A Holiday Abroad: My Ultimate Packing List

This week I’ve been packing for a vacation in Istanbul, and between daydreaming about minaret-filled skylines and massive spreads of Mediterranean food, I’ve been rediscovering the wonders of jersey. Because I’m bringing only a carry-on bag for a two-week getaway (so impressive, or possibly insane), I’ll be packing nothing but. What else comes out of the bottom of a bag wrinkle-free and looks new every day with layering and a few changes of accessories?

The key to packing for any trip is to stick with a handful of colors for maximum mix-and-match potential—my grey, black, and purple palette will hopefully make me look more sophisticated than the average backpacker. I’ll be sure to throw in some long-sleeve tees and short-sleeve tees, as well as a jersey cardigan, maxi dress, and maxi skirt, plus blouses with a little more detail for evenings in the meyhanes. To give these basics a pop, I’ll make my accessories bold: a print scarf, oversized earrings, and an embellished messenger bag that will look chic while keeping my hands free for taking pics.

All this thought is worth the effort: I’ll be sure to have a little extra space in my backpack for booty from the bazaars.

--Tonya