It’s been years since I traveled to Europe, so now that I’m heading to London and Paris in a few weeks, I’m going in with intense preparation. We’re always covering British and French fashion here at Who What Wear, so I’ve already done a little stalking of the fashion sets we always rely on to set the stage for what’s chic. Opposite of a tropical vacation, I’m sticking to simple basics with a touch of trends for this trip. You’ll still catch me in a few pops of color, but I’m laying the groundwork for my suitcase below.
It’s been my dream to visit Europe in the fall, so I’ve put a lot of thought into this packing list. I’m an avid traveler who’s never checked a bag, so you know I take my packing very seriously. I’ll plan (and document) my outfits ahead of time, organize my suitcase and personal bag to the brim, and use packing cubes—expect the whole nine yards. If you’re a planner like I am and want to see what clothing items are a top priority on my trip, keep scrolling.
I never thought I’d become one of those girls who wear blazers on a plane, but yes, that time has come. I love throwing on an oversize blazer over a simple T-shirt and leggings, as it’s still comfortable and makes me feel like a celebrity being paparazzi’d at LAX. Not to mention it’ll be the finishing staple for many outfits I have planned.
Since I’ll be visiting in the fall, cardigans are a priority on my checklist. I can throw them on for additional warmth or wear them over my shoulders as a chic accessory. I’m already envisioning pairing mine with a slip dress and easy flats for one of the days.
Thanks to the ’90s revival, slip dresses have exceeded the trend category and become a wardrobe staple. I always like to pack one, as they make a great layering piece under button-downs, blazers, and sweaters.
Whether you’re hiding the jet-lag-induced tired eyes or caught on an overly sunny day, sunglasses are necessary. I don’t own many, so you’ll always catch my sleek black pair in my carry-on.
Surprisingly, I don’t tend to wear jeans much when traveling. While jeans are my go-to for running around NYC, I’m prepared to take my usual outfits and update them for this trip. I also find trousers to be more breathable than jeans, which is perfect since my itinerary is chock-full of bakeries and pasta restaurants.
Thankfully, many WWW editors have visited London in the past and have told me the weather can be unpredictable. Not only will a trench coat match everything else I’m packing, but it’ll also prepare me if I happen to come across a rainy London day.
Sneakers are a must no matter where you’re visiting. London and Paris both call for quite a bit of walking, so I know future me will be thanking current me for this decision.
Technically, this isn’t going in my carry-on, since I’ll be wearing it on the plane for space-saving purposes. However, it’s still a necessary item to bring. I’ve been told the temperatures in London and Paris can quickly drop, and a leather jacket is an easy option that’ll make any outfit instantly look cool.
In the past, I’ve made the mistake of packing way too many handbags. (It’s not worth the space!) Instead, I’ll be packing a staple handbag that’ll go with most of my looks so I have more room for my daily outfits.
I’m a certified outfit repeater, and my trove of striped shirts is often the most-worn from my wardrobe. It’s a classic print and can be styled in a plethora of ways. Wear them over a slip dress, tuck them into trousers, and wear them loosely over leggings with a cardigan—all options will look great.
I can’t be bothered with heels while traveling, so when I look to make an outfit a little bit dressed-up, ballet flats are the way to go. My favorite fashion follows from London or Paris are always wearing them, so I know they’ll fit the vibe of this trip.
Next, I’m 23 and Work in Fashion—See the Fall Trends I’m Saying Hello and Bye To