If you're traveling to Europe in mid to late spring or in the fall, you know it can be a challenge to pack light, efficiently, and still feel stylish and put together.  There's nothing worse than dragging heavy suitcases over cobblestone streets that scream tourist or unseasoned traveler.  Often when you're in Europe you're also traveling to more than one place which means packing up at least every few days. 

Using this method, I can't wait to pack for our next trip to Europe in less than 2 months! All items linked at the bottom of the post. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Gone are the days where you will overpack. The method of the Rule of 27 is a genius way to pack lightly and efficiently with clothes you love to wear and feel good in and still have an at least 27 options for your outfits.  

Start with 3 bottoms.  Make sure they are comfortable, fit well, allow for a variety of activities from walking, light hikes, to shows and dinner (yes, that's possible). 

Then choose 3 lightweight layers that can be worn alone. with another layer over them, and with a couple of jacket options we will add in a minute.  Make them neutral, comfortable, and again can do double or triple duty.  

Finally for warmth. add 3 top layers.  Make them a combination of weights and not more than one that is a heavier weight, Neutral colors (and yes that nautical stripe is a neutral if your other layers are a solid).  There are great neutral "sweatshirts" now that look more polished. 

Those are your 9 items and put together they make 27 different outfits.  Any one of the tops with the bottoms and you've got even more.

Now, for this time of the year pack a couple of jackets.  It's always a good idea to have one that will withstand wet weather (I like a neutral trench that also looks dressier for dinners or shows) and another jackets like denim or a canvas neutral. 

Pack no more than 3 pairs of shoes.  You'll probably want one flat.  I like Rothy's because they are lightweight, durable and easy to pack.  The rest should probably be trainers, sneakers, tennis shoes (whatever you want to call them).  It's great that so many of them these days look more polished but as long as they are clean, anything goes.  Think Asics, Vans, Nike, Converse, Veja, Tigers, whatever is comfortable for you. 

Now add in a couple of bags.  My rule is a foldable purse that doubles as a shopper, personal item, beach bag and that can be wiped clean.  I choose a Longchamp every time for this one.  I have been carrying one for travel for years.  The other bag should be a crossbody.  It can be a more athletic one or a more refined one depending on your trip and the activities you'll be doing.

I can't wait for you to try the Rule of 27 on your next trip.  I would challenge you to start thinking about your 9 items a few days in advance at least.  Try them on together and make sure you like all the combinations BEFORE packing your suitcase.  If they don't ALL work together, swap for a different piece that does.

Tip: Remember. choose things you love to wear, that are comfortable, and fit well. You want to feel good in what you have packed. A big part of looking good in your outfits is feeling good in them. 

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