I have this fantasy where I have a carry-on suitcase sitting in my closet, packed and ready to go at all times, filled with perfect yet minimal outfits that will work for any destination.
What can I say? I love it when I can automate things. :)
In fact, I do this with my toiletry bag. I keep travel sized basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, makeup wipes, etc. in my suitcase, ready to go. It speeds up the packing process.
But, I haven’t achieved that with my clothes, and I’m not sure if I ever will. Every trip calls for something different — what with it’s different activities and different climate. Plus, let’s be real, I want to wear my favorite clothes — not keep them stashed in a suitcase, waiting for my next trip. :)
My packing lists usually have a similar vibe, though, and there are a few constants:
Pretty much no matter where I’m going, I always bring a striped tee (or two), black yoga leggings (great for the plane and for PJs) and a black dress (that I can dress up or down).
Anyway, I’ve got packing on the brain because we’re headed to Nashville for a few days!
Back when we lived in Austin, we had the best little group of friends — but we’ve all scattered to different cities now. We get together at least twice a year, and this time around, we’re meeting in Nashville. I can’t wait to see them!
The forecast calls for thunderstorms all weekend, so even though I’m craving dresses and shades of white, I’m packing closed toe shoes + jeans + sturdy clothes that can get a little wet and still look great.
Instead of a traditional packing list, I decided to break it up by activity. What do you think?
TOPS + JACKETS
01 | Denim jacket (old) | similar (made in USA) | similar for less
02 | Stripe tank (old) | similar (made in USA)
03 | Indigo tee c/o Ace&Jig (made in USA) | similar for less
04 | Crop tee (old) | similar | similar (made in USA)
05 | Black tank (old) | similar (made in USA)
06 | Stripe sweater (old) | similar (socially responsible)
BOTTOMS + SHOES
01 | Black dress c/o Everlane (made responsibly)
02 |Jeans by Madewell | similar by Paige Denim (made in USA)
03 | Black jeans (old) | similar (made in USA)
04 | Yoga leggings by YogaSmoga (eco-friendly + made in USA + socially responsible)
05 | Ankle booties c/o Fortress of Inca (made ethically + sustainably)
06 | Sneakers by Veja (environmentally friendly + socially responsible)
ACCESSORIES
01 | Long necklace by Madewell | 02 | Travel tote c/o Ona | 03 | Sunnies by Ray Ban
So tell me, do you have any go-to pieces you always pack no matter the destination? Any recommendations for can’t-miss things to do while we’re in Nashville?
P.S I’ve got a super exciting project in the works, but I need your help before it can go much further. Will you take this survey? It’ll take less than 90 seconds and you’ll get to weigh in on the future of Unfancy. Oh, AND you’ll even get to hear my ridiculous dad jokes. Please? :)
xo
Great tips dear…love it
https://fashionmandate.wordpress.com
Omg Those pieces, and combining them Is Brilliant! Thanks for the tips!
This is great! Thank you
Where can I find that wooden clothes rack? It’s lovely! Thanks.
Hey Carmen, thank you. It’s from Amazon :) Its called the Songmics Bamboo Rack. xo, Caroline
I love that clothes rack! Where can I get one like it?
I love that clothes rack! Where can I get one like it?
Hi Jenni, you can find it on Amazon :) Songmics Bamboo Rack. xo, Caroline
Better pack some shorts and sandals. It’s hot here! I just found your blog and love it!
Your blog is the best Caroline! I can’t tell you how much you inspire me fashion-wise and minimalism-wise. Have fun in Nashville!
Thanks for the inspiration. I am going to pack much the same stuff for a weekend in New Orleans! I try to take the least number of pieces possible as I don’t want to keep up with a bunch of stuff while I am traveling. I like how you already determined outfits with your pieces so you wont waste a bunch of time figuring out what to wear while you are away. That leaves more time to play!
Bronwyn, that’s the idea! More time to play :) xo, Caroline
I do the same thing as Caroline as far as picking out the outfits ahead of time (or at minimum, having a few easily mixed/matched things in there to choose from based on occasion/mood), and it seriously works great. Also means you won’t get there and realize you forgot some key item of clothing (e.g. belt!)
Oh my I love these outfits… but wow this have gotten pricer over time! Although I get that this is the way of ethical fashion and all that! Since I’ve been paring down my closet, I find that packing is super easy and I tend to pack based on activities as well. Now the toiletry thing…. I’m digging that.
I think the greatest thing about picking your outfits ahead of time is you don’t worry about what others are wearing, you face no decision fatigue, and you can just relax and enjoy your time rather than scrambling to make an outfit last minute. I’m all about it!
xo,
Caitlyn
http://www.catonthemoon.xyz
Caitlyn, you are right on — the decision fatigue is real! Making room for relaxing and enjoying time with friends, rather than picking outfits. #nailedit :) xo, Caroline
This post is so timely! I’m headed out for a weekend trip with some different activities in store too, and I love this inspiration :)
Lily, have a great trip!! :) xo, Caroline
I love all your posts. I’m a petite older woman, but the essence of your style and philosophy really inspires me. Thank you!!
These are some great outfits. Definitely similar to my style!
Kari
http://www.sweetteasweetie.com
We made the Nashville weekend trip in October – loved it there. locals wear cowboy boots as part of their every day attire – i had to buy a pair. Terrific vibe in that town with fantastic restaurants and boutiques. make sure you go to emerson grace! it was my favorite.
My brother lives in Nashville and bar tends at Old Glory and the Mercy Lounge. The Mercy Lounge is also a music venue and was a fun scene when I was there recently. Food-wise he says “Rosepepper” is the best Mexican, “Edley’s” the best BBQ (we ate there and it was great) and we also really like “Five Points Pizza.” Previous times I’ve eaten at Whiskey Kitchen, which is also good. The Acme building has multiple floors of restaurants and it overlooks the city! Catching a Preds game is always fun as well. We had coffee at Crema and Barista Parlor (very expensive there!!!). Nashville is a pretty fun city no matter where you go!
If you’re coming this weekend watch out for road closures with the marathon this weekend! The Bluebird Cafe is fun but hard to get into now with the popularity of a certain TV show! There are so many good restaurants in town now. I’m sure your friends have their favorites! Some of mine include Rolf & Daughter’s, City House, Lockeland Table, and Margot Cafe. Indoor activities (if it is raining all weekend): Frist Center for Visual Art, Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Parthenon. Outside: Downtown Farmer’s Market, Cheekwood Botanical Gardens, honky tonks on lower Broadway. Have fun here!
Laurie, thank you to the wonderful tips — and the heads up regarding the marathon. I’m so excited to check it all out! :) xo, Caroline
I live in East Nashville and I recommend:
Marche (brunch)
Ryman Auditorium (concert hall)
Rolf & Daughters (best dinner spot)
Mas Tacos Por Favor (tacos!)
Robert’s Western World (honky tonk on Broadway)
Imogene & Willie (boutique)
There isn’t a lot to DO in Nashville (IMHO) but there is so much to eat & drink! :D
Lexie, fantastic recommendations. You know, the places we eat + drink always turn out to be the most memorable part of a trip! :) xo, Caroline
My only change would be a fun little flowing or flirty skirt instead of jeans for Sunday brunch. I’m not much of a jeans girls/woman.
You have to try the original hot chicken at Princes and get a medium which equals a hot in any other lamguage☺️
Also The Gulch area has some fun funky bars and restaurants ☺️ Enjoy!!!
Survey completed ? I would like to add that I live in the UK, so use Unfancy primarily as style inspiration, because I don’t want to order from the US because of the cost of shipping on the environment – not particularly ethical. If I lived in the U.S. I would be all over the links ? I love what you do Caroline, thankyou
I feel the same way. I answered “meh” only because I live in Sweden. Keep up the good work! Love your blog!
Me too. I live under Norway, so shopping US made is not particulary ethical. But I love your blogg for inspiration.
Ah yes, me too! I’m in Australia. I love the philosophy behind your posts, but no shopping from the US for me. I’m 15 months into using a capsule wardrobe and I’ll never look back. Thank you, Caroline.
Ditto! I’m also in the UK. Thank you for the inspiration, Caroline :)
I’m loving all the blue!
Do you mind sharing where you got that awesome clothing rack?!
Jessica, I don’t mind! It’s from Amazon :) It’s called the Songmics Bamboo Rack. Pretty easy to assemble too! xo, Caroline
thank you, thank you! :)
Hey Caroline!
I’m actually going to Austin this weekend to meet up with my little group of friends – how fascinating! ;) I tend to overpack, so I’m grateful for the perfect timing of this post!
I always bring this one navy dress that I can dress up or down and it can also *weather* the rain! (Tee hee, I get my punny humor from my dad too!) My go-to packing items also include a comfy pair of leggings and a printed/striped tee for those long drives.
I’ve been keeping up with your blog for a long time now, and I love everything about it and what it stands for. So, naturally, there’s really nothing that I don’t love about your blog! Always excited to see what comes next!
Cheers,
Theresa
If you have to face thunderstorm I wouldn’t forget to take a light scarf (to use to cover you hairdo instead of carrying the umbrella). Have a great time in Nashville.
I have that Everlane dress, and while the XS is really pretty large on me (I find their sizes run large/strange), I really love it. So versatile!
I love this!! This made me so excited because we’re leaving this saturday (from kentucky!) to the outer banks and they’re also forecasting rain! Nooo! My sister took a 201 meteorology class and said that it’s really all guess work (along with averages from years past) that determines the forecast as close as *two weeks* away. So, we’re all hoping they’re wrong! I’m in the same boat as you, though!! *crosses fingers for no rain*
I’m packing so much of the same style things! This is so so helpful to me and I totally hear what you’re saying about packing. the struggle is real! haha!
dependsing on where you are staying in the outer banks, try the kill devil grille (in kill devil hills)! its amazing. Our second home practically is Ocracoke!
Love all these outfits and how you broke them up into activities!! :) They are all so cute!
Exactly this is the challenge: we want to wear our favourite clothes and not to keep them in the suitcase. Despite of this I love the idea of an always ready packed suitcase as packing is very challenging for me :)
Lovely greetings from Germany/Bavaria, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
i have a similar approach to packing. my in-laws probably think i wear nothing but jeans, neutral tshirts, and cardigans (not far from the truth) because it’s my uniform when we visit them.
i’d love to hear how the everlane silk dress holds up wrinkle-wise after being in a suitcase. i’ve been eyeing it, with future travel in mind.
I love Brass! Very excited about the exciting project!
My husband and I just got back from Nashville. Such a fun city! The best place we ate was in an adorable district near the Lorraine Motel at a restaurant called South of Beale: http://www.southofbeale.com/
I highly recommend, as it was one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time and we travel a LOT! The district is perfect for an after dinner stroll or drink. It’s just a block or so from the Lorraine Motel which is hauntingly solemn and beautiful at night. ENJOY!
I’m a dork! We were in Memphis too and I got a little over zealous. Haha, those things I mentioned are in Memphis of course. Well, if you make it that way, it’s excellent. In terms of Nashville, a great book/music/coffee store is Grimey’s. Also loved Parnassus books. Of course the Honky Tonks.
Now you’ve done it. I want that tote! I love Ona and travel several times per month on the weekend to Honolulu (a 30 minute flight). It’s always a debate on whether to carry my DSLR or not. Now I have the teeny tiny Canon so I almost always bring it (I currently use The Roma insert by Ona and throw it in a Longchamp tote).
For packing I don’t always know what activities I’ll be doing so I pretty much just always pack a cutoffs, a few tank tops, a wonderful windbreaker hoodie (everlane), a light crewneck sweater that folds up to nothing (JCrew tippi), 1 to 2 workout outfits, a scarf that can also be used as a sarong, a bikini and a black jersey dress. I usually wear a washable work dress on Friday on the plane, hand wash it and then wear it again on Monday when I fly back (or just pack an extra top if I’m wearing jeans, no washing necessary). Like you I keep a pouch of medication, etc always packed & ready to go. If I’m going two weekends in a row, I usually just throw the exact same clothes back in my carry-on after doing laundry. I fold and it goes straight into my rolling case, no putting away necessary! I keep it as minimal as possible and what I pack is more than enough typically but I also don’t worry too much about it. Honolulu is a big retail/shopping city and if some event unexpected came up, it would be very easy to run out and buy something but that hardly ever happens.
Eeek! LOVE your method of throwing the exact same clothes back in the suitcase if it’s two weekends in a row. So simple.
I have to pack a cardy – no matter where I am going, after a long day,shopping,site seeing, drinking – whatever! its nice to wrap up and relax in a soft cosy cardy.
Apryl, oh that does sound like a great (cozy!) way to wrap up a busy day… :) xo, Caroline
I absolutely love the idea of creating a packing list by activity — In fact it’s how I always put mine together! However I’ve never thought about putting together a graphic in the same way, so yet again brilliant my dear! Also, can’t wait to take a survey! #nerdalert :)
I just took your survey! :) I really liked the idea of breaking it up by activity. My own bring-everywhere piece is a black blazer – it’s saved me several times, including at a wedding when my husband ripped the zipper off my dress when he tried to zip it up! I had to wear safety pins all the way up my spine (and they kept popping open – ouch!) But at least the blazer hid them!
In Nashville, you should check out the Parthenon. It’s just so special. :)
Sounds like someone might be coming out with a dress line………. ;)
Still loving Unfancy since your FIRST blog post! Nutty!
d’Auria, I can’t thank you enough for the support! :) xo, Caroline
Enjoy your trip! We’ve lived in Nashville 12 years, and we love it here. Definitely try Nashville-style hot chicken. Our favorite is Helen’s, and there are a few locations. ☺
http://www.helenshotchicken.com/home
Sounds great Jennie! xo, Caroline
This is precisely how I decide what to pack – by activity! I find it works great for me! I hope it works well for you and I would love to see a post about your trip and see some of these outfits in action :-)
Nashville: The Gulch section of town is very cool, try the rooftop bar at the Fairfield Inn. It’s also a great place to stay. We enjoyed eating at City Fire in The Gulch area. Also try the “12 South” neighborhood for eclectic shopping & eats, we ate at Edley’s BBQ. These 2 areas get you out of the tourist-trap of downtown. Try the “free” golf cart cabs, they work for tips, fun ride, can easily get u from downtown to Gulch.
Thank you Connie! xo, Caroline
I live in Nashville and can say with conviction that none of the locals wears cowboy boots regularly–the tourists do! You can get some crazy boots though at some of the boot stores downtown. There are some great exhibits at the Frist Center and I love the Musicians’ Hall of Fame at Municipal Auditorium. I like it better than the Country Music Hall of Fame, though that’s fun, too.
City House is not to be missed (make a reservation) and Lexie’s suggestions above are all solid. I also like Monell’s (go to the one in Germantown) for a good, Southern dining experience. If you’re in town on Sunday night, go to the Station Inn’s Bluegrass Jam. Sounds like it would be a recipe for disaster (anyone is welcome to join the jam session on stage) but it never is.
Thank you for the recommendations Liz! xo, Caroline
Hello caroline, I answer to your questions but some questions are not for me. For example I almost buy used clothing (I am french) and I need a particular outfit because I am a cycle mechanic.
Your idea for an ethical closet is a very good idea but be careful not being like the other fashionista. It’s what I love your website, you don’t push readers buying and show new pieces every day. Your are the only website I read.
Step buy step you will have a ethical closet. Maybe in one year but not immediately. You see? I think fashionista have the feeling that they must have to buy new things for readers.
Minimalist is not that. Hope I’m clear it’s too late for me and my brain is turning off!
Never mind, I like every times your posts. Thank you so much.
Wondering if you could share where your travel bag in the suitcase is from? Thank you!
Hi Jane, I’m sorry but it’s a pretty old bag. I honestly don’t remember where I got it! xo, Caroline
Where did you get your suitcase? I’ve been looking for one like that forever… Love your blog btw!
Hi Sarah, thank you! Ya know, the suitcase is actually so old I can’t remember? Sorry! xo, Caroline
Unless it’s the dead of winter, I always pack this ancient gray zip up hoodie from the Gap. It’s perfect! It’s a hoodie, but not super casual fleece style. I’ve worn it with dresses, shorts, on planes, just chilling, to work out, etc. Other than that it’s Birks and clothes similar to a capsule, things that all go together and can be mixed and matched. There’s just something so chic and effortless to a well packed carry-on bag! #goals
I love your outfits and how they are organized, but I hope it is cool this weekend – right now we are experiencing a heat wave (87 degrees tonight) in upstate South Carolina which has similar temps to Nashville. There is no way I could put on jeans or a jean jacket. Also, do you have a rain jacket? Might get much more milage out of that. (If you don’t, maybe you can find a cute one in Nashville). I would definitely stick in another pair of shorts and another light t-shirt so you can peel back the layers. Remember: it is not just warmer, but humid, too. Have fun!!
So glad you are coming to Nashville! I live here and love it!! I’m sorry the weather is looking grim but Nashville is still fun :) this weekend is the Country Music Marathon so note a lot of streets will be closed down Saturday AM. World Tai Chi day is Also April 30th so Dragon Park (and possibly Cenntennial Park) will have Tai Chi demonstrations in the AM assuming the weather holds up. Roberts Western World is my favorite Honky Tonk on Broadway I would definitely suggest checking it out one night. Kitchen 404 in the Gulch has the best food in town. Call as sometimes they will hold a table for walkins as they book out months in advance. 12 South is my favorite walk around spot in town for boutiques, lunch, and coffee. 5 daughters bakery is there. It’s amazing. Excited for you! Thank you for your blog! I enjoy it very much! Enjoy!!
Everything sounds so great! Thank you Melanie :) xo, Caroline
Check out the reconstruction of the Parthenon while you’re in Nashville! It’s INCREDIBLE and as close as you’ll ever get to seeing what it looked like in its hey-day :)
http://www.nashville.gov/Parks-and-Recreation/Parthenon.aspx
Hi Caroline,
Haven’t commented for a while, but loving your new blog. Definitely sense the aura of calm, simplicity, all things white, thoughtful shopping, and well crafted wooden furniture. I’ve just done your survey, wanted to add a comment, so here goes. Personally I find specifics (local brands, pricing) don’t always work for me, as I’m in Australia. So I didn’t rate those as highly important (for me). Capsule, outfit and packing ideas are of most help. And on that note, this is a timely post for me too (upcoming holiday). I had just started to write my list based on activity too! So glad for more inspiration and encouragement. I would also love to see more posts on your home. The way you style for both function and simplicity is exactly my aim in life too.
Keep blogging, all the very best, sent with love, Leanne xo
CUTE planned outfits! To have them planned out will help with efficient packing!
Xoxo
Serein
https://sereinwu.com/
PS. Also a dad joke user and lover. xo
I travel frequently and people assume I have this packing thing down. Well, I am always learning but I will say that the one item I pack no matter the season is my blanket cape. It is perfect for the plane either wrapped around me or used on my lap. Then it moves easily into my wardrobe or as a stylish way to keep warm at the end of the night. I am constantly trying to streamline my suitcase and my wardrobe in general. Thank you for your blog and all the inspiration! I just took the survey and was amazed at how different my answers would have been last year before I started this journey.
Stacy, a blanket cape sounds like an awesome travel companion :) xo, Caroline
I love this kind of information! It’s so useful, I absolutely hate packing!
Thanks for sharing.
I felt like I was reading my own thoughts as I was reading this post! I, too, dream of having a carry-on packed with my very favorite items ready to be whisked away to some fascinating destination on the spur of the moment. But I would also want to be wearing those items. I do have my toiletries bag always ready to go with those cute miniature bottles. I love to challenge myself to pack as little as possible while covering all expected weather and social scenarios. Versatility is definitely the key to success! And it’s so freeing to have little to carry when traveling. :)
I took your survey (sorry my computer won’t let me not type in caps…this is weird). I just wanted to leave some input here. the new ethical clothing direction is kind of a turnoff. not because I don’t think it’s nice but I can’t afford those clothes with 2 kids and mom duties. I like it before where there were cheaper options for everything. $200 for jeans is not happening.
plus have you thought of the fact that some of these people that work for non ethical companies have no other jobs? so if we take our business from those companies, they shut down, and those people are out of work. they starve. I think they’d rather have our 10 cent a day wage and be able to feed and clothe their family with something instead of nothing because we boycotted them and moved our business to a more expensive manufacturer with better wages. I think the companies are the ones who really profit in the end.
the best thing you can do is encourage people not to buy more than they need no matter if it’s ethically sourced or not. overconsumption is the main issue with America not buying clothes made in 3rd world countries.
thanks for listening! I still love your blog and posts! xoxo
You’re coming to my city! You will love it!! I think someone already mentioned this, but it’s marathon weekend so traffic/roads might be a little nutty.
Rolf & Daughters is the best “foodie” food I’ve had in town, definitely get some hot chicken while you’re here (Hattie B’s is my favorite!) and if you only visit one Honkytonk, make it Robert’s! So many good local beers- my favorites are Fat Bottom Knockout, Mayday Boro Blonde, and the Jackelope Lovebird.
Also- the tip about pre-packing a toiletry back is such a good one! I did that a while ago and it has made me life SO much easier. I always used to pack that stuff last and it would totally stress me out! Have a wonderful trip!
♥ perfectly Priya
Blue jeans. I always pack them. And a comfy cardigan.
Also. The survey needs an “I don’t have a least favorite type of post” option. ;)
Have a spectacular time! We love Nashville. Here is a post about what we did last time we were there, if you are interested. http://janejojulia.weebly.com/blog/roadtrip-nashville
I feel like I’d pack the exact same things you do! Like Everything!
Have a great time in Nashville :)
http://www.thebusinessofblooming.com
Hi Caroline!
Thank you so much for having this blog. I discovered your blog after you went on your sabbatical, so it is so neat to be able to follow what you are doing now. I really really LOVE the stuff about shopping ethically. I am a social work major in college and justice and human rights is very important to me. When I started this journey 6 months ago, I purged my closet and donated the cloths I never wear. I hardly ever go shopping, but just the other day I bought my first article of ethical clothing. It felt great! It’s a small step, but I am so excited to continue on this journey and teach others about what I am learning. From the bottom of my heart thank you. You are making a difference in the world! :) <3 Rebecca
You are in my town!!! Since I’m from here, I don’t do a lot of “touristy” things but I enjoy Pharmacy Burger in East Nashville, the quaint downtown Franklin for fun shops and coffee, and the shops and eats down 12th ave in Nashville are eclectic and fun! Not sure what area you will be in..
As far as travel picking goes, it looks similar to yours. I pack for weather/events but that typically means two options for bottoms and three tops for a weekend trip. Rolled up tight in our shared suitcase, we can usually fit two adults and one kid’s stuff, no prob. I actually LOVE packing for trips now that I have decluttered my routines and wardrobe. Even toiletries are easier: blush, mascara, coconut oil, toothbrush/paste, and a hair tie. If we are there longer than a few days I’ll pack some shampoo. Lol
Have fun!!!
I love the way you broke up your packing list by activity! Have fun in Nashville, Caroline! :)
I hope you share the results of the survey. I’m very curious.
I always keep my amenities packed, refilled, and ready to go! I have a separate brush and hair accessories, toothbrush, deodorant, lotions, feminine products, nail kit, EVERYTHING packed and ready in case I ever have to escape to Mexico! All I have to do is throw some clothes and makeup in my suitcase and away I go!
And I, too, have been enjoying the ease of packing with a capsule wardrobe. Last year, I had to pack for two weeks to care for my mom who was having major surgery. It was so easy, everything fit into one small carry on suitcase, and I was never without something to wear (including working out and a couple of nice dinners out).
I love the breakdown by outfit! I’ll be using these tips for my next weekend trip for sure.
Love this! I still definitely struggle with — and procrastinate — packing so these posts are my favorite! Things I have learned along the way: bring more socks, underwear, and sweaters than you think you need and fewer pants! Not that I suggest going pants-less ;) But I tend to wear the same jeans/leggings/etc on repeat. For the sweaters, I live in and mostly travel to cold climates, and it’s the worst to have new outfits planned for every day and then realize you’ve covering them all up with the one single sweater you brought (especially if it’s a pullover!)
Obviously, I’m still learning how to pack :) Thanks for the great post!
Just discovered your blog and I’m loving it. Hubby and I went to Iceland last fall and I had a scarf that I took and everything had to go with it. It really help me to minimize my packing. Only downside was I looked like I never changed clothes in my pictures! :-)
I see you’ve got a new leather tote!! I’m ready to forego my Timbuk2 bag as Too Casual for some occasions, and would love to hear about this one. I’ve liked a couple enough to bring them home to think. (I’m struggling extra because one is so gorgeous, classic and slightly more fancy, and another is bombproof and more practical.) I’m entertaining all contenders!
Hi Julie! This particular tote is great for travel. It’s a heavy, sturdy leather. A little too heavy for me to use on a daily basis, so I prefer the Palma bag by Ona for that (seen in my last post). Hope that helps with your decision! :) xo, Caroline
My favorite packing strategy is to pack everything within the same color family so I can mix and match everything throughout my trip. (e.g. all shades of blacks and greys with colors that complement.)
I also have a travel pouch ready to go with all of my toiletries, makeup, and hair accessories. Even a traveling flat iron and blow dryer. Makes things so much simpler.
Love that clothing rack!!
Blonde in Cashmere
Hi Caroline!
I have finally gotten caught up after reading your blog from the beginning :) I’ve donated heaps of clothes that I didn’t love (but hopefully someone else will!) and am starting to discover my style. I’ve got to say- I love the capsule wardrobe and am so grateful for all the work you’ve done here! Thank you!
I especially love this post because I always overpack. My next trip is I’m a few weeks and my goal is just a carry on!
Also, my BF really wants a dog so I’ve done some research about greyhounds after all the lovely comments on your post about Margot :) we have some great local rescue organizations that I can’t wait to check out!
Thank you again xo
Erin
Loving the dinner out look! Great post!
xx
Mademoiselle Coconath
http://mllecoconath.com
Hey Caroline! I loved the way you organized this post by activity—that’s always how I think about packing.
Yes, like you, I love automating packing. I keep a little toiletries bag ready to go too!
Nashville ideas? All the yummy vegan food! The Wild Cow and Sunflower Cafe were my favorites. :) Also swimming at Percy Priest, but I think it’s too rainy for that!
I always end up packing way too many outfits thinking I will be all stylish and put together for once in my life, then I end up wearing the same thing everyday. Ha! You’re so organized!!
Would you mind sharing the source of the wood garment rack from the first picture? My apartment lacks a closet for coats, boots, etc. and this would look perfect near our front door. Thanks!
Never mind! I should have searched the comments first; I see you already answered this question :)
No problem Michaela — glad you found the info :) xo, Caroline
Hi Caroline! I wanted to ask you about your Madwell jeans, which I’ve admired on some of your other posts as well. I recently tried some on (both the skinny skinny and high rise skinny) and they were amazing – but for me, the calves were far too loose, and I really want that closer, true skinny fit. Did you have an issue with this at all? I’m considering sizing down, but was just wondering if anyone else has experienced this or dealt with it. I could always tailor them, but since they’re so pricey to begin with, I’m hesitant to go this route. Just hoping to hear your thoughts, because other than that they seem like the ideal jeans! Thanks so much. :)
Simple mais super efficace !
Hi Caroline, your photography is just stunning on this post! I’m going to tackle fitting 2 weeks of business/vacation wear in a carry on next month — wish me luck :)
xx
Caitlin
http://www.minimalist-makeup.com
Love the packing examples, will help me on my trip to Richmon next week. I just bought my first item from Brass (and maybe my only) the V-neck Tee in small and it’s too see-through. I hadn’t realized how see through it was until I decided to wear again (2nd time wearing), you can see the whole outline of my black bra! Not sure how this compares to their other clothing.
Yay for a packing post! I just got back home yesterday from my first trip to Austin. What a cool city! I had a surprising amount of fun packing (trying to incorporate some minimalism) and wore almost every piece I brought. Felt good to keep it simple! :)
Such a gorgeous dress..!
I just recently found your blog and am really enjoying it. I would have LOVED this post a month ago as I travelled to Nashville from Montreal for a few days with my husband. However I did take notes from your precious travelling outfit posts!
We enjoyed Pucketts Grocery for dinner one night – great food and great drinks too.
Legends corner had some great bands and great party atmosphere.The Ryman tour was great. The video alone at the beginning is worth the entrance fee.
Enjoy your trip!
I have been loving the blog. Would you post about why you’re moving towards more slow fashion – ethical and sustainable – with cost in mind? Also, wondering if you are able to continue to post lower cost alternatives when possible? I budget carefully and those shoes are so cute but would blow my entire budget!
Servey done! Love you blog so much! I’d LOVE to see a post or two on how you’ve tackled decor purchases ect!!please
Great outfit choices!<3 I am in love with your wardrobe and how everything has its purpose. Your blog has made me cut my wardrobe down in half and each month I keep finding more things to give away. It just feels great to have my favorite pieces of clothing that I know I will wear instead of having loads. I hope you have a wonderful time in Nashville!
Love,
Thays
http://www.sillycrazyme.com
Hey,
don’t laugh at me – I did keep a fully packed Suitcase (except for the shoes) in my closet for the last four years. I did this because I spent 10 weeks per year in Vienna for education, and this way I could pack whenever I felt like it and just grab the suitcase when it was time. It is very practical, plus: I stored away selected clothes (means more room and “air” in the closet), Plus: I surprised myself with a wonderful capsule every time I opened the suitcase. Like a present from myself :)
I also developed the habit to pack a toiletries bag with samples, so I could just grab it and pack it with my shoes. I still keep this seperate toiletries bag, first, because I own a really beautiful one, secondly, it’s still very practical for my weekends at home/festivals/short weekend trips. Plus, as the bag is so beautiful, I can even misuse it as a clutch bag. Win-win-win!
I still think this is a great Idea, but as I’m not travelling so frequently by now, I don’t have a pre-packed suitcase any more (as I don’t know when the next time/Season/Climate will be when I hit the road again).
By the way, I got a lovely trolley suitcase from Lufthansa Vintage back then (sold in Austria by Tchibo Stores), it’s only the size of a Hand luggage Suitcase, but combined with the attachable Handbag (so no falling down, even when I’m hurrying), it’s the perfect combination! And I never need to worry about which handbag to bring.
Greetings from Austria/Europe!
Vivien
So Cute! oddly enough my husband and I were in Nashville this weekend for an anniversary trip! when setting my closet for spring I decided to tackle a capsule closet and have loved it! AND I used your tips when I packed :)
Love that indigo top. And I second the photography props upthread!
Quick question/maybe a blog post idea… how do you photograph outfit posts like these when you’re not wearing the clothes? Put item on white background, use good artificial lighting, photoshop shadows out, the photoshop items together?
Off to take the survey… :)
Leah from http://www.thriftshopchic.com
I really love packing list posts! But serious question: can you really rewear the clothes you flew in without needing to wash them? I feel like anything I travel in gets so stinky. Also if I wore something sightseeing all day, I would need to wash it. What am I doing wrong?? Or are you washing stuff in the hotel sink or something?
Hey Tarynkay! Two words: Travel steamer. I couldn’t travel without it. (Try the Pure Enrichment steamer from Amazon.) Of course, it takes care of wrinkles, but the super hot steam helps sterilize clothes on the go too. Honorable mentions goes to: using a Febreeze type of product (I like the Cold Iron brand) or simply hand washing clothes in the sink. Hope that helps! :) xo, Caroline
Where has this blog been my whole internet life? Exactly what I need — no peacocking outfits!
We recently went on a 8day vacation to portugal and we had 1small backpack each, and a handbag full of snacks, teabags, medicine and puking bags (only used the snacks-luckily!) I took two pants ( 1x comfy jogger made of slightly glittery fabric, and 1x very stretchy skinny Jean) one silk skirt, (never worn) 3x t shirts, 1x long sleeve and a fancy jumper. The undies I pack for holidays are always old and I throw them away every night.
Shoes I took some comfy leather ones, worked well on the plane as well as on location. I washed the t shirts a few times at night in the hotel sink. I am very proud for packing light and for looking cute in pictures and being comfy. Ok I’m done bragging!
Haha Raissomat! Well done — and very brag-worthy :) xo, Caroline
Lucky you going to Nashville!!! I was a couple of weeks ago and here you can find some recommendation on shopping and food! http://www.midorisobsessions.com/2016/05/nashville-route-61.html
Love how this trend is so effortless. So chic!
just got back here to take these tips for my next week travel! Very nice way to travel light, love it!
Thanks for this easy layout for cute outfits Caroline! Going to Nashville next month and wanted maximize space and style :-)
http://www.cupcakendreams.com
smart idea of dressing on holidays.
Thanks a ton for this all inclusive list.
You are simply awesome
Wondering where you found those black heel booties? And the black dress?? Thanks so much !!