Double Duty Clothing
When I pack for a weekend getaway, I hate to check in luggage. It takes forever, and I always end up with more than I need. So I try to bring things that will work multiple ways. These are clothes that work overtime and double up on their functions. They are life savers!
The quintessential double-duty item is reversible. A trenchcoat that is solid on one side and plaid on the other. A tshirt with two styles on two sides. A dress that is fancy on one side and plain on the other. Find these, and if they're well made, snatch em up.
Other items work by being convertible. You know, the great winter coat or gloves with a removable lining for warmer days. A shirt whose sleeves button off. Zip-off pants that turn into shorts (or skirt that goes shorter). The bra that can be strapless or one shoulder or halter.
You can also find things that work in new ways. The slinky nightgown that can be worn as an evening dress. A shift skirt that can be pulled up as a tube dress. Even the cardigan that you can button up and wear as a top.
Other ideas? Try wearing any skirt up high as a tube dress (belt up if needed). Wear long tops as minidresses. Roll up the sleeves of a shirt for a different look. Wear a button down pajama top as a jacket, or your pajama pants out with a decidedly daytime top. Wear a scarf as a top, or wrap a shawl as a dress or skirt. Try things in new ways, and you'll never have to sit on your suitcase to close it again.