Two Days and One Tote — Micro-Closet

Last week I attended a juvenile law conference for work. I drove the 85 miles to the conference and could have pitched my entire wardrobe into my backseat, but instead I opted to pack everything I'd need in one large tote bag. Could I pull it off? Did I pull it off? See for yourself below.

When I packed for this trip, I pulled out my favorite Longchamp tote. You may remember these from 2010 when sorority girls all over America used these to haul their books to class. I had already graduated by 2010 but I bought one in 2012 while visiting Hilary in Munich, and it has come in very handy. It is durable nylon with a leather strap and can fold into an envelope shape when not in use. I use it a lot for short trips and will tuck it into a suitcase on longer trips when I know I may come home with more than I bring.

A black Uniqlo jumpsuit and my fav WhoWhatWear floral maxi

I agonized over what to wear to this conference more than necessary when two days before I left I realized I knew a couple of people going to as well. I reached out to one who told me it was casual and that she typically wore a dress of jeans. Casual dress? It was a dream come true! I was thrilled not to have to wear a suit and heels and spend the day with my legs crossed (I'm sure my fellow career gals can empathize, sitting with your legs crossed all day is not comfortable!). Instead of my usual get-up, I chose my favorite floral maxi dress and a black jumpsuit.

Adidas Superstar sneakers and a denim jacket that complement each outfit

God bless Adidas Superstar sneakers and denim jackets. These pieces are very comfortable and go with a number of outfits in my wardrobe. When I travel I liked to bring shoes that are both cute and comfortable so I can wear them all day without discomfort and into the evening. Despite the temperatures in the high 80s, I brought a denim jacket because I knew the conference rooms would be chilled well below comfort level but I wanted something that added structure to my outfit.

The perfect formula for a stress free conference!

The trip was a success! I brought exactly the right amount for the two days, was comfortable the entire time, and had very little unpacking to do when I got home. Do you have a short trip coming up? Follow these tips to pack quickly and easily:

Decide on your luggage and stick to it.
Check the forecast and ask a fellow traveler about the dress code if you have questions.
Pick out the same number of outfits as days you'll be gone. Don't take multiple options, you'll waste space and time trying to decide what to wear.
Shoes and jackets take up a lot of space, so pick out one pair of shoes and a jacket that coordinate with each outfit.
Pick out a couple of accessories (necklace, watch, scarf) that you can wear with each outfit.
Enjoy your trip!