Suz, am very late to this party but had to say 'thanks for sharing your holiday with us' and tell you how much I loved this post both for its visuals and its analysis.
I think Gaylene may have a point about how many of us pack many of the same things. I know I like to take 3 pairs of shoes even if I'm going on a short weekend trip, and have taken as many as 5 for 3/4 days. I tend to bring a Breton-type striped top if there is one in my wardrobe just then, be it summer or winter. I've been missing a wrap or waterfall cardi for a good while, and know it would be a workhorse. And discovering a soft structured jacket in a bit of a non-neutral colour made life so much easier and me more presentable on a trip to China last year at about this same time (okay, mine's a lightly quilted burgundy floral, so not as suitcase-friendly as your knit jacket, but I'm so glad I took it along anyway). And even though I'm more a pants-over-skirts girl most of the time, I so hear you on wanting comfy, soft clothes on holiday, even for more formal pieces, without restrictive waistbands and stiff textures. As a bonus, knits don't wrinkle as much as wovens either (bar the no-iron fabrications).
Also, looking at your photos, I see what else I'm missing in a big way for my travel capsule. The BIG red bag! It's structured but softly, a bold colour and looks roomy. Most important, it adds great character and presence to otherwise neutral outfits. I've long suspected I could use something like that, but now I *know* so, thanks to you. This may just be promoted to be top of the post-baby budget! Followed by your red Ecco shoes and striped top and knit jacket, they might be my favourite item from your packing list.
Thanks again, and though it's just repetition by now, may I compliment you again on how wonderful you look? So very chic and appropriate and *comfortable* in each outfit. And yes, it looks effortless. Am all admiration!