Power Shopper: Packing For A Business Trip Isn't Difficult

Tips on looking great on the road

by Robanne Schulman

January 6, 2008

W hen packing for a business trip we always tell clients to stick with one color scheme if possible - it narrows your choices and of course makes packing and decision-making easier!

For the wardrobe, black is best because the color can go from day to night and is easier to glam up for evening. Specifically when it comes to suiting, we believe that Theory makes some of the best suiting that looks current but nevertheless conservative enough to be taken seriously. And, a lot of the pieces can easily go from day to night. One of my favorite aspects about Theory is that pencil skirts are always made in the same fabric as the pant suiting so that you essentially have two suits in one. You can always count on Theory to have phenomenal button-down shirts every season as well, and satin/silk blouses that look fabulous with the suiting.  Pack a button-down for day and a vibrant jewel-toned blouse for evening to give your day look some new personality!

Fabrics that don't wrinkle can make your life easier when traveling. For example, items with viscose are a great travel fabric. Diane von Furstenberg's wrap dresses with this material would be great for packing and can also easily go from day to night with a change of heels and accessories.  Dresses are a great travel piece because a dress is less clothing to hassle with in the morning when getting dressed. They are slick and feminine and are appropriate whether the meeting or event is casual or more formal in tone. Just be sure to pair classic fabrics with sophisticated accessories for the boardroom and pile on more for night.

 Another way to go from day to night with ease is to pack a fun jacket. Whether it is cropped metallic leather or a fun swingy jacket, you can instantly change your office pant look to a fun evening look with a great jacket.

 
And speaking of jackets ... my other fashion must is a nice, slick trench coat. When putting one on, you instantly look pulled together even if you are sporting jeans. As for accessories, the key is to keep your accessories clean and simple for the day. No one wants to hear you jingle-jangling down the hall with your 20 bangles! There's nothing wrong with simple hoops or stud earrings coupled with a classic bangle bracelet. Layer necklaces for evening to funk up the jewels, and add a few more bangles if you feel the need. You can still sport the hoops because they are simple. If you would rather do a fabulous chandelier earring, then lose all other jewelry for the night.
 
Shoes can make for difficult packing, but to make it easier, choose one good classic pump for day wear and throw in a metallic heel for evening. Metallics work well because they go with everything, and that way you are only packing two pairs of shoes.
 
Packing for a long business trip doesn't need to be difficult or costly. Go through your itinerary and understand what your needs are in terms of wardrobe and only pack those items. Try to get more than one use from each outfit and switch accessories. Add lipstick, and you're ready for a week's worth of meetings.

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Robanne Schulman is a lifestyle designer and owner of Plaid Mondey, a corporate and personal shopping service.