The simple packing method which will fit ‘27 outfits' into hand luggage – perfect for both sunny and rainy days

The Sun

21-04-2025

MANY of us know the struggle of trying to fit all our outfits into small hand luggage, especially when preparing for unpredictable spring weather.
While sunny days are expected, the occasional rainy spell can make packing even trickier, as you'll need outfits suitable for both.
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However, one savvy woman, a personal stylist, has shared her genius packing trick that allows you to create 27 outfits from a minimal wardrobe.
Emma Louise, known as ' emmalouisestyling ' on TikTok, posted a video demonstrating her method for packing a 'minimal case for a week away.'
Using her simple 3x3 method, she claims you'll have everything you need for your trip.
Emma begins by checking the weather forecast to ensure she packs practical essentials.
She explains: 'I don't want to get caught out with the wrong coat or the wrong shoes.'
Next, she selects three bottoms, three tops, and three layering pieces, ensuring they all coordinate colour-wise.
She also adds accessories that complement her outfits, making sure everything works together.
Once her items are chosen, Emma starts building outfits to confirm she has enough for at least a week – plus spares in case anything gets dirty.
She says: 'Technically, with the 3x3 method, you should be able to create 27 outfits.'
To stay organised, Emma prints off her packing list, which she always uses, and is ready to pack.
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Her video has garnered 11.3k views and 134 likes, with viewers rushing to the comments to share their thoughts.
One person wrote: 'I always struggle with footwear.
"I dress casual but smart – linen trousers, cotton shirts, floral dresses – but don't always want sandals, and I'm never sure what trainers are not too casual or dad-like.'
In another video where Emma discusses the 3x3 method, a commenter admitted: 'I love it in theory, but I couldn't do it.
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"I have three wardrobes full of clothes but still feel I have nothing to wear.'
Emma replied: 'Lots of my clients feel this way when we first start working together!
"Maybe the issue isn't a lack of clothes, but a lack of the right clothes or a feeling of disconnect with what you own?'
Holiday packing tips
Jemma Solomon, aka The Label Lady has got 5 packing tips to help you get organised for your next holiday.
1. Write a list
Think about all the essentials you need to take with you; suncream, medicine, a few games for the kids, beach towels, and write everything in one list, which you can tick off as you add it to your suitcase.
Or for complete ease, try Google's AI app - Gemini - which will create a list for you and help you not over pack.
2. Involve your kids
Jemma said: 'My girls are getting older, they're 11 and nine, and they enjoy helping to pack. So I send them a list, and say 'this is what you need' and they follow the list.
'And then I give them a rucksack each - and say to them 'you can have whatever you want in there as long as it's not liquid', and they can take that on the plane. And that's their 'home away from home' items.'
3. Try a hack or two
She said: "I think they all work, but for different reasons - and you've just got to pick the right one for your trip.
"Rolling your clothes is really good to stop your clothes from getting creases. And if you're trying to get a lot of items into your case, it's a space saver.
'Packing cubes are great - for example, I'm going on holiday with my three kids and we're all using the same suitcase for our clothes.
"These handy compartments let you separate your clothes, toiletries and tech into designated cubes, maximising luggage space by keeping your items compressed and neatly stacked.
"I love taking them abroad with the family and it means my kids can easily take charge of their own items once we've arrived."
4. Decant beauty products
Do you really need to take full-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner with you? The beauty industry has evolved so much, you can now buy shampoo bars or sheets - which are much lighter and smaller.
Or, if you'll be popping to the shops when you're abroad, consider buying some items when you arrive.
5. Get organised before you come home
Jemma said: 'When you repack on holiday [before coming home], the trick is to separate clean from dirty clothes.
'Also pack it in some form of order - so lights, darks, colours for items that need washing, or if you wash your clothes by person in the household, piles for each person.
"Then you can put it straight into the washing machine. Do it straight away, don't leave it."