29. Style That Fits in My Carry-On

My little summer capsule for 4 days in Mexico.

Some lighter reading material as the weather officially warms up. I used to be the girl who overpacked and could never take a trip without her large check-in luggage, and I have slowly undone my ways and approach to travel and packing since then. Short flights within Europe, too short of layovers, annoying luggage weight rules, last minute travel plans and only a few hours to decide what to bring with you. All reasons to pack a carry-on. In my case here, 4 days in the heavy heat of Riviera Maya, Mexico, packing just a carry-on made the most sense. It was technically a work trip with Guerlain, but we actually had many, many hours of downtime that I was able to get into full vacation mentality. I am such a carry-on girl now, especially in the warmer months, and I’ve embraced it full on as I have found that the less weight in my luggage translated to less weight on my mind. I didn’t realize that so much of the stress and overthinking that came along with traveling went hand in hand with the idea that I needed to be prepared for anything and everything on a trip, so I would overpack things just in case I needed them. Of course, it always ended up that I didn’t actually need the majority of what I brought at all, and it was all just a waste of space physically. Not only that, but also a waste of space in my brain spent thinking about organizing the clutter upon arrival when really I should be doing anything but that. Today, just the idea of lugging around non-essentials makes me feel like a hoarder on vacation, and I just won’t allow that to slide anymore. Vacations aren’t vacations without the physical and mental space. This is where the whole less is more life mentality kicks in and you just need to roll with it. Thank me later.

The idea of a capsule wardrobe that is interesting and also no fuss doesn’t stress me out and allows me to focus more on the relaxing portion of the trip which should be the majority of the trip. I do enough of outfit making and hair doing and makeup applying during my normal working days at home, so it’s the last thing I want to dedicate my energy to do while on vacation. 4 days in Mexico and I felt like I was able to wear a really good amount of looks that I felt really confident and chic in. I’ve learned to approach packing in a way that focuses on how I can make the most out of the least amount of pieces, without sacrificing color, texture and pattern. And I give a small amount of space for foundational, neutral pieces (my black bikini that I’ve had for years and is still my go-to) that can be mix and match with the more bold and fresher pieces of the season. It’s been refreshing to travel with less clutter and instead replace a potential mess with more creativity, and more time for the well deserved rest and recharge.

These are the pieces that make up my summer capsule wardrobe:

Red button up shirt

Red is my color of choice this summer. It’s the new black for me basically. The most simple and minimal of swimsuits looks so good under a red button up. One of my favorites is this one from Ann Taylor because it’s a tone of red that is super bold and bright.

Simple red bikini

The red bikini has is a summer staple for me. If you want something subtle to peak out from under your cover up, it has to be this pop of red. This one from Vitamin A is so classic and fiery at the same time.

Polka dot skirt

The polka dot skirt is just as essential to me as a summer stripe. And I really fell in love with this red polka dot skirt from J. Crew that had me riding my red color wave full on this trip. I got it on sale and it is no longer available anymore, but any polka dot skirt will do, like this one HERE. Or I recommend hitting up The Real Real and finding one second-hand.

Pull on loose-fitting pants

I can’t go on vacation without a pair or two or three of roomy pants that go with all my swimwear as tops, and that I can wear either high on my waist or low on my hips. This LESET Kyoto Carpenter Pant has a fit that gives me both options, depending on how I feel (and how many breakfast quesadillas I ate). These are so incredible and so comfortable. And they come in some fun colors.

Rafia hat

Sun protection! Sun protection! The rafia hat is the ultimate summer protection. Also, it’s the perfect reason to not do my hair. I’m wearing this one from Janessa Leone, but I also love this more affordable version from Uniqlo HERE. The Uniqlo one is more soft and easy to pack. I love to wet and slick my hair back and throw on a hat. So chic.

White cotton mini skirt

This ANIM Living white cotton mini skirt is such a star piece of my summer capsule. It is lightweight, breathable and goes with everything. The best thing about warm weather beach vacations is that swimwear is the best sort of top, and this skirt goes with all of them. Or maybe a baby t-shirt, or a sheer cotton top or a linen button up worn over open, there are so many options to play with here when it comes to styling. This skirt has little front slits in the front which give it some extra flair. I love a simple piece with a quirky punch.

Zebra print swimsuit.

I’ve been living in this Ziah zebra print bikini since my trip to Brazil in December. There is something so classic about this pattern. To me, it’s like a polka dot or a leopard print. A striking essential that just a peek of gives so much personality.

Sheer sequined skirt

This Baum und Pferfgarten sheer sequined skirt acts like a cover up on the beach, baring just enough skin but does so in an elegant way. I love how I can instantly go from a dip in the ocean, dry off and pull it on over my swimsuit and go straight to dinner. The ease of transitioning from one activity to the next is what I keep in mind when I pack for a summer getaway like this.

Mesh ballet flats

So easy and breathable in hot weather. And as close to barefoot as one can get while still looking chic. The quality of these Dear Frances Balla Mesh Flats in Candy really stand out, and this soft color is something different for my wardrobe but complements so well a lot of the other colors that I brought along on this trip.

Crochet tank top

This crochet top from Saint Art was a last minute addition to my carry-on and I’m really glad I included it because it makes a perfect beach cover up. Paired with a micro short, it feels like something Jane Birkin would have worn on vacation.

Crochet skull cap

I love headwear on vacation because most of the time I cannot bother doing my hair. Usually I keep my hair damp and oiled up to slick back or hide under a hat. On this trip I pulled out this vintage crochet cap that I almost forgot about and felt this reawakening of my love for bohemian pieces. I had to hide my bangs underneath and I almost felt like I should grow out my bags just so I can wear more caps like this. Let’s see how summer goes. For now, I’ve been eyeing more of these kind of caps and you can find a really great alternative on Mango. I also love it in a bright pink color like this one HERE on Mango. So fun for styling!

A summer evening dress

For me, the ultimate summer evening dress is all about draping in breathable fabrics. I also love focusing on a pretty neckline that has a unique shape in the summer when I want to feel more dressy. I brought this gorgeous Baobab maxi dress with fringe detailing and a halter neck in a rich festive color. Or this other option, the Baobab Kuma Maxi Dress, has a gorgeously draped material across the front and a cascade of fabric that falls over one shoulder. So dramatic while also feeling natural. Hair slicked packed. Minimal makeup, just a rosy cheek and a hint of color on the lips is all you need for dinner by the waves.

Iterations of this list here is what got me through my 4 days in Mexico and allowed me to feel inspired while dressing up, without the fuss and stress of having too many options. Space and time and peace of mind is priceless.