Blouse || Jeans || Wedges || Tote Bag || Statement Earrings || Bracelet || Watch
Earlier in the week, I shared my perfect packing guide for attending New Orlean’s annual Jazz Fest, seen here. It only makes sense that I include what to pack for the rest of your stay in the city too. NOLA is a historic city that is dripping with charm, but because of its Southern humidity and ancient streets, it’s important to remember to pack with a purpose. Especially in the French Quarter, where infamous Bourbon Street calls so many party-goers each and every year, bringing your nicest designer duds isn’t going to be your best idea either.
The first thing you should pack are your shoes. Honestly, you’re going to want to bring shoes that you can opt to toss at the end of your trip. Walking on the dusty streets of the Quarter will wreck your shoes alone, and don’t even think about what you’re stepping in! Play it safe with a simple pair of flat sandals, like these from Sam Edelman, or a worn-in pair of sneakers, like neutral colored Vans. If you want a dressier shoe for a night out, do yourself a favor and make them wedges. Nothing would be harder than trying to trot around in a pair of sky high stilettos. These raffia wedges from Sam Edelman did just the trick for me on my visit! They give you some height, but are still flat and surprisingly easy to walk in.
Okay, now that you have your footwear, I think it’s safe to start putting together some outfits. A true New Orleans Packing Guide all depends on when you’re heading out on your trip. Like so many Southern cities, the weather can vary wildly between summer and winter. Most of my trips to the Crescent City have been during the spring and summer, but I’ve also had two rainy, cold visits during New Years and Mardi Gras. This post, obviously, is for travelers in the warmer months.
During the summer, light materials like eyelet, linen, or chambray are your friend! They will keep you as cool as you can, but won’t look too wilted during the heat of the day. Dresses help even more by creating a little draft effect, if you know what I mean. In all seriousness though, sometimes this city gets so hot, you can see the steam rising right off the street, especially after the frequent afternoon showers. This eyelet little number, from J. Crew, or chambray pick, from the Gal Meets Glam Collection, would both make for good options.
Keep your accessories functional and discreet. New Orleans, like any major city, isn’t a place where you want to be seen as a target. For your trip, leave the clutch at home and grab a tote bag or crossbody. I bought this straw crossbody from H&M specifically for my trip and it worked like a charm to keep all of my necessities close by and safe. A sunhat, like my go-to choice from Brixton, will keep your head cool and doubles as a nifty little fan if the heat gets particularly stifling.
Bring whatever pair of sunglasses you wish, but be sure to buy a pair from a local New Orleans company as a souvenir too. I bought my pair of Krewe sunglasses several years ago when they first debuted on the scene. Since then, I’ve worn them countless times, brought them on every trip, and received compliments each step of the way. With this brand of sunglasses, you’re paying for quality, but also their lifetime warranty, just in case! I think I, with the help of my St. Louis Classic sunglasses, have become their biggest, unofficial spokesperson.
My all white outfit in front of the breath-taking St. Louis Cathedral not only kept me cool, but disguised quite a mess as I munched on beignets from Cafe du Monde. This eyelet blouse from J. Crew Factory is as cute as a button and will be a repeat through out the season.
For a complete breakdown to New Orleans packing, including an eye-catching swim suit for lounging at one of the city’s many rooftop pools, be sure to visit my packing guide below. If you have any questions, feel free to comment or pass long along an e-mail. What are you packing for your next trip?
Love from NYC,
Katie
1: Eyelet Dress || 2: Sunhat || 3: Flat Sandals || 4: Straw Crossbody || 5: Summery Scarf || 6: Linen Tank Top || 7: Comfy Shorts || 8: Favorite Sneakers || 9: Local Sunglasses || 10: Light-Weight Statement Earrings || 11: Espadrille Wedges || 12: Flattering One-Piece Swimsuit || 13: Chambray Dress