August 2, 2017
I leave tomorrow! My original plan was to go to Italy, but my friend had to postpone, so Belovedest and I decided that I would just get off the plane in Dublin (through which I was originally connecting) and spend the 12 days there. I’ll be in an Air BNB for 6 days, and then B arrives and we’ll move into a hotel. I’m mad excited…
This is a really uncharacteristic pack for me – it’s a TON more stuff than I often take. But I’m going to get up in the mornings and do an alternate sprint/walk down the river toward the docks. (The wander back will probably require coffee shops…) That means that I need running skorts, shoes, tee shirts, socks, and probably some 2nd layer; Ireland is a lot cooler than Chicago, this time of year!
And then there’s the going to pubs to hang out and watch sport, as well as the chance that we have to attend the GAA All-Ireland Hurling semi-finals at Croke Park. This is a BIG deal – 75,000 people packed into a stadium screaming like maniacs…
AND, of course, I’ll be with Belovedest, so we’ll go to a few nice restaurants too. But of course I have a plan!
First up, my travel outfit has to be something cool enough to not die on the way to the airport in Chicago. A linen cardigan and tee shirt should work well, I hope. I’m going to have my black rain jacket in my backpack, so that if it’s cool or rainy when I land, I’ll be fine:
scarf – Missoni ; tee shirt – J.Jill; earrings – Wadarat Supasirisuk; cardigan – J.Jill; pants – Eddie Bauer; shoes – Stuart Weitzman; backpack – Hershel
Yes, these blue pieces from J.Jill are what caused me to fall off of my “no shopping” wagon! I’ve been looking for a new accent color for quite a while, and this one really hit me in the forehead and screamed “here I am you silly woman! buy me!!!”. When inanimate objects shout at me, I tend to obey…
I’m packing in clusters – starting with black jeans that I found at Dearborn Denim. Made in the US, priced under $60! I bought a style designed for men, because I deeply and profoundly don’t care about the gender of my garments… Around these jeans, I’m arranging some tee shirts, in case it gets hot, and a cardigan in case it’s cool, and some scarves because I MUST have scarves…
earrings – Majorica; Paris scarf – Echo; b&w pocket square – Hermes; b&w scarf – Hermes; cardigan – J.Crew; handbag – Issey Miyake; chambray shirt – J. Crew; jeans – Dearborn Denim; graffiti tee – Uniqlo; star tee – Agnes B.; ballet flats – Thierry Rabotin; athletic shoes – New Balance
If there’s no forecast of rain, I’m going to wear white jeans as often as possible – it will feel like August even if the temperatures are in the low 60’s…
print shirt – Lands’ End; tweed sweater – J.Jill ; necklace – J.Jill; knot earrings – Pichaya; square earrings – Alexis Bittar; star earrings – Unwritten; checked shirt – Lands’ End; striped sweater – Eileen Fisher; white jeans – Uniqlo; loafers – Everlane
I always remind myself when I’m packing that if I remember my passport, my credit cards, and my prescriptions, everything else can be managed somehow – it’s not like you can’t shop in Dublin! But I wouldn’t want to try to buy new workout gear on the fly – this kind of thing can go badly wrong, and I’d love to avoid that! This is quite a bit of stuff, but I do NOT want to do partial loads of laundry at my host’s apartment; electricity is (appropriately) expensive in Ireland and I’m not going to waste their money and resources…
tee shirts – L.L.Bean; skorts – L.L.Bean; jacket – L.L.Bean; wool shirt – IceBreaker; socks – SmartWool; running shoes – Adidas
Two dresses – depending on the weather, I’ll wear one or the other frequently. A rain jacket, and a hooded sweatshirt that can be layered UNDER the jacket in the worst-case scenario…
dress – Eileen Fisher; jacket – COS; sweatshirt – Lands’ End; sleeveless dress – J.Jill
I know this seems like a lot to pack, but I feel better knowing that I’m going to have all of this with me. Sometimes mental comfort is important. Plus I’m fortunate enough to only be changing locations once, so it’s not as if I’m going to have to keep repacking every day or two…
This does look really abundant, doesn’t it? Of course, if you take out a few of the workout pieces it’s not quite as insane. Five pairs of shoes is a bit nutty, though…
I’m checking my suitcase, of course. Belovedest bought me a gorgeous new bag for my birthday, which is more than big enough for all of these pieces.
As a last exercise, I’m double-checking to make sure that all of my things can be worn in a variety of combinations, so that I’ll have abundant choices. For some reason, that feels important to me for this trip. I’m trying to be responsive to my emotional needs with this packing plan – it’s not usual for me, but I think it will help me have a better vacation!
You just know that the second the plane lands, Ireland will be thrown into the longest, hottest spell of weather in the history of the country and I’ll have to buy shorts, tee shirts and sandals…
love,
Janice
p.s. I’m trying to queue up “reruns” of earlier posts for you to have while I’m on vacation. But I can’t encourage you enough to test out Instagram, if you haven’t already. It’s just an app on your phone or computer which enables you to view photographs from anybody you choose to follow, and nobody that you don’t. You can search for topics that interest you – if you want to look at a million kitten photographs, THIS is the place. But if you install Instagram and look for me – The Vivienne Files (@viviennefiles) – you’ll be able to keep up with what I’m doing, seeing, and eating while I’m away…
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Janice
I wish you a joyful trip. Today in Galway it's a high of 65 with drizzle. Just a recommendation, there is a Vermeer exhibition in the National Gallery. It was in Paris and now in Dublin. I'm going at the weekend. Enjoy your trip
Helen
Vermeer? We're there! Thanks for letting me know!
hugs,
Janice
Have fun! Email me so I can let the parental unit know you made it ok.
I will, but remember that I'm arriving before midnight your time – Ireland's only 6 hours different from Chicago. And you all should wake up to Instagrams – there's a statue right outside my Air BNB, and I'll probably show at least 1 photo of my apartment…
love to you, hubby and the sweet sprogs,
J
Have a lovely holiday in Ireland Janice. You are wise to pack for rain as it is more like Autumn here in the South West of England. However, just in case it turns out sunny again, I would switch out those black ballet pumps for a pair of black sandals and add in three more pieces – perhaps a pair of black linen shorts, a white t-shirt and a black and white striped vest top. Have fun. Sharon
I keep watching the weather – it's still highs in the 60's F and lows around 50. After being in Chicago for the summer, I'd freeze in shorts, and I don't get cold easily! But all things are changeable until about noon tomorrow…
hugs,
J
I love the addition of the blue! Let us know how it works out as an addition to your travel wardrobe. 12 days in Ireland – how dreamy! Packing in clusters makes sense for this kind of trip. When we take our now-annual trip to Barcelona, Lourdes, and the Pyrenees, I pack a hiking cluster and a uniform cluster in addition to a travel capsule. And for someone like me with bad feet, 5 pairs of shoes (one of them specially for your running) doesn't seem like an excessive number. Have a lovely time. – nancyo
Have a wonderful time Janice! I would be afraid to pack the white jeans for myself bc although I love the look of them, I am always getting them dirty, murphy's law. Does anyone have any suggestions for a substitute? Debbie
I know that they're an insane addition, but I don't mind the occasional smudge… I just don't want to dump a cup of tea all over myself first thing! I love the way that they sort of feel like summer even if the temperatures are a lot cooler than I'm used to in August.
hugs,
Janice
Janice,
So happy for you,have a wonderful time ! I have decided that I am entirely a cluster person!
Shrebee,
I've been following your comments closely for some time now. You and I like the same colors, have the same level of refinement and both retired. Could you please expound on your statement regarding clusters? I live in the coastal zone of Southern California and I'm trying to achieve a seasonless wardrobe. The tricky part is mixing my best colors (autumn) into spring and summer months. Any tips you may have would be so sppreciated.
Thanks from a style sister,
Pat
Have a wonderful time, Janice, you deserve it!!
A faithful fan,
Pat
I was hesitant for years about white jeans but finally last summer I bit the bullet and bought a pair. I love them – bought a second pair this year. Yes, it is a risk, but so far no total disasters. I'm looking at it the same way that I do with white t-shirts – if I get two summers out of them then I am ahead of the game!
Also love the new blue accent colour – have a wonderful trip!
Do you really like the LLBean skorts? Do you run? I love running in skorts but I am always hesitant to buy a new brand – mainly will it ride up on the inner thigh?
I would pack more blue. :-) I'm looking to pack for Rome and planning on a navy blue base. I haven't decided if I'm pairing it with pink, yellow or light blue.
Have a great time!
I occasionally have to yank them down a bit on the insides of my thighs, but not nearly as much as I do with regular running shorts! I could wear lycra shorts, but I refuse to reveal the intimate details of my lower torso to the general public – there's quite enough of that sort of thing on the streets!
Navy is a great travel neutral – maybe just consider a simple tee shirt or blouse in your accent colors, so that you can take at least 2 or all three of them? Everybody's not going to wear black and white 24/7 the way I do…
hugs,
Janice
I love the addition of the blue to your wardrobe, Janice! Those cool Ireland temperatures sound like heaven to me as it's been super hot here in NC. Hope you have a safe and wonderful trip.
We were in Ireland a few years ago in August. It rained a lot. I've since read that August is the second rainiest month in Ireland. We still enjoyed ourselves but my shoes were squelching.
Have a lovely trip! I do follow you on Instagram, and I always enjoy your shared sights!
Have a great trip, Janice. I applaud your wish to satisfy yourself emotionally and pack more. I did the same thing when I traveled to Canada for the birth of my granddaughter. I knew I would be there at least two weeks and maybe more. I wanted to have the freedom of laundry and versatility I have at home. That was important as I wanted to concentrate on the family and activities especially with the children. I like the wardrobe minimalism on our long weekend business trips but it was nice to have the relative abundance that time. I also love the new blue accent and Thanks for the tip on the Paris scarf. I just ordered it in the lighter color and can't wait to get it! Janice Collins m, Washington DC
I really admire this grouping and love the blue for you. Have a wonderful and very green time.
Sounds wonderful! I am going to Ireland in September. I know what you mean about the 5 pairs of shoes. I am going out West for 8 days and am getting away with packing just one pair–only because I have a pair of hiking boots and running shoes waiting for me. So 4 pairs total (1 on feet, 1 in suitcase, 2 in house) for 8 days.
Packing five pair of shoes doesn't sound excessive if you're expecting it to be rainy. The shoes will need a bit to dry out.
I love the new blue!
Have a fabulous time!!
Bon voyage, Janice. Thanks for the ideas, as always. I want to buy a new travel tote (personal carry-on) – any suggestions? Considering the Lipault 19" weekender – thoughts?
I know that Susan, at the blog "Une Femme d'un Certain Age" loves her Lipault bag, and she has excellent taste; I'd trust her judgment completely!
hugs,
Janice
Have fun and safe travels :)
Bond voyage! I'm really hung up on the two pairs of athletic shoes…wouldn't the New Balance (or the Adidas) work for both exercise and walking around? It would save so much packing bulk!
That would be so logical, but I'm one of those people that ONLY runs in their running shoes. Don't ask me why – you get a pair that actually helps you feel like a runner, and you try to preserve them for as long as possible… If I were taking a smaller suitcase, this is definitely a change I would have made, but since I'm taking such a (for me) big bag (24 inches – I'm CHECKING IT!!!) I decided to take advantage of the space and really treat myself.
hugs,
Janice
Janice, I think I saw your little geometric "silver" bag online recently. If it's the one that shows rainbow colors when in direct light, I have a quick question. What is the exterior fabric like? Is it slick-smooth like a plastic, or does it have those tiny ridges that make noise when brushed against? I like it a lot, but the noise is actually physically painful to me, so I'll avoid it if the fabric is the kind that makes that noise (nylon fabrics are frequent culprits).
This one is completely smooth – I'm really eager to carry it and see how it works out for me. I'm pretty committed to a small crossbody bag for travel (and most of my life, actually) and so I thought getting a really special one would be worthwhile!
hugs,
Janice
You may already know this, but the airline may cancel your return trip if the outgoing Ireland to Italy portion is not used.
Thanks for bringing this up – I did know about this possibility and I contacted Aer Lingus to let them know that I wanted the change. But it's a good thing to have here as a reminder for anybody who reads this in the future and isn't aware that this might happen.
I'm glad that you thought of me…
hugs,
Janice
Have a fabulous holiday…
I too am embracing those blues…they really work with my greying hair!
Have a wonderful time in Ireland! And yay for packing white pants. They do feel so summery, don't they? I have both white jeans and white shorts and find myself reaching for them multiple times per week. Since the fabric is denim and canvas twill they both hold up to a couple of wearings and are not see-through (a pet peeve). Your packing plan looks perfect. You'll have to let us know how well it worked when you return :) And also how the Vermeer exhibit was to see in person!
Have a great trip!
Would you mind sharing what size Dearborn jeans you got, your own general measurements and how they fit? I'm intrigued, but want more information.
Thank you!
Love the new blue, seems more fresh than red. You need/deserve some cornflower-to-cobalt stud earrings. Etsy has loads of nice recycled glass studs for ~$10 if that suits.
Love the blue additions. Let us know about your new bag and how it worked. I am on the lookout for a new one.
Have a wonderful trip!
marywyatt
Love the blue!! Looks like your rain jacket will get lots of use! I do not think your wardrobe is excessive at all. In fact, I would add another pair of pants! LOL! Sounds like a fabulous trip! Enjoy!
Have a great trip! We'll be in Ireland next spring. That blue is beautiful, btw. And I love the black jeans packet you've put together. You did good. :)
Ann
Your post brings up such great memories. It was 5 years ago this month that I logged on to your blog looking for suggestions on what to pack for a September trip to Ireland. Your suggestions were invaluable. It was my first trip abroad and packing is not my forte. I hope you have the trip of a lifetime.
I love the white pants and that stunning blue will look wonderful with them. In September this year, I will be traveling to NC. Although it will still be a bit warm there, I plan on wearing fall colored tees with my soft white jeans. I love to mix the seasons! Transitioning to fall colors and clothes is always fun for me since those are the colors I love the most.
I have to say, you do these things thoroughly. Very well researched. I do the same by throwing things on the bed AND trying them on. Because I never have any idea how something will look on me when I see it on a hanger or in a lovely picture. Of course the things in my wardrobe are tried, but that doesn't mean I know how to combine a certain piece with something else than what I have already found matching. I am not a good stylist. But I persevere.
Greetje
Wishing you amazing days ahead on your surprise holiday! But Janice, please tell me that you did some last minute switching by packing in shorts and vests, perhaps in exchange for some of your running gear. Weather changes so quickly over this side of the pond, trust me. Mary, x
I want all those clothes!! Those EXACT CLOTHES, ha ha.
Oh, Janet, have a WONDERFUL time! I hope your flight wasn't affected by the bad storms around the Great Lakes.
When you get home, may I suggest – try some of your new blue accents with some of your old red accents – it's one of my favorite color combos in the world!
Also, interesting you should mention that your emotional needs wanted more items. It's so easy for our rational, problem-solving side to get into the puzzle of how-to-minimize, but our emotional side wants more wiggle room. In fact, I think the same is true of interior design. I love the look of minimalism, but my own house is much more "homey."
I am not a good stylist.
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