The idea of a ‘packing post mortem’ was something one of my YouTube subscribers asked for in response to my recent Capsule carry On Video, where I shared exactly what I packed for a 6 day trip in Washington DC where I would need multiple outfit changes for various occasions and I wanted to travel carry on only.
They asked me to share what I actually wore from what I packed and to review if there was anything I would do differently next time/any mistakes I made and I just thought that sounded like a great thing to review here.
I recommend watching the video below first where I share exactly what I packed and how I styled all the pieces to create looks, but for context I packed a total of 22 items, which included clothing, shoes, bags and accessories like jewelry/belts etc and it all fit into my carry on suitcase.
I was coming to Washington for a coaching conference (for anyone who doesn’t know I’m also a business coach for creative freelancers and you can find out more about that here). This meant I needed outfits for dressy events, dinners out and outfits I could wonder around the city in on my down time.
Using my Indyx app I made a packing list and because I knew I would need at least two outfits per day I created a minimum of 16 outfit options using those 22 pieces. I could have easily made more, but I didn’t want to overwhelm myself.
My goal is always to look elevated, put together, but still feel comfortable, because that’s what makes me feel like my best self.
What did work?
Trying all the outfit combinations on before I packed them. Even with the help of my beloved Indyx app, I still think where i’ve fallen short in the past is not trying the outfits on to confirm if they are indeed comfortable.
Packing my large Longchamp foldable tote bag as I was able to use this as my personal item in addition to my Away bigger carry on and meant I could carry my Hermes Kelly in there as well as any additional items I received at the conference on the flight back.
Taking only two pairs of shoes and wearing one on the flight saved soooo much room. And both pairs worked brilliantly.
Packing my Toteme trench coat was a last minute decision based on the weather forecast, but one that served me well.
Having the option to create multiple looks from less, vs locking in a look for each day in advance meant I still had some flexibility to lean into what I felt like wearing each day. Nothing about what I bought with me felt restrictive, or rigid, but I also wasn’t spinning out over what I should wear for any given scenario.
Borrowing from friends. One of the best things about being on a no buy 365 wardrobe challenge is you can borrow from your stylish friends. Enter my friend Gina (my hotel roomie) who has the most incredible jewelry collection, including a pair of vintage Chanel coin Earrings that I wore to dinner one night. That alone made my outfits feel exciting and fresh, and it didn’t cost me a penny!
What didn’t work?
Honestly? Not a lot. Nearly everything got worn, with one(ish) exception. The only items I didn’t wear surprisingly enough was my co-ord set, however I’m still calling it a win because in the past i’ve always over packed, to the point where sometimes 50% of my suitcase goes unworn. As far as i’m concerned this is huge progress!
To the point where I don’t think I would do anything different next time. I felt comfortable the entire trip. There were no regrets for what I did bring, or pining for things I could have bought instead.
To Conclude…
Having a capsule carry on that was well thought out and consisted of pieces I love wearing meant I was able to spend more time having fun and being present. Every outfit felt like me and was true to my personal style.
Getting dressed each day was effortless. There was no over thinking, and I never had to sacrifice comfort for style.
I think what made this so effortless is two fold, 1) I feel like i’m at a point in my life where I know my style very intimately AND 2) I have curated a wardrobe of quality pieces that work really hard for me. If you’ve been struggling to find your personal style, you can take my free 10 day challenge here.
Also, just a heads up, if you’re a paid subscriber here, i’m going to be creating a series of styling lessons that you will be the first to receive.
Thanks so much for reading.
Harry xo