prêt-à-packing 002

OOO outfitting

Reeling and feeling so grateful for the last 10 days away. From England to Paris to Saint-Tropez, it was truly planes, trains, and automobiles.

Between celebrating one of my nearest and dearest’s weddings, tanning with my best girls, and one too many spritzes, I did my best to not stress about my inbox and be fully present. Easier said than done, but there was something so refreshing about having nowhere to be, no schedule to follow, and simply letting the days unfold.

My first official “Euro summer,” and I can confidently say: I get the hype. Here’s what made it into the suitcase, what actually made it out of it, and why I’m already counting down until next year:

Packing Protocol #1: Style, Then Suitcase. As shared in prêt-à-packing 001, I map out every outfit ahead of time, down to the jewelry, shoes, sunnies, and handbag, so I know exactly what I’m wearing for everything from travel days to dinner reservations. It still leaves room for last-minute accessory swaps, but takes all the guesswork out of getting dressed when I’m tired, sun-soaked, and just want to head out the door.

One of my favorite looks of the trip. This Centre Piece Rio Top had been all over my feed, so I knew I needed it for a Parisian evening. Paired with my trusty Toteme knitted capris, a Heaven Mayhem bangle, and Vertigo collar, it felt equal parts effortless and polished. As for these Zara heels? A last-minute purchase that I ended up wearing on repeat all trip.

Tomorrow's outfit is tonight's problem. I always set up the next day's looks before bed. It makes mornings so much easier, and from poolside to Pilates to dinner, I know every outfit, accessory, and finishing touch is accounted for.

Pinterest was my biggest source of outfit inspiration for this trip, and I couldn't resist this Janessa Leoné hat the second I saw it. I also loved reworking this Hill House mini with denim, while this sweet basket bag came with me everywhere. And, of course, ShopMy was my best friend throughout the planning process, making it so easy to curate pieces and pull together complete looks before I even zipped my suitcase.

I always leave a little room in my suitcase for something I fall in love with along the way. I found this Zara slip dress in Paris and wore it that very same day to beat the heat. I can already tell it'll be one of those staples I'll reach for time and time again. I kept the accessories I'd originally planned for my Rue Sophie dress, pairing it with my A.Emery slides and C.S. x G.B. hat. Proof that cheetah is, in fact, a neutral.

My love for a styled swimmie is unmatched. I treat swimwear like any other outfit, building it out with jewelry, a great hat, a monochromatic moment, or a fun bag. The right accessories make all the difference. They can take even the simplest swimsuit from beach to lunch without a second thought.

Summer vacation is my excuse to get a little funkier. My wardrobe stays fairly neutral, so I let my accessories bring the personality. This Boho Beads necklace and my grandmother's Judith Leiber clutch did just that. Sometimes all it takes is one conversation-starting piece to completely change the feel of an outfit. The 4th & Reckless set was the perfect foundation, letting the accessories steal the show.

xx PEEJ