Packing for Tokyo

Every time I have ever traveled to Tokyo I pull out all stops when it comes to my wardrobe. This is one of the most fashionable cities on the planet and I do not want to be mistaken for a tourist. Of course, I'm not a local either, but how about a fashionable expat at least? It is definitely true that I put more effort into thinking about how I am going to dress in Tokyo than in Portland, and I'm not alone. Many of my friends confess to me that they wear their best clothes on vacation. Short trips to other destinations provide us opportunities to temporarily live other lives, and those other lives demand other wardrobes.

For fashion trips like this I like to plan a theme. That helps me narrow my choices and helps me to make different outfits with similar clothes. This year, my Tokyo wardrobe theme is Summer Goth. Black is of course the main color, with floral accents and stripes. The challenge was to  find clothes that were model (protect me from the sun), breathable and cool (due to the heat and humidity), would show my sweat, and wouldn’t get uncomfortable after walking around in them for 12 hours. For accessories, I kept it very, very simple. Here is what I ended up with:

• 2 pairs of leggings: lace, solid, and lace shorts
• 2 belts: tie belt and Dior belt
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 pair of pants
• 2 tank tops
• 3 dresses: 1 maxi and 1 short and 1 self-made
• 3 jackets: 1 long sheer jacket, 1 short lace jacket, and 1 short sheer jacket
• 1 necklace
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 ring