Are you planning a business trip, or perhaps a mid-winter getaway somewhere warm and don’t know what to pack?  Perhaps you’re type of person that packs all of your favourite items to later discover that, even though you had to sit on your suitcase to shut it close, you still have nothing to wear?  Or, maybe you’re just clueless; wondering what to pack every time you travel?  Travelling light does not mean recycling one outfit from day to night.  Regardless if you are travelling for business or for pleasure, no one wants to be burdened too much luggage!

So, how do you travel in style without excess baggage?
 
• Plan.  Count the days you will be spending away from home and the different types of clothing you will require;  such as suits for meetings, leisure wear, clothing for activities/sports (such as ski clothes or swimwear) and evening wear.
 
• Build a capsule wardrobe.  Now that you know the number of days you will be away and the different types of clothing you will require, you can then build a ‘capsule wardrobe’ that will take you from day to night.  Believe it or not, but if you pack 12 pieces you can mix and match, you can create over 40 different outfits.  The type of trip you are taking will have an impact on whether you pack corporate, casual, or seasonal clothing.
 
• What to pack.  In order for this ‘Capsule Wardrobe’ to work, refrain from packing clothing in lots of different colours.  Everything you pack must be restricted to four to five complimentary colours that will go well together.   The secret here is harmony.  Colours such as black, taupe, red, white, and light blue work well together compared with more difficult combinations such as black, turquoise, orange, brown, and lemon green.
 
Packing Checklist

• Two suits/outfits that match (preferably in your complimentary neutral colours).  A suit can be a jacket, vest, or cardigan sweater that matches the skirt and/or pants. 

• Four blouses, shirts, or tops that coordinate with both suits/outfits.  Try two in neutral or basic colours and two patterned or colourful tops that blend well with the suits.
 
• One dress or waistcoat (for women), or a v-neck knit (for men) in a solid colour for versatility so it can be dressed up or down.  These can be worn with a casual jacket or dressed up with a scarf.
 
• One jersey in a neutral or basic colour in the preferred style and to suit your body proportions.
 
• Accessories.  Choose accessories that can be worn from day to night.  Accessories can include anything that is not your basic garments, such as camisoles, cardigans, and other layering pieces, or costume jewellery or scarves. 
 
• When it comes to accessories, there are a few simple rules to follow.  Scarves, belts and jewellery needs to match all of your outfits.  That means you should choose either silver or gold jewellery, not both.  Choose belts and scarves in neutral colours.  Men should choose ties and, if needed, cuff links that blend will the colours you have chosen.  

• Shoes.  Try to take a maximum of three pairs no matter how long your trip.  And, that is two pairs in your luggage and one on your feet.  Even though this rule is brutal, it does force you to plan your outfits well and choose your clothes carefully.  Keep to the same principles; try not to add any new colours.
 
• Layering.  You can create even more combinations by layering your garments; e.g. wearing two tops together, or wear a shirt or blouse over a singlet or t-shirt.
 

Article by Susana Sarmiento

www.laquaimage.com

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