The good news is, I have a core of items that will work.

But, I'm still playing with options via SYC. If you have some ideas, please chime in. Also random questions on other travel amenities.

Appropos Shiny's recommendation to take only cardigan-type items for more versatility, other options include:
1) Black long cardigan. Pro is it's black, is basic, some synthetic, may dry out well; con is black, maybe frumpy buttoned?
2) Cashmere hoody--I like the light color for a change, and it's not too casual for our trip, but I don't really need the hoody part. Can layer blazer over for sporty luxe, though! What do you think?

Appropos 3rd pair of shoes (wear black boots for travel, pack low-cut hike shoe) : I'm a little stumped. Only the track pants really benefit from a dressier shoe, style-wise except to have a non-gear option for a pub, or dinner in Dublin. Problem is, the slimmer and dressier the shoe, even a ballet flat, the less sock or support or water-happy they would be.
--I have non-water-resistant zebra flat (4) that is small/light but not good for walking (meaning travel-walking).
-- Chunky monkstrap slipon that isn't dressy, but is not a gear shoe and can stand a fair amount of walking, allows a cushy sock, works with all pants. This is the best non-laceup option I have that could actually be worn as regular footwear. But more room/weight packing.
--Not shown, ruled out vs. re-think: perforated black suede lightweight loafer. Pro: could sort of use as slipper on plane, takes a sock. Con: perforated, in Ireland!
? Try to include a 3rd pair, or stay minimal/gear with 2 pair?

5) Trying AT dark blue cotton-spandex chambray shirt for a woven, collared option. Is not warm, but can layer under & over, can remove if gets wet/warm (if underlayer is "decent"). Too cottony, may wrinkle? Any particular gain, or stick with knitwear?

?: Slippers on plane (afraid we're economy!) and around "the house" ? : I have thin-rubber-soled sock-slipper from a prior flight. Packs light/slim. No support for real wear. Or a cushier dorky light slipper, better for walking around but not for outdoors. I'm thinking minimalism, sock-slipper. (also if take the slip-on monkstraps, I'd have a quick slipon shoe available later).

?: Where to pack rain jacket, if we check luggage? In checked bag, risk no immediate raingear if bag delayed, or in tote bag, takes up room, hoped to pack change of clothes & other essential items there ?

Thanks for reading and any comments, on any part.

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