This blog will provide additional Indiana Women’s Stylist packing tips and delve more deeply into exactly which clothes I took, wore, and what worked. I ended up picking some colors that would go together to make some outfits — starting with my coats. My workout coat was pale lavender, and I had a coordinating hat that worked with all the outfits. The other coat was a wool coat in hot pink by Kate Spade, which virtually upgraded anything I wore underneath. The quilted coat was quick drying, an option I recommend.
Packing Tips from an Experienced Indiana Women’s Stylist
Build outfits, not piles of clothes.
Instead of packing individual pieces just in case, plan complete outfits. Choose neutral colors or core colors (mine were plum, pink, magenta, purple, and navy) that mix and match easily, allowing you to create multiple looks from fewer items. Stick to a simple rule: pack items you love and wear often at home. If you wouldn’t reach for it in your closet, it doesn’t belong in your suitcase.
Here is a list of products that are the exact ones I wore or close.
Coat: Kate Spade; plum heather blazer, JCrew Factory; stripe sweater, JM McLaughlin; pink sweater, JCrew Factory; Turtleneck, JM McLaughlin; boots, Vince; skirt, Loft; metallic silver blouse; blue jeans, Mother; velvet purple pants, JM McLaughlin
My core colors were shades of hot pink, dark to lighter; plum, purple, navy. Black shoes coordinated with all of it. Not pictured is a purple silk cami.
Use smart folding techniques.
Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space and reduces wrinkles. For structured items like jackets or dresses, fold carefully and place them on top. I am a fan of packing cubes! They make it easy to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Limit shoes and bulky items.
Shoes take up significant space, so aim for no more than two or three pairs: one you wear, one casual pair, and one dressier or activity-specific option if needed. Stuff socks or small items inside shoes to maximize space. Wear your bulkiest clothing—such as coats or boots—during transit.
Keep essentials accessible.
Pack important documents, chargers, medications, and a change of clothes in an easy-to-reach spot. This is especially helpful during long travel days or in case of delays. A small personal item or backpack works well for these must-haves.
Leave room for the return.
Always pack with extra space in mind. Whether it’s souvenirs or unexpected purchases, having room prevents the need for frantic rearranging on the last day.
Efficient packing isn’t about bringing less—it’s about bringing what truly works for you. With thoughtful planning and smart choices, you’ll travel lighter, move easier, and start your trip feeling organized and confident.
Of course, I did go shopping in San Francisco and was happy to find some basics I can wear at home with some blazers I don’t wear very much. One was a navy silk polka dot blouse, and the other a knit polo in cream with a black collar.
Reach Out for Indiana Women’s Stylist Guidance
If you need help organizing your trip wardrobe, reach out! It is a service I do quite often, and sometimes we realize you need some basics to round out your wardrobe!
Email me at beth@bethdivinestyle.com and let’s discuss an Indiana Women’s Stylist guidance appointment.
Keep it sassy, Indy
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
