“Each destination has such different feel and style. I envision the location and the mood and start thinking of my outfits that way,” says Elizabeth von der Goltz, Net-a-Porter’s global buying director.
And when it comes to traveling in style—whether it’s for a quick getaway or a longer vacation—there is probably no one better to ask for advice than von der Goltz, who travels all the time to scout new brands. Her packing strategy can be summed up in few words: Always pack by full look. But what does that mean in practical terms?
We recently caught up with her before she jetted off to Greece where she celebrated the launch of Net-a-Porter’s vacation shop Jet-a-Porter dedicated to all things destination dressing, and we talked to her about how she prepared for it.
“I start with the colors and mood of the destination I’m going to. I think about what coverups I’ll be wearing with the swimsuit,” she said. “The colors usually do fall within some of the trends of the season, but I don’t do a lot of prints in my swimwear. I leave that to the ready-to-wear I pair with it.“
Her number one tip for anxiety-free swimsuit shopping experience is: stick to the brands that suit you best.
“I have learned that you do need to try on a lot of brands before settling on your ‘go to’s,’ and it is truly all about fit and what is the most flattering on you,” von der Goltz suggests.
When you are ready to pack it all into your suitcase, she suggests laying the bulkiest pieces flat at the bottom and then rolling everything else to save up space.
“Get all travel size versions of your favorite beauty products,” says von der Goltz. For shampoo and conditioner she uses packets of Gloss Moderne or Iles Formula.
”They are flat and don’t even get detected in your hand carry. They don’t count as what needs to fit into your one clear ziplock bag for liquids, which is always a major plus in my book,” she explains.
Once at your destination, you would probably be dealing with a major case of jet lag, for which von der Goltz has found the best (and most refreshing) cure—swimming.
“Jumping in the ocean is a cure for everything,” she says.
If there is no pool or beach, shower, drink a lot of water, and try to stay awake until the evening.
“If you need something to help you sleep, try an herbal pill form of Valerian root—it’s all natural and really works! Try to always keep as much of your normal routine as possible while traveling to keep your body and gut in balance,” von der Goltz adds.
Now keep scrolling to see what was in her suitcase during her three-day trip to sunny Greece.
Doro Fly Away Asymmetric Striped Cotton-blend Gauze Pants
This is the perfect lightweight pants to wear both on and off the beach.
To buy: $325, net-a-porter.com
Le Kasha Luxor Cutout Midi Dress
The classic midi silhouette of this linen dress is complemented by oversized patch pockets for a chic update on a summer staple.
To buy: $845, net-a-porter.com
Isabel Marant Lilia One-shoulder Floral-print Cotton Mini Dress
This chic mini dress is a total stunner—we love the one-shoulder silhouette and the breathable cotton construction.
To buy: $645, net-a-porter.com
Fisch Colombier Bikini Top and Bottom
Work on your tan in this gorgeous 90s-inspired two-piece swimsuit.
To buy: Briefs, $110, net-a-porter.com; Top, $115, net-a-porter.com
Hunza G Solitaire Belted Ribbed Seersucker Swimsuit
Wear this chic white seersucker swimsuit with an equally stylish coverup for an elegant poolside look.
To buy: $190, net-a-porter.com
Lucy Folk Slice of Heaven Cat-eye Acetate and Gold-tone Sunglasses
We love the marbled finish and gold-tone accents of these classic cat-eye sunnies.
To buy: $335, net-a-porter.com
Zimmermann Veneto Shirred Crinkled Ramie and Cotton-blend Gauze Maxi Skirt
Pair this beautiful skirt with a cropped top for a picture-perfect daytime look.
To buy: $375, net-a-porter.com
Chan Luu Gold-Plated, Shell and Multi-stone Necklace
There really isn’t a better place to wear this gold-plated silver shell necklace than on a beach in Greece.
To buy: $155, net-a-porter.com
Aquazzura + Le Ninè Riviera Mini Tasseled Embellished Raffia and Canvas Tote
A beach-inspired tote is a must-have this summer and von der Goltz has picked this fun mini tote that sports shells, crystals, and tassels.
To buy: $795, net-a-porter.com
Alighieri Leone Embellished Grosgrain Espadrilles
Ditch the heels while you’re on vacation and opt for a pair of comfy and stylish flat espadrilles sandals.
To buy: $280, net-a-porter.com
Iles Formula Haute Performance Conditioner
Need a super quick fix for damaged hair? This conditioner created by celebrity hairstylist Wendy Iles will bring back your hair to its old (glossier and healthier) glory days in a matter of minutes.
To buy: $41, net-a-porter.com
Iles Formula Haute Performance Shampoo
This daily shampoo is formulated with antioxidants and silk proteins to give you the lustrous mane of your dreams.
To buy: $35, net-a-porter.com
