Want to look as cool and collected as Charlize while jetsetting? Pay attention.

Whether you vacation in the Summer or Winter (moi), as relaxing as a vacation can be, sometimes getting to and from is not so. I wouldn't call myself extremely well-traveled but my passport is pretty colorful. I have some tips when it comes to packing and making the airport trek as smooth sailing as possible. But before I divulge, remember: travel is stressful but what awaits on the other end is bliss. So sit back, remember to breathe and enjoy the ride.

Diane von Furstenberg delivers us many wise words and on the topic of packing, here are some, "I think if you've figured out how to pack, you've figured out your life." So don't fret my friends, mastering the art of packing is a life long task.

Packing 101

  • Maintain a coordinated color palette. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring! Red, purple, black and dark denim is a modern and interesting combination. As for the tropics, how does yellow, purple, white and gold sound? Fabulous.
  • Consider dresses, lots of dresses. Here is an item that’s easy to throw on and is an outfit in itself.
  • Keep shoes neutral; black, brown, metallic and white shoes/sandals. This will make things less stressful when trying to color coordinate outfits and accessories.

    • For lots more Fab travel tips and to learn my travel essentials, read more

  • Razzle dazzle. Jewelry can liven up any look. I only travel with costume jewelry, for fear of theft or losing things. Do not pack your jewelry in your checked luggage — carry it with you.
  • Fold n' roll. Some items are better to roll, some are better to fold. Roll thin, delicate fabric tops and dresses; fold tougher, bigger items like jeans and jackets.
  • Handbags. This is the time to utilize your favorite, most functional, handbags; always bring a clutch for a night out or quick dinner.
  • Storage. You can store your costume jewelry, and small accessories like belts, within your clutch within your bigger handbags. This way your jewelry is protected and won’t break. Again, storing jewelry in your main bag is only recommended if you're not checking your luggage.
  • Wrinkle prevention. Carolina Herrera recommends using a lot of tissue paper, placing it between folds and garments, to prevent wrinkles. Also, extra TP always comes in handy, no?

In Flight

  • I always carry a comfy, cloth headband when I travel. In flight hair gets flat or static attack; you can slip one on, look put together and have your hair out of your face.
  • Cardigans. I find cardis are great travelers; they are lightweight, versatile and feminine. They manage to be cozy but not suffocating.
  • Cold feet. I tend to wear sandals on flights in warmer months. For a short flight I don't mind, but for a long one my toes get chilly. To prevent discomfort, and possibly getting sick, bring a pair of favorite socks so you can feel at ease throughout the flight.
  • Scarves are a must. Or pashminas. They may be trendy but they're also functional. Case in point: Charlize!
  • Hoop earrings — big or small — are ideal for travel. They don't scream wealth and they provide a touch of fancy for when you're feeling frumpy. They also work well with earphones, unlike big studs or chunky jewelry.
  • Go go green. Save some plastic and do your body, and planet, good by carrying a SIGG bottle rather than multiple bottles. These come in many fun designs now so pick one that communicates your personal style.
  • Just in case. I always carry a pair of clean undies in a Ziploc bag; if you're going to the tropics, I also recommend bagging a bikini — if anything goes wrong, you can swim your troubles away STAT.

Destination Anywhere

  • Worrisome wrinkles. Bring any wrinkled-en-route items into the bathroom with you when you (finally) get to your hotel and take a shower, hang it on the door, and let the steam naturally take some of the wrinkles away. No worries.
  • Lint control. Remember: you can always use the luggage stickers from the airline as a lint removing sticker!
  • Enjoy yourself!

Fame

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