Packing for a holiday has never been my strong suit, but I can say that it’s become easier as my wardrobe has evolved into a truly versatile mix-and-match collection. You might not be there yet, but a good place to start is with your packing. Having an easy-to-carry suitcase filled with fluid, versatile pieces is refreshing—and it means you can actually relax and enjoy your holiday (instead of wrestling with your suitcase in a hotel room).
This packing tip isn't my invention, but it’s so good that I’m happy to share it. Simply put: it’s the 5-4-3-2-1 rule!
DON'T MISS MY YOUTUBE CLIP ON MY SUMMER SELECTION FROM INDIAN SUMMER (tap the blue)
The idea is to select a well-considered range of items in colors and styles that work together. You begin with 5 of one type (usually tops), 4 of another (usually bottoms—like trousers, jeans, shorts, or skirts), 3 of another, and so on.
Here’s a combination I love:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 pairs of shoes
- 2 layering options (jackets or sweaters)
- 1 dress
For a summer holiday, I tend to think in terms of a Cape Town holiday, which always calls for layering in the evenings or on those random chilly days, even amidst the heat. But, if I were headed to Durban or a tropical island, my ratio would probably shift to:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 dresses
- 2 shoes
- 1 layer item
Or, if I were planning on living in dresses:
- 5 dresses
- 4 tops
- 3 pairs of shoes
- 2 bottoms
- 1 layer item
Once you have that core set in place, you can start adding those holiday essentials like swimsuits, beach bags, hats, and accessories. You could even create a little capsule wardrobe there:
- 3 swimsuits
- 2 hats
- 1 beach bag + jewellery
Not enough room for both day and evening wear? No problem. Add an evening capsule to your packing list, but since your day wear might overlap (thank you, versatile wardrobe), you can skip the 5 and do:
- 4 tops (including jackets)
- 3 dresses
- 2 bottoms
- 1 pair of evening shoes
The beauty of the 5-4-3-2-1 formula is that it helps you stick to a versatile, cohesive set of items. As you're thinking about colours and styles that mix and match, remember: texture adds that extra je ne sais quoi, especially if you're opting for neutrals. It’s not just chunky knits and fluffy scarves—we’re talking the liquid feel of silk, linen, or a lovely denim. Texture can count as one of your 5-4-3-2-1 pieces!
Using this formula makes my packing process far less stressful. Let me know how well it works for you—I’m eager to hear your packing triumphs (or mishaps!).
