Pack Like a Profesh

From the perfect suitcase to the right wardrobe, the art of packing can be boiled down to a science.  Like anything in life, preparation is key, and in order to become a practical princess in the packing process one has to follow some rules.  The wardrobe doors are swung open and the suitcase is unzipped and so begins what feels like the most intense and real life game of Tetris – frantically trying to figure out how and where to fit everything, from the face polishers to the jimmy choos. 

Whether you are off to traverse in the African bush or dashing off for a weekend in a cosmopolitan city, there are some simple yet smart strategies which can create easy, stress free packing.  The idea is to pack light but fashionably, something that many find much easier said than done.  The key is to pick specific outfits for your trip, realise both you and your wardrobe have the ability to mix and match and admit to yourself that you do not need 14 different evening outfits, a handful will suffice.  Follow the formula that for every three tops there is a bottom, and that jewellery is a great way to create diversity within your holiday wardrobe.  Add a statement necklace and a cuff bracelet or two - Voila!  You can go from beach to chic faster than you can say Dolce and Gabbana.  Get rid of the “What Ifs?” for that is all that they ever are and to ensure the contents do not resemble a war zone on arrival, have each item pressed and packed in layers.  Start with shoes from the bottom and work your way up separating any potential sequin and silk clashes with layers of garment saving tissue paper.  Not only do these categories and layers provide more space, they provide organisation in both your suitcase and your mind.  With some forward thinking outfit planning, inner suitcase layering and some much needed culling; the art of packing is not so complicated after all!

I chatted to Louis Vuitton to get their much sought after inside tips and tricks on how to pack like the super chic....

•  In the bottom of the suitcase, place the heaviest objects: toiletry bag, jewellery box, cosmetic pouch
•  Insert the shoes, stuffed with silk paper, pairs separated, with covers on.  Fill in the spaces left empty with underwear, stockings, socks and the belt rolled up on itself.
•    Cover with the jackets, open, with collar raised.  Inside, place the trousers folded flat with the waist and legs protruding.  On top, stack the blouses top to toe and intertwined, collars raised, with alternate buttons done up.  Fold down the waist and legs of the pants, then the sides and sleeves of the coat.  In this way the most delicate items are protected.
• Lay the dresses down flat, leaving the top in the suitcase and the bottom overhanging.  Fold the skirts in two across the width and place on top of the dress.  Fold in the bottom of the dress against it.
•  Fill the empty spaces with any remaining accessories 
• Cover the top with a shawl, so as to be able to access it quickly
•  Close the suitcase and your luggage is ready!

A pick of my travel essentials....