Whether it’s for business or pleasure, when it’s time to pack your bags ladies, plan ahead to look your best. All it takes is a little know how, a dash of creative organization and some stylish intent. Read on …

What will you be doing while you’re away?

Keep the purpose of your trip in mind as you go about picking and choosing separates. Make sure to pack at least one formal outfit to wear for a special dinner or the like. It’s always a good rule of thumb to dress up as opposed to dress down. When in doubt, always dress fancier. Go easy on casual attire- tee shirts and cutoffs are better left at home.

Natural colors such as black, white and beige make for easy mixing and matching and solids are preferable to patterns and more vibrant colors. Do you have a signature? Do you like to wear a certain kind of hat, scarf, pin, pair of earrings or necklace? If so then by all means bring it with you. The familiar is always welcome and bringing your special, unique “fashion statement or identifier” with you is comforting and stylish.

What to bring?

When in doubt go with these well-chosen pieces- four bottoms (pants and skirts are the most versatile choices); six tops (make sure they match with at least three of your bottoms); three warm layers (such as a blazer or cardigan), one dress (make sure it matches with the blazer), four pairs of shoes- dressy pumps or sling backs for nighttime glamour, flatties, such as ballet flats or mules, that dress you up or down easily; sandals or flip-flops for casual daytime wear if you’re venturing to a warm location and a good walking shoe that breathes (fold-up sneakers, canvas shoes or even a comfortable pair of moccasins) and two bags/ purses, a bigger purse or tote bag for days and a smaller more elegant clutch for nights.