How to pack for two weeks in Europe... in one carry on!

Before I begin to write about the best parts of our amazing European adventure, I'll share some info and photos about the one part I've been asked about more than anything else- how on Earth did I pack for two weeks in Europe with only a carry on suitcase?  

First, I consulted some other blogs, such as this article on pbfingers.com.  I realized that I needed to think ahead about items that could be worn several times in different ways, and be okay with rewearing clothes a few times.  To help with this last part, I purchased some travel detergent sheets to wash small clothing items in the sink when needed- which I did several times!  Traveling to Italy, Spain, and France, I had an extra challenge of preparing for ranging temperatures (95° in Florence and 65° in Paris).  Layering was a must!

So here it is:  

2 pairs of sandals, 1 pair of Toms, 1 pair of loafers.
3 pairs of shorts
2 maxi skirts
1 pair of jeans
5 tank tops
4 simple dresses
1 bathing suit
1 pashmina
1 large over the shoulder purse (with many zippers to keep those sticky fingers out!)
Plus:  makeup, shower and hair supplies (only what is absolutely necessary and put into small bottles)
(I even checked with each hotel to see if there was a hair dryer and opted to leave mine at home, sigh. )

Sure enough, rolling it tight and calling on my childhood Tetris skills, it all fit!  I also brought a small backpack for personal items on the plane, iPad, book, snacks, etc.  This helped with overflow as I acquired a few more items on the trip than I'd started with!

Note:  U.S. and European carry on measurements are different.  They did make us check our bags in Ireland and France because they were too wide.  However, we were still so glad to have small bags as we carried them from place to place.