I’m officially leaving London! Walking away from my job as a junior fashion editor, boxing up my flat and heading back home to Devon. But what’s next? First stop is Italy for three months, starting in Sardinia, in August. So, as well as a portable fan (and a back-up manual), what else will I be bringing with me that will all fit into a 50L travelling rucksack?
Going from a fashion editor’s wardrobe to a rucksack is quite the difference. I’ve had to whittle it down to absolutely-can’t-live-without clothing that will cover all activities while in Italy, whether that’s swimming, hiking, shopping or cooking. I won’t bother including boring bits like vests, underwear or practical clothing – let’s get to the fun part (I am a fashion editor, after all)!
So, what made the cut? Linen jumpsuits, dresses, shorts, casual and fancier tops – all in a complementary colour palette so that 20+ different outfit combinations can be created. That’s it.
For me, it was time to make the leap into a freelance career and tick some things off my bucket list, but just because I’m doing so doesn’t mean I can’t give up all my fashion joys – which is why a beaded bag and silver jewellery are still considered essentials to me.
Shoes are my weakness – I wish I was a trainer-and-sandal-and-that’s-it kind of girl, but I’m not. They’ve always been my kryptonite – and the two boxes I’m taking home with me to Devon proves it. So I’ve had to settle for these four: trusty Salomons for hiking; leather mules for everyday; flip-flops for the beach; and ballet pumps for dinner out.
And last but not least… the swimsuit of all swimsuits, which stretches with me, no matter how many plates of pasta I eat. Arrivederci!