Like GAP on black Friday. That pretty much sums up the shoe, clothes, and accessories explosion that would occur when I packed for a trip.
As a remedy for the clothing chaos, I created two packing list templates: one for warm weather and one for cold weather. I’ll make a few tweaks here and there based on destination (what you need for a trip to the Caribbean is different from what you need in Northern California). But, having a list of basics to work from has done plenty to make my packing procedure much more efficient.
Here are seven of my go-tos for creating a comfy but chic travel wardrobe for cooler weather:
Tory Burch Jacquard Traveler Scarf ($198)
This scarf is large and snuggly, enough to work as a blanket on overnight flights. Plus, it dresses up any outfit as an accessory. (Pictured during a 2019 lunch while wandering around Helsinki, Finland.)
Hunter Tall Gloss Rain Boots ($150)
If rain is in the forecast, and I know I’m planning on walking a lot, these boots are in my bag. Sure, they take up a little space but they’ve kept my feet dry and warm in rain, sleet, and snow. The glossy finish makes these rain boots just as stylish as they are practical. (Pictured during a rainy 2019 walk in Paris.)
Noli Liquid Legging in Black Gloss ($80)
For most of my fall trips, I live in leggings and boots. I found my Noli’s in an activewear boutique over a year ago and now have four pairs. They are my go-to for long flights and always look chic. (Pictured on a mother-daughter trip to Lucerne, Switzerland.)
Custom Ray-Bans (starts at $199)
Sunglasses are an investment for me. That’s why I splurge and invest in custom Ray-Ban aviators. It was the only way for me to get Magenta Flash lenses with silver frames. (Pictured during a 2019 walk across the Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic.)
J Crew Margot Crewneck Sweater ($79.50)
Offered in a variety of colors from black to brilliant sunset, this machine washable merino wool sweater is almost always on my packing list. I have it in at least three different colors because whether you’re enjoying a big city dinner or an evening walk on the beach, this non-itchy beauty just works. (Pictured over 2018 post-theater drinks in London.)
Tory Burch Ella Patent Tote ($198)
When it comes to my carry-on bag, this tote is roomy enough for a laptop but can collapse if you need less space. The patent leather details make the bag stylish and practical, as they serve as a buffer from the elements on the bag’s bottom. (Pictured on a 2020 pre-pandemic mother-daughter trip to Rome, Italy.)
Pheel Safe Masks ($10 for 2 pack)
Rounding out my travel style picks is the latest addition to my packing list: a face mask. In addition to the fact that these nonsurgical face masks come in a variety of cute colors, they are made of the moisture-wicking and breathable fabric that Pheel uses for its activewear line. (Pictured in May 2020 at Old Edwards Inn and Spa in North Carolina during my first trip after self-isolation.)