5 Mix-and-match Outfits to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Within the last year, I have transitioned from a packing-six-pairs-of-shoes princess to the queen of the carry-on closet. That’s not to say I forgo fashion for less baggage—instead, I’m now more particular about what goes into my luggage, and what I leave at home. Think: classic-colored bottoms, light layers, a matches-everything jacket, and packable accessories that can easily help change your look from day to night, or even day to day. If it can be worn in various ways three to four times, then it is versatile enough to go in my carry-on bag. 

As we transition towards spring and (hopefully) start to shed our thicker sweaters and put away the puffers, your travel clothes will fit even better into a prized, unchecked bag. Below, I mapped out five of my favorite mix-and-match travel outfits, using only items I fit in my trusty carry-on bag. 

Carry-on-only Fashion Staples

Outfit 1

A classic white casual top paired with a blue jean, this outfit uses many of the staples I packed. A great pair of jeans goes a long way in your suitcase: you could sub in these wide-leg Levi’s for truly any of the following outfits, and create even more mix-and-match looks. Paired with cute but comfortable mules, the flexible fabric top of these shoes makes them easy to stow in a smaller bag. Finish off this simple look with a crescent bag you can also wear with everything, and zero-tangle gold jewelry (which I am packing in a jewelry holder like this one).  

Outfit 2

Perhaps my favorite outfit of the five, this look proves you can be fully fashion-forward even when packing light. The faux leather jacket is the star of the show; much like the jeans from the first outfit, you can sub it in or add it to nearly every look. A 100% washable silk skirt is a chic, practical wardrobe essential to pack, especially when you can only bring a few pairs of bottoms. One of my go-to packing hacks is bringing three bodysuits or tighter tank tops in neutral colors to have on rotation; besides accessories, I rely on them as one of the fastest ways to change my look from day to day.

Outfit 3

You will never catch me traveling without a reliable sneaker, no matter the destination. Lately, I have been into footwear that feels both stylish and practical, like a reliable pair of Adidas. I can walk around my destination with ease without compromising my look. Pair them with jeans, skirts, or, my favorite combo, with these green cargo-colored barrel leg pants; they’re another snart neutral bottom to pack. I reused my same leather jacket, bag, and one of my bodysuits to create this look, and added a fun silk scarf to my hair (which you can also add to your bag or wear around your neck with any look).

Outfit 4

One of the most transitional items you can have in your wardrobe is an oversized cardigan. Not only can it be worn every season, but it can also be added or removed as a layer for all of your carry-on outfits. I paired it with the silk skirt and a Henley shirt for a more boho-inspired look. If you have room for a third pair of shoes, a closed-toe ankle boot is a great swap for sneakers (as a slightly dressier approach or switch the mules to be a bit more casual). And, I love this vegan leather tote that’s super roomy and has a full zipper top—it’s great for using as your personal item and as a purse at your destination if you have a long day ahead of you. Accessorize with a stack of gold statement rings, and you’re ready to go.

Outfit 5

No matter what time of year it is, I always pack a comfy matching set, whether I’m wearing it as my airplane outfit or cozy loungewear in between activities. What’s great about a two-piece set is that you can also mix and match the pieces into other non-lounge outfits. For instance, I can add the sweatshirt to an outfit for an extra layer of warmth, or pair the bottoms with the leather jacket for an easy right-off-the-plane look. I paired mine with a baseball cap, my faux leather jacket, and a pair of Reebok sneakers for a city-sleek look that will comfortably take me from my home destination to my vacation. 

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