I've Gone on 8 Trips Already This Year, and These Staples Work Anywhere

My travel bug is officially back. After several years of largely staying put (save for a handful of local road trips), I've really hit the ground running this year and have racked up the miles to show for it. Now that I feel comfortable with traveling again, I've jetted off to L.A., Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Salt Lake City in 2022, just to name a few. Not only have I covered a lot of ground, but I've also had to pack for a variety of climates and activities, from skiing to surfing. While the travel wardrobe I packed was pretty different for each trip, I noticed that I packed a few of the same staples every time.

I relied on six pieces for each destination that were versatile, comfortable, and, above all, packable. What's more, they all came from our own clothing line, Who What Wear Collection. Seeing as the label was founded on the basis of elevated essentials, it's no surprise that I relied on it for my vacation style staples. To inspire the packing list for your next getaway, I'm highlighting the items that I can personally vouch for. 

Wide-Leg Pants

Does it get any easier? Roomy, wide-leg pants are the comfortable but polished staple I simply won't go anywhere without. In particular, our Paulina Pants are my go-to for any trip since the plissé fabric is wrinkle-proof. They're clearly the perfect beach cover-up, as you can see here.

I rarely zip up my suitcase without these pants in it.

As comfortable as pajamas, as chic as trousers.

Packable Tops

I always prioritize fabrics that pack well. Think plissé, knits, and anything smocked. Throw them on right out of your suitcase without thinking twice.

Naturally, the matching top to our plissé pants is a must.

Cozy Pullovers

No matter what climate I'm traveling to, a cozy top layer is a must for the plane and when the temperature dips at night. I usually opt for an oversize knit that's a touch more elevated than a sweatshirt.

Easy and Versatile Dresses

A throw-on-and-go dress is a no-brainer, and you'll always find one in my suitcase. I look for easy-to-wear silhouettes with a little something extra like a cutout or pretty detail.

I've worn this dress with everything from sneakers to boots to heels.

Photo:

@alexisbadiyi

Fun fact: The skirt and turtleneck panels are both detachable to make a completely different dress. Talk about versatility.

Slip dresses (and skirts) are another one of my suitcase staples. The scrunch straps on this one make it feel a bit more special.

Elevated Versions of Plain Basics

Plain tanks, tees, and bodysuits are permanent fixtures on my packing lists, so I try to tick them off with the most luxe versions possible to ensure my travel outfits are A+.

Don't make the same mistake I used to and skip out on basics like tees when packing.

Knit Sets (Naturally)

Photo:

@katcollings

Of course, knit sets are the stuff of travel-wardrobe dreams, but you already knew that. Whether I'm staying cozy on a long flight or mixing and matching with other pieces, you'll always find me traveling with a coordinated set.

Bonus points if the pieces from your knit set can be dressed up.