The Essential Packing list
All Season ESSENTIALS
Sustainable Luxury
Sustainability
Natural fibers, including cotton, cashmere, merino wool and linen are remarkably sustainable. These fibers offer not only style but also a plethora of benefits for both our planet and our well-being.
Cotton, a versatile fiber that can be comfortably worn in any climate. Fun fact: Cotton is one of the most sustainable fibers available, as it is biodegradable and renewable. Its breathability and hypoallergenic properties make it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
Cashmere and merino wool, two luxurious fibers that are known for their ability to regulate body temperature. Fun fact: These natural fibers have excellent insulation properties, keeping us warm in colder climates while remaining lightweight. Additionally, both cashmere and merino wool are long-lasting and easy to care for, making them perfect companions for travel and everyday wear.
Linen, a fantastic natural fiber with unique qualities. Fun fact: Linen is made from the flax plant and is highly sustainable. It requires fewer resources to grow compared to other crops, and it is biodegradable as well. Linen’s ability to absorb moisture and its breathability make it ideal for hot and humid climates. Plus, a quick steaming session in the shower can easily remove any wrinkles, adding convenience to its list of benefits. Linen is not only used for clothing but also has historical significance in the production of paper. The earliest known paper was made from linen fibers, contributing to the durability and longevity of ancient manuscripts and documents
But my blog isn’t solely focused on fashion; it’s about sustainable luxury that benefits both our planet and our bodies. By choosing natural fibers, we contribute to a more sustainable future. These fibers are renewable, biodegradable, and often produced using eco-friendly processes. It also aligns with my values of environmental consciousness.
Fine Fabric Care Tips
Detergent
Portable Washing Machine
Portable Clothes Dryer
Detergent
- No fragrances, no dyes, no optical brighteners
- For wool and delicates
- Vegan, plant-based
- Dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin
- Woolmark certified
This is a good universal mild laundry detergent which I LOVE. You shouldn’t ever soak any natural fibered fabrics for very long. Just a gentle hand wash or machine wash in cool water will do the trick.
Portable Washing Machine
This is the coolest Portable Mini Washing Machine. It’s collapsible and super packable. It’s perfect for your undies, stanky socks, t-shirts, swimwear and baby clothes. Everything really. I wouldn’t suggest trying to stuff a bulky wool sweater in there, it simply won’t fit but wool cashmere hats and gloves, sure., scarves too and of course, only a on a short wash cycle.
Portable Clothes Dryer
This is another must have item, well, it’s not exactly a “must have” but it is sure is convenient when your kid jumps into the lake in his last clean pair of cotton dockers. So, I would suggest getting yourself a Portable Clothes Dryer . It is perfect when you’re camping, as I like to say, “glamping” in the cooler climates. I wouldn’t recommend it for your super fine cashmere or merino wool items, those are best laid flat on a rack to avoid stretching the fibers but the dryer is fine for everything else. It’s collapsible and packable as well. It’s just one of those things ….. nice to have that option. I am just sayin’.
The journey is my home. -
Muriel Rukeyser
The Art of Packing
Whether you’re planning a work-related trip or a weekend away with your partner or your besties, the task of packing can be daunting and even anxiety producing for some and a sheer delight for others. I am personally a mix of both. I have learned that a paramount factor in the process of packing is the selection of the perfect backpack – an embodiment of utility and impeccable design. Picture a backpack that transcends the ordinary, boasting an innate ability to curate meticulous order amidst the chaos of travel essentials and your favorite wardrobe from your cherished cashmere sweater to your most comfortable pajamas. Its standout feature? Effortless accessibility, the convenience when retrieving vital documents like passports or currency. Travel smarter and pack like a pro with this 45L Carry-on Backpack into a carry-on marvel, fitting seamlessly into the overhead compartments of planes or trains, nestling comfortably beneath seats, and even claiming its spot in the rear seat of a car. This particular 45L Carry-on ranks high on my list as it embodies the epitome of travel convenience and functionality. Let the journey begin.
- Packs like a suitcase
- Organizational Pockets
- 17″ Laptop Compartment
- Convenient Front Access Pocket
- Water Bottle Pocket
- *Upgrade and add an detachable pocketed hip belt
- Hidden pockets throughout
- USB Charging Port
- Compression Straps
- Retractable Key Leash
- Sunglass Holder
- Water Resistant Material
- Sternum Strap – oh no, not a sternum strap
- Luggage Strap
- Daisy Chain for carabiners
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST
– Cotton T-shirt – Crew neck and V necks
– Denim Jeans in various colors but classic blue jeans are versatile. Pack a stone washed lighter blue for casual looks and dark dark for evening & business casual look. Looks great with sweaters, blazers, camisoles, t-shirts and loose fitting tunics.
– Sweaters in various natural tones and colors depending on your preference and personal style. Personally, I always have my favorite oversized cashmere sweater. Could be Merino Wool or Mohair. I love it with jeans or leggings. Draped over the shoulders with a classic white t-shirt – also a nice look.
– Merino Wool or Cashmere Blazer – classic look tends to match everything. You can accessorize with something crazy or trendy depending your personal style.
– Canvas Tote Bags – These can also be used as accessories so go wild with pattern or color choice if that represents your personal style – all good
– Havaiana Flip-Flop sandals a must, Other sandals for various activities are also essential. I always pack a few pair and one just for inside of the house / hotel room / Airbnb since we’re a “shoeless household” at home and on the road.
– Sneakers, Tennis Shoes, Trainers – Your preference. I personally love trendy sneakers but Vans are dear to my heart being a Californian native
– Classic Ball Cap – I try and avoid cliches like NY Yankees but occasionally they work with the look. Once they fall out of trend, that’s when I will dawn that logo on my cap once again.
– Assorted camisoles and long sleeved knits – I prefer solid colors. They are understand elegance and go with everything. I pack one in every color.
– Bathing / Swim Suit – Just in case …
– An assortment of both Merino Wool and Cashmere sweaters varying in weight, colors and necklines
– Scarves – Merino Wool and Cashmere. I always pack several colors and weights
– Rain gear and– I prefer Ecoalf. It’s a breathable recycled polyester/ plastic bottles blend retrieved from the sea pollution clean up. They are are also super stylish.
– Boots or anything which is practical for the possibility of inclement weather. Make sure they are neutral and compliment all of your outfits right. The wrong shoe can really make you stand out in the wrong way.
– Layering Essentials: A must. I always pack plenty of t-shirts, camisoles and under garments. I love a good a good white t-shirt. The Vintage Cotton V-Neck by J. Crew is my favorite. I also love anything from James Perse. Worth every penny.
– Handbags and Totes. I always pack a few of each including one smaller day pack for walks around a city. I personally love my little IL Bisonte backpack but for a sportier look Nomatic is so perfect. You can also pack your iPad or Laptop. I LOVE this backpack.
– Wool Gloves, Hats and Cashmere socks – I always pack these in the colder months. Autumn weather can sometimes feel like Winter depending on where you are traveling so, it’s better to be prepared.
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BEAUTY
Since we absorb everything we put on our skin, I try, whenever possible to use all natural organic products. It’s better for our health and our planet. This Purifying Exfoliant is at the top of my list. All of their skin care products are next level.
Traveling with my moisturizing scented bath oils, natural cleansers, and exfoliates just make my trip that much more rejuvinating. Definitely walk into one of their shops and explore. It’s truly an experience. For now, try this travel jet set pack. The link is below.
I love the natural look so personally I go for products which are mostly organic, cruelty free, and free of harmful ingredients. ILIA is a good one. All of their products but let’s start with the base, the serum foundation.