Summer vacation has arrived. The details are finalized – hotel, transportation, excursions. Regardless if you are traveling by plane, train or automobile, you want to arrive stylishly. Beach, mountains or city – it’s time to pack. Packing clothing for a trip is no one’s favorite part of a trip.
With many airlines charging higher fees for checked bags, packing light has become an issue of economics, not just space. Knowing what to pack to dress comfortably and still look stylish will help you feel confident without having to take your entire wardrobe.
Define your style, don’t try to change your style. If you don’t wear it at home, it’s unlikely you will want to wear it on your trip.
Let’s start with the hardest…
Tips for choosing a flattering bathing suit for your shape
•Large bust – a suit cut straight across the top with wide-set straps – it’s all about having proper support and coverage.
•Small bust – one-shoulder and halter tops accentuate the bust – ruffles and a wrap style are flattering.
•Pear shape – narrow shoulders and wider-hipped gals look best in bold-patterned and ruffled tops with dark, solid, high-cut bottoms.
•Tummy tamers – shirred side panels and ruching in the middle hide a belly.
We are usually our worst critics when it comes to our bodies – embrace your shape, and don’t forget a smashing coverup to feel your best.
Pack It Up!
Make a list
It is very easy to forget the obvious (underwear, toothbrush, etc.) – a list alleviates this problem. Put your outfits together. If you tend to overpack (as I am guilty of), lay it out and try to cut it in half. Decide in advance what you will wear for scheduled events. Do include a wild card outfit in case of a change of plans.
Color-Coordinate
Try to choose a color scheme, black and white or navy and khaki, with a few pops of color. This will be a huge help in planning your shoes, which take up a lot of space and weight when traveling. The rule of three is a general guideline – narrow down to a flat or sneaker, pump or wedge for dressy, and a sandal. Focus on versatility and comfort. Lilly lover? Pink, navy or white always goes with Lilly Pulitzer prints.
Layering is Key
You need to repeat the clothes you pack, but to make outfits look different the answer is layering. A jean jacket is the perfect topper for travel because it can be paired with everything. Even if you don’t throw it over your shoulders, it adds zip to your look tied around the waist.
Jean jacket just not your style? Try a poncho in a lightweight fabric – it can be worn lots of different ways. We will be glad to show you.
Think Double Duty
Use some creativity in packing pieces you can repeat. A sundress in dry-fit fabric can work as a swimsuit coverup or the perfect sightseeing ensemble. Likewise with a tunic, coverup by day – paired with jeans for dinner.
Accessorize
This is the game changer. Add color and personality with scarves and jewelry. Accessories make your neutral clothes exciting and uniquely you. A large print scarf can be tied as a sarong over a swimsuit and used as a wrap for evening.
Packing Cubes for the Win
Packing cubes make the most efficient use of space in your luggage. Assign a different cube for different types of clothing. They also help you know where everything is once you arrive.
Come to Pappagallo for the perfect vacation wardrobe – colorful, fun and functional.
Happy travels!
-by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for over 40 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico’s).
