Following a recent garment-challenged weekend away, which you can read about here, I thought I’d wax lyrical, for a second, on my stylists tips for an Ultimate Weekend getaway.

Whether you’re chasing iconic mountain landscapes, expansive blue oceans, or picturesque historic landmarks, packing for your perfect weekend break should always be the least stressful part of your trip.  #amiright?!

Now, as a seasoned fashionista you might be a little surprised to hear me say this, but my motto for travel is: Stuff ruins trips!

Yep, believe it or not, I pack light.  Like, real light.

You definitely want to be worried less about your style and focused more on the experience, I mean, who wants to be carting 20kgs of luggage around for your weekend getaway?!

Not cool. Which is why a little planning and foresight is essential.

If you’re a packing pro or a nervous novice, these handy tips should add some ease and sophistication to get you packing with panache.

Travel Tip #1

 

My number one criteria as a savvy stylist is to plan your pack based on colour palette. Colour coding your clothes is at the core of a successful holiday suitcase. Start with a colour palette that fits with your destination and work back from there, ensuring that every item matches something else in your suitcase at least twice.

Heading to the Gold Coast – break out those bold colours and blingy things!

Melbourne on the agenda, think neutrals and black, black and more black!

 

Travel Tip #2

 

Accessories are your key to adding personality and statement without taking up a lot of space, so go crazy here.  Try these:

♦  A bold lippie is the perfect accessory to take a casual Sun dress from day to night.

♦  Drape a colourful cardi and add some drop earrings to your relaxed jeans look to transition to an effortless evening vibe.

♦  Tying a scarf to a bag is not only a great way to customise your accessories, but is the perfect back-up plan if the temperature takes an unexpected fall.

♦  Make your items work twice as hard: iPad cases can double as a great evening clutch, and oversize beach bags are perfect for carry-on luggage.

Travel Tip #3

 

Let’s get real here, there are only 4 outings for your weekend getaway: Friday and Saturday Nights plus Saturday and Sunday Days – with maybe one extra change here. So really you need 4 maybe 5 outfits max!

Dresses are hard-working and sing “holiday glamour” – a good choice for slimming down that suitcase. Dress it down in the daytime with flats, and add some great accessories and a bold lip for evening. One less outfit to carry! Ding ding!

 

Travel Tip #4

 

Avoid the shoes blues. Really, do you reallllly, need the heels and sandals, the thongs, the sparkly sandals, the flats, the sneakers AND the hiking boots.

One pair of flats, one pair of heeled sandals and one pair of functional shoes: hiking boots/sneaker is all you’ll need and trust me, you’ll be thanking yourself when you wake up each day and there’s only one shoe option to choose from.

Saving you more time to think about which fabulous destination you’ll visit that day!

Get the most out of your choices by maximising your options and expanding your ensembles. With a little creative flair you can easily transform a simple daytime outfit into a fabulous evening look.

Travelling is all about experiences and adventure. It’s about the sights, sounds, flavours and faces along the way. When you are getting out and about it’s important to have a wardrobe that makes you feel good, but is also comfortable and practical.

Here’s a handy Style Guide to some of my favourite destinations:

Styling Guide: Sydney

 

There’s no place in Australia like summertime in Sydney as the Harbour City comes to life with an eclectic mix of beaches, restaurants, galleries and shopping experiences. Comfortable and city-chic is the only way to go as you set out on foot to discover all that Australia’s largest city has to offer.

 

Styling Guide: Byron Bay

 

Relaxation is the name of the game in Australia’s most easterly city as you’re enveloped by pristine beaches and unspoilt natural hinterlands. The locals are renowned for their laid-back beach lifestyle so embrace it with a relaxed maxi dress beaming with colour.

 

Styling Guide: Whitsundays

 

At the stunning Whitsundays you are almost guaranteed sun-filled days and balmy nights so make the most of your summer essentials. Relax and get into the spirit by embracing bright colours and beautiful kaftans.

 

Styling Guide: Great Ocean Road

 

Long and winding scenic roads divide iconic mountain landscapes and expansive blue oceans. Dress for the open road in our Comfort Jeans and Crushed Blouse to feel comfortable along the way and prepared to arrive in style.

 

Styling Guide: Barossa Valley

 

Whether you’re strolling through the vineyards or enjoying some of the finest food and wine on offer, the Barossa Valley is a picturesque patchwork of cultural experiences. The temperature is known to vary so consider versatile fabrics such as linen in preparation for all weather conditions.

 

PS. Along with the awesome info I’ve provided you here, I am entering this post into Virgin Australia’s travel tips comp…wish me luck 🙂