On the Road? Dress for Success!

Many business travelers tend to pack much more than they need when on the road. The result is a bulging bag that is difficult to hoist into the overhead compartment on a plane and almost impossible to load into a taxi cab. Checked baggage is often not a desirable option. Most airlines now charge for checked baggage, and waiting at baggage claim wastes valuable time once you reach your destination.

How, then, can the savvy businesswoman assure that she is dressed for success and looks her best on a business trip lasting three, four, or five days? Build your wardrobe around one basic color and easy-care fabrics. Black, brown, or navy basics fit any business occasion. Punch up the color with a bright T or accent scarf for a new look later in the week.

Begin with these wardrobe basics that will easily fit into your carry-on.

• A packable dress. Look for a knit jersey fabric that resists wrinkles. Solids or subtle prints are fine, but be sure that your dress coordinates well with your jacket for business functions. Your dress should be able to carry you into evening events without a hitch.
• A blazer style jacket. The jacket will go over your dress for business meetings, or teams with a skirt or slacks later in the week. Aim for a classic color that coordinates with your dress, slacks, and skirt. Don't worry about wrinkling the blazer in your suitcase. Instead, wear it on the plane to save space and keep you comfortable under chilly air vents.
• Dress slacks. Choose a neutral shade that matches or coordinates with your blazer and cardigan. Black and ivory are an eye catching combination.
• Khaki pants. Perfect for "business casual" events. Choose khakis that can be neatly pressed and team them with a shirt or T and cardigan.
• A skirt. Select a well fitting skirt that matches your jacket to create a "business suit" look.
• A cardigan sweater. Pair your sweater with dress slacks, khakis, or skirt and T. Conference rooms are often chilly, so the cardigan can be a lifesaver regardless of the season. You can also wear the cardigan alone, buttoned over your skirt or slacks. Add a scarf and you are ready to roll!
• A classic button front shirt. Always a wardrobe staple, you can quickly touch up your shirt with the iron when you unpack. Choose solids or subtle stripes that blend nicely with your slacks, skirt, and jacket.
• Two classic T's. These may be short sleeved or ¾ sleeve styles. Select one in a neutral color such as white or ivory, and the second in a brighter contrasting shade to liven things up a bit.
• An all purpose trench coat. Be prepared for the weather! In the midst of summer or hot climates, a coat may not be necessary, be sure to add an umbrella to your briefcase just in case.

Now add your accessories.

• Limit shoes to two pairs: one pair of low-heeled walking shoes, and one pair of moderate heels for dressier events and business meetings. If you need athletic shoes for your workouts, wear these en route. They take up a lot of room in your suitcase!
• Select a few favorite pieces of jewelry for the trip, and leave the rest at home. Choose classic pieces in either gold or silver tones for your earrings, watch, and necklace. There is no need to take both gold and silver jewelry. You might add a simple strand of pearls as an option, but avoid the temptation to pack an extensive array of jewelry options.
• A scarf or two takes little space in your bag, but dresses up the simplest outfits with an air of sophistication.
• Be sure that your briefcase slides smoothly over the handle of your carry on suitcase for easy handling.
• Select a small purse for your daily essentials. A cross body strap assures that your hands are free as you maneuver your luggage through the airport, train station, or taxi stand.

And finally, the other essentials.

• Underclothes and lightweight pajamas.
• Toiletries in travel size containers.
• Medications in original prescription bottles.
• Workout wear for breaks at the gym.

After several trips, packing for business travel will become second nature. Build your wardrobe around wardrobe basics that travel well. A versatile, tasteful travel wardrobe assures that you are able to look your best while traveling light.