From Prada to Zara—30 Spring Items I Packed for 12 Days in Tokyo

If you know me, you know I'll drop anything to travel to Japan at the drop of a hat. I lived in Tokyo for over two and a half years combined, and honestly, I'm itching to move back every day. The food, the sights, the fashion… Tokyo is undoubtedly my happy place. So, when my now-fiancée surprised me with a trip to visit during cherry blossom season with two weeks' notice, my internal alarm bells went off. I knew that every look I wore for our impromptu trip had to be perfect.
Naturally, as a Virgo Moon, I went into full panic. For days leading up to departure, I frantically packed and unpacked my Rimowa suitcases full of clothing. Satin dresses, white mini skirts, luxury bags, and high heels were all part of my original rotation, meticulously clipped together and documented in several spreadsheets and styling PowerPoint presentations. My Close Friends story on Instagram saw not one, not two, but three unhinged instances where I uploaded several looks in the pursuit of capital F Fashion.
After consulting with a few stylist friends, they all advised me on the same thing: When traveling, especially for an important occasion, it's best to wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. Traveling is for taking risks, but not the sartorial kind. I then applied the newfound nugget of wisdom to my recharged packing philosophy. Instead of focusing on what I thought I would look good in, I packed what I knew I would feel good in. Think comfortable barrel-leg jeans, voluminous skirts, and cozy knits I could explore Tokyo in. Their consensus was right—my emotions came first and my outfit second, something that, looking back on, I'm incredibly glad I did. I was able to enjoy my trip and our special moment without worrying about how I would look on one of the happiest days of my life so far.
Now that I’m back in New York with a suitcase full of vintage treasures from Shimokitazawa (and an engagement ring to boot!), I can safely say my packing skills are much better than before. And so is my ability to focus on what matters: the memories, not necessarily just the outfits. Below, scroll through to see all of the stunning spring items I packed in my suitcase for Tokyo.
Okay, this might be embarrassing to admit, but the second I heard about the trip, I had a feeling I would be getting engaged. I texted a dear friend of mine who was able to get her hands on this Mirror Palais dress as a gift for me, courtesy of Anthropologie. While this drop-waist silk chiffon dress might scream bridal to you at first, honestly, it's perfect if you're looking for a formal springtime frock. The open back detailing and neck scarf take it from simple to absolutely stunning.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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