I think the hardest part about doing these weekend trips to Florence is deciding what to pack. I’ve got this adorable small leather duffle bag, but it can only fit so much. Because of its limits, I must pack very smart. I can’t afford to pack something I’m not going to wear. Here are some tips…

Take a large tote/purse and one duffle bag/backpack/small-rolling suitcase.
Take one pair of shoes that you’ll wear during the day (i.e. tennis shoes, flats, or a nice pair of sandals).
Take one pair of shoes for evening. Depending on the city, make sure they are decently comfortable.
Sometimes the sandals/flats will work for evening as well.

Physically write out what you’re going to be doing. Then, I suggest making a chart for each day.
Day, Evening, Day accessories, Evening accessories. Pack accordingly.

Pack at least one extra shirt or dress. Sometimes accidents happen.

For these two nights I’m spending in Florence, I have to have both comfortable and fashionable day clothes; and also dressy nightclothes. Firenze is such a high fashion city that dressing up is a serious business. Plus, I have to bring date clothes! I have a date with my dearest Filippo. Not only that, but I’m going to run into (I just KNOW I will) this handsome boy I dated last summer. Naturally, I want to look good when I see him. Even more naturally, I want to look amazing on those dates!

For two nights, three days…I’m taking:
One set of pajamas.
One pair of gladiator sandals for both day/evening.
One pair of strappy heels in black.

Day one: gladiator sandals, cotton floral dress, brown belt to cinch at the waist, some stud earrings, and a grey sweater
Night one: black blouse tucked into high waisted skirt with a fine black and white pattern, black strappy heels, black chandelier earrings.

Day two: Pink spaghetti strap cotton dress, yellow+black printed scarf, brown belt to cinch the waist, gladiator sandals, and the same grey sweater just in case.

Night two: Black formfitting sweetheart dress, black strappy heels, and pearl stud earrings.

Day three: Red sundress with the brown belt to cinch the waist.

Just like that and you utilize everything you brought all while packing very fashionable outfits. It fills only 2/3 of my duffle bag which means there’s plenty of room for some more fun stuff: make up!

The last important things to take with you when traveling in a foreign country are your passport, the city or country’s emergency numbers, a phone card, and some currency. In my opinion, the most important accessory is a music player! Especially if you’re walking around alone, the music can make you feel like you’re walking in your own personal movie! I finally got the new Regina Spektor CD, “Far.” I highly recommend it! She stayed true to her style when doing this album and it’s great for summer travel and summer romances! Ok. I’m off to make sure I’ve packed everything. Our charter bus leaves at 6am which means I have to wake up at 5am! Buona notte, tutti!