Aurora James does not pack in outfits, but she does pack in palettes. The multi-hyphenate (designer, founder of both fashion brand Brother Vellies and the Fifteen Percent Pledge initiative, and author) leads a life as on the go as her various job titles suggest; she’s a pro at the carry-on lifestyle and well-versed in sticking to a sartorial theme for her various capsule wardrobes. With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, she’ll be flying to Napa for the BottleRock music festival. “It’s an annual excursion I do with my work family,” she says. “Needless to say, a Napa music festival with your investor friends is a very different vibe than Coachella—but it’s fun in a much more adult way.”
To fit the theme, her palette of choice is comprised of mostly earthy tones in an array of materials and textures: crochet shoes and raffia bags, suede and leather accessories in various shades of cognac, a trusty pair of nutmeg-colored huaraches. There’s a bohemian bent—Chloé is a favorite, as is a trusty turquoise ring—as well as a subtle nod to the beach. From a pair of Chanel mules accented with starfish charms to a mother-of-pearl shell hair clip, there’s no doubt this is a travel wardrobe destined for a sunny spot.
Shop Aurora James’ Suitcase
The Elder Statesman cashmere cropped cardigan
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111Skin Celestial Black Diamond Mask
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We chatted with James ahead of her summer travels (she’ll be jetting off directly to Venice after her short stint out West) to peek inside her carry-on. Read on to hear about her best packing tips, her in-flight staples, and the importance of the ever-versatile going-out top.
Are you a pre-packer or a throw-in-and-go type?
It depends on the trip, but if it’s a weekend away, I’m going to throw in and go. Generally speaking I’m a carry-on girl–I avoid checked bags whenever possible.
