What to Pack for the Italian Dolomites
Layers, comfortable boots, and the denim I wore for two weeks straight
When packing for a two-week stint in Europe last month — with stops in Sicily, Milan, the Dolomites, and London — I leaned into one of my favorite packing rules: Pack according to a color scheme. This technique allows for maximum versatility with minimal pieces; and given the number of destinations (and temperatures) the trip entailed, mindful packing was essential.
For this one, my color scheme was heavily dominated by brown, white, and black, with a bit of blue denim mixed in. I also prioritized comfort. The days I spent in the Dolomites were filled with hiking, sauna-ing, and reading with the mountains in the distance.
Chunky, waterproof ankle boots
I wore these boots non-stop — from sprinting through JFK to make my connection to a casual hike the morning after I arrived in the Dolomites. They’re super sturdy without giving off obvious hiking vibes.
Lightweight sneakers
I knew I’d want a different shoe for a day-long hike I had planned, but I didn’t want to bring my legit hiking boots. These sneakers did the trick (and served me well when I snuck in a few gym visits in Milan).
Comfy, slip-on mules
I’m very late to the Birkenstock game, I know, but I fell for these Tory Burch mules earlier in October — and I haven’t looked back. They were the perfect alternative to flip-flops when going between my room and the hotel spa.
Black denim
Black jeans are one of my favorite packing “hacks.” They’re one of the easiest pants to dress up for a nice dinner, but you can also wear them during the day and for more casual events.
Ecru denim
I’ve always loved a “winter white” ensemble, even if it’s still autumn. I wore these ecru jeans most days on my trip, switching out the tops (you’ll see them below) to keep it feeling fresh.
Barrel jeans
Since I entered my 30s, I’ve made the switch from leggings to denim as my everyday lounge pants. The denim, however, has to be slightly loose and more mid-rise than high-rise. These barrel jeans are my absolute favorite this season.
Tan crewneck sweater
Another one of my rules for packing lightly is this: You get one sweater. That’s it. Even non-chunky sweaters tend to add bulk, so you have to choose wisely. I went with this versatile crewneck since it can work as both a layering piece and a top on its own.
Classic white t-shirt
Easy, simple, looks great with all of the bottoms I packed.
Black turtleneck
I always make sure to save room in my suitcase for a turtleneck. For this trip, I knew I’d need a top that appeared slightly more elegant than a t-shirt or sweater, and this was my number one choice.
Hiking leggings and a long-sleeve activewear top
Similar to the sweater rule, I allowed myself one activewear set for this trip. I knew I’d only wear each piece sparingly, but I still made sure they reflected my chosen color palette.
The roomiest carry-on I’ve ever used (currently 25% off, too)
I did actually pack a checked bag for this trip (two weeks is a long time!), but I also have to share the fact that my favorite Away carry-on suitcase is on sale right now for Black Friday.
Do-it-all, water-resistant coat
I always have the toughest time figuring out what outerwear to bring for Europe in the fall. It’s either warmer than I expected or colder than I planned for. My solution for this trip was a good in-between coat.