When you travel for a short business trip, do you feel lost about what to carry and wear? Here are a few tips for packing right.

The Suitcase/Bag
This can be anything from a sleek Hidesign creation (like the one in the photograph) to a smart Samsonite or a VIP (depends on your pocket!). But go in for cabin luggage if you're travelling by air. It saves time.

Footwear And Bag
You cannot possibly carry three bags and three pairs of shoes for an overnight trip! Just carry a smart black or neutral leather handbag and a pair of comfortable black slip-ons that go with all the looks. Just in case you want a change, wear flat slip-ons while travelling and keep the high heels for the next day.

5:00 pm
You might meet a few delegates on the flight/train or as you arrive at your destination. And you don't want to look ruffled, do you? And for official meets it's wise to keep natty stuff away. Wear a pair of jeans or comfortable linen pants with black/white shirt. A smart cotton salwar-kameez in subtle hues would look equally good, or try a striped kurta with your basic white churidar.

9:30 pm
Impression Time! For a traditional look at dinner, a crisp sari in a sober colour would work, if it's cold then try it with a plain-coloured turtleneck - it looks smart (The pale blue one in the photograph with a silk sari can look smashing).

For a Western makeover, a formal straight skirt (check the one in the photograph) with a halter-top (mint green's in, it suits most of the complexions) or a silk shirt, with some chunky accessories. Beads and suede is a great option (like the green piece in the picture) and would look dashing (again this might vary according to your office dress code, go in for a sheer scarf if you must)

9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Another sari with minimal jewellery would look formal and stunning for another round of meetings. Or wear a pair of well-cut trousers (checks are a rage, try them this time) with a pale shirt (wear straw colour with tan to beguile) and tuck in a printed silk scarf at the neck. Voila! You are ready to be a head-turner!

5:00 pm
Wear jeans or pants (don't repeat what you wore the first day though!) and throw in a shirt. You could even wear a cotton kurta with jeans. Don't forget to wear comfortable slip-ons; you're just getting back home!

Psst:
• Please don't carry all that's mentioned
• Pick what works best for you!
• And always keep an extra shirt (preferably in a neutral tone) for emergency.
• Also don't forget your toiletries and extra lingerie!