I really don’t like packing. And considering how much I love clothes it surprises me. But it’s the thought of having to plan two weeks of clothes in just a few hours. Proves I have a long way to go with the whole capsule wardrobe detox way of dressing. So with just four days until we all fly off at silly o’clock on Saturday morning I am pulling out the big-guns and I have drafted myself a packing strategy which I wanted to share with you as so far so good…
1. Fail to prepare – prepare to fail. I always like to start writing a list at least a week before I go and keep it handy around the house as I am always thinking of things I need to get / pack.
2. Choose clothes of similar colours that way you know most things will work together.
- Having a fabulous Summer wardrobe of bright colours and prints is great if you really can plan ahead but if you’re as clueless as me when it comes to what you’ll fancy wearing in ten days time then a holiday wardrobe of denim, black, white and blue is ideal.
- If you cannot go without colour take some bright accessories – a bag or a few bangles.
- Use your bed to lay everything out and check it can all be mixed and matched.
3. Shop clever. If you buy anything new choose pieces that be dressed up and down.
- A knee length dress that works with flip-flops for day and glammed up for night.
- Choose a statement beach bag that can also double up as your baby bag or in-flight bag.
- Go for a cross-body bag for when you’re sight seeing, and then remove the strap or shorten it for the evenings.
- Don’t forget a big scarf – they’re great for the plane to keep you warm from the air con and great to double up as a sarong.
4. Don’t go over-board on the accessories.
- A pair of studs.
- Some dangly earrings for hair-up nights.
- A few bangles that can even be bought whilst you’re there.
- A good hat for the beach.
5. Invest in a lightweight jacket. You probably already have this – a boucle, linen or denim jacket is perfect for chilly evenings and travelling in.
6. You really don’t need that many shoes!
- Beach shoes.
- Statement flats (heels if you know you’re going somewhere glam).
- Slip on closed toe shoes for travel / chilly weather
7. Still be YOU! Just because you are in another country it doesn’t mean you left your personal style at home. If you wouldn’t normally wear bright pink and ruffle dresses why would you on holiday? And if you like wearing jeans and breton chances are you still will when you’re on the beach so grab some cut offs and a few stripes vests. There is nothing to say that holiday dressing has to be exotic.
The ultimate packing list:
I really hope this helps anyone that struggles with packing as much as I do. Any questions just comment below or shoot me an email.
Thank you so much for reading.
Love,
Vx
amothersedit 
I completely agree with so many of your tips particularly choosing a colour palette – I once went on a holiday where all my clothes clashed and were mismatched. Never again and it’s so easy to side step! I always take far too many pairs of shoes too. Great post!
Katie x
TheEclecticity.org
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What a great post. A timely reminder of the need to pack only what you need and stay true to yourself as I am off away in two weeks. I have fallen foul many a time of buying ‘holiday clothes’ that don’t suit my shape or reflect me. Love the pics on snapchat as well. Will definitely be putting it all out on my bed and making outfits. Thank you x
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You are in my head with this – I do exactly the same as you! Great post!
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