What to Pack: 14 Day European Vacation

Guess what? I'm currently en route to London! The family and I are headed on our annual vacation and this year it's a 14 day cruise through Europe. Honestly, I haven't even mentioned it because it totally crept up on me - no joke- I packed last night. Don't worry, I did some strategic shopping before hand at Sole Society, Zara and REVOLVE. Btw, I'm planning some fun things with Sole Society during my trip so make sure to follow along on Instagram for all the fun!

Below are a few of my packing tips and tricks: 
packing, what to pack for Europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel
{dresses from the stylist la & other,  sole society travel bag}

Cruising for 14 days is AMAZING but also a bit challenging from a packing perspective; the dining room dress code for dinner is a kind of strict (no denim), so that means 14 different dress, skirt or pant outfits. For trips like this I usually turn to The Stylist LA to borrow dresses because it's an easy way to get a plethora of dresses and not break the bank. Plan outfits: I used to think it was silly that people planned outfits ahead of time, but I'd rather take the time to layout some looks than pay extra stuffing unnecessary items into a second bag. 
shoes, what to pack for europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel

The easiest way to put together looks is to pick a color palette - for this trip I stuck with neutrals that I can easily mix and match. Also, when I was buying new pieces I looked for styles that will transition into fall since it's just around the corner. For shoes, the combination of sightseeing, fine dining, and other adventures means a handful or in my case... a lot of shoes!
packing list, what to pack for europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel

Accessorize! Accessories are the easiest way to change up a look and most of the time they don't take up too much space. Again, I opted for neutral hues to mix and match with all of my outfits. Btw, I feel like a hat is clutch for vacay bad hair days + they're just oh-so chic. 
packing, what to pack for europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel

Two things I never leave the house without when I travel are a few pairs of denim and a scarf. Denim is a girl's best friend. Pack at least two pairs: your go-to blue and black. Scarves come in handy for uncomfortably cold places likes planes and unexpected cold evenings. 

packing, what to pack for europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel

Maintenance: I like to use vacation time to do my annual whitening regimen (crest whitestrips are my go-to) and give some extra love to my hair. I'm testing out this new Lee Stafford hair treatment that I've read rave reviews about. #fingerscrossed When it comes to mani & pedis, go for nude or barely there colors that won't draw attention as nails grow or polish chips over the course of the trip. I like to bring the bottle for touch ups just in case! 
books for vacation, what to pack for europe, what to pack for cruise, summer travel

Clutches double as mini-bags - make use out of all types of bags to carry on books and other accessories. I'm really excited to have some time to read REAL books! My motto: one "fun" book for every one professional/self-help book. I surveyed some Twitter friends to get book recommendations; will share my reviews post trip. 

Here I come, Europe! Follow along on Instagram for all the adventures.