‘Trunk’ call

How do you pack when you’re travelling, to ensure that you look chic, but with minimal effort? Here’s what should go into your suitcase:

By :  julie sam
Update: 2015-09-06 01:09 GMT
Archana of StyleCracker advises teaming a fine knit sweater over a tank top with leggings while catching a flight (Photos: Asian Age)
From holidays to work visits — we’re all travelling more and more. And having to look your best when you're effectively living out of a suitcase isn’t the most easy of things. Travel dressing isn’t just about glamour — it’s also about practicality: You’ll be spending long hours in these outfits after all, and possibly experiencing changes in weather. We got celebrity stylists and designers to give you a cheat sheet in packing chic! 
 
For women
Archana Walavalkar, co-founder of StyleCracker says:
When en route, my best bet is layering. I would go for a fine knit sweater over a simple tank top and breathable leggings. One could like to carry a jacket (that’s compact enough to throw into a handbag) and a shawl. Practical footwear is a must, especially if you’re going to catch connecting flights. Rushing from one terminal to another in heels is tiring and cumbersome. Sneakers are a cool option. Pair them with warm socks that will keep you warm and cosy on the plane.
 
If you are going to the beach for a vacation, find separates that are easy to match and that work from am to pm. Since the swimsuit is the focus of any beach outfit, carry multiple options. They take up little space and won’t add much weight to your luggage. Pick multi-purpose styles like a bandeau that doubles up as a crop top over shorts. Sheer cover-ups like a chikan kurta also work well for a day away from the shore. To finish the look, go with gladiator tie-up sandals or havaianas and delicate jewellery.  
 
If you are looking to relax at a countryside location, the key is to be fuss-free. Pack a pair of wellies:  They work whether it’s raining, cold. If you decide to go for a trek or a long walk, it will also protect your feet and shins against bug bites. A cape is a fashionable yet sensible outer — it allows for movement, doesn’t constrict you but still keeps you comfy and covered. 
 
Designer and celebrity stylist Eshaa Amiin says:
Opt for comfy outfits while travelling. One can carry a top with a trip jacket and a pair of distressed denim to look trendy and cool. If you are going to be hitting the beach, always pick something that is comfortable and enjoyable like a kaftan or cover up that can be easily thrown over a bikini. If it’s a summer vacation, carry the essentials like a pair of flip flops, denims, lightweight day wear like short dresses, shirts and tops with scarves or a hat accompanied by shades. While packing for a winter vacation always carry basic outfits that you can mix and match along with a jacket or maybe a scarf and pair of sneakers. Be it a summer or winter vacation, one or more nightwear is a must. Never fill up your bag completely, keep some extra space to carry goodies that you will shop for while vacationing.
 
Designer duo Armaan & Aiman say:
When you are travelling by air, slip into comfortable silhouettes along with a tote and heels. Also, keep a bikini if you are travelling for a beach destination. Trendy monokinis or bikins, shades, sarong in a preppy colour scheme are a few options you could play with for a chic look. 
 
For a weekend in the city, you could also opt for a black pea coat over a crisp button-down blouse and distressed jeans. A pair of jeans with boyish brogues, a tucked-in T-shirt, and loose waves or even a draped maxi with a jacket works wonders. 
 
For men
Designer Piyush Dedia says:
If your travel is going to be time-consuming, keep it simple. Opt for a pair of jeans or chinos keeping your legs warm. If you are off for a summer holiday, make it a point to carry your sunglasses. 
 
If you are going to spend a lot of time in the water, opt for swim shorts, and as it is with menswear in this area —  the brighter the better. You could also team a vest with a loosely fitted short for your lazy days. Short sleeved shirts in linen or cotton or lights and even T-shirts with Aztec print are also a good choice.
 
If you are going to an extremely cold climate, use thermal underwear to stay cosy. The best way to jazz up an outfit and stay warm is with a nice cardigan. Jeans may take up a lot of place in luggage but good jeans are a staple and can instantly make even the most budget backpacker look smart. 
 
Designer Anuj Madaan says:
While travelling, opt for natural fabric clothes, hiking shoes, hats, water bottles, grooming kit. If you are on a vacation, team a coloured jacket, hat or a solid colour shirt with denims. If you want to keep it formal, choose a trendy suit with a perfect pair of shoes. When you are visiting a countryside location, comfort is the key: Opt for a T-shirt, denim/denim shorts, casual hats and rugged shoes since your journey could involve a lot of walking.

Similar News