One week from today, we will all be together in Zagreb, Croatia. Jump head first. Stepping out of your comfort zone. YES, I am ready to LEAP into action as an official LEAP Summit blogger and life learner! Are you ready?

Get Ready to LEAP!

LEAP is an action verb. The main focus of the conference is on themes connected to innovation, IT and modern technologies, entrepreneurship, career development and life-changing stories. LEAP stands for Learn, Engage, Act, and Progress. Of course we all LEAP in our own ways and in our own time, every day, through our stories, our pursuits, our endeavors. We have different backgrounds, goals, and passions, but we all LEAP together, and that is when we are at our best. And we will be all together on Thursday to hear keynotes and attend many sessions. Get ready to LEAP into action!

Packing List

Can you believe LEAP Summit is just one week away? 1 week, guys! Thinking about that got me in the mood to par-tay. You in? Here’s a suggested packing list as you mingle with other changemakers.

Chambray top: A classic chambray button down is great for layering–as a base layer or second layer, and it’s basically a neutral.

Cardigan sweater: You want to pack at least one cardigan sweater, again, because you want as many layering options as possible. Weather in spring anywhere is unpredictable. I prefer cardigans in either grey, or black, as they go with anything you layer over them.

Black v-neck sweater: The v-neck sweater is slightly more versatile than the crew neck. Why? Crew necks can look dowdy if you layer certain things over them–such as a blazer, for example. They’re also harder to dress up. But a v-neck shows a bit more skin, and can be dressed up for a night out to dinner, and also looks great layered under a blazer, cardigan or any other type of jacket.

Striped long-sleeved tee: You’re not going to believe me, but this is going to be the one top you’ll reach for over and over again. Stripes just make your entire outfit cuter–it’s that simple! I love the long sleeved tees for travel, because they keep you warmer, but you can always roll the sleeves if you get hot.

Classic blazer: No-brainer, obviously. Layers. LAYERS. You get it, right? A blazer is an ultra-polished outer layer that works great if your weather is warmer than planned, and also is a great under layer below a coat if necessary. It also looks extra sharp for conferences like LEAP.

Black v-neck tee: Again, a black v-neck is about the most versatile item you can pack. You can get away with wearing a black v-neck with your statement earrings and chic ballet flats for dinner. Another color, however, is much harder to dress up. (For example, pink? No way.)

Dark skinny jeans: Dark skinnies are a must, because they show the least amount of dirt, and are also great for going out at night. You can easily get away with one pair of jeans the whole time.

Boyfriend jeans: I like the extra “oomph” that boyfriend jeans lend to an outfit. I think they have a lot more personality than regular skinny jeans, and at times, are certainly more comfortable.

Ponte pants: They feel like leggings, but are significantly more durable and polished looking. They’ll keep you much warmer than leggings, and again, can look significantly more dressy when you don’t want to wear jeans.

Striped shift dress: A nice alternative to jeans, I’d recommend throwing at least one shift dress in your bag–they’re perfect for LEAP Summit. Make sure to choose a style that looks great with all three of your footwear options, and throw in a pair of opaque tights in case it gets chilly.

Black ankle booties: Booties look cute, provide great support, and are durable no matter what the weather. I prefer ankle booties to riding boots personally because I think they’re a bit more versatile. You can wear them with dresses and boyfriend jeans, for example–something you probably wouldn’t be able to do with standard riding boots.

Converse sneakers: Being on your feet all day, you’ll often want to trade off the type of shoe you’re wearing each day. Converse provide a great alternative to boots, and look cute with jeans, dresses, whatever.

Ballet flats: I love the lace-up flats! If ballet flats aren’t your thing, chic loafers are another excellent option!

Backpack OR Crossbody: Something else you probably think I’m crazy for saying, but you only need one purse. REALLY. I promise. I prefer (wait for it) black, but as long as you ensure it goes with everything you’re bringing, choose whatever color you’d prefer! I would strongly recommend either a cross-body bag or a mini backpack which you can put your LEAP Summit schedule, business // contact cards and notebook for note-taking.

Simple statement studs: Bring one pair of statement studs that are still relatively simple in case you’d like to dress up your black v-neck sweater for dinner, but you’ll likely need little else.

Silk Scarf: Silk scarves are the easiest way to dress up a simple outfit. Your packing list is not complete without one! Plus, they add some extra warmth! Choose a color that compliments the rest of your items, but is enough to look pretty!

Red lipstick: Aside from a silk scarf, the best way to look polished is with a classic, red lip. Lips always have the tendency to get extra chapped and dry during travel, so you’ll want something that still provides some moisture while looking great at the same time.

PACKING TIPS: When packing, roll your clothing! You can fit significantly more clothing in your bag than with folding. Plus, it minimizes wrinkles. Don’t wait until the last minute! Last minute scrambling always results in stuffing extra items in that you don’t need! If you forget something, you can always buy it there. 🙂

Tomorrow = Last Day to secure your ticket at LEAP!

Tomorrow is the final day to buy your tickets to LEAP Summit, so don’t forget to make one the SMARTEST decision of your life, if you haven’t already. See you there! Make sure to say HOWDY, too. Don’t be shy, as I never meet a stranger. 😉