Packing. Love it? Hate it? Or just pretend you’ll start tomorrow until you’re sitting on your suitcase praying the zip will just close?
As a stylist who’s seen every wardrobe crisis under the sun, I promise: there’s an easier way.
Meet the 5-4-3-2-1 method: a magical little formula that stops overpacking in its tracks and guarantees you’ll look chic the whole trip. No more “but what if I need six pairs of shoes?” (You won’t. I promise.)
What is the 5-4-3-2-1 Method?
It’s simple math with a stylish twist:
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5 tops
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4 bottoms
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3 dresses (or jumpsuits)
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2 pairs of shoes
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1 swimsuit (or coat, depending on your destination)
Mix and match these and, voilà! you’ve got multiple outfits that all work together. The real secret? Everything plays nicely in a colour story, so each piece earns its place.
Step 1: Pick a Colour Palette (and stick to it!)
This is where your inner stylist comes out.
Choose two or three core colours (think navy, black, or tan) and add one or two accents for fun (hello, scarlet skirt or a pop of pink!).
If everything can mix and match, you’ve suddenly got way more outfit combos than the numbers suggest.
Stylist tip: Lay everything out on your bed and do a quick “capsule check.” If a top doesn’t work with at least two bottoms, it’s staying home. Brutal but effective.
Step 2: Choose Your Fabrics Wisely
Pack fabrics that don’t crease just by looking at them. Viscose, linen blends, or soft knits are your friends.
And if you’re taking linen, embrace the wrinkles; they’re chic when intentional.
Translation: No one’s holiday highlight is you hunched over a hotel iron.
Step 3: Accessories Are Outfit Multipliers
Scarves, jewellery, and belts are tiny but mighty.
A silk scarf can transform a basic tee and shorts into “just had an espresso in Paris” energy.
Accessories weigh almost nothing but give you endless outfit combinations.
Step 4: Shoes: Keep It to Two
I know, I know. But really, two pairs is enough.
Think one pair for walking (white sneakers or flat sandals) and one for dressing up (block heels or sleek slides).
Your feet will thank you. Your suitcase will too.
Step 5: Trust the Maths (and Yourself!)
With five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, two shoes, and one statement piece, you can easily create 15–20 outfits (I’ve whipped up 18 below for you from my capsule!)
That’s more than enough for a week (or even two) away, without the panic of “I have nothing to wear.”
The Takeaway
Packing with the 5-4-3-2-1 method is like having a stylist (hi!) whispering in your ear as you fold.
It’s smart, stress-free, and leaves room for a cheeky bit of shopping while you’re away.
Now go forth and pack light, because the only thing you should be overdoing on holiday is dessert, and you might just need room in your suitcase for a few new holiday purchases too!
Let me know how you go!
