There’s nothing quite like gearing up for a fun long weekend ahead with your friends and family and getting to your closet to pack and thinking, “What the heck am I going to put in this bag?!” In my experience, packing is one of the most fun, time consuming, creative, and frustrating parts about preparing for a trip. I typically try on everything roughly 1,000 times, and then end up packing something that I grab off of the hanger at a store last minute… If you’re the same way, you’re going to love what is coming next.
I teamed up with the folks over at The Street in Chestnut Hill, MA, boasting a high-end fashion experience, and a rotating retail pop-up for the tastefully chic. Below I’m listing some of the key stores that you must stop in while preparing for your weekend away, and a few of my favorite selects from each.
Splendid
If I had to think of one brand that embodies “cozy chic”, there is no question that Splendid would be the first to come to mind. Flowy dresses, effortless jumpsuits, and the most comfortable shoes you will ever abound in this retail valhalla made for gals like me who want to look cute, but could live without the fuss. The below asymmetrical dress, cargo pant, and denim jumpsuit are just a few of my faves!
Vince
If I had a nickel for every time I’ve recommend Vince for travel wear, I’d be a rich woman. Each shade of blue they have in their most recent collection is magical. They’re also featuring a lot of cropped outerwear, which is perfect for unpredictable weather. And, if you’ve never had the pleasure of traveling in the comfort of one of their sweaters, I am telling you now, it’s practically life changing. Vince is the epitome of understated elegance, and every piece can be worn about a hundred ways — perfect for those of you trying to fit everything into one teeny tiny carry on!
J. McLaughlin
The key with packing for a long weekend, and not having to check any luggage or have your friends gawk at your for filling the trunk of your car, is to pack wardrobe staples. A crisp white shirt, patterned shirt dress, structured handbag that can go from day to night, and a wrap that will keep you cozy from beach bonfire to your exit row seat home. Introducing, J.McLaughlin. They have all the essentials any intrepid gal needs.
Portobello Road
Noticeable by the bright blue doors (a nod to Notting Hill, I imagine), Portobello Road is a locally owned boutique that caters to those with a refined, eclectic taste. The reason why this spot is such a gem is their accessories section. Finding a place to buy a great hat, well-made (but not super fancy) jewelry, and a fun bag that doesn’t have a designer label splashed across the front is a rarity in Boston. If you’re looking for all the travel gypsy feels, look no further.
Opening Soon: Copious Row
During my latest visit, I got a sneak peak into the freshest retail opening on the block, Copious Row. This Fall, they’ll be opening their doors, carrying the likes of Victoria Beckham, Brock Collection, Prabal Gurung, Zimmerman, and the list goes on! While I’m pretty notorious for sporting brands like Vince (duh!), Tod’s, Reformation, and Madewell, I’ve slowly been working in higher-end pieces to elevate my style. Looking forward to working with their stylists for a couple of key investment pieces for Fall. Who knows where I’ll be bringing them on my travels next!!
Do you have any long weekend packing must-haves? Leave me a note in the comments below. I’m always looking for an excuse to pack more things 🙂
Venture travelist 