And it also helps if you can keep your luggage to one piece, for convenience. Because who wants to lug TWO suitcases around for a three day trip? No one.
There are three simple strategies for packing efficiently and lightly, no matter where you are going:
Pack only things that you really wear. A business trip is not the time to test out a new skirt or jacket; you want clothes that you will be comfortable and confident in, and that you don't have to fuss with in the morning or through the day.
Pack basic pieces. Think both in terms of shape and color; neutral pieces in classic shapes are your best bet (black pencil skirt, brown wool trousers). Again, go with things you are comfortable with, to limit any tweaking or adjusting.
Pack pieces that work together. Choose one color palette for your trip, to guarantee that the things you pack will do multiple duty. Neutral basics plus a pop of color, in a blouse or sweater, keep your look fresh and flexible.
So what actually goes in the suitcase?
Trench coat. Unless you are going somewhere really cold, a trench is perfect for travel, because it is sharp enough to wear to a meeting or out for dinner but light enough to tuck in your bag. Look for one that can be layered over a slim sweater for cooler weather.
Cashmere sweater. Cashmere travels well, because it is both lightweight and warm. And cashmere is perfect for travel because if you spill on it, it can be washed, unlike a wool sweater, which must be dry cleaned. I like a cardigan for travel because it's easy to get in and out of when temperatures fluctuate, but a crew neck is great with a suit.
Flat shoes. For the airplane and the hotel. A pair with a pointy toe are comfortable and professional all at once.
Keep the other pieces simple: tailored trousers or skirts and tops that are comfortable and professional. Assume that you can wear each bottom at least twice; assume that every outfit needs to go from work to dinner. And toss in some yoga pants and a tee for the hotel.
Finally, keep in mind that when you are traveling, you are meeting with people who do not see you on a daily basis, and you have a limited time with them to make the best possible impression. Choose clothes that are perhaps slightly more dressy than what you might wear to the office -- wool trousers instead of jeans, say -- in order to make the best impression. Don't overdress, but don't sell yourself short. A cashmere sweater and wool trousers worn with tailored pumps is an easy, casual, professional look, and one that travels well.
Susan Wagner blogs about putting together a great work wardrobe that fits your life at The Working Closet and dishes out fashion advice for the yoga pants generation at Friday Style.
