you did when you realize you did not over pack or under pack and you’ll be at ease the entire length of your trip knowing that you brought just enough and have room to be a little creative, too.
For more space-saving tricks, always try to pack pieces that can serve double-duty. For example, a lightweight cardigan can be draped around bare shoulders during the day or worn alone as a top with trouser pants at night, or even layered over a camisole when it gets chilly.
A sarong can be used as a sassy bikini cover-up at the beach, but also as an elegant wrap for the evening. Button-down shirts can stand alone with jeans or cropped pants or worn open over tank tops and bathing suits as a casual shirt jacket or cover-up.
Definitely pack a sensible yet stylish cocktail dress — one that is simple in design and basic in color can take you many places depending on the accessories you don with it. Pairing it with heels versus flip-flops can alter the mood of one piece drastically and allows you to be a much more innovative dresser.
Finally, take note of a few more tips:
-Always pack an empty duffel bag in your luggage for hauling back shopping purchases from your vacation.
-Bring more than one bathing suit with you.
-Bring versatile clothing that go from day to night with the help of a few minor accessories.
-Invest in a durable tote bag that can go with you everywhere.
Bon voyage!
02-24-2005
