Every great rule is meant to be broken. Normally, I tell you to start with the garments that make you feel great and then build your accessories around them. But when packing for a week in a carry-on, we’re flipping that strategy—starting with accessory groups and working our way to outfits.
Step 1: Build Your Accessory Groups
I typically recommend 2 to 3 accessory groups, depending on how many planned (sanctioned) vs. spontaneous events you anticipate. Accessories anchor your outfits and ensure versatility in your looks. Here’s an example:
Brown Accessory Group: Evening shoe + bag (perfect for warm, earthy tones).
Black Accessory Group: Evening shoe + daytime shoe + clutch (classic and versatile).
Red Accessory Group: Evening shoe + bag + sneaker (the sneaker is my travel-day shoe).
These groups create a cohesive framework for styling, making it easier to mix and match outfits without overpacking.