Packing List: Shop Girl: luckymag.com

Packing List

12:00 AM, August 07 2008 by Emily Hsieh

Editor in chief Kim France once commented that she wished she liked traveling as much as she liked buying luggage, which I can relate to. As much of a grind as travel often is, somehow I still get swept away with the fantasy of what to take with me on the road. This includes not just what bag I'll carry but (if you've been keeping up with this blog the following will be obvious) what to wear on the plane and, perhaps most of all, figuring out the perfect combination of versatile, easily packable pieces that would prove useful wherever I end up. Here are a couple things I've found I can always count on, no matter what the season or whether I'm traveling on vacation or for work:

1) Virginia Johnson merino shawl. It's made of sheer wool that serves as a good light layer in the summer and makes for a cozy scarf in the winter. It also functions as a blanket on the plane and even though it has a print, in a neutral color like this cement gray, you can wear it with just about everything. Now is the time to buy one, since they're on sale for $97 (was $195).

2) London Sole Pirouette ballet flats. These are great on the weekends with jeans but could still look totally office-appropriate, and with their low-cut front they're sexy enough for going out too. I put pads in mine to make them even more comfortable, and if you get them in suede, they're especially easy to wedge into the side of a suitcase. I have them in black but already decided that my next pair will be in navy.

3) Diane von Furstenberg jersey dress. I bought this piece earlier in the year and have been wearing it nonstop. The possibilities are endless: with high-heeled pumps for cocktails; with a denim jacket and flats to make it more casual; layered with tights and a slouchy cardigan come winter; with flip flops in the heat... I could go on and on. And it won't wrinkle no matter what you do to it. On sale now for $219 (was $365), though sizes are somewhat limited.

So now it's your turn: Are there certain things in your closet that always wind up in your suitcase? If so, I'd love to hear about them.

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Archived Comments (10) Click to expand

I always keep a well-stocked make-up bag--thankfully, well-stocked doesn't have to mean overstuffed!

Pond's Clean Sweep Cleansing Towelettes: I usually don't wear make-up boarding the plane as I like to catch some Z's during the flight. Once the captain's landing announcement is made, however, I groggily sweep one of these awesome little towelettes across my face. The fresh smell perks me up immediately.

Tarte's "Smooth Operator" Foundation in Facade: Once my face has been rescued from the awful dryness of the cabin's recycled air, I blend in a thin layer of this anti-oxidant rich concoction all over my visage. It makes my skin dewy.

MAC "Tenderling" Blush: Just a cute, muted shade to make my cheeks look sprite-ly.

Covergirl Lash Exact Mascara: The ultimate eye-opener! Two coats ensures lashes are lush and dark. You'd be surprised at how much a quick bout with mascara can make your eyes look alive and energetic after a long-haul flight.

Posted August 7, 2008 8:50 AM by Insensibility

word. loving the shawl! they are so great for traveling, too.

Posted August 7, 2008 5:14 PM by elvis

...i always bring a pair of flip flops (for swimming or down time) and my favorite sweater at the moment. but, i like the idea of a shawl so much better. i am not as particular about my make-up bag as i am about my perfume, which i can't travel anywhere without!

Posted August 7, 2008 5:18 PM by elvis

I always find myself using a shawl as a blanket while traveling. You're right, a lightweight wool shawl is usually perfect any time of year!

As for the issue of versatile and work appropriate attire, I never travel without my sleeveless Vince top (cotton with sequins). It's comfortable and can be worn with leggings, flats, and a shawl. Upon arrival, I like to pair it with pants or a skirt to create a dressier or more work-appropriate look.

Posted August 8, 2008 9:01 AM by aaa1217

Great tips! I'm flying to New York on Thursday and will definitely keep this post in mind. I just ordered a pair of tan and cream London Soles. Are there any particular brands of insoles you'd recommend?

Posted August 9, 2008 12:54 AM by Lucite

London Sole actually sells insoles in different sizes that fit their flats exactly. I've tried (and been happy with) both those and the cut-to-fit, Dr. Scholl's variety. Hope you find the shoes as useful as I have! -- Emily

Posted August 11, 2008 10:03 AM by luckyshopgirl

I always take my cashmere shawl that I bought at Nordstrom to double as a blanket/scarf?I find airplane blankets very unappealing! I also always pack my Bliss hand lotion, Kiehl?s lip balm and face moisturizer for on the plane. For me, the most comfortable flying outfit is a comfy pair of jeans, a tank top, flip flops, and a cardigan.

Posted August 11, 2008 2:47 PM by emilyb83

Hi!
I just purchased the Diane von Furstenberg dress online, but the smallest size was a 6. I was just wondering how it fits? According to the size chart, I would be a size 2.. but I have never worn a dress that is size 2 in my life.
Would you say the dress is true to size? Or will it be fine a little loose?
Thank you!

Posted August 18, 2008 1:30 AM by kawaeegirl

I bought the dress in my usual size. The fit is intentionally loose, but the jersey drapes nicely so it doesn't look unflatteringly baggy. Hope it works out for you! - Emily

Posted August 18, 2008 4:01 PM by luckyshopgirl

my shawl arrived saturday and i don't think i took it off the rest of the weekend. It will be perfect for upcoming travels!

Posted August 18, 2008 5:30 PM by k8shops