Hi! Sooo…Christmas is next week?? I’m not sure how that happened, but here we are and I’m suddenly feeling alllll the pressure. If you’re feeling it too, hopefully this post can help you find a little ease, at least when it comes to packing for the holidays. Got a little holiday travel capsule for you today! 🙂
You know I love a good wardrobe framework, so I used Rachel Spencer’s Top 3 method as my packing structure — 3 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 shoes. Then because you always need more than those core items, I rounded it out with a coat, base layers, PJs, and lotssss of accessories.
Yes! Accessories are a big player in this packing list. I’ve been reflecting lately on how sometimes I won’t “finish” an outfit. Why? Is it because by the time I get around to accessories I just want to get going already? Yes, she admits sheepishly. But these little finishing touches really aren’t so little after all — they MAKE the outfit. Sunglasses, a belt, a beautiful bag, a great pair of earrings, something for your hair — most of the time, these items don’t take up much room in a suitcase, but they can absolutely give you way more options when traveling.
My family gatherings are never fancy — in fact they are quite the opposite — so I went pretty casual for this packing list. But casual doesn’t mean boring! Peep the festive touches via the leopard fleece, hair bows, red plaid PJs, flare leggings, and green satin skirt!
Let’s get into it! And, of course, you don’t have to have these exact items. Use it as a template to make packing easier. One less thing to worry about!
(And keep scrolling for outfits, too!)
(Consider me your personal shopper — when you make a purchase through the affiliate links in this post, I make a commission at no charge to you.)
2 | Cable Knit Cardigan – Jenni Kayne
3 | Oversized Sweater – Everlane
4 | Flare Leggings – Aerie (on sale, under $20) | Less athleisure, more “real pants” option here
5 | Straight Jeans – Abercrombie (on sale, under $65)
6 | Satin Mini Skirt – Aritzia & Tights – Amazon
8 | Short Boots – Cole Haan (on super sale, under $120 — plus these are weatherproof and have a lightweight sole! I just got them myself.)
11 | Base Layers: Long Sleeve Tees – Skims & Tank Tops – Aerie
12 | Pajamas – Skims | These are cute too | Slippers – Bombas
Accessories:
Sunglasses – Madewell (30% off with code OHJOY)
Silver Bubble Hoops – Jenny Bird | Amazon version, under $15
Bezel Necklace – Madewell (30% off with code OHJOY)
Vegan Suede Tote – Gap (under $70)
OUTFITS
Outfit notes: Eeee I love this one! It’s so “country cousin” but aside from that of-the-moment label, it’s just very cute and comfy.
And cozy! I’m certain that wearing this Jenni Kayne sweater and Pendleton barn coat would give me that same soul-warming feeling that I get from mug of hot cocoa (with mallows!).
These suede (weatherproof!) boots have a lightweight sole and are super comfy for walking long distances. I just got a pair myself, and they are on super sale right now — under $120!
Notice all the finishings! I think the belt, earrings, suede bag, and sunnies balance out the workwear vibe really beautifully.
Roll the jeans once or twice to let the boots show a little more. Sweep your hair back into that warm headband to let the earrings shine.
Outfit notes: Out of all the outfits, this is the one I see myself loving/wearing the most. It’s comfy and casual — basically athleisure, but with twists that make it feel anything but basic. Flare leggings (under $20)! Leopard fleece with contrasting trim! Slouchy suede tote (under $70)! And those shoes — drooool. (Yes, the whole internet is into Salomons right now, and I’m not ashamed to say I am too.)
Outfit notes: More and more these days, I’m leaning into clothes that are meant for a *specific* moment in life. Maybe they aren’t something you’ll wear 30x this year, maybe they don’t have the best cost-per-wear ratio — but maybe the joy they bring you is more important than peak practicality.
So, I say yes to the festive PJs (these are cute too) and cozy slippers. Christmas movies at night and presents in the morning await!
Outfit notes: This is the dressier outfit of the bunch, but it’s actually a comfy outfit in disguise. Think of it as wearing leggings with a big ol’ sweater you can wrap up in — there just also happens to be a satin-y mini skirt there too. And, of course, a bow for your hair!
I’ve become a big fan of bringing two bags with me when I travel. This cute beaded bag takes up no room in your suitcase but it gives you a personality piece when you need one.
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I hope this post brings a bit of ease (and fun!) to your holiday packing this year.
Thanks for reading Unfancy today — it means so much to me that you’re here.
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