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Going on a trip? Be prepared for anything your vacation or work trip throws at you when you pack for any trip with these closet staples!
Love to travel, but hate to pack?
I get it. I am not one of those people who can just throw things in a bag the night before a trip. I spend DAYS packing and repacking for every trip I take. And then, the morning of, I usually pack again.
Is it just me? My mood dictates my style, and it changes from day to day. I do not always wake up feeling sophisticated, other days I do. Some days I am in jeans and heels. Others I am wearing my leggings and sneakers. After years of struggling with jamming my entire wardrobe into a suitcase for every trip I take, I can finally put together a suitcase of a few basics that are perfect for any mood.
To Beach or Not To Beach
Obviously, if you are going to a beach resort, you will dress differently than if you were touring a European city. Of course, you will have to add and maybe even subtract some of these items based on your destination and activities you plan to participate in. But, overall, the clothes on this list are things you probably already have in your closet … or should … because they are versatile.
The Secret
Is your closet jammed with clothes? Mine is. I love clothes. I love to shop. And I love to shop in my own closet by taking a few hours to mix and match my clothes, creating new outfits. My closet is filled with cheaper clothes that I know are in today and out tomorrow. But I also have a few staples that I am willing to spend more on because they will last forever.
I have friends whose closets are bare. They do not like to shop. They do not pay attention to trends and never look at a fashion magazine. However, somehow, they always look current and stylish. These friends invest in quality basics that never go out of style.
Versatility is in the basics. If you have a good base, you can create any look you want for any mood you are in. Invest in a few basics that can be accessorized for any occasion.
That is the secret to a great wardrobe and the key to packing for a trip.
Please note that items are in stock, and prices are accurate at the time we published this list. Have an idea for a fun theme for a gift idea list you’d like us to create? Drop us a line at [email protected].
Easily pack for any trip with these 13 closet staples…
Wrinkle-Free White Button-Down Blouse
The white button down is the most versatile item in your closet. Before you think about how wrinkled you’ll get, I just bought this one and am shocked at how nicely it travels! Here are some great ways to style your button-down:
- Tucked in and buttoned up with a string of pearls
- Unbuttoned low with some layered necklaces
- Do the half-tuck in a pair of jeans for an intentional casual look
- Pop the collar under a leather or denim jacket
Straight Leg Jeans
These jeans are perfect for any occasion – and they’re stretchy! Go for the trendy look by folding the bottom and wearing a pair of sandals or cute sneakers. Or dress them up with a pair of kitten heels or loafers.
Plain White Tee
I take back what I said about the white button-down. Your plain white tee is the most versatile item in your closet. Or at least a very close second. This one is great for travel because it is made from synthetic materials not cotton, which will wrinkle. A good white T-shirt is a blank canvas just waiting for your influence. Wear it alone, with a blazer, or under the trench coat and style it with your favorite layering necklaces for a touch of personality.
Wide-Leg Tan Pants
You can’t go wrong with great pair of tan slacks. Dress them up or down with heels or sneakers and you will are ready for any occasion. These pants are wide leg, which is on trend right now, and super comfortable. These pants are perfect for travel as they are made of synthetic fibers which do not wrinkle, and have an elastic waistband for comfort.
Classic Blazer
I will wear a blazer every day if I could. A classic blazer, no matter what the color, is the best way to elevate your look to the next level. And they are so versatile! Dress up your jeans. Suit up your slacks. Class up your leggings. Throw it on over your dress for an evening look. *Style tip* Wear your blazer over your shoulders without putting your arms through for a super chic look!
Black Leggings
I think black leggings are the perfect pant. Dress them up or down, with heels or sneakers and they travel well, taking up almost no space. But my favorite thing about these leggings is that they come in tall and petite in addition to the regular inseam. (Why not buy 2?!)
Simple White Dress
In spring and summer, you cannot go wrong with a simple white dress. Stay simple so you can accessorize to elevate your look. Style it with a belt, blazer, and a pair of boots. Throw it on with a pair of sneakers for a super cute “running around town” look. Or wear it with a corset over top to add a bit of spunk.
Chic Sneaker
I am all about spending less on more, but not when it comes to shoes. What you wear on your feet is not only important in elevating your look, but you could avoid back aches and pains if you invest. Sambas are everywhere right now. Throw them on with your jeans, your dress, your black slacks, all of it.
Timeless Trench
I am so glad to see these trench coats making their way into today’s fashion. They truly are timeless, can be worn with everything, and are perfect in any weather. I love that this trench come in colors besides khaki. You can keep it classic or make yourself stand out with a pop of color!
Black Booties
Shoes are always smart to invest in. If your shoes are cheap your body will pay for it. Avoid the achey back by buying a sleek, stylish, substantial pair of black booties like these. The heel is not too high, and the sole is thick – both great attributes for extended wear. My feet don’t like a pointed toe, so I go a ½ size up when buying this shape, and sometimes I stuff the toe with cotton to keep my feet from sliding forward into the point.
Practical Tote
A nice tote bag goes well with whatever you are wearing, so it is important to invest in one that looks like it is quality. This tote is a great size as you can use it as a purse and its size allows room for any extras you may pick up along the way. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors!
Layering Necklace
Elevate your style with a glint of gold! Layering necklaces not only add a little bit of sparkle to your look, but they add intention. One necklace is fine. Three necklaces show that you have style. These three are simple and elegant and work with your white tee and your classic button-down.
Gold Hoops
Gold hoops are the classic earring. They go with every hairstyle and face shape. They add a little sparkle. Wear them with jeans or for a night out on the town and they are always in style. They truly are the classic jewelry staple piece!
