How Interior Designer Madelynn Hudson Packs for Vacation
When it comes to mastering the art of the travel wardrobe, it’s no surprise that our favorite fashion insiders also moonlight as packing pros. In My Packing Style, we tap some of the most well-traveled people we know for a peek inside their travel bags and vacation wardrobes to see how they take their style on the road. You’ve bookmarked the trip, you’ve screenshotted the outfits; now, a look at how it all comes together.
“I don’t pack full outfits, but I do pack in families,” says Madelynn Hudson (https://www.instagram.com/madelynnhudson/), the founder and creative director of M.H. Interiors (https://cna.st/affiliate-link/GP5sCMm2xCt7Xa3W97LbtFJ1EjJgMZfawGj6LzbgVwSgqoqiHmhvw9qKiRvw5Er8GUKREq23f2GeTnCrmQEaytr2PhGTuvP7t3JELLHShS2G4UooSZq1atdpUXhT9B4PSeR481MKALj4rdkZ23N5EYZ31dCw811omvfFXGbUPAFJY7jQRqNo5rahzVPwuLAnKSXjdhSydTroYRVn4xt788FwCmocgnae6K6Prc1Eq44tLFhNH8XFFJ3XV11LrwAUqssy36Pz2SVrj9GtwQhkrK6krrTpnZU4KE42Y3d5zY5), a New York-based design firm. She is the epitome of a capsule wardrobe traveler, with a high-quality, expertly curated collection that can adapt to any day's activities. Her favorite black silk blouse, for instance, effortlessly transitions from sightseeing with bootcut jeans to a low-lit dinner with kitten heels.
Her upcoming trip to Paris (https://www.vogue.com/article/best-hotels-in-paris) for Design Week presented an opportunity to explore her packing philosophy. She planned to attend the Déco Off design fair and the Maison & Objet presentations, knowing she'd be walking, socializing, and exploring. Her goal was to achieve an effortless, lived-in look, and she achieved this with her carefully curated essentials: cashmere knits and silk blouses in neutral hues, easily elevated with accessories.
Madelynn's packing process begins mentally about a week in advance, considering mood, weather, and activities. She packs two days before, ensuring a balance between editing and avoiding overthinking. Her travel bag of choice is a structured leather tote, which she pairs with a spacious Away suitcase for decor sourcing.
Her travel outfit formula involves a sculptural black top, perfect-fitting denim, flat boots or mules, and a statement bag. She prioritizes layers and comfort, making it easy to transition from day to night. In-flight, she opts for a cozy sweater or long-sleeve knit, and her go-to beauty products include a bold lip and a travel-sized lip balm.
Madelynn's packing philosophy emphasizes comfort and confidence over novelty. She leaves room for souvenirs, embracing the opportunity to shop for vintage and home goods. Her most-worn vacation item is a simple black silk blouse, versatile for various occasions. She also recommends a great pair of boots for walking and a travel sweater for comfort during flights.
Madelynn's packing tips include sticking to neutrals and ensuring every top works with every bottom. She suggests investing in timeless, relaxed brands and re-wearing clothes to maximize their value. Her go-to brands include Khaite, Kallmeyer, Rùadh, and Aflalo, with a special love for easy Dôen dresses.
Madelynn's packing strategy involves keeping accessories minimal, focusing on statement bags, neutral bags, a great belt, and a pair of sunglasses. She avoids overpacking, preferring to collect souvenirs along the way. Her packing lesson is that comfort and confidence are essential, and novelty should take a backseat.
