Travel Style Secrets from Celebrity Stylist Tara West: How to Pack, Dress, and Arrive in Style

When it comes to mastering the art of travel style, few people have it down to a science like Tara West. A Los Angeles native turned East Coast fashion powerhouse, Tara has built a career dressing celebrities, executives, and globe-trotters for every possible occasion — from red carpet events to long-haul flights. Her secret? A blend of practicality, versatility, and chic confidence.

Whether you’re planning a weekend in Nantucket, a summer in the South of France, or an adventurous trek to Machu Picchu, Tara’s approach proves that travel wardrobes can be both stylish and functional.

From Therapy to Threads: A Stylist with a Unique Perspective

Tara’s career began in an unexpected place — as a marriage and family therapist. While helping clients navigate their personal lives, she also became known as “the best-dressed therapist in the room.” That passion for style eventually became her calling, and she launched her own fashion styling business.

Her psychology background gives her a rare advantage: understanding the emotional impact of what we wear. As she says, “When you look good, you feel good — and everything else flows from there.”

Packing Like a Pro: Sets, Layers, and Shoe Strategy

One of Tara’s biggest travel style rules is to pack with purpose.Her essential tips include:

Travel in Sets: Matching top-and-bottom sets can be worn together for a statement look or broken up into multiple outfits, multiplying your options without overpacking.
Limit Heavy Shoes: Boots and heels add weight fast. Build your outfits around one or two versatile pairs, and always pack a stylish sneaker for sightseeing.
Layer Smart: Planes and changing climates require flexible outfits. Light knits, tailored blazers, and scarves are staples for easy transitions.
Accessorize for Impact: A belt or scarf can completely transform an outfit, taking it from casual to sophisticated in seconds.

Destination Dressing: Respect Meets Creativity

Tara stresses the importance of adapting to local culture while maintaining personal style.

In Europe: Experiment with statement pieces — bold patterns in Paris, linen in the South of France, or nautical-chic in Nantucket.
In Respectful Cultures: Be mindful of modesty norms while still incorporating fashionable silhouettes.
On Safari: Lean into “safari chic” with neutral palettes, breathable fabrics, and practical layering pieces for early morning game drives.

The Jewelry Rule Every Traveler Should Know

Many of Tara’s clients own heirloom or high-value jewelry — but she never advises traveling with it. Instead, she suggests high-quality costume versions for trips. “No one will know, and you’ll enjoy your trip without the stress of losing something irreplaceable,” she says.

Signature Style: Quiet Luxury Meets Global Inspiration

Tara’s personal style blends California ease with East Coast sophistication — a mix she calls quiet luxury. Think monochrome tailoring, well-fitted blazers, and timeless accessories. She finds inspiration everywhere:

The bold lobster prints and nautical motifs of Nantucket.
The refined linen and monochrome looks of the French Riviera.
The street-style edge of Tokyo.

By merging these influences, she creates travel wardrobes that look flawless from the beach to the boardroom.

Must-Have Travel Staples

According to Tara, the ultimate travel wardrobe includes:

A tailored blazer for flights and evenings out.
A multifunctional scarf that works as a blanket, belt, or sarong.
A versatile day-to-night dress paired with flats or sneakers by day, and heels by night.
Layered jewelry that tells a story.
One standout bag in a bold color to anchor multiple outfits.

The Final Word: Travel Light, Look Sharp, Feel Confident

Tara’s philosophy is simple: travel wardrobes should work as hard as you do. Every piece should have multiple uses, and every outfit should make you feel like your best self.

“Style doesn’t have to be complicated,” she says. “If you love what you’re wearing when you walk out the door — or off the plane — you’re going to have a great day.”

Connect with Tara West

Instagram: @tarawestfashion

Website: tarawestfashion.com