I Fly Internationally 6 Times a Year—These Are My 12 Carry-On Fashion Must-Haves

My family is scattered across the globe from Canada and Italy to India and Australia, so international travel has become second nature. While my in-flight routine remains largely unchanged (with under-eye masks and a routine viewing of Crazy Rich Asians still holding steady), my approach to packing has undergone a significant transformation. These days, I’m all about traveling light—specifically, carry-on light. The thought of breezing past baggage claim, where my checked bag would otherwise be held hostage, fills me with a sense of unbridled joy. 

As a fashion editor who thrives on minimalism, I’m ruthless about curating my travel wardrobe. I’m focusing on versatile, high-quality pieces that work as hard as I do—think lightweight, all-weather ankle boots, a chic coat I can cozy up with on 16-hour flights, and, most crucially for this time of year, a couple of plush sweaters. On my recent month-long trip to visit my family abroad for the holidays, these fashionable finds allowed me to streamline my packing and outfit planning. Below, check out the 12 essentials that made traveling carry-on-only not just possible, but a total game-changer—featuring my favorite Good American jeans, Dagne Dover crossbody bag, comfy flats, and more.

International Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

• Waterproof: Vivaia Amanda Ankle Boots, $159; amazon.com
• Good American Good Skate Jeans, $189; amazon.com
• Long-Sleeve Matte Jersey Turtleneck Dress, $129; nordstrom.com
• Cozy Earth Long-Sleeve Pajama Set, $156 (Originally $195); amazon.com
• By Anthropologie Faux-Suede Trench Coat, $178; anthropologie.com
• Reformation Clara Cashmere Wool Crew Cardigan, $198; nordstrom.com
• The Drop Amalia Relaxed Pleated Trousers, $63 (Originally $70); amazon.com
• Calvin Klein Classic Button-Down Shirt, $50 (Originally $69); amazon.com
• Dagne Dover Neoprene Crossbody Bag, $110; nordstrom.com
• Zeagoo Chunky Turtleneck Sweater, $40; amazon.com
• Birdies Velvet Flats, $98; amazon.com
• Free People Malina Eyelet Maxi Dress, $99 (Originally $198); nordstrom.com

Vivaia Amanda Ankle Boots

All of my cool, stylish New Yorker friends owned these sleek and sustainably-made ankle boots before I did. With their cushioned insoles, I can wear them all day without compromising comfort for style. I love pairing them with every cozy sweater, dress, and pair of pants on this list for the winter time, but the fabric is breathable enough for me to pair this with breezy sundresses for the summer. 

Good American Good Skate Jeans

The Good American Good Skate jeans are an absolute wardrobe staple for me, and I love them so much that I convinced my mom to get on board (and she now swears by them, too). Not only do they fit like a glove, but they’re made with a structured yet stretchy fabric that moves with me—no stiffness or restriction. I love styling them with my favorite cozy turtleneck for a casually chic look or a fitted tee and blazer for effortless dinners out. The high-rise waist and subtle flare create a leg-elongating silhouette, too.

Long-Sleeve Matte Jersey Turtleneck Dress

This matte jersey turtleneck dress is my new go-to for elegant simplicity. The fabric is luxurious yet breathable and the fit hugs my upper body, then flows elegantly through the waist and legs. I love dressing it up with heels and chunky jewelry for a polished party look, or down with loafers and a cardigan for a more laid-back brunch vibe.

Cozy Earth Long-Sleeve Pajama Set

There’s nothing quite like slipping into the buttery soft Cozy Earth long-sleeve pajama set after a long day. The bamboo fabric feels silky and plush, yet breathable, making it ideal for all seasons. Whether it’s a cozy night in marathon-watching holiday movies or a lazy morning, these pajamas make lounging feel luxurious. I’ve even worn the top under my chunky turtleneck sweaters with jeans for a comfy-chic daytime look.

By Anthropologie Faux-Suede Trench Coat

The epitome of sophisticated layering, this is a newer addition to my wardrobe, and I receive compliments every time I’ve worn it. Its rich texture and neutral color add an elegant touch to any outfit, while the clean lines make it an easy piece to dress up or down. I love wearing it over a simple cardigan and trousers for a chic, modern look, or draping it over a maxi dress for added warmth and style. The faux-suede fabric has a soft, sumptuous feel that elevates the entire ensemble—including my airport looks.

Below, shop for more of my stylish, versatile, and comfortable wardrobe essentials from Amazon and Nordstrom to pack light for all your winter travel plans—no matter how long they are. 

Reformation Clara Cashmere Wool Crew Cardigan

The Drop Amalia Relaxed Pleated Trousers

Calvin Klein Classic Button-Down Shirt

Dagne Dover Neoprene Crossbody Bag

Zeagoo Chunky Turtleneck Sweater

Birdies Velvet Flats

Free People Malina Eyelet Maxi Dress