the packing list | Joan Didion

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note to self: before packing for a trip, ask the all-important question: "what would Joan do?"

***

TO PACK AND WEAR:

2 skirts

2 jerseys or leotards

1 pullover sweater

2 pair shoes

stockings

bra

nightgown, robe, slippers

cigarettes

bourbon

bag with: shampoo

toothbrush and paste

Basis soap, razor

deodorant

aspirin

prescriptions

Tampax

face cream

powder

baby oil

TO CARRY:

mohair throw

typewriter

2 legal pads and pens

files

house key

“This is a list which was taped inside my closet door in Hollywood during those years when I was reporting more or less steadily. The list enabled me to pack, without thinking, for any piece I was likely to do. Notice the deliberate anonymity of costume: in a skirt, a leotard, and stockings, I could pass on either side of the culture. Notice the mohair throw for trunk-line flights (i.e. no blankets) and for the motel room in which the air conditioning could not be turned off. Notice the bourbon for the same motel room. Notice the typewriter for the airport, coming home: the idea was to turn in the Hertz car, check in, find an empty bench, and start typing the day’s notes.”

—Joan Didion, The White Album

*PSA: the big 25% off sale is now on! my picks: the perfectly essential travel dress, the elegant casual slipons, these chic pearl earrings, and the everyday delicate gold necklace.