I’m back with another packing list, this time for my first-ever trip to Africa!! The weather was HOT during the day (high 80s) and a bit cooler in the morning (60s) and these items all worked out perfectly. While this packing list was specifically made for Kenya, feel free to use this as inspiration for a hot weather capsule that doesn’t include shorts. The high tops may not be what you need, but let me tell you, they were GREAT for avoiding mosquitos. I’m happy to report not one single bite (also a big thank you to this bug repellent).
Why exactly did I go Africa? My friend Conni and I were invited by our mutual friend Abby Alley to join her on this trip and it was absolutely life-changing. Last year, Abby and I decided we wanted to design a couple of bags together, and this trip was a chance for me to meet the artisans face-to-face, learn about their processes, and make edits to the samples we had so far. I’m happy to say that one of the designs is DONE and we have our fingers crossed it’ll be ready to ship in April. You will see a sneak peek in some upcoming outfit posts. The second one is still in sampling & editing mode but let me tell you…it’s going to be GOOD! You can expect that one to be ready for you to purchase this fall. Abby generously is offering you 20% off her shop through Monday, 2/26 with code Natalie20!
Lastly, for the next week, I’ll be sharing daily looks from my trip to show you how to style these pieces. The good news is, they are all “normal” clothes — not safari- or travel- specific — and they are all looks that I would wear in my everyday life. Here’s what made it into my bag:
Layers
- Black sweatshirt
- Green jacket (similar)
- White button up shirt
Tops
- White high neck tank (BORTON15 for 15% off)
- Black high neck tank (BORTON15 for 15% off)
- Black v-neck tank
- Cream crop tee
- Black scoop neck tank
- White scoop neck tank
- Slip dress
Bottoms
- Black wide leg pants
- Tan horseshoe jeans (mine are an old color named “Dorian”)
- Cream cropped trousers
- Green cargo pants
Accessories
- Black belt
- Cream sling bag (20% off through Monday, 2/26 with Natalie20)
- Olive sling bag (20% off through Monday, 2/26 with Natalie20)
- Black rope tote
- Straw hat
- Hair pins
- Gold hoops & necklaces
- Sunglasses
Shoes
What size sweatshirt do you have? It says o resized so wondering what size it best.
Hey Natalie!
Looking at the belt. I’m a bit confused on sizing. Could you help?
Caitlin
Hi Natalie!
Loved all the pieces, where is the black slip dress from?
Thank you
Oops, just added to the list! Here’s a link for you: https://vincentjamesdesigns.com/collections/dresses/products/merino-slip-dress?rfsn=6477021.bea491