Packing for vacation? Difficult. Packing for a destination wedding? It’s the equivalent of rocket science. Have no fear: Vogue-editor-turned-bridal-stylist Anny Choi has the method down to an art. The New York City wedding whisperer, who is sought-after for her unparalleled taste and tireless devotion to hunting down uniquely personal pieces, attends ceremonies from California to India. Along the way, she’s learned precisely which ‘wedding guest wardrobe’ essentials to tuck into a carry-on that demands versatility.
For a dear friend’s nuptials, Choi recently traveled to the storied Crazy Mountain Ranch (formerly the historic Marlbolo Ranch) in the rolling hills of Park County, Montana. She fixed her editorial eye on an elevated Wild West wardrobe for the occasion, opting for a Stetson cowboy hat and Polo Ralph Lauren suede fringe jacket.
“I always pack things for daytime that easily translate well into evening,” says Choi, who points to a pair of custom cowboy boots that worked with jeans and a Canadian tuxedo as night fell.
While there are often new pieces in her suitcase, Choi keeps another tried-and-true rule in mind. “When shopping, I never buy anything just for that specific wedding or theme,” says Choi. “It has to work in my life after the wedding, too.” Note: You wouldn’t be hard-pressed to spot Choi wearing her suede fringe jacket with a black turtleneck and jeans en route to meet a client on the Upper East Side.
The same ‘less is more’ mindset applies to her beauty ritual. Sunscreen and her favorite Frédéric Malle fragrance are singular essentials. But when it comes to makeup, “I like things that are multi-use, like the Westman Atelier blush stick on cheeks and lips,” says Choi. “I’m not too precious about things looking perfect.” There’s nothing more chic than looking good on the go—and not having to check extra baggage.
Vera Bradley Travel Pill Case
“First things first, I always pack my Vera Bradley travel pill case with all of my daily supplements. The little paisley print feels perfectly on theme for Montana!”
Holly Henry Cowboy Boots
“A pair of cowboy boots (or two!) is a pre-requisite! I borrowed a very special pair from my friend Sarah, who got married in Jackson Hole last fall. They were custom-made by Holly Henry for her wedding. How lucky am I?”
HydroBalm Tinted Lipstick in Bob
Ralph Lauren Fringe Suede Jacket
“The perfect fringe jacket for those chilly summer evenings out West.”
Stetson Boss of the Plains Cowboy Hat
“My very first cowboy hat—and who better than Stetson. I took it to Crossbow in Bozeman to get it reshaped to my liking. It felt like a Western rite of passage.”
Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Garçonne
“I like things that are multi-use in my travel bag, like a blush that works on lips and cheeks.”
La Roche-Posay Tinted Face Sunscreen
“I've been on an Accutane journey this year, so sunscreen is an absolute non-negotiable. While La Roche-Posay has been my go-to brand for years, my dermatologist recently told me that the French formula is superior. I ask every friend headed to Paris to bring a few bottles back for me—or I splurge at Zitomer for the good stuff. “
Frederic Malle Rose & Cuir Eau de Parfum
“I never travel without a mini perfume from Frédéric Malle. French Lover has been a long favorite, but for this trip, I brought Rose & Cuir, too, for its leather note.”
Charvet Suede Slippers
“I do, in fact, bring my Charvet slippers wherever I go…”
Shannon Bond Ophelia Earrings
“These Shannon Bond onyx statement earrings were perfect for a ‘morning suit & boots’ wedding dress code. Just in case, I packed a pair of vintage turquoise danglers, too."
Vintage T-Shirt
“I picked up this t-shirt from the gift shop on my first day at Crazy Mountain Ranch. I styled it with a blue Chloé jacket and pants for the Saturday night BBQ.”
Denim Overshirt
“This oversized Agolde denim shirt isn’t quite a jacket but has just the right amount of structure and weight for layering.”
Western Bandana
“My friend Frannie (who was the bride!) picked up a bandana for me from Ebneter & Biel in St. Moritz years ago when we were both living in London. Of course, I had to bring it to the wedding! This one from Guest in Residence would also do the trick.”
