Last summer, we were fortunate to spend two glorious weeks under the Tuscan sun. Now, as we prep  for a weekend jaunt to Milan, vibrant memories of earthy hues, balmy breezes, majestic cypress trees and sun-kissed landscapes inspire us to quit our wardrobes of wintry hues and safe blacks (to an extent!) in favor of the Tuscan palette.  What better way to shed the memory of our bitterly cold, long grey winter!

But packing for a short trip, especially one to what is arguably the fashion capital of the world, can be a daunting task and one best not left for the last minute.  There is nothing more frustrating than arriving at your destination (or worse—the airport!) without the essentials or realizing that you wish you had packed this or that.  Packing lists are, therefore, extremely helpful…and fun to make as you contemplate your upcoming adventure!

Below is an outline of our packing list for our 48 hours in Milan:

• Luggage:  1 airline-approved carry-on suitcase, 1 large tote bag or sac for your plane and touring essentials, and 1 day-to-evening purse to be packed in your suitcase.
• Shoes: Flats or sneakers for daytime, heels or boots for the evening, gym shoes, and flip-flops (essential for walking around the hotel, and you can always ditch them before you come home!).
• Day Clothing: Comfy wear for the plane, 2 pairs of jeans, 2 sweaters; 4 t-shirts, 1 skirt or dress, and work-out clothes.
• Undergarments and Sleepwear: Undergarments (we always pack extra), socks or hosiery depending on the weather, and sleepwear.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, contact lenses and solution (always pack extras of those, too), glasses, face wash, moisturizer, and make-up (unless you’re going to a city where it’s part of the fun to stock up on cosmetics!).

• Accessories: Jewelry and maybe a watch. Jewelry is essential—especially if you’re traveling somewhere fashionable. You’ll be thrilled you brought that statement necklace to go along with simple jeans and a black shirt. It’s instant chic.

• Outerwear: Light jacket, a scarf or wrap, and a hat.
• Essentials: Wallet, passport (take a photo of it and send it to your loved ones staying home, in case disaster strikes and you lose it while abroad), trip itinerary, guide-book, phone and chargers, camera, journal, book or e-reader; iPhone for music and headphones.

Now for the really fun part: Fleshing out some of our favorite categories. Let’s start with your carry-on…

Large Tote for the plane ride:

A large, deep sac with a generous handle or messenger-style strap is great for travel.  It should be large enough to hold your essentials—a wrap for the plane, a neck-pillow if you need one, a large bottle of water, and your toiletries.  It should have a shape and, if possible, inner pockets to keep your travel items organized and easily accessible, but still be malleable enough to slip beneath the seat in front of you.

Theory’s new accessories line has some great options, including this minimalist urban bucket bag in black leather that promises to get softer with age and use.  It also comes in earthy brown suede, but leather seems the safer option, especially on a plane.

 

J.Crew’s Downing tote and new Uptown tote are available in a wonderful array of colors perfect for the spring and summer.  The Uptown tote is also a manageable size to tote around comfortably during the day.

And if you are looking to invest in a lifetime travel bag, we love Givenchy’s Nightingale satchel in goes-with-everything Linen.

Sigh…maybe one day! Till next time, when we tackle exactly what to stash in your tote. You’ll arrive at your destination refreshed (at least, as refreshed as possible!) and in style!

[Call to action—downloadable packing list when you sign up with your email?]

Now for the really fun part: Fleshing out some of our favorite categories. Let’s start with your carry-on…

Large Tote for the plane ride

A large, deep sac with a generous handle or messenger-style strap is great for travel.  It should be large enough to hold your essentials—a wrap for the plane, a neck-pillow if you need one, a large bottle of water, and your toiletries.  It should have a shape and, if possible, inner pockets to keep your travel items organized and easily accessible, but still be malleable enough to slip beneath the seat in front of you.

Theory’s new accessories line has some great options, including this minimalist urban bucket bag in black leather that promises to get softer with age and use.  It also comes in earthy brown suede, but leather seems the safer option, especially on a plane.

 

J.Crew’s Downing tote and new Uptown tote are available in a wonderful array of colors perfect for the spring and summer.  The Uptown tote is also a manageable size to tote around comfortably during the day.

And if you are looking to invest in a lifetime travel bag, we love Givenchy’s Nightingale satchel in goes-with-everything Linen.

Sigh…maybe one day! Till next time, when we tackle exactly what to stash in your tote. You’ll arrive at your destination refreshed (at least, as refreshed as possible!) and in style!

[Call to action—downloadable packing list when you sign up with your email?]

 

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