Off To Europe
I’m taking a last minute trip to Europe this week- and it feels so special to be going with my dad and sister the same month I turned 40. I’m looking forward to making memories together that will last a lifetime.
My dad has always been the original adventurer in our family. Growing up, we’d pile into the back of his pickup truck for impromptu roadtrips to VW car shows across the East Coast. He’d sell parts, and my sister and I would sell pop and water out of a cooler.
As we got older, he made sure we experienced more of the world—New York City, Florida, California, Mexico- still by way of a pickup truck. The mix of spontaneity and resourcefulness shaped me.
The wanderlust stuck with me and eventually pulled me beyond our small town. When I studied abroad in London, he came to visit and we even made a visit over to the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg, Germany. He hasn’t left the country since- until now.
The best part about this trip? I didn’t have to plan a thing. My sister is attending a conference and managing the itinerary. Her only request? That I pack lightly because we’re going to be moving and grooving.
So here goes: 2 travel days, 11 days of adventure, one carry-on. I decided to center my wardrobe around a neutral palette with one pop of color: red. I’m also leaning a little sportier than usual. Summer is the best time to play with that kind of energy!
CLOTHING
4 Ribbed Tanks- These are my MVPs- lightweight and endlessly wearable. I’m packing two basics in grey and black, plus a thicker red one that can be dressed up or down depending on the day.
Linen Top– In case it gets a little breezy, this will go well over a ribbed tank or on it’s own with denim shorts.
4 Fashion Tops- Here’s where I’m having some fun. I’m bringing a vintage Missoni lurex tank for a dressier dinner out. Plus one new addition I bought for the trip! Then a breezy white tank for hot days and a structured tie front top I plan to wear in Copenhagen—the hometown of Ganni.
3 Maxi Dresses- I’m most excited to rewear my birthday splurge dress with sneakers. Also packing a black ribbed maxi for long walking days, and a gauzy red number from my friend’s company, Dawson the Label—perfect for twinning with my red Adidas.
3 Pairs Shorts- Bringing my bright floral shorts to pair with a simple black tank, and relying on my denim cut-offs for multiple days. Tossing in a pair of old Zara twill shorts as a backup—if the suitcase doesn’t zip, these will be the first to go.
Maxi Skirt- I’ve been trying out a white maxi skirt for the first time. It feels like such a timeless piece— curious to see how it wears on trip like this.
Linen Pants- This white elastic pair will pretty much work with every top I’m bringing. Might also wear on the plane home for a comfy cozy look.
Denim Jacket- There’s most always a place for my trusty Levi’s trucker in my suitcase.
Workout Set- Always try to squeeze yoga in on a big international trip, it really helps me pre and post long flights. I always count on Mary Beth LaRue’s virtual replays to help me land and reset. Ribbed leggings and a matching tank are my year round go-to.
Bathing Suit- We don’t have big beach plans but always good to bring one just in case. Same top and bottom I brought to Mexico.
Pjs- I always travel with a stripe set. If it’s too hot, I’ll just sleep in a ribbed tank. Will be grateful for Airbnb washers along the way!
SHOES & ACCESSORIES
Sneakers– I did buy these for the trip—once I started building around a color and style theme (red + sporty), they just made sense. I’ll be wearing them with almost everything.
Sandals– Sporty Birks do take up a bit of space, but I think they’ll be worth it. They add a cool, utilitarian vibe and are great for walking—as long as the weather stays cooler than Mexico.
2 Bags- Bringing this raffia tote that so easily folds down and my vintage Louis Vuitton Danube crossbody bag– one of my favorite ways to add a little streetwear edge to an outfit.
2 Pairs Sunnies- An easy way to add a little personality when you’re being a ruthless packer. A classic retro pair and one trendier shape will do the trick!
Mix of Jewelry Staples- Keeping it simple but expressive: gold hoops, a couple of vintage beaded necklaces.
Baseball Hat– Still TBD—she’s in the suitcase for now. Might be nice to have for sun coverage or a sporty moment. We’ll see if she makes the final cut.
TRAVEL NECESSITIES
Matching Travel Set- This knit set is SO flattering and cozy and is going to be perfect for the plane. My mom loves it so much too that she got it in 3 colors!
Cashmere Cardigan- My go-to cocoon sweater always comes on flights. This time I’m packing the grey one—it’ll work with the dresses I’m bringing too, I’ve heard Copenhagen runs cool.
Neck Pillow- This memory foam one is a game changer—you can twist it into different positions depending on how you like to sleep.
Leg Hammock– A client recommended this and it totally changed the game for me on my trip to Australia last fall. It helps take pressure off your hips and lets you curl up more naturally. Highly recommend and is only $15.
Sleep Mask- My favorite one, I never travel on long flights without it.
Noise Cancelling Headphones– I’m super sensitive to noise and stimulation in general and especially while flying, so these really help me stay grounded. I even wear them without sound just to block things out.
Compression Socks– A must for long flights. These are my tried-and-true.
Big Backpack– A friend recommended this one and said it’s like cheating the carry-on system—it fits so much and is a space-maximizer. Giving it a go this trip.
Toiletry Bag– Also trying a new one this time, same friend rec. I’ve always used my Cuyana pouches, but they don’t hold quite everything like this one does.
Away Luggage– Will be my tried and true assistant for the week!
When I’m back, I’ll share a little trip recap: where we stayed, what we ate, and what we loved most.
In the meantime, if you have any recommendations for Geneva, Annecy, Chamonix, or Copenhagen—I’d love to hear them. Think: vintage shops, gluten-free eats, great coffee, museums, or anything design-forward or inspiring. Thank you!
After this trip, I’ll be looking forward to getting back into a rhythm. I’m excited to pour my energy into the next 6 month cohort of Manifest Your Future and also a new Business Mastermind- more details coming soon.
