I often rely on The Vivienne Files 4x4 template to pack. https://www.theviviennefiles.com/four-by-four-wardrobes/
A Four by Four Wardrobe is a 16-piece group of clothes chosen four pieces at a time:
four pieces in the first neutral color (called a Core of Four),
four pieces in the 2nd neutral color (also known as a Core of Four),
four pieces which combine the neutrals (called The Expansion Four, because it expands your options to combine the two neutrals),
and finally four accent items (called The Mileage Four, because it gives you enough “tops” to be able to wear the “bottoms” in your wardrobe more frequently, and not do laundry constantly).
Here she has done a black and white 4x4 wardrobe
Obviously, you can fill in whatever. I find the template to be a helpful guide to organizing and coordinating.
I just came back from my trip where I checked a bag and did not use the 4x4 template. I bought back unworn: 2 pair of pants, 4 shirts, and 2 dresses.
Would you feel better about packing your shoes if you put them in plastic grocery sacks instead of cloth shoe mitts?
For shoes, I generally wear a pair of trainers; carry Rothy’s flats or dressy flat sandals, depending on the season, and a pair of flat rubber shoes that can be worn on a beach.
Q