I Recently Went to NYC, D.C., and L.A.—These Are the Items I’m So Glad I Packed

Prior to life getting upended by a Covid surge yet again, I spent half of November in December taking one trip after another, and packing or unpacking whenever I wasn’t traveling. Given how much I despise packing (especially packing for winter weather), it was a bit exhausting, but by the time I got around to trip number three, I was actually kind of in the swing of things, and in case you’re interested, I compiled some of the favorite things I packed.

While there was certainly some overlap among the contents of my suitcase (i.e. my favorite Agolde jeans), my activities in D.C., NYC, and L.A. were quite different, so I had to pack accordingly. And all three cities were chilly (yes, even L.A.), so coats, sweaters, and other winter gear were essential. While I’m happy to have a break from packing and traveling this month, I wouldn’t mind having somewhere to wear all of these fun things again. With that scroll for my winter packing favorites.

I layered this blazer under an oversize coat for dinner one night and it was the perfect combination.

I love that this cute skirt (which I wore with black tights) took up minimal room in my suitcase.

This jacket is a splurge, but it’s been the most-worn item in my closet this winter (and last).

I’ve been all about bags that are great for travel (this one easily flattens in a suitcase sans-damage).

I went to several crowded Broadway shows in NYC, so effective (and very chic) masks were essential.

I pack this for pretty much every fall and winter trip I take. (In this case, I wore it under the above pinstripe blazer). Additional sizes available here.

I love traveling with New Balance 996 sneakers because they’re lightweight and don’t take up much suitcase retail space.

Can you tell I’m obsessed with Totême? This kept me warm on a particularly cold day.

For the flight, of course.

Of course I brought my jewel-encrusted jeans to NYC.

I wore this cozy bodysuit to a concert. Highly recommend for a cold-weather night out.

These were a great alternative to jeans, and didn’t take up a lot of suitcase space.

The wind in D.C. can get pretty brutal. This trendy headband kept my ears nice and cozy.

The best disposable masks, hands down.

I love this jacket so much that I bought it in another color.

Based on how much I’ve worn these loafers since I got them last January, they’re worth every penny.

These jeans are literal perfection. (I went up a size for a more comfortable fit.)

I pack a pair of trendy sneakers for pretty much every trip.

I have this in black but I’m obsessed with this tan version as well.

I wore this beauty to our company’s holiday party, and it got tons of compliments.

These are the most comfortable heels I own right now, and I was able to stand in them for hours.

I wore this cute top on the flight—it’s great with high-waisted jeans.

This cotton cardigan was great for L.A.—just warm enough.

These affordable jeans are low-key amazing.

I own this in baby blue and I’m very tempted by this chocolate brown shade now.

These gorgeous earrings make any outfit more fancy.

I brought this on every trip—it’s the perfect size.

If you like comfortable, flattering jeans, I highly recommend these.

I got tons of compliments on this sweater from my stylish colleagues.

Next up, 29 fall and winter shoes that’ll actually fit in your suitcase.