Packing with Four by Four: Navy, Tan and Coral

I've had a ton of questions from readers about packing for trips that include multiple cities, and a variety of activities.  And I've also had a few requests for packing navy, tan (or khaki) and coral.  So I endeavor to answer questions and fulfill requests with this post.

As usual, I like to start with the travel outfit - I'm always a fan of a cardigan, long pants, loafers, and a big scarf.  Simple stud earrings don't get caught on things when you're sleeping on the plane.  Dark colors are good, because they don't show wrinkles or spills, and a cardigan gives you the layering option for when the plane is cold.

Gold shard earrings- De Anna Kiernan,  Tee shirt – Max Mara, navy cardigan – Miu Miu, checked pants – Steven Alan, scarf – milleneufcentquatrevinftquatre, watch – Fossil, tote bag - Brahmin

Then I start with a four-some in your dark neutral.  These four garments will give you four outfits, and they offer you a range of looks from extremely simple and casual to dressy.

Tee shirt – Majestic , Pleated top – Carven ,  capris- - Marni Edition, skirt – Miu Miu

 Next I  build a four by four of the second, lighter, neutral.  At this point, I usually introduce another cardigan, or a jacket.  Unless you're traveling  to someplace guaranteed to be extremely warm ALL the time, a second cardigan is useful.  Remember - a cardigan can be worn with nothing underneath them, just like a sweater.  And at this point in time, you're going to have a LOT of outfit options.

Tee shirt – J. Crew, Tan pants- J. Crew, skirt – J. Crew, cardigan – J. Crew

 And finally, I pull together three accent-color tops, and a pair of jeans...  I don't know how many different outfits this would give you, but as long as you have access to laundry, you should be all set!

Blush tunic – Mango, tee shirt – J.Crew, cotton shirt – J. Crew,  jeans  - Textile Elizabeth &James