The summer carry-on, explained
It's my specialty
It’s officially the time of year that I start to flee San Francisco as frequently as possible in pursuit of true summer weather. My first trip is at the end of the month, so naturally the contents of my carry-on is very top of mind.
Thanks to my husband, I now willingly avoid checking luggage at all costs and get by using this suitcase and slightly abusing the “personal item” allowance with one of my trusty XL Idahos. There’s an interesting story as to why I have more than one— story time later but I will say its extreme oversize is great for travel. This would do the same thing!
What's more exciting is what's inside, and as always, I like to keep the options fluid and easy, especially when visiting someplace warm. My ideal vacation wardrobe is built around favorite existing pieces, with only a few new additions that pull their weight on the trip and can carry into the rest of summer. This typically comes in the form of accessories; a new bag or shoes that have impact, or a truly versatile piece that will can be worn multiple ways.
Some of what I’m bringing along, both old and new
One category I realized needed a refresh was beachwear— which can be surprisingly hard to get right. Up until last year when I discovered Claudent, I could never find pieces that made me feel comfortable by the water in a way that actually aligned with my personal style. I’m wearing the button up shirt in Azure and relaxed shorts in soft black— beyond the beach, the shorts have made it onto endless neighborhood walks and even to Pilates.
The new options this summer are potentially chicer and practically beg to be worn on all occasions, both by the water and in the city. I am patiently waiting for this tunic to restock in my size, but the everywhere pants, wrap top and easy shorts will not be left behind.
I’m a firm believer you only need one great black bikini— but the refresh led me down a rabbit hole resulting in a few more options to work with. This tankini is so nostalgic and transitions to lunch without a second thought; same story with this one piece.
Re: footwear— the size of my actual sandal rotation would suggest otherwise, but realistically all you need is one great thong, something slightly dressier (1, 2, 3, 4), comfortable slides (my personal favorite), and something with a bit of coverage. The sneakers I'll be adding to Chris' bag for getting morning steps in don't count.
What it ultimately comes down to is a neutral clothing capsule— mine this trip is heavy on black and white, with fabric doing the heavy lifting. Something sheer, something with texture, layered in a way that keeps things interesting without adding extra baggage. From there, the accessories are where some personality comes in, whether that’s an oversized bag that can worn over the shoulder and under the arm, or a necklace with lots of styling opportunity.
The JEANERICA Atelier x Le Sundial collection has been on my mind— there’s something about it that works just as well with at home with a t-shirt and jeans as it does with a dress on vacation, which is exactly the kind of thing that earns a spot in a carry-on and in life!
A summer sweater is another non-negotiable regardless of destination, whether it’s strictly for the plane or on standby if the weather isn’t cooperating. Here’s a favorite way of how to style; I’ve worn a version of this look on more trips than I can count and have never once regretted bringing an emergency sweater anywhere. This one has been great for travel days, with a slip skirt, and tied around the waist and many chic friends swear by this one. Donni. just launched the knit long sleeve right on time for summer, and it appears to be nothing short of perfect.
I’ll leave a breakdown of my looks for a future update— but in case it wasn’t already clear, I’ll be doing all of this out of a carry-on. Who’s with me?
such great finds— love this!