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3. A.P.C dress, Michael Kors cardigan, John Patrick top, Vanessa Bruno jumper, Rag & Bone jeans, Equipment sleeveless blouse, Phase Eight top, Topshop shorts

4. Acne blazer, T by Alexander Wang t-shirt, Joie top, 3.1 Phillip Lim skirt, T by Alexander Wang jumper, Topshop speckle back t-shirt, 3.1 Phillip Lim blouse, Topshop skirt

5. Miu Miu ballet flats, Madewell gladiator sandals, Acne pistol boots, ASOS sandals

6. ASOS clutch, Triwa watch, Alexander McQueen scarf, Dannijo earrings, Balenciaga anchor necklace

Packing. Having been on a few lengthy vacations in the past, I think I've become quite adept at developing a packing strategy. One thing I've learnt is that even if you're going to a warm climate, you need some sort of outfit contingency plan should the weather fall flat on you. Most importantly, I've learnt that there is nothing worse than arriving at your destination only to wish you'd brought a light jacket, a pair of jeans, or realising that the things you brought don't mix and match together very well.

It's also important to take into account the likelihood of purchasing new things while you're away, or whether or not you will find the right pieces you were looking for. This became my downfall when I was in the USA last year, as I had planned on buying a few new skirts, but in reality only bought one, which meant I was a little short on bottoms. The upside is, that if you pack light, with items that co-ordinate together well, you will have plenty of room for shopping and souvenirs.

1. Check the expected weather forecast: While you're likely to have some kind of idea what the weather will be like dependent on the season, it always pays to check. Summers can be cloudy and windy, and winters can be mild. This will allow you to judge whether you need to pack a warm jersey or a pair of shorts just in case.

2. Pick a colour palette: I find that picking a simple colour palette works best when travelling since everything will go together. I tend to pack pieces that are either black, white, grey, blush, navy or beige, as I find that these colours go well together, and pieces in these colours make up the backbone of my wardrobe, making packing even easier.

3. Choose the foundation pieces for your travel wardrobe: For me, core pieces include things like a comfortable pair of shorts, a lightweight top or singlet, a loose jumper, a cardigan, a dress that can be dressed up or down, a pair of jeans and a skirt that falls just above the knee. Oh, and you can't forget the quintessential stripe top!

4. Add in other pieces as required: Depending on the length of your trip, you'll want to add in a few (or a number) more pieces that work with the core pieces of your travel wardrobe. I've heard before that it always pays to take twice as many tops as bottoms, and I am sure that cannot be bad advice. I'd also recommend taking a light jacket, a pair of tights, and a warm pashmina (that can double as an extra layer of warmth on the plane) even if you are heading to a warm cliimate - the weather can be pretty unexpected.

5. Choose your shoes: It goes without saying that shoes can take up a lot of prime real estate in your suitcase, and depending on the style can be rather heavy. I've had experiences where I took so many shoes and only wore one pair, or the opposite where the one pair I had taken where too uncomfortable. It pays to make sure that your shoes will be comfortable enough to walk around all day, and that you have some variety so that you can alternate, especially if you are prone to blisters. I usually take a pair of gladiator sandals, a pair of ballet flats, a pair of low heeled boots and a pair of heels. It's best to be prepared for every occasion, and this combination allows that.

6. Accessorise: I've never been entirely big on taking a large selection of accessories with me on holiday, but there is something to be said of the power of a statement piece to transform an otherwise ordinary outfit. A couple of statement necklaces, earrings or bracelets will not go amiss, neither will a fun printed scarf. As for bags, I like to take two - a large bag for when I'm out during the day that can fit my camera along with random purchases, and a smallish crossbody/satchel style bag that I can use in the evenings.

Other things to remember:
- It's helpful to try everything on together before you leave - this way you can be sure that it is all going to work together on your trip. You also may not have access to a full-length or decent mirror in hotels so if something doesn't fit right, you can pick it up before you leave.

- Keep in mind that certain countries have different cultural expectations to what you may be used to at home. For example, if heading to the Vatican City you must be wearing a dress or skirt with a sensible or midi hemline and cover your shoulders, or else you will not be let in. Or, you may be subject to whispers and stares - as I was when I wore a pair of shorts and a singlet in Kosovo. It's worth reading up on this if you don't want to be caught out!

- If you are able to have both a suitcase and a carry-on (or just take a large handbag), it's wise to have a change of clothing with you on the plane. Should anything happen to your luggage (touch wood), at least you have fresh clothes to change into.

- Toiletries can be heavy and take up a lot of space. Only take the bare essentials if you can - this extends to beauty products/make-up as well. I take a rather minimal approach to make-up while away, taking a small eyeshadow compact, bronzer, eyeliner and mascara. I can't say the same for my other toiletries, but when on a long trip you can always discard these at the end. Things like soap and shampoo can be picked up easily enough at a pharmacy or supermarket while away.

- Other things worth taking are a camera, a notebook to jot down ideas, a good book to read (or a kindle etc), and an open mind. If you're like me, you'll be lugging along a laptop and an iPad as well. Oh and uh... have fun! :)

 

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Helmut Lang blazer, Kate Sylvester top, Topshop superskinny jeans, Country Rd ballet flats (similar)
On heavy rotation. Mornings like today, where the wind is bitter cold, has had me wishing that I was snuggled up in bed with a warm cup of hot chocolate. These are the days where you layer on your warmest merino, two pairs of tights, and a big thick winter coat to block out any breath of cold air.

On other days, when winter seems much less harsh, I’ve been gravitating towards a few simple pieces in my wardrobe, of which a few are above. Heavy wool jackets, thrown over pretty silk blouses and skinny jeans seem to form the base of most of my outfits on days that I don’t choose to wear a dress or skirt. Topped off with a pashmina, a simple pair of ballet flats (or some sturdy boots), and I’m good to go, once I’ve thrown on my winter coat that is.

It makes me realise that the saying that we only wear 20% of our wardrobe, 80% of the time, is not far from the truth. It wouldn’t be hard for me to pick the 20 or so things out of my wardrobe that I tend to wear more often than not…

 

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Proenza Schouler top (similar), Karen Walker skirt, 'Ally-Jean' sunglasses c/o AM Eyewear, Gorjana bracelet, ASOS belt (similar)

Essentials. I'd say it's pretty undeniable that sunglasses are an essential piece in anyone's wardrobe. While they may get a bit more face-time in the summer, they are just as necessary in the winter months to protect our eyes from the sun.

The lovely folks over at AM Eyewear were kind enough to send me a pair of sunglasses from their latest collection, Riviera Rebellion. Not only are they designed by hand, but they are crafted by hand in a process that can take up to 14 hours, using Mazzachelli acetate - a material that molds to the face and allows for a bespoke fit. This kind of commitment to quality is something that I both admire and appreciate, as it is an indication of a well-made product.

I tend to favor classic shapes and cuts in interesting prints above all else, and these sunglasses in tortoise shell fit the bill perfectly. With my European adventure a month or so off, it's good to know that I can tick off the sunglasses box on my packing list.

 

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image source: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8
Winter essentials. As the temperature continues to drop, I've started digging around for a bit more winter inspiration. Being practically addicted to list making, I thought I'd share my essentials for winter.

Oversized woolen blazers - I love the look of these thrown over all kinds of outfits, and aside from pulling the look together, they can be the perfect cover up for those not so cold moments. I tend to fold the sleeves up ever so slightly, allowing the sleeves of blouses, jumpers or cardigans to peek out.

Leather leggings or pants - Probably one of the more expensive pieces to buy, but I think well worth it. I've spent the past few years looking for a pair, and only recently managed to source a pair of faux leather ones, which are not only convincing but also quite possibly the warmest thing I've ever covered up my legs with.
Loose baggy jumpers - These are perfect thrown over a dress, or loosely tucked into a skirt, dressing up or dressing down a look as required. I find that this can be the best way to make an otherwise 'special occasion' dress a little bit more casual, or appropriate for work.

Unexpected prints - there's nothing more striking than a print when you didn't expect it. I suppose that's why I'm drawn to florals on jeans or pants, printed blouses, or cover ups that have a bit of detailing on them.

Simple, statement accessories - I find myself yo-yoing between images of simple and understated accessories, to arms piled high with an assortment of bracelets, amounting to more than I even own. In winter I prefer to skimp on the accessories, choosing pieces that complement my outfit, and stand out of their own accord.

And, I suppose a leather skirt wouldn't go astray, nor would the obvious thick woolen scarf or heavy pashmina wrapped loosely around one's neck. Let's add stripes in there too. This winter I see myself pairing blacks, greys, navys and burgundys together, interspersed with the occasional camel or blush toned piece.

With this in mind, I've managed to hunt down a few pieces which fit the bill. Like these Helmut Lang leather leggings paired with this J Crew knitted sweater and this Equipment blouse peeking out of the collar. OR this RAOUL leather skirt with this A.P.C jumper, ASOS boyfriend blazer and Michael Kors watch.



 

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Karen Walker dress, cardigan and blazer, Country Rd ballet flats (similar here) and belt, Proenza Schouler bag
I usually tend to form mild obsessions with new purchases, wanting to wear them every day. Or every other day. You get my drift. I'm not sure if it's the excitement of it being new, or just a general want to wear it all the time as it's suddenly become one of my favourite pieces.

Since picking up this jacket last month, I can already tell that it will become one of my most worn pieces in my wardrobe, both in the winter, and in the summer time when it gets a little nippy at night. Oh, and looks like Max came out to say hi.

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Karen Walker dress and sunglasses, Acne cardigan

You'd probably never tell by the way I dress now, but growing up I was a bit of a tomboy. I'm not sure I owned anything pink. It started out with snap pants and silver platform sneakers, and shortly after moved on to baggy "skater" pants with boxers showing. Not exactly fashion moments I look back on fondly, but I wouldn't doubt that each and every one of us went through a similar period.

As the contents of my wardrobe have slowly (or perhaps I should say steadily) evolved over the years, I've moved toward a wardrobe filled with different shades of the pink or red tonal family, alongside florals, navy's and greys. There were once days when I said that I would never be caught wearing a dress, but those are long gone now, with dresses making up an integral part of my wardrobe. I suppose that it taught me to never say never, especially when it comes to your style. Is there anything you thought that you would never wear when you were younger, but that now plays an important role in your day-to-day wear?

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Helmut Lang blazer; Equipment blouse; Lover skirt; Givenchy heels

Considering the number of times that I have worn this Helmut Lang blazer in the last two weeks, you would possibly think that I don't own any other blazers. Not that there's anything wrong with that. It's ironic, that a piece I had felt mildly guilty about purchasing while in LA - my first American purchase that wasn't food might I add - has as I anticipated, become a real workhorse in my wardrobe. While I can't say for certain that all pieces that fall on the slightly more expensive end of the purchasing scale are going to fall in the category, I find that timeless pieces like a black blazer or a white silk shirt will generally be regularly worn, unless these particular items don't fall within the confines of your lifestyle or personal taste.

And the shoes. I can't forget the shoes! I purchased these from Net-a-Porter over the Christmas break and for some reason hadn't yet pulled them out until today - although I think that they will be making a regular appearance on my feet from now on. I was drawn to the classic shape of the shoe, but the fun and interesting detail that the gold sequins add, and I was lucky to nab them in the sale. When it's the last pair, and they're in your size.. in the true words of a shopaholic, it's almost as though it's fate right?

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scarf from eBay; Witchery belt

Leopard print. It's one of those things that year in year out, always has a moment, and is arguably a timeless staple, as long as you manage to find the right pieces. My hunt for the right accents of leopard for my wardrobe has been a long one, and thrice have I found the perfect leopard skirt. Twice have I realised that what I had at the time considered perfect, became imperfect within a few months time. Here's hoping my latest leopard skirt purchase doesn't hold the same fate.

Accessories on the other hand, tend to stand the test of time, or at least in my wardrobe. Two recent additions to my collection are the leopard print scarf and belt pictured above. They make a nice contrast to an otherwise unassuming outfit, without coming across as too garish.