Cities Worth Packing: A Style Lover's Travel Shortlist

Pack for the city you are visiting, not the one you left: each fashion capital rewards a different uniform.

Paris rewards polish: trench, ballet flat, silk scarf and nothing that shouts. Milan rewards drama: heels, tailoring and sunglasses after dark. New York rewards energy: sneakers that still look sharp at dinner.

Beyond the capitals, Copenhagen proves minimalism can be playful, Tokyo proves rules are made to be tailored, and Marrakech proves colour courage. Each resets your eye in a week.

Pack a capsule, not a closet: twelve pieces in three colours, two shoes, one bag. Laundry abroad is cheaper than baggage fees and decision fatigue.

Shop where you land. Local markets, vintage arcades and designer outlets abroad turn souvenirs into wardrobe staples with stories attached.

Pack like an editor

• Twelve pieces, three colours, two shoes, one bag. No exceptions.
• Wear the bulkiest coat and boots on the plane.
• Photograph flat-lays of each day's outfit before zipping the case.
• Leave twenty percent of the case empty for finds.