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| Photo: Next |
Holiday packing is one of the most common calls for help that I get from friends and clients alike. If nothing else, I am an experienced traveller and over the years have managed to get it down to a fine art and enjoyed compliments on my clothing choices wherever I have laid my hat! It's a formula that works and I'd like to share it with you.
1. Make sure you have a decent case. It should be manageable, lightweight but strong with robust wheels. Always check your airlines's requirements regarding size and weight and don't forget to check the rules for carry on luggage too. I am not going to go into what you can and cannot carry on board because all airlines are different but bear in mind that if you want a smooth transit through security and check in, you need to do your homework first. Remember to label to your final destination and include a copy of your itinerary inside your case. Very useful if your case gets lost. Luggage all looks the same on the carousel so add an extra flourish to it (coloured ribbon) so that you can identify yours quickly.
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| Tripp Suitcases from Debenhams |
3. Think about co-ordinating your colours and patterns. Try creating a capsule wardrobe and build your selection of outfits around one colour scheme (at the most two) so that you can mix and match different styles with ease and create different looks. Below, I've gone for a black and white palette with touches of coral. Look out for multi taskers that can be transformed from day to night, from casual to smart.
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| Dune |
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| Dune |
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| Apricot |
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| Next |
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| Miss Selfridge |
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| Next |
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| La Redoute |
 Dress by Wallis, Trousers from Next  | ||
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| Accessorize |
4. Set out your suitcase a few days before you go and lay out all the items you think you would like to take on your bed. This will help you visualise and assemble your different looks and enable you to check that you haven't forgotten anything. You can edit your selection to ensure you have that capsule wardrobe. I always try to leave some space for any purchases I might make whilst I 'm away.
5. Do take accessories because you can change the look of an outfit instantly. You can take a dress from casual to glamorous by pairing with heels and sparkly costume jewellery. Other essentials include sunglasses, a hat, bathing suit, a cover-up, beach bag and small clutch bag. Include a few basic tees in colours that will complement your other items.
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| Very |
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| Next |
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| Accessorize |
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| Very |
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| Dune |
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| Next |
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| Very |
6. When it comes to packing there are two schools of thought. You can roll your clothes which creates more space and avoids creases or if you can't bring yourself to roll, fold your clothes and put a piece of tissue paper in the fold, again to avoid creasing. I've tried both and I've never needed a travel iron yet! I am a big fan of those mesh pouches which I use to separate underwear, swimwear, accessories etc. and I also put my shoes, separately, into bags. I also put a couple of plastic carrier bags in to accommodate any items that will need washing when I get home.
7. Getting to and from. I always travel with a jacket (a denim jacket is very versatile) which can always double if the weather isn't playing fair and I usually carry a super lightweight merino wool or cashmere shawl.
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| Next |
Safe travel and have a happy holiday!
All photos courtesy of www.prshots.com except mesh pouches which belong to me.
