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
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.
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