NYC Snapshots + Travel Tips

Location: New York City (Midtown Manhattan)

Featured Item: Ann Taylor LBD (sold out, similar sleeveless version here)

There was a pink theme during my work trip to NYC: pink cocktails, pink purses, and pink lights. My pink Valentino tote challenged me to pack light as I wanted it to be my "suitcase" and my purse. It was a pretty easy challenge since we were only spending one night in the big city and I succeeded by selecting one pair of shoes to wear the entire time (my Alexander Wang T-Straps) and packing this knit sheath dress for our second day and trip home. I purchased this dress at Ann Taylor for $21 and it may be my best purchase in recent months. It doesn't wrinkle, can be dressed up or down, and packs like a dream.

I may be a slight germaphobe, but one of my best travel tips is to pack a pillowcase to place over your hotel pillow. A pillowcase from home always makes me sleep better - it's usually softer and smells like home. The next day I use the pillowcase as a laundry bag and throw my dirty clothes in it. This usually saves a plastic bag and doesn't look quite as tacky in an open tote, such as the one featured above. Do you have any travel tips for overnight occasions?