Home Away From Home: 20 Items Keeping Me Grounded
Finding Comfort in Only the Essentials ❤️
As I sit here reflecting on the whirlwind of the past few weeks, it’s hard to believe how drastically life can change in an instant. For now, my entire world fits into a single suitcase. It’s both surreal and humbling to find myself living out of just a few essentials.
But truly, I know I’m one of the lucky ones. I have shelter, support, and a way to rebuild, while so many others are navigating far greater challenges. It’s a reminder that in moments like these, we have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to step up for one another. Whether it’s donating to relief efforts, volunteering time, or offering a helping hand to a neighbor, every small act of kindness makes a difference. The gratitude I feel for these small comforts isn’t lost on me. But if my experience can provide any inspiration or help to someone else, I want to share it.
So in my bag, there are (about) 20 items that have carried me through the past couple weeks, along with the skincare and makeup routines that keep me feeling like myself, even in the midst of chaos. These are the pieces I’ve learned to depend on to remind me that even in survival mode, a little bit of self-care can go a long way.
My Merit Flush Balm Cheek Color and Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer have been the perfect minimal yet effective additions. They’re easy to apply, give a natural, healthy glow, and don’t take up much space. Right now, that’s exactly what I need—quick, simple products that help me look like I’ve got it together, even when I don’t.
A few pairs of jeans—one black, and one blue (actually, two) — have been a cornerstone of my suitcase. We all know how hard it is to find a pair of jeans that just work and make you feel your best… So you can imagine how key it is for building something out of nothing when it comes to everyday wear.
There’s something about wearing a familiar fragrance that brings a sense of normalcy, even when everything else feels uncertain. Le Labo’s Another 13 has been a small but meaningful way to feel like myself and just enough to hold onto little pieces of my routine. I love that it also comes in a smaller travel size that’s perfect for my bag for on-the-go days. The scent pairs so well with my Salt & Stone deodorant that I’ve been loving (they have a few amazing smelling extra strength deodorants).
Soft sweaters and cardigans have always been my comfort zone, and that hasn’t changed one bit. They’re my go-to’s and my Jenni Kayne Cocoon Cardigan will always make the cut. It’s practical, endlessly wearable, and just feels like me. A few others I grabbed are my black Spencer Cardigan, Jenni Kayne Everyday Sweater, and my charcoal Frame one.
With space at a premium, I only pack what I know works, and for me, that’s my trusted, go-to essentials that I genuinely use and love— YSE Beauty (and no, I’m not biased). First up, my Brightening Eye Bundle because, let’s face it, my under-eye bags are showing it all right now. Then, Like a Gloss—perfect for combating dry, cracked lips. My 4-Step Routine handles the rest, and the travel-size Your Favorite Ex™ Exfoliating Pads make it easy to take everywhere. It’s literally all you need, and having my skincare streamlined like this keeps things simple, which is such a relief these days. Somehow, I managed to fit it all into the clear pouch that comes with the Jet Set Travel Essentials.
A good pair of black leggings are the definition of practical. They’re comfortable, easy to pack, and go with everything. They’re my go-to, take up almost no space, and work just as well for staying in as they do for heading out. A few of my favorites are my Left on Friday and Alo pairs.
It’s not easy finding a tee that’s comfy, airy, yet makes you feel put together. For me, I love my shirts from perfectwhitetee, The Great, this black one from Frame, and have been wearing my Khaite tee a lot. With the weather still pretty cool, it’s nice having a long sleeve top to reach for and I love this one that comes in brown, black, and white— so basically every color you really need (and for under $25).
Mascara. It’s one of the few beauty staples that I can count on to make me look more awake, even when I’m running on empty. Simple, but effective. I usually love my Tartlette and Clinique combo, but have been going for just my Westman Atelier (which I’ve always loved) because it’s less of a commitment and means one less thing to pack.
Best believe masks are the star of every day right now. An absolute necessity and non-negotiable if you’re in LA. If you haven't already stocked up—or need more—get them HERE or at your nearest LA Public Library or Recreation Center/Senior Center.
Reading glasses have been a small but essential part of my days lately (well, always). I usually have a few pairs scattered around, but one good pair is more than enough right now. It’s honestly been a quiet reminder that sometimes the basics are all you really need. As for my sunglasses, I have my illesteva and Celine pairs.
My OnCloud sneakers have been doing double duty for me. Originally for workouts, they’ve become my everyday shoes. They’re the kind of shoes you don’t have to think about; they just work, which is exactly what I need right now.
A simple sweat set has become one of the most practical things I packed. It’s comfortable and warm, which makes it perfect for unpredictable days, and not that it really matters, but it’s versatile and can be worn as a set or each piece can be worn separately. When space is limited, having items that work double-duty like this is invaluable. This zip up-hoodie and fleece joggers set comes in many colors and the price is unmatched. A few others I have packed are my Carmel Travel Set from Frank & Eileen, this hoodie & sweatpant set, and another top and bottom set from Jenni Kayne.
A good pajama set has always been a source of comfort for me— especially now. A few I have packed are my Stripe & Stare, short Eberjeys, and my washable silk sets. It’s one of the few things that still feels like a small luxury—a reminder of routine and normalcy at the end of the day. Having a proper set, even in the midst of everything, brings a sense of calm and makes it easier to rest, which has been invaluable lately.
Flats have been coming more and more into rotation for me lately. With work and meetings resuming, they’re practical and versatile enough to adapt to whatever the day brings. They’re the kind of thing you don’t think much about until you need them—easy to wear, pack, and pair with anything. Right now, it’s about making the most of what I have, and my black ballet flats have been a small but steady part of keeping me looking gathered.
Believe it or not, I’m taking a robe around with me in my suitcase. What I love about the Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe is how warm and comforting it is yet SUPER lightweight and takes up SUCH little space. Again, it’s so nice having a little piece of my usual day-to-day to get a sense of some normalcy— even if it’s as simple as a robe.
A single leather belt has been surprisingly useful. It’s one of those pieces that pulls everything together, no matter how limited my wardrobe feels. Whether I’m re-wearing jeans or trying to make an outfit feel a bit more polished, it’s been a simple yet functional staple.
Sweatshirts and hoodies don’t get the love they deserve. They’re always there for us when we need them most, when we’re seeking warmth, comfort, or something just easy. No need to think twice about it— some of my favorites are my Lululemon half zip, alo crewneck, and navy blue Celine (and of course my Mad Dog lacrosse team merch). Heading out but not feeling put together? Just throw a jacket over it.
I also have a few pieces of outerwear like my denim jacket and my button down wool shirt jacket. They’re not super warm, which is fine because I don’t really need that in this weather, but in case it does get cold, it’s easy to layer. As I mentioned earlier, these are great pieces to even throw over a sweatshirt.
A great tote bag is one of those things you don’t fully appreciate until you’re relying on it every single day. I’ve always been a tote person, but now more than ever, it’s a lifesaver. It’s functional, reliable, and a MUST HAVE to carry essentials around all day. I’ve been holding my Janessa Leone, per usual, but also have my tried and true large black one PLUS all the random canvas tote bags I collect.😅
It’s not an everyday thing nor really a necessity, but having a bit of CC cream makes all the difference. Not a full routine, just something that feels like a small win. We’re really counting our small wins around here. And if you’re not, you should.
+1 to a good tote. Enough organization, but not too much. Just he right size. And please, to all things holy, can I find one non-leather tote that doesn’t pill or abraid my clothes?