TIPS AND TRICKS: 2 SUITCASE WARDROBE

When you are touring the country with a show, it is important to know how to pack everything you need into TWO SUITCASES.  Yes you read that correctly.  2.  I have been on the road now for close to 10 months and I think I have gotten it down to a science.  The key is packing things that can be mixed, matched, layered, are well-made, and will last for a long time.  The following list can be adapted to your specific needs but these are the items I am currently traveling with:

BASICS:

Panties - it's a good idea to have at least 2 weeks worth of panties.  Laundry isn't always readily available and running out of clean panties is a drag.  My favorite are Victoria Secret The Lacie Hip Huggers.  Sexy and comfortable.
Bras - 1 t-shirt, 1 fancy, 1 strapless (or convertible), 1 sport - for some GREAT finds click HERE
Tanks, T's, and Socks - 2-5 of each (white, black, nude) I usually get these from Target but if you want to spend some extra money for ultra soft basics, try The Gap
Leggings and Tights - 2-3 pairs (this includes Jeggings) I love Juicy leggings best but you can also get some great ones at H & M - for tights I love Spanx or Assets (From Target)

Pajamas - I like to sleep in my panties and an oversized men's white oxford but for those of you that would rather have proper PJ's I recommend 2 pairs.  For some fantastic sets click HERE

STAPLES:

Pants - 2-3 pairs, include 1 fancy, 1 casual, 1-2 pairs of jeans.  I LOVE lululemon and bebe sport for great, comfy black pants.  Nordstrom has an amazing collection of all types of pants - I am loving the 70's glamour moment pants are having.  Slim fit with an exaggerated bell - they make everyone look long and lean.

Tops - 5-7 casual and fancy.  Finding tops that can layer over one another is a great way to make the most of your space.  Some of my favorite things are coming from H & M - they are nailing fall fashion!

Skirts and Dresses - 3-5 includes casual (dresses that can be worn in summer alone and layered with tights for fall/winter)  and cocktail attire (for nights out, opening night parties, etc) I adore ModCloth for sweet one of a kind vintage dresses and I never go wrong with the designer collections at Nordy's. 

ACCESSORIES:

Shoes - Depending on what time of year it is 3-5 pairs (includes boots, fancy heels, gym shoes, flats, wedges for summer, flat boots for sightseeing) I adore Steve Madden, BCBG, and Christian Louboutin (I know.  So expensive.  But SO worth it)

Accessories - anything you would like – I have several pairs of earrings (casual studs to fancy chandeliers) a big gold watch, several rings (every day – fancy cocktail) and necklaces.  I get accessories from Forever 21 Accessories store.  My fancy stuff is from David Yurman - pricey but it is classic and lasts forever.  And it's to die for gorgeous. 

Bags/Clutches - 3 bags, 1 for every day, 1 carry – on size, 1 clutch (for evening).  When it comes to bags, I always say it's best to make an investment.  When you buy a hand made, perfectly stitched, leather, gorgeous bag it will last you forever and it never goes out of style.  Clutches can be purchased at Top Shop or H & M.  I am loyal to Gucci (duh)

ESSENTIALS:

Toiletries:  I pack travel-sized bottles of all my shampoo and conditioner – it’s easier to pack and you can buy a bunch and keep the extras in your trunk

Must haves – 

Ponds Cold Cream

bubble bath (my favorite is Burt's Beeswax Baby Bee Bubble Bath)

loofah

Travel candles (Henri Bendel makes the most incredible travel candles - Fig is my fave)

Books (I'm currently reading Sin In The Second City by Karen Abbott and it's BEYOND)

Ipad

Framed photos

DVDs

EXTRA TIPS:

Pack all of your bulky items in your trunk

Don't forget all of your medicine cabinet essentials (Tylenol, toothpaste, etc)

Organizing your technology can make your life so much easier - there is a fantastic website that caters to those of us that are technology over dosed - Flight 001.com  

It's important to bring items that make you feel at home.  I bring photos, special trinkets, and throws to make my hotel room feel more cozy.

Happy travels and good luck!

XO

R