Suitcase Diaries: What I'm Packing For Our Trip To The UK

Polo Dress | Yellow Tortoise Sunnies | Brown Natural Beaded Necklace | Long-Sleeve Linen Maxi Dress | Stripe Boxy Tee | Classic Cashmere Cardigan [Color: Peach] | Stripe Crew Neck Sweater | Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress | White Babydoll Swing Tank | Brown Printed Trousers | Milky Tortoise Sunnies | The Driver Loafer | Raffia Tote | Ivory Bailey Dress | Raffia Wedges

It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since I’ve been back to London.

In the last ten years, that’s the longest I’ve ever gone without returning, and I can promise you right now: I don’t intend to let that happen again. The city has become far too precious to me. Some places simply find a way of becoming part of who you are, and for me, London will always be one of them.

As excited as I am to introduce the boys to more of the places that shaped such an important chapter of my life, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t also looking forward to something as simple as walking familiar streets again, popping into my favorite cafés, wandering through Chelsea and Mayfair, and settling into the rhythm that somehow still feels like home.

Naturally, that also means I’ve been thinking about what to pack.

One of the things I love most about dressing for the UK is that it calls for a different approach than dressing for summer here in Florida. Layers become essential, comfortable shoes are non-negotiable, and versatile pieces that can take you from a museum to dinner without missing a beat are worth their weight in gold.

This isn't my entire suitcase by any means — this would be a very long newsletter if it was, hahah — but I thought it'd be fun to share a little preview of the pieces setting the tone for my wardrobe while we're away. Use this as inspiration for your July wardrobe, regardless of where you are spending the month. But, of course, if you’re traveling abroad soon, all of these would work rather well.

Remember, layers are key. And good shoes. Let’s do this.

My Packing Formula

Rather than packing lots of statement pieces, I always start with versatile basics in soft neutrals that mix and match effortlessly. Think linen, cotton, lightweight knits, comfortable denim, and classic accessories that work with nearly everything.

It means I can create plenty of outfits without overpacking—a lesson I’ve learned after making this trip more times than I can count.

This year’s color palette is mostly what you’d expect from me: creams, whites, flax, sandstone, and warm browns. But I’m also branching out just a bit.

I’ve tucked in a few unexpected pops of color—a beautiful pink handbag, a pair of green loafers, and a few colorful accessories—to keep everything feeling fresh without sacrificing versatility.

A Few Pieces Coming Along

everything worn above are linked HERE

• A linen vest and coordinating separates that can easily be dressed up for dinner or worn casually during the day.

• Relaxed button-down shirts (I always size up for an effortless oversized fit) that work as lightweight layers or swimsuit cover-ups. I also love this white crisp one from AYR.

• Easy linen trousers that are comfortable for travel days and sightseeing.

• White denim that’s polished enough for city days but still easy to wear.

• A lightweight cardigan because layers are absolutely essential in the UK—even in July.

• Comfortable sandals for warmer afternoons and loafers for days when the weather cools off.

• A few simple necklaces that instantly elevate otherwise basic outfits. (One of the necklaces I’m bringing comes in so many beautiful color combinations that it was genuinely hard to choose just one.)

• I needed to zjszjs up my sunnies game. I will be bringing these classics, which I’ve had for years, but I bought this classic pair of tortoise sunglasses in a more unpredictable color than I typically go with. And, I’ll be bringing these large round ones, which I’ve already shared.

My goal is always the same: every piece should work with several others in my suitcase. When everything coordinates, getting dressed becomes incredibly easy and you spend far less time staring into your suitcase wondering what goes together. With kids, this is essential.

If you’re traveling somewhere with similarly unpredictable weather, this approach works beautifully. Build around timeless basics, add a few thoughtful accessories, don’t underestimate the importance of layers, and leave a little room for something fun.

SHOP MY SUITCASE

I’d love to know: are you a neutral-packer like me, or do you like to travel with lots of color?

Weigh in below! Thanks for stopping by today, friends!

x. H