Packing

Guys, I love getting on a plane. Wait, that’s actually not true. I HATE getting on a plane. But I love leaving NY to visit other locations in the country and all over the world so my fear doesn’t stop me from boarding! In a few weeks I’ll be heading over to the west coast. California is one of my favorite places to go. Beautiful weather and tons of people watching. And just like everything else in my life, being organized is key, even on vacation. I’ll be there for 6 days so packing the right way is crucial for me. Where do I begin?

SKINCARE & MAKEUP
OK; so honestly, how do I choose which items to bring? I keep such a huge assortment of skincare/makeup products at home because I’m OBSESSED. I knew this could be challenging so I made a list of necessities to start. Here are the basics:
1. Cleanser/Makeup Wipes
2. Toothbrush/Toothpaste
3. Moisturizer/Sunscreen (Face & Body)
4. Deodorant
5. Foundation
6. Palettes (Eyes & Cheeks)
7. Eye Cream
8. Sheet Masks (I don’t got anywhere without!)
9. Red and Nude Lip
10. Mascara & False Lashes
Those are what I consider to be my basic must-bring items for traveling. Do I throw in an extra item here and there for fun? YES! But you get what I mean. I probably won’t leave liners, makeup brushes or my beauty blender behind. Since I’m traveling with a checked bag as well as a carry-on, I’ll place my full size beauty products in a 28″ spinner from Samsonite similar to this.

SHOES
This coming trip will mostly be about comfort. I travel with trainers so one pair will serve as airplane attire and workout attire. Kill two birds with one stone. I like to make sure I have a casual flat as well as a dressy flat. One multi-functional heel is a must. Something that works with a pair of jeans and also a little black dress. For example these Gucci Sandals usually make it in my suitcase. A pair of flip flops come in handy for beach or pool time. And a bootie is always a good option because it’s also multi-functional. I’m bringing these. Metallic goes with everything!

WORKOUT GEAR
Staying healthy is so important to me. It doesn’t stop when I travel. Getting the heart rate up for at least 30 mins a day is important, especially as I’m getting older. Who says I can’t do it in style? I keep a few activewear brands on rotation to choose from like, Lululemon, Adidas, and Nike. For Cali I have a simple formula. Two leggings, 4 tank tops, 2 sports bras. When out of town, I always give my workout gear a hand wash or throw them in the laundry if accessible. Makes far more room in my luggage for other important items. Here’s the key: a small bottle of detergent!

THE REST!
OK so I gave you all the sides. Here is the meat! And it’s simple. My key travel items usually stay consistent. I HAVE to have at least one coordinate set that can be dressed up or down. I love outfits like these because you can wear them together or add the top or bottom to other pieces. It gives me options. At least two flowy maxi dresses always make it to the bag. It’s another great option for day to night looks. Tees and/or tanks in black and white (I don’t play with a lot of color when it comes to basic pieces). 2 evening dresses are essential. There will be a couple of nights on the town where I want to be playful and flirty with my clothes. My boyfriend will be with me so we have to keep it fun! Lounge-wear and PJ’s are my favorite things to wear also! When we want to stay in, something like this from Eberjey is extra comfortable and appropriate. Then you have your extras: bras, panties (2x the # of days), socks and shapewear (let’s not pretend like we don’t throw a pair a spanks in just in case)!

There you have it. Pretty simple right? Packing doesn’t have to be this huge deal. And you DON’T need to bring everything in your closet. A medium sized pouch is with me every day that holds things like lysol to-go, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, pain relievers, hand cream, etc. (Yea I’m that person) Pack smart. Bring convenient effective items that work every time. Your skincare nor your style have to be compromised.

What are some of your favorite ways to pack when traveling? What do you bring with you without question? I’d love to hear!

xo IKA

Coach Leather Weekender – J’ADORE

Let’s be clear, I’m not going anywhere special for the long Memorial Day weekend! 🙁 I’ll be entertaining guests at home. But for those of you taking a quick trip, here is a little guide for long weekend essentials. I’d say you’d be good to go with a bag full of must-haves 😉

1. Personal Items: If you’re going to a hotel, you won’t need to bring items like soap and shampoo unless you can’t live without your favs. But there are a few things that should always be in your weekend bag so that you don’t need to make an extra trip to the drugstore.
-Basic Toiletres such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturizer, facial cleanser, makeup remover, hairbrush
-Feminine products shouldn’t be left behind. Even if Aunt flow isn’t joining you on your trip, keep one or two light days in the bag just in case!
-Over-the-counter medications. You can fit all of the necessities into one box. Allergy pills, Aleeve, Vitamins, etc

2. Clothing: Here’s where it gets tricky. It’s hard not to over pack because you feel like there might be a reason for an extra stiletto. But for a quick weekend getaway, these items should be sufficient and make the cut for a medium sized bag.
-Underwear quantity should be double the days. That’s my personal opinion. I don’t know guys…I feel like you could never have enough panties! lol Underwear doesn’t take up too much space so we’re safe here.
-Shoes are important. It’s just a few days; we really only need one pair of shoes right? WRONG! 😉 Listen, how do you know if your feet are not going to be too tired for heels? Keep two pairs of heels as an option for evenings and a comfortable flat just in case this mini vacay calls for mostly being on your feet. One pair of flip-flops works for beach get-a-ways, and a pair of sneakers works if you plan on working out while enjoying your time off!
-Sweaters or Cardigans help! I personally like to choose one basic cardigan or sweater that can go with everything. You may not use it but it’s nice to have in case the evenings are chilly or you end up with an overly air-conditioned room. Try something in heather grey, or navy blue. Yellow even! We don’t always have to bring black!
-Sleepwear is super essential. I’m a one light weight and one heavy weight PJ kind of gal. You never know what the temperature will have you feeling like so it’s important to pack both in my opinion. I’m a sucker for pajama sets. You don’t have to be. Wear what’s comfortable for you 😉

3. Accessories: These are always in my travel bags. I’m that girl with jewelry options. A few pairs of earrings, rings and bracelets are kind of a need for me. Pick a moderately sized pouch that can fit a few pieces and you’re set. A key piece of mine would be a statement necklace. Some funky bracelets would be a bonus. And let’s not forget a bold ring!

4. Makeup: Makeup is on me wherever I go. But for a long weekend, I would add one or two fun eye-shadow colors and definitely a few bold colored lipsticks to jazz up one or two or ALL of my outfits. Try a blue or green eyeliner on your lower lid for a different effect! Don’t forget a pair of false eyelashes!

I hope these packing tips help. Here’s a site I found that gets into more detail about ways to perfectly pack for getaways: The Minimalist Packing List Check it out and let me know what you think! What will be in your bag this weekend?

xo IKA

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VACATION SOON COME! HOW DO I PACK?

LONG WEEKEND PACKING!