Get away from it all without getting weighed down. Vacations are better when you can pack light and still look great by combining classic wardrobe staples into trendy, easy-to-wear outfits.

By Jeffrey Ampratwum

SUMMER TRAVEL season is officially here, and with it comes everyone’s least favorite vacation chore: packing. You can make it less painful by choosing smart, versatile looks pared to the essentials, so it all fits neatly into a carry-on and makes getting dressed fast, fun and easy.

For women in warm climates:

• Look 1: Step into a fresh, vibrant cherry blossom floral dress. Pair with a red clutch bag and red heels (kitten or two- to three-inch). Optionally,
  add gold jewelry for more elegance.
• Look 2: Bring your favorite silk slip dress in a nude, cream or gold shade for a sleek appearance. Drape a blue denim jacket over your shoulders
  for a casual yet chic touch. Nude flats keep the
  look grounded, while a pearl clutch bag and
  pearl jewelry add classic panache.

For women in moderate climates:

• Look 1: For a cozy and stylish look, start with a cream cashmere sweater. Pair with navy high-waist pants, skipping the belt. Add a pop of color with red heels and accessorize with a navy clutch. Style your hair up or keep it short for a chic-fresh finish.
• Look 2: Embrace a monochromatic look with a black pleated long skirt and black leather boots of any length. A plain crewneck white T-shirt provides a simple yet stylish base, while a black blazer, either cropped or worn draped, adds a sophisticated layer.

For men in warm climates:

• Look 1: Start with a soft denim blue jacket as a foundation. Pair with a high-quality short-sleeve white T-shirt for a clean, casual look. Complement this with cargo shorts at knee length for a relaxed vibe, and finish off with brown loafers or a luxury sandal.
• Look 2: Choose a silk dress shirt in either a black or brown print. Pair with khaki dress pants that feature a sharp crease for a polished appearance. Brown leather Oxford shoes add a classic touch; skip the socks and belt for a more relaxed feel. Hold a fedora in your hand for added flair.

For men in moderate climates:

• Look 1: Grab a henley top in green or navy, then pair with classic blue jeans. Brown rugged boots add durability and style, with or without a brown belt.
• Look 2: Embrace a sophisticated, cozy vibe with a blue or cream turtleneck. Layer on a brown leather bomber jacket for a little edginess. Raw denim jeans provide a sturdy base, while neat white sneakers add a clean, modern touch.

JEFFREY AMPRATWUM is Incisal Edge’s fashion director. He was one signature away from attending dental school before choosing instead to go to Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology, where he now teaches menswear styling. He has worked as a stylist, producer, creative director and consultant for top brands including Louis Vuitton, Dior and Hermès. Follow him on IG @jeffreyampratwum.