ideal and comfortable weather imaginable. Just when you thought it was OK to put away your tank tops and flip-flops, you'll certainly want them in Austin. Because Austin is such a laid-back, casual town, much like Lawrence, packing is easy. Jeans, T-shirts and tank tops work when your down flops, tuck in that shirt and you're ready to roll. Kelly Johnson and Beth Kerber recently moved to Austin from Lawrence and say the casual atmosphere is reflected in the many styles of Austin. "Jeans are always acceptable," says Kelly, "but the option to dress up is always there, like in Lawrence, pretty much anything goes. " "I pretty much dress like I did in Lawrence. Jeans, jean skirts and khakis are fine when going out. Not that many people are really dressed up, just looking for a good time," says Beth. Beth says you can see some pretty wild fashion choices downtown, but Austin is such a young person's town that casual styles are more popular and always work for a night out. Check out the fashion department's checklist of must-haves when traveling during the seasonal changes. Remember, the two words for the week are coordinate and layers. jeans T-shirts sweaters umbrella jacket scarf flip-flops UNISEX CHECKLIST PACKING YOUR STYLE Besides your chic wardrobe, stepping out in style also requires having fashionable, yet practical luggage. Leave your old camping duffel bag behind, and check out the new luggage options for the fall season. Brent Coffman, employee at Bag and Baggage, 5013 W. 119th St., says that bright new colors are in this fall. Bag and Baggage now carries the majority of its luggage in burgundy, green, red and orange. These fall colors are a breath of fresh air compared to the traditional black and gray pieces, and they are easy to spot on the luggage carousel. Besides color, Coffman says that new bags allow for easier packing because of their versatility. "Tiny compartments and side pockets make it easy to fit everything in and stay organized," he says. To check or not to check? Students may find it easier to carry on luggage rather than have it checked and stored in the underworld of the airplane. Because fall break is only four days long, you should be able to fit all your precious belongings into your carry on. However, if you do decide to check your bag, tie a bright ribbon on the handle so it will be easy to spot on the carousel. Now that you have your fancy baggage picked out and your bright ribbon tied to the handle, you need to pack. A suitcase is useless for your fall break vacation if it's empty. Over-packing could be an issue for students. We're not quite used to that three-day travel idea Try to think about your trip and what you'll be doing, and plan just one outfit for each day or specific event, such as a swimsuit and pair of flip flops for the day and black pants and a snazzy tank for the night - if you're vacationing somewhere warm with an upbeat night scene. Fight the temptation to take more than one outfit for each night out. To narrow your choices, try on all your possible outfits before you pack and only pack your favorite. If you wouldn't wear it now, you won't wear it when you're there. Guys need to make sure to take enough clothing to last you the entire trip. On a fishing trip in southern Kansas, Andy Pfleger, Alton, Ill., senior says he is going to take the things that he knows are essential. "You can never have enough socks and underwear," he says. When it comes time to board the plane, be aware of you're traveling outfit. Guys probably shouldn't wear a nice pair of slacks, and girls should stay away from skirts and tank tops. Whether you're on a long or short flight, the wrong clothes can make the start of your vacation miserable. Danielle Clock, Chicago, Ill., senior says she'll be wearing comfortable clothes - such as a pair of blue jeans - on her trip to Washington, D.C., because she'll be sitting on a plane for a while. Another tip is to wear your favorite T-shirt and a sweatshirt so you'll be prepared for a warm or cold plane temperature. And when the flight gets long, you'll be glad you're able to nap in what you're wearing. thursday, october 16, 2003 e jayplay 19