I Just Got Back From New York, London, Milan, and Paris—5 Chic Packing Staples That Worked in Every City

Joseph Tang is aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing editor in residence and the fashion director of Canadian department store Holt Renfrew, where he oversees the fashion and style direction for both the women's and men's businesses.

Fashion month is a magical time of the year when we fashion folk flock around the globe to the world’s four main fashion capitals—New York, London, Milan, and Paris. One of the most asked questions I get about fashion month is "How the heck do you pack for a month on the road?" I'll be honest, it's no small feat. Overweight luggage, too many sweaters when it's too hot or not enough coats when it's too cold, or not packing a tux when you've been invited to a black-tie gala last-minute—I've been through it all, and the truth is you'll never get it 100% right when it comes to what clothes to pack for a long trip, and I've come to realize that's okay!

As a fashion-month attendee for a decade now, I’ve proudly unlocked the key to making my wardrobe work for me, no matter where in the world I am. Below, I've broken down my five fashion-month hero pieces from my travels in September that carried me through shows, buying appointments, business meetings, and events with ease. Assuming that if you're reading this you might not be attempting to learn how to pack for fashion month, specifically, but rather a lengthier vacation or work trip, I assure you these hero pieces will work no matter where you're going or what you're doing (black-tie and business-suiting dress codes excluded). The key is identifying items and styling tricks that prove successful time and again, and my tips and tricks below do exactly that. After reading this, I promise you'll be more than a pro at knowing what clothes to pack for a long trip.

1. A Novelty Jacket

I’m not one to wear a traditional blazer, but I love the structure that this jacket gives you with a touch of novelty.

2. Fluid Pants

Relaxed trousers give you the comfort of sweatpants with the look of tailored pants. I often style these back to slippers and slides.

3. A Pop of Red

Maybe it’s the Michael Rider Celine effect, but a pop of red completed everyone’s look during fashion month!

4. Monochromatic Dressing

This one is less about one item and more about one styling trick. On days when I have no time to think about what to wear, I opt for a tonal look where I can play with different textures and tones.

5. The Perfect Blouson

A blouson jacket is my go-to fall staple. It’s blends together sport details with a tailored look and feel.