Traveling to Europe as an American can be eye-opening. While we admire the historic sites in New England, Europe’s architecture and history transport us to an entirely different realm. One notable difference? Fashion.
Having spent a year in Paris, I quickly recognized the sartorial choices that mark me as an American. In Chicago, I can wear my sweatsuit to grab coffee, but in Europe, loungewear is strictly for home.
Recently embracing a *maximalist* style, I needed to recalibrate my wardrobe for European standards. Thankfully, I knew exactly what to include in my two-week carry-on for my trip to Paris and London.
Light layers, neutral colors, and most importantly: comfort. You’ll be walking—often.
The Approach
Returning to Europe after seven years was significant. Would I reconnect with the charming streets? Would I navigate the metro as I once did? I yearned for my luggage to inspire comfort, creativity, and joy.
Getting dressed in Europe is a blend of practicality and personal style. While blacks and neutrals dominate, there’s room for individual expression. A unique pin, a vibrant scarf, or stylish glasses can set you apart.
Ultimately, if you embrace your style, you’ll blend in. Why don’t sweatpants work in Europe? They lack intention.
Packing Considerations
Tailoring my style to fit a European setting involved a few key packing guidelines:
- Traveling between London and Paris from March 13-26.
- Expecting rain and temperatures in the high 40s/low 50s.
- Spending most days visiting museums, dining out, and, of course, walking.
With these factors in mind, I focused on three main priorities for my packing:
- Choose light layers that pack easily. I included silk tanks, skirts, and dresses that could be layered under sweaters and paired with wraps for dinner.
- Bring versatile shoes. I packed Chelsea boots, comfy sneakers, and clogs—all easy for walking.
- Avoid bulky items. I included a light puffer that squished down, two sweaters, and a cashmere wrap that doubled as a scarf.
The Life-Changing Suitcase
I prefer to travel light. It eliminates extra luggage fees and simplifies transitions from planes to trains. My suitcase has been praised online, and I can confirm: My Away suitcase transformed my travel experience. I bought it two years ago, and it’s traveled everywhere with me.
Pros:
- One side has an interior compression system where I pack bulkier items—jackets and shoes. It allows me to fit more than I thought possible.
- Even fully packed, it remains lightweight due to its weight distribution.
- When racing through airports, the 360° wheels glide smoothly. I was grateful during a tight connection in Reykjavík.
Cons:
- While it fits in most overhead bins, smaller flights may require checking it.
The Bigger Carry-On is priced at $295.
My Two-Week Carry-On Essentials
Now, let’s dive into the 10 essentials that made my carry-on packing effortless and efficient for two weeks in Europe. You’ll find everything you need for an amazing spring getaway.
- A Spacious Tote
- A Lightweight Puffer
- A Versatile Skirt
- A Comfy, Stylish Pant
- Reusable Bags (Even the Parisians Approve)
- A Multi-functional Cashmere Wrap
- Day-to-Night Dresses
- A Structured Blazer
- Silk Tanks
- A Hands-Free Bag
A Spacious Tote
Let’s begin with a must-have. No matter how much you plan, surprises can happen. I experienced this firsthand when I had to check my bag on a crowded flight to London, leading to its loss for three days. Luckily, I borrowed from a friend’s wardrobe. Maximize your personal item. I’ve relied on a black tote that fits my laptop, a book, toiletries, and an extra outfit for emergencies.
Travel tip: Keep your load manageable to avoid strain. Pack only essentials for toiletries and consider a streamlined makeup set for touch-ups.
Shop Travel-Friendly Totes
Quince
Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote for $149.90.
& Other Stories
Large Leather Tote Bag for $179.
A Lightweight Puffer
While packing, I often wondered why I didn’t schedule my trip for warmer weather. However, I needed something warm for London and Paris’ chilly winds. A compact puffer was the solution, keeping me cozy without bulk.
Travel tip: Opt for neutral outerwear, like black or navy, to match any outfit.
Shop Light Puffers
Everlane
The Quilted Liner for $178.
Frank and Oak
The Skyline Reversible Bomber in Black for $148.99 (reg. $199).
A Versatile Skirt
Washable silk is a favorite of mine. It looks and feels luxurious while being compact in my suitcase. I packed a silk skirt that proved indispensable. The drapey midi skirt from Love, Bonito is stylish and flattering.
Travel tip: Pair it with a silk cami or a simple tee for an instant outfit.
Shop Skirts
Reformation
Layla Silk Skirt for $198.
Sézane
Sandy Skirt for $150.
A Comfy, Stylish Pant
Here’s a confession: I’m not a fan of hard pants. I prefer comfort, so I often wear oversized jeans. The right pair of cropped, wide-leg pants—like the elastic-waist ones I found—can be both comfortable and flattering.
Travel tip: I pair these with small heels to elevate my petite frame.
Shop Pants
LESET
Rio High Waist Flare Pant for $240.
Spanx
SPANXsupersmooth™ PerfectFit Ponte Kick Flare Pant for $148.
Reusable Bags (Even the Parisians Approve)
No matter the trends, BAGGU bags are timeless. I use them for groceries and keep one handy for spontaneous purchases. While traveling, I carried one in my fanny pack to store layers and received compliments from locals. Even in a city dominated by neutrals, color still shines through.
Travel tip: If checking a bag, keep a couple of these in your carry-on for extra space if needed.
Shop Reusable Bags
Baggu
Standard Baggu for $14.
Marimekko
Smartbag for $36.
A Multi-functional Cashmere Wrap
My mom gifted me a cashmere wrap a few years back, and I frequently wear it. While less common in the U.S., European women often drape scarves for warmth and style. It proved invaluable for last-minute dinner plans.
Travel tip: Use it as a blanket on your flight.
Shop Cashmere Wraps
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Ribbed Wrap for $99.90.
Tuckernuck
Oat Cashmere Blanket Scarf for $198.
Day-to-Night Dresses
I wear dresses throughout the year. In winter, I layer spring dresses over tights for a cozy yet chic look. These styles pack small, allowing for more choices without the hard decision of what to leave behind.
Travel tip: Layer with tights and boots for a stylish daytime outfit.
Shop Slip Dresses
Cuyana
Silk Slip Dress for $228.
Vince
Satin Slip Dress for $325.
A Structured Blazer
A tailored blazer is a classic piece. For a polished look that's more elegant than a sweater, a black blazer is essential. Opt for a slightly oversized fit to accommodate layering.
Travel tip: This will become a staple in your wardrobe, so invest in quality for longevity.
Shop Blazers
Madewell
The Kline Blazer for $99.99 (reg. $218).
Quince
Stretch Crepe Double-Breasted Blazer for $79.90.
Silk Tanks
I adore this cami. It pairs beautifully with anything and adds elegance to any outfit. This black cami saved me when my luggage was lost, allowing me to create stylish looks with my friend’s clothes.
Travel tip: Your cami should rival your softest tee—comfort is key.
Shop Silk Tanks
Boden
Silk Cami for $92.
Club Monaco
Silk Charmeuse Cami for $128.
A Hands-Free Bag
I bought this bag in summer 2020 for hiking, and it quickly became my daily companion for its convenience. It holds my essentials without the hassle of carrying items in my hands (except perhaps an ice cream cone). If you bring it to a museum, wear it on the front.
Travel tip: In London, avoid calling it a fanny pack—“bag” or “satchel” works better.
Shop Bags
Rebecca Minkoff
Edie Flap Shoulder Bag for $209 (reg. $348).
Cuyana
Concertina Shoulder Bag (Croco) for $458.
