June 16 
First and foremost, I want to apologize for the spelling mistakes and grammar errors in advance. MM and I had the brilliant idea of not sleeping before heading to the airport at 5:45 am to catch our flights. By 4 am, I had a mini outer body experience where I wasn’t sure how to get water from the refrigerator. And then the million dollar question – water or juice? After a few minutes with an empty glass on hand, I poured some juice, topped it off with water, took a sip, and put the glass in the refrigerator. The whole time, I had no idea what I was doing. Again, I apologize if this blog post makes little sense.
When flying, I like to be as comfortable as possible. For short distances, I don’t mind wearing jeans, but for long flights, I tend to opt for sweatpants or soft cotton maxi dresses. I feel more free and nonrestrictive, which helps make the overall flying experience more pleasant. Also knowing that Florence will be around 85 degrees when I get there, I can just take off my jacket and be weather appropriate when I land.
:: Packing Segment ::
For this trip, I knew I needed to check in luggage, so my goal was to maximize as many outfits as possible into my suitcase. I packed about 16 outfits, 6 pairs of shoes, 4 handbags (one of which I’m carrying on the flight), a few belts, 2 watches, and my usual wristwear. With that said, you probably wouldn’t believe me when I say I’m a light packer.
A few weeks ago, Luisa Via Roma invited me to participate in their Firenze4Ever styling event. When I got the email, I read it a dozen time making sure it wasn’t spam. I was beyond thrilled and am still in disbelief. I’ve never been to Florence before and was in complete shock just thinking about the trip. And since we’re going to be in Italy for a few days, MM and I decided to film a creative video while we’re there. In addition to my travel outfits, I’m actually packing pairings for the video as well, thus the unusual high number of outfits. Everything that I brought is summer appropriate, so if you’re heading to a super warm location this year, I hope my outfit suggestions are helpful =)
When I pack, I tend to separate day and night outfits. Since the weather is going to be in the mid to upper 80’s during the day, I brought shift dress, shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops. I love wearing shift dresses, because they’re low maintenance and are quick to transition from day to night by simply adding heels.
Shorts and skirts are my best friends in super warm weather.
I also packed a few dresses for night events.
Since we’re going to do a lot of walking, I brought sandals, flats, and wedges for daywear. And for night events, I packed two pairs of heels. I try my very best to take care of my shoes by stuffing and wrapping them with tissue paper and putting them in their boxes, so they won’t get damaged during the flights.
All of my handbags are stuffed and in their dust bags.
Protecting my accessories with a travel size jewelry holder.
For all of my delicate dresses and items, I sandwich two large white tissue paper sheets and roll them into a sushi roll to protect them from rubbing.
For blazers, I turn one of the arms inside out and fold it into the other arm to keep its shape.
Everything laid out…
And packed into one luggage…
No carry-on needed. Olive sitting pretty and ready to go! =)
Thank you so much for letting me share my travel/packing segment with you! I hope it was helpful. And moreover, thank you for being on this journey with me. A few years ago while sitting at my desk analyzing financial statements, I never ever thought I would get a chance to travel to Italy for a fashion related event. Sitting here on the plane, I still can’t believe it. Thank you for your support and encouragement. I truly appreciate it. I hope you’re having a wonderful weekend so far and talk to you soon!
:: Outfit ::
Maxi dress :: Forever 21 (old) (similar here)
Jacket :: Zara (similar here)
Bag :: Celine
Shoes :: Sam Edelman
Accessories :: BCBG belt, Stella & Dot necklace
