Every trip that requires a suitcase or even just a fully stuffed tote bag feels like a practice round for my big trip to Paris at the end of September. As I mentioned in Friday’s letter, I just returned from a quick weekend trip to Minneapolis. This time, I tried to do things a bit differently, and I wanted to dedicate today’s letter to everything I packed for that trip.
See you all mid-week!
xx
JJ
Travel outfit
I actually got the idea for my travel outfit from Nick. He habitually rewatches the same four shows: The Office (U.S. version), The Crown, The Sopranos, and Mad Men. Nick mentioned that his inspiration for dressing up at the airport comes from Don Draper. Though he doesn't wear a full-blown suit, he usually opts for a button-down shirt, jeans, a jacket, and sneakers. He likes the idea that if you're dressed well for the flight, you can easily deplane and head straight to dinner without feeling underdressed, much like how Don Draper would go straight from the plane to a meeting or cocktails. While I never dress sloppily, I don’t always feel like my airport outfit is dinner-ready.
This time, I took a cue from my dear Nicky and opted for the same t-shirt I usually wear (Sunspel), an Alex Mill linen jacket, J.Crew giant chinos, pony hair leopard print loafers from Margaux, and a charming silk scarf. However, I forgot to put on a belt before heading out the door. (my belt of choice is this one from Maximum Henry)
Carry-On
I severely underpacked for this trip, partially because I knew I’d be returning with a few goodies, and I wanted to test the idea of traveling to Paris with just a carry-on (though I don’t think that will be possible, haha). I used the suitcase from the Away x Willie Norris collaboration that came out in early June. It fits more than the one I usually use from Amazon, and its smoother roll made navigating the airport much easier.
Now, let's talk about what I fit in the suitcase, starting with the goodies I picked up during the trip: I brought back two pairs of shoes, including a pair of Cortez, which I used to wear religiously when I first moved to New York. I also got a few bodysuits, a maxi skirt that can transform into a mini, and some snap pants that I wore on the morning of our first day in Minneapolis.
Alex Mill Blazer in Flax Linen- I paired the snap pants with this blazer to somewhat channel Pat Riley, who was my subtle inspiration for the weekend. I’ve mentioned this blazer before; it's become my go-to piece when I want to feel "professional" without sweating profusely. I wore it on both days of the trip because I wasn’t sure what the appropriate attire would be for the Olympic trials or for interviewing Olympians, and a blazer seemed like a safe bet.
Lingua Franca cotton sweater- I always like having a knit of some sort with me because I have a tendency to get really cold.
Nike x Bode “Cape Cod” jersey
The Row Jubin pants- WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT THESE PANTS THAT I HAVE NOT ALREADY SAID! I think they were a great investment, and although I got them in white, I have not managed to muck them up terribly (thank God!). I wore them to the trials and felt really dressed up; it felt appropriate because, you know, red, white, and blue. I managed to find a pair on sale, but I also recently discovered a pair from Doen. Though they’re not cropped, they are still really nice (and there's a silk version that is truly divine that I might have to get). There's also a linen pair from Gap..
Lauren Manoogian shorts- These shorts are truly perfect in many ways. Cut like athletic shorts, they have a relaxed ease to them, and the nylon-cotton blend gives them a unique texture. They effortlessly transition from sporty to slightly more formal when paired with a blazer. Since my favorite pair is unfortunately no longer available, I searched for some alternatives. Here are a few options I found and most of them are on sale: James Perse Parachute shorts, Baserange Kolia Shorts, Cos drawstring shorts, Leset Arielle City Short, and a stylish pair from Almina Concept.
Jamie Haller ballet flats - My Martiniano flats are still on the mend (I've really put them through a lot), so I've been on the hunt for an alternative. Thankfully, Jamie Haller came to the rescue! Her take on a traditional ballet flats feels quite modern with its low vamp that shows a bit of toe cleavage.
Polo Ralph Lauren silk pjs and Charvet slippers- As I mentioned to
for her travel piece, I usually pack a pajama set and my slippers. My go-to set is typically from Brooks Brothers, but this time, I decided to switch to my set from Polo Ralph Lauren. There’s something about wearing a matching set for sleeping or lounging that adds a touch of sophistication—a small luxury that truly helps the mind unwind and indulge.As for the slippers, they are a must-have on every trip. There's a simple pleasure in slipping into them first thing in the morning, making a cup of coffee—a small everyday luxury that makes a world of difference.
Jewelry box
I opted to wear all the jewelry I had planned to bring for the weekend instead of packing extra pieces.
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