NYC Summer Sister Trip: What I'm Packing

Three very exciting things are happening soon:

My sister and I are going on our very first sisters-only vacation.
We’re going to see my sister’s work at a gallery in NYC.
We’re staying with fellow Ethical Writer, Faye, of Sustaining Life!

This trip is basically all I’ve been thinking about for the last month, so I thought I would put together a “What I’m Packing” post.

I’ve been to NYC a few times and it seems there’s always some kind of wardrobe malfunction. The first time, I only packed canvas shoes for a December trip and was way too cold. Last summer, I packed my normally very comfortable Melissa sandals and they didn’t cut it on the grimy sidewalks of the city. And, for some reason, I thought it would be smart to bring a tote bag with me on my long trek from Harlem to Brooklyn. By the end of the day, I could no longer feel my shoulder.

So I am being exceedingly strategic this time around, and here are my top notes-to-self:

Pack a lightweight shawl or jacket
Bring a versatile, lightweight crossbody bag
Pack a portable iPhone charger
Bring sunglasses!

I’ll be in New York a total of 4 days and this is what I’m packing…

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ONE PIECE

Secondhand Gingham Sundress (similar style from Reformation)
Known Supply Petra Organic Jumpsuit via Krochet Kids

BOTTOMS

Everlane Cheeky Straight Jean Ankle in Light Blue

Elizabeth Suzann Clyde Linen Work Pants

TOPS

Secondhand Gray Striped Tee (similar style from Thought)

Fair Indigo Scoopneck Tee in Copper

Everlane Cotton Crew Neck in Light Green
Everlane Linen Tee in Surplus

ACCESSORIES

Indosole Pantai Travel Shoes
Secondhand TEVA Universal Premier Sandals
grunBAG A-Bag in Green

EXTRAS

Encircled Chrysalis Cardigan and/or Upcycled Army Jacket

Portable Charger
Sunscreen
Prescription Sunglasses
Metal Water Bottle

I’m still having mixed feelings about what shoes to bring, but my objective is to pack as light as possible because I’m only bringing a backpack, and because I’m very likely to buy some cute vintage clothes while I’m there.

That being said, because the weather still seems to be wavering between spring and summer, I thought I’d be safest packing layering tees to go under the dress and jumpsuit in colors that I can mix and match. It gives me a small amount of variety so I still feel like I have some control over what I wear each day.

Leah Wise

Leah Wise is the founder of StyleWise Blog. She has been writing, speaking, and consulting on sustainable fashion, the fair trade and secondhand supply chain, and digital marketing for over ten years. An Episcopal priest, Leah holds a B.A. in Religion from Florida State University and an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School. When not working, you can find her looking for treasures at the thrift store.