Urban chic

Now the question is do I attempt to bring a small carry-on bag or do I go crazy and pay for a bigger bag which I am absolutely loath to do? I’m the queen of light weekend packing but can I stretch it to a week? We shall have to wait and see. I may cave at the last minute and book myself another bag!

A trip to warmer climes is always easier and lighter to pack for and I’ve already gathered a few items that are taking up very little space in my bag. When it’s so cold and rainy at home, I find it very hard to imagine what 19 degrees is like but I do know that layers will be necessary for those chilly Portuguese evenings.

I’ve had a rummage in my own wardrobe and I’ve pulled out some dresses which I think will work well. A shorter style with long sleeves and that are brightly coloured are my go-to frocks for a city break and I also found an amazing slinky, navy dress in the H&M sale for eleven euros that I am absolutely dying to wear. It’s so chic on and I’ll pair it with some statement earrings and a slicked back pony tail.

I’ll also probably pack one or two plisse sets of top and trousers for night as these are so light and so comfortable to wear. You’re dressed up and really no effort is required just again one statement accessory to jazz it up.

My main concern when packing night time looks is footwear as they take up so much room. However I think my silver and white ankle length cowboy boots will pretty much go with everything. They are also comfortable which is a bonus and you never know we might end up dancing the night away somewhere. I also like to try and factor in the biggest pair of shoes in my travel outfit to save on more space.

For day wear, I’ll just keep it very casual and as I want to explore the city and do lots of walking, comfort really is key. I picked up a fab navy pair of skorts (skirt/shorts hybrid) that are so easy to wear and I’ll pair with a loose blue and white stripe shirt and some trainers. It’s actually the perfect look for one of those days on holiday where you’ve been out all day and you might just have time to freshen up and leave the outfit on for a casual dinner. A shoe and accessory change are all you require here.

I’m also just going to pack some plain t-shirts or some loose, printed shirts and wear with casual trousers. Then all I need is some layered gold jewellery, a cross body bag and trainers and I’m done.

To save more space it’s essential to look at your accessories and make sure that what you bring will work with most of the outfits. I just bring one set of daytime jewellery which I can wear travelling and I bring one of two pairs of statement earrings for the evening.

I also don’t like to bring too much jewellery in case I lose it which I nearly did on my last Paris trip. Now all I need is a tiny little bit of space in the bag in case I need to make one or two holiday purchases.