THE ESSENTIAL HOME-FOR-THE-HOLIDAYS PACKING LIST
Understatement of the year: Heading home for the holidays can be a little bit stressful for myriad reasons. One being figuring out what to pack. So we enlisted UK-based tastemaker and seasoned traveler Matthew Spade to create a streamlined list of essentials perfect for frantically stuffing folding neatly inside your carry-on.
STRAIGHT AUTHENTIC FLEX SELVEDGE JEANS
“Let’s start with the foundation to any successful winter get-up: selvedge denim—probably the most versatile and hardworking piece in your pack. Washed to give them a slightly lived-in look but still smart enough to wear out to dinner, this straight-leg pair feels fresher than ever.”
SIDEWALK LOW-TOP SNEAKERS
“I have a few nonnegotiables when it comes to shoes: They should be comfy and neutral in color, with a simple design. These leather Sidewalk Sneakers will work in every situation over the holidays, from nights out with friends to the near-constant family affairs.”
GARMENT-DYED CREWNECK SWEATSHIRT
“This garment-dyed sweatshirt has a raglan construction and a timeless sportswear-inspired neckline. Looks casual, but it’s really about how you wear it. Maybe I’m showing my age here, but the days of forfeiting comfort for style are long gone.”
THE MILAN TOTE BAG
“Totes are kind of my thing. Over the years, I’ve narrowed down the elements needed in order for a tote bag to suit my daily life: It’s got to be lightweight, needs some sort of closure for security and must have decent pocket space so things don’t get jumbled up inside.”
BEDFORD CONVERTIBLE 3-IN-1 PARKA
“There’s room for one coat on your trip—so make sure it really puts in work. This bad boy’s literally three in one: a rain jacket on misty days, a bomber for shuffling between home and the pub and a warm fishtail parka with a hood and loads of pockets.”
CORDUROY BASEBALL CAP
“I’m currently in the running for ‘Baseball Cap Wearer of the Year’ (wish me luck). My seasonal pack would be missing a hero if I didn’t bring this guy. I’ll opt for a corduroy one, ’cause ’tis the season and all that. Can’t resist that cozy nostalgia.”
Cheers, Mat! We feel more chilled-out already. Now, if only we weren’t stuck with a middle seat…