9 April 2026

I Finally Tried This Viral Packing Trick…

Viral trick: White dress, similar | Gucci sweater, similar | Gold sandals | Loewe tote

I Finally Tried This Viral Packing Trick …

I’ve been traveling a lot over the last couple of years, and no matter where I’m going, I always have two large suitcases with me. I tell my family they aren’t allowed to comment (!!) and that, because I write this fun little blog, it’s necessary. So far, they’ve been understanding, even when they have to occasionally help me 😉 But lately, the idea of traveling with just a carry-on sounds so enticing! And Instagram must be reading my mind (haha), because right now, my feed is filled with viral Sudoku packing method posts. Hmmm …

Everyone is talking about this viral packing method right now. It promises to make 27+ outfits from just 9 items. It sounds easy, but it does require some thought. When I helped my clients and friends in the dressing room, I considered this my superpower: the ability to pick key pieces that make many many different outfits. So, I decided to test my skills and see if this can really work!

Today’s post is about 9 carefully selected pieces that will make 18+ outfits for your next trip. The trick is to make sure to select pieces that are versatile, and that all make super stylish outfits … a lot of them! And, there’s one little trick that makes it all come together. Keep reading to see everything I picked, from faded jeans to these looser (but cool) pants to the jacket that works with everything. I hope you get inspired to try it! Tell me about your upcoming trips — I’d love to know where you’re going 😎

ICYMI: Travel posts that might interest you

The Elevated Vacation Edit: 10 Versatile Pieces for Every Trip

The Only 5 Outfits You Need for Your Spring Vacation

9 Easy Pieces for Your Next Trip

Why I selected these items

1 – Striped cotton sweater – I added this for a little pop of color, but you can easily substitute another fun color you love. This super comfy cotton sweater works with everything from jeans to an extra layer tied around your shoulders. And, it adds a little pattern to a mostly solid capsule wardrobe

2 – Faded jeans – My favorite jeans any time of year, these work with flats, low heels and even sneakers. They also look springy, and will lighten up a trench jacket and darker navy blazer

3 – Black blazer – This Rag & Bone knit blazer is a fave, with it’s cool collar detail and the stretchy wool that feels more like a sweater. And, it looks nice with a slip dress and jeans. Remember you can always substitute for something you might already own.

4 – Denim jacket – IMO, everyone needs a denim jacket at all times, especially in the spring. It looks great with these tonal jeans, or you can add a white button up and white jeans for a completely different look

5 – Blue cashmere tee – This is perfect for spring, and it just adds a little warmth under every jacket you wear. I love the light blue color since it looks good with everything from black to white to faded denim.

Here are the last 4 …

6 – White jeans – Probably the most versatile jean you can bring on a trip, these are comfortable and stylish. Plus, you can wear them dressed up with a heeled sandal, or dressed down with sneakers. I know not everyone will bring white jeans on vacation – but I always do 🙂

7 – Vince slip dress – Love this pretty navy one with lace trim. But, remember you can easily substitute this with a dress, like this Vince one, or another skirt like this. The best part is these take up no room in your suitcase, so technically you could sneak in one more 🙂

8 – Relaxed trench – Depending on where you’re going, a long trench is a must! Try it dressed up with sandals and a slip skirt, or with pants and sneakers. This one by J.Crew is relaxed, and is one of my highest recommendations

9 – White button up – The main purpose of this top is to match with the Lodge pants above. Then, every jacket or cardigan will work over it. And, it gives you a really elegant look for dinner

Outfit inspo

**Outfit ideas with cool accessories**

Here’s the Viral Formula: 9 Items

3 Jacket layers: Trench | Denim jacket | Black blazer – This is where you add variety and warmth. Choose a versatile jacket (a stylish trench or soft blazer), a cardigan, and denim jacket

And 3 Tops: White button-up | Cashmere tee | Pop of color sweater – Think tanks and tees, thin blouses or basic button-ups. These should be versatile pieces that can pair with any of your bottoms and layers

And 3 Bottoms: Slip dress | Classic straight leg jeans | White jean – Select loose pants, jeans, skirts or dresses. Focus on neutral colors — you’ll have outfits for days