Preparing for over a month away from home is a routine I practice annually and I really think I’ve nailed it. Sharing the rules I follow year after year to make sure I have what I need, love every outfit, and never feel like I’m missing anything.

Choose Color Groups

The biggest mistake I used to make was packing every “favorite” without thinking about how things actually worked together. Now, I choose color groups and commit. For me, that might be blue, white, yellow, red, and black. This also makes packing bags and shoes so much easier—you only need a few, because everything ties together.

Re-Style Night Pieces for Day (and Vice Versa)

Capri nights call for something a little special, and I always bring a few standout pieces for dinners. But I’ve started choosing those with day re-wear in mind. A silk slip skirt becomes a day look with flat sandals and a raffia bag. A structured off-the-shoulder top looks effortless with linen pants. The same goes the other way: a cotton set I wear to lunch becomes something more elevated with jewelry and a metallic heel at night. When you’re limited on luggage space, give your clothing at least two lives.

Pick a Metal and Stick With It

One small shift that’s made a big difference: I choose one metal tone each trip and build around that. This year it’s gold—so all my jewelry is gold, my sandals have gold accents, and the hardware on my bags does too. It makes every outfit look considered and put-together without trying. It also saves me from overpacking accessories “just in case.”

Always Bring Metallic Shoes + Bags

No matter which metal tone I build around, I always bring metallic accessories in the form of a shoe and a bag. A flat gold sandal and a small metallic clutch are magic. They go with literally everything—casual or dressy—and always make an outfit feel a bit more polished. Even if your whole wardrobe is neutrals, metallics add a subtle contrast that elevates everything.

What’s Actually In My Suitcase:

Capri dressing can most accurately be described as resort - it is a place where you want to feel at ease and pulled together at the same time. Packing with intention has made my summers so much lighter. Less to carry, more to live.

Let me know if you want me to share links to exact outfit pairings or my go-to brands for summer staples!

Xx, SG