Fashionable travel essentials
A little over a year ago, I packed up my little Mazda, my little dog, and my little mom, and we drove to Northern California. Little did I know that as soon as I arrived, I’d be leaving it every three months — flying off to style clients in New York City and Houston.
It’s been an insane, exciting year filled with shopping, travel, and countless packing challenges. And of the many things I’ve learned, packing well might be the most important!
So, I’ve put together a list of my favorite (and most fashionable) travel essentials — the pieces I never fly without.
1. A LIGHTWEIGHT Scarf
I rarely go anywhere without a lightweight scarf. Similar to a sarong (if you don’t know about my love for sarongs, read about it here) but smaller, a scarf can be a lifesaver: pillow, eye cover, napkin, fashion accessory, blanket — it does it all. Choose natural fibers like cotton, silk, or cashmere for maximum coziness. And don’t be afraid to keep one stuffed in your bag at all times.
A few favorites:
Echo Amaryllis Silk Scarf — instantly elevates any outfit or airport look.
Zestt Organics Dreamsoft Travel Scarf — cozy, washable, and perfect for long flights.
Saachi Gauze Cotton Scarf — lightweight, breezy, and great for layering.
2. The Comfy (But Cute) Outfit
Luckily for those of us who care about looking good and being comfortable, there are plenty of elevated loungewear options these days.
Pact’s Airplane Collection is exactly what it sounds like — pieces designed for travel days that look polished but feel like pajamas.
I also love Athleta for long-lasting athleisure. The quality is consistently great, and the fabrics hold up for years. These fun pants can be mixed with patterns or textures to give your outfit an elevated, stylish look.
And my personal favorite: Pilcro’s Izzie Relaxed Pull-On Barrel Pants. They’re soft, modern, and pair just as well with sneakers and a tee as they do with boots and a sweater. I own them — and love them.
3. A Good Carry-On
These days, I always check a bag (usually full of clothes for clients), which means my carry-on can stay light and stylish. I pack only the essentials — book, journal, laptop, headphones, water, and a snack.
Favorites include:
Samsonite Better Than Basic Weekender — durable, minimal, and fits easily under a seat.
Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe — the perfect mix of practical and chic.
Prada Nappa Leather Duffle — yes, it’s an investment piece, but it only looks better the more you use it.
4. Small Pouches for All the Things
Because there’s nothing worse than digging through a bottomless tote for lip balm. I love having small pouches to separate jewelry, makeup, hair accessories, and random travel necessities.
A few favorites:
Tracey Tanner Flat Zip Pouches — perfect for jewelry or as a mini wallet.
Royce New York Double-Zip Leather Toiletry Bag — sleek and built to last.
Muji Wide Opening Nylon Pouch — lightweight and compact.
5. Headphones
Some might not call this a “fashion essential,” but for me, it absolutely is. Whether I’m on a flight, in the subway, or trying to sleep in a noisy hotel, good headphones are a must.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones — unmatched comfort and noise cancellation.
JBL Soundgear Sense — sleek and great for lighter listening.
6. Shoes
Airport security has made me appreciate one thing: shoes that slip on and off fast.
Vans Classic Slip-Ons — timeless, easy, and always look good.
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs — I never thought I’d be one to recommend Birkenstocks, but now I never leave home without at least one pair.
Sabah Flats — real leather, great prints, and surprisingly comfortable for walking through city streets.
Whether I’m catching an early flight out of Oakland or unpacking in Manhattan, these are the pieces that make my hectic travel feel less chaotic and more fashionable.
