If you’re anything like me, shopping is quite the ordeal and not to be confused with the actual packing. Lists are involved, multiple trips to the store, and yes- stress. After all my research I’ve decided on some essentials that I needed BEFORE I go abroad. (Stay tuned for the after, where we see if these are truly essential, or if I stressed for nothing)
My list of essentials so far:
1. Comfy Tennis Shoes.
Everywhere and I mean everywhere you go online they say this is a must. Especially in Italy, tennis shoes are worn almost as a ritual. They’re worn with jeans, dresses, shorts everything. So I knew I had to pull out all the stops. I found myself in Madewell just a couple days ago and when I saw these bad boys I just knew I had found my perfect pair. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got a couple trusty pairs of sneakers. But I really didn’t have anything comfortable enough for all the walking I’m preparing myself for. Flat sole sneakers weren’t going to cut it, so these ones just HAD to happen. I just HAD to buy them. Ya know?
2. My Favorite Moisturizer.
This one might just be a me-thing, but I fell in love with this moisturizer and I would probably die without it. I had to buy an extra because the tubes are pretty small and I don’t want to pay for shipping if I can’t find it once I’m in Italy.
3. Makeup.
Yes, there is makeup in Italy. But no, I do not want to spend my first days in Italy hiding my face from cameras and scrambling to find good cosmetics because I didn’t prepare myself beforehand. The only thing I really needed to buy was some new foundation, so I picked up this It Cosmetics CC Cream (which I love) as well as their under eye concealer because what even is a full night’s sleep am I right? This tube lasts me FOREVER and EVER so I know it will get me through the semester. Things like Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash I will definitely buy when I get to Italy to save space/weight in my suitcase. But to me, foundation is an essential.
4. A Couple Light Dresses.
Unfortunately, I cannot bring my entire wardrobe abroad (despite my best attempts to do so). This means that I need a couple of simple, easy outfits I can bring with me. What better solution than dresses, rompers and jumpsuits? I found this chambray one and fell in love. The tie waist, the ruffle along the bottom, and the V neck are such staples that I know I can wear this one anywhere, with different accessories. Not pictured are the black jumper, which will roll up and pack nicely. As well as this romper from Urban Outfitters that I got a couple weeks ago in Morro Bay (find that blog here) and I just adore the low back and POCKETS! Of course, I’ll bring a couple pairs of shorts and jeans, but simple items that pack light and create a whole fit on their own?? That’s a must.
5. Sandals.
Similar to tennis shoes, I needed some comfy sandals. I know that when I get to Italy I will inevitable buy some handmade leather sandals, so I didn’t want to break the bank in the meantime. However, sandals are a must, and I found these for $10 at Buffalo Exchange when I was selling my clothes so I snatched them up real quick. They don’t look worn, but they’re still comfortable, and again they’re neutral which will definitely come in handy.
6. Jeans.
How many pairs of jeans does a girl need? The limit does not exist. Honestly, I just wanted a really good pair of light wash, high waisted, mom jeans. They match with just about anything, and I think they’re so flattering to a curvy figure when you can find the right fit. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to find jeans that fit just right. One store that fits both my waist and my thighs at the same time is Garage. Anyway, these jeans were just one more essential I had to add to the list.
What do you think? Are my “essentials” going to hold up to my hype? I guess only time will tell.
The countdown begins: 24 days till take off!
