The Art of Packing: Six Easy Tips

If you use these six tips from Pamela Williams, Midwest merchandise coordinator of Eileen Fisher as a guide, it will make the process of packing for your next spring get away simple. Just remember these 6 words and packing will be a cinch every time:

SIMPLICITY

Maximize your options by building a wardrobe filled with clothes that have modern shapes and clean lines to create the foundation of your wardrobe. Select styles and shapes which flatter your body type. Make sure they provides enough ease so that if you begin the on a city tour and end it at the opera, it doesn't matter. Also consider the fabric. Think washable. If a crisis occurs in the form of a spilled glass of wine, just rinse in the sink and hang to dry. By the morning, it will be ready for another day of sightseeing.

BEAUTY

Now that you have your foundation pieces, look to add a piece with an interesting texture to add an element of easy drama. Consider a reversible jacket so you have two beautiful looks in one jacket. Wear it one way in the morning as you explore art galleries and then turn it inside out for a new look for your dinner reservation at the newest bistro in town. Two great looks for two different functions in one piece!

FUNCTION

Make sure to pack knits in season-less fabrics. Knits are perfect for traveling, as they don't confine the body and wrinkle less. Knits also layer easily and look good on everyone. Layer up for cooler climates or lightly layer for warmer climates. They are perfect for throwing over your shoulders to ward off an evening chill.

COMFORT Items with a touch of stretch make traveling more comfortable and wrinkle less in suitcases or on the body, thanks to the resilience of Lycra. Consider packing bottoms (skirts and pants) that have modern elasticized waistbands that sits just below your belly button, allowing you to say "yes" to the signature dessert of the region you're visiting.

EASE

Staying stylish becomes easy when nearly everything in your suitcase coordinates with one another. Consider packing mostly neutrals such as white, pebble, and black and add fresh accents of seasonal colors to add some spring (colors) to your step! Neutrals also provide a great palette for the interesting accessory you couldn't resist when you wander into an artist's shop in the Old Town section while spending your day in port.

VERSATILITY

A textural scarf or wrap is a luxurious accessory to add to any outfit and is a simple way to elevate a look. This season's Wraps are a key accessory to add a twist of color to an outfit and to keep you cozy as you travel by plane, train or automobile. Consider wraps in natural fibers. Why use a synthetic airline blanket when you have the option of a luxurious wrap made of natural fibers? Your ticket may say economy class but you'll feel like you're traveling on a private jet.

Added Bonus:

Pack a great anorak -- it can be worn in the city, in the country or by the beach. Look for one that is sporty, yet sophisticated. The pockets are perfect for energy bars or unexpected purchases. As an added bonus, many come with a zip pouch for travel. It barely counts as adding another item to your wardrobe!

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