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The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Rule of 3

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION

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For some travelers, packing light equates to a vacation of repeated outfits. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be true. By focusing on versatility, you can mix and match items to create countless outfits from just a few items. Keep reading to discover versatile packing at its finest and the importance of a travel capsule wardrobe.

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Written By: Maggie Fogg

As avid travelers, we firmly believe in packing light (as light as possible, in fact). Flying with just a carry-on and packing cubes can save tons of time and energy – and help you side-step some major headaches, including lost baggage and heavy suitcases you have to drag up a flight of stairs.

But when you only have a small suitcase, and as a result – only a few pieces to work with – figuring out what to pack and how to plan outfits can be tricky.

How do you keep your wardrobe incredibly limited without surrendering your style? How do you pack only a few key items, while maintaining versatility in your outfits?

Working from a capsule wardrobe is your best bet. Sticking with basic separates in neutral colors goes a long way for creating a variety of outfits with limited items.

If you are packing for a combination of business and pleasure in the same trip, it becomes all the more important to choose well-made styles that can be dressed up or dressed down with a few accessories.

How do you build a tight wardrobe without adding too many pieces? How do you keep your suitcase lean without choosing only safe, boring and basic options – and steering clear of going too far the other way, packing stylish pieces that you’ll only ever end up wearing once?

Let’s look at a few essential tips…

And don’t worry. A capsule wardrobe doesn’t need to be made of  dull all-black outfits . You can use the guidelines below to create a versatile travel wardrobe featuring a variety of clothing styles ( this  is how to mix and match prints).

Read this to learn how to pack light stylishly  for any destination!

The answer is to follow one simple rule – the rule of 3. This is more than wearing every piece you pack at least 3 times. Pack all items with the intention of wearing each item in a variety of outfits that work in at least three different occasion types.

This could be dressy, professional, and casual. Or it could be sexy, relaxed, and polished. It all depends on your lifestyle and the nature of your trip. When you consider using each piece with this kind of versatility, you’ll be able to build a stylish capsule wardrobe for any trip, and have tens of great outfits on-hand for any occasion.

Choose from one of eight  travel capsule wardrobes to help you plan for your trip!

OUTFIT 1: Necklace | Tank Top | Jeans | Bag | Sandals   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Necklace  |  Shorts | Sandals   OUTFIT 3: Blazer | Necklace | Pouch  | Skirt | Flats

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: One Piece, 3 Ways

Take, for example, a pretty tank top like the wine-colored one shown above. It can be paired with a relaxed skirt and a blazer for a casual business event.

However, just as easily, it can be dressed up for an evening out on the town with a slim pair of jeans and a cool rocker-inspired choker and cross-body bag .

And third, the tank looks just as stylish with a beach babe pair of cut-off denim shorts, boho-inspired travel sandals and a straw hat – on point for a summer musical festival.

Take a look at this post to see how you can make 3 weeks worth of outfits with just eight pieces of clothing!

OUTFIT 1:   Earrings | Bag | Blouse | Sunglasses | Joggers | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Tank | Earrings | Lipstick | Bag | B o o t s OUTFIT 3:   Shirt | Tank | Necklace | Backpack | Shoes

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Guidelines for 3 Uses

Now that you know how to use one piece in three different ways, follow these guidelines to make the most of your outfits.

Be Meticulous With Fit

Stick to flattering, figure-skimming silhouettes. Avoid anything with too tight of a fit, as it won’t appear relaxed or chic. Likewise, avoid anything with a loose fit since it can read as sloppy and unpolished. Don’t be afraid to tailor your clothing, especially when it’s something you absolutely love!

Stick to Classic Styles With a Hint of Trend

Choose fairly neutral colors and simple cuts and patterns for versatility and longevity, but look for unique twists that add visual interest. This could be lace detail, embroidery, funky zippers – anything that expresses your personality.

File Into 3 Occasion Buckets

When you’re shopping for new items or pulling items from your closet to pack, mentally file each item into its occasion bucket. Is it sexy, relaxed, and girly? Or is it business-casual, classic, and refined? Hint: this rule also works really well outside of travel packing for your everyday wardrobe, too.

Don’t Forget to Map Your Outfits

Particularly with separates, make sure you can pair each item with several other items you’ve packed. It doesn’t help you if you can wear a cute embroidered blouse to the museum, a nice dinner, and on the plane but haven’t any bottoms you can pair with the top.

Have Fun With Accessories

Follow the same rule of 3 with accessories, including bags, shoes, jackets, and jewelry. Shop for high-quality, versatile pieces that are fairly classic in design but have a fun flair. For shoes, all you need are three pairs: one for sightseeing, one for a special activity, and a bonus pair.

These are the most cute and comfortable shoes for travel !

OUTFIT 1: Blazer | Dress | Necklace | Crossbody | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Sunglasses | Handbag |  Shoes   OUTFIT 3: Jacket | Earrings | Lipstick | Pouch |  Sandals

For example, this black and white striped dress is modern and airy with a slightly French nod. It can be dressed up for a summer night with bold earrings and a trendy belt. It also pairs well with polished accessories – like a cream blazer and ballet flats – for a cultural outing. Or, pair the dress with white sneakers , a summer hat, and a super-cute canvas tote for a breezy look to wear when visiting a local farmers market.

Ultimately, the accessories help give this dress a different feel for each occasion, but the guidelines above are used for each outfit. Each of the accessories are basic in their feel, but they have a trendy or stylish twist and can be paired with other outfits for other occasions.

Check out our top choices for convertible travel dresses!

With this simple rule, you can streamline your travel packing, change the way you look at your everyday wardrobe, and transform how you shop in the future.

Need help creating a capsule wardrobe ?

Savvy travelers know that a capsule wardrobe is the secret to traveling carry-on only. Pack Light Stylishly  is our eBook that shows you exactly how to make a functional yet stylish capsule wardrobe for travel.

Learn more about Pack Light Stylishly  here !

What are your tips on versatile packing for travel? Do you follow a travel capsule wardrobe? Share in the comments below!

For more packing strategies, please read these posts:

• Building a Travel Wardrobe in 5 Simple Steps
• How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
• Think Traveling Carry-on Only is Impossible? Read this.
• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Travel

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I hope you liked this post on versatile packing at its finest and the power of a travel capsule wardobe. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio:  Maggie Fogg is a full-time traveler and writer. She left Toronto with a one-way ticket to Spain and has been making her way around the globe ever since. Currently, you can find her dancing and hiking her way around South America. Follow Maggie on  Instagram .

My dream of having a capsule wardrobe will come true soon. Thank you for your advice! I really like the post!

Thank you, so glad you found this helpful Eleonora!

I really like all of your articles concerning capsule wardrobes for travel and plan to incorporate these ideas in future trios, both domestic and abroad. The suggested items and related links are helpful as well. Thank you for the time you put into developing helpful content!

All the advice on this and other capsule wardrobe posts helped me travel to Europe for a week with carry on only.

I like to create a colour palette and stick to it. My next trip is neutrals with a splash of pink. Black pants, beige pants, white tops, a pink jumper and a black blazer/jacket and a gorgeous scarf with a pop of pink.

Love this mix of colors Jacki, sounds amazing!!

I love this article! I prefer a small wardrobe and will be using this article to assist me with starting a new one. Love the images of the outfit possiblities!

Thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us, so happy to hear you loved the post!!!! ?

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How to Build a Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Any Destination

From weekend trips to working as a digital nomad, a travel capsule wardrobe can save you space and weight, all while becoming a more sustainable traveler.

What is a capsule wardrobe, and how can it help you while traveling? Maybe you already know what it is, and you’re wondering how to build a capsule wardrobe from the ground up. We’re here to answer all those questions and more!

Before we dive in, we should mention that there are different definitions of what a capsule wardrobe is, and some people use the term differently for travel than they do for daily use. Using a capsule wardrobe comes down to preference and what works best for you.

Don’t like a specific rule? Break it! Want to bring a shirt you love that’s not exactly practical? Do it! The most fun thing about creating a capsule wardrobe is making one that suits your needs perfectly. Let’s dive into it!

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A travel capsule wardrobe is a limited but specific set of clothing that can be worn in dozens of configurations. Since all your tops match all your bottoms, you can create seemingly endless outfit combos.

It's like a math problem in school—let's say you have three of each of the following items that all go with each other: shoes, pants, shirts, hats, and jackets. With that alone, you can make 243 unique outfits. That's mathematical magic!

By utilizing a travel capsule wardrobe, you’ll save space, weight, and money by only bringing the gear that you need. However, there’s definitely an art to making it work, which is where we come in. If you're packing for your next trip and decide to bring a tie-die shirt halfway through, and the rest of your wardrobe doesn't match, you'll have to add a few more things. Before too long, your one bag travel backpack will be as heavy as your aunt's rolling luggage.

When researching a travel capsule wardrobe, many people find themselves overwhelmed by the idea that their outfits must be bland or expensive to work, but that isn't the case. A travel capsule wardrobe is different for every person, and you can personalize it as much as you'd like to, right down to the buttons on the shirts you pack.

Who can benefit from a capsule wardrobe?

This might sound like an exaggeration, but anyone traveling can benefit from a travel capsule wardrobe! This is especially true for digital nomads, one bag travelers, and anyone trying to save space.

For digital nomads, packing a capsule wardrobe ensures that you’re living and working comfortably, look professional on Zoom calls, and are prepared for in-person meetings while on the road. One bag travelers can save space and weight in their pack by bringing more versatile clothing and accessories so they have more space for other gear that takes up more room, like technology.

Traveling with kids is another instance where a capsule wardrobe can come in handy. Loading up gear for two adults and a child or two is daunting, especially if you haven’t done it before. However, saving space for your kids' needs is easy if you utilize a capsule wardrobe for both adults. You can also create a combined capsule wardrobe for your children if they’re close enough in age and size.

Let's put it like this—do you want more space in your travel backpack? Do you want your bag to be lighter? With a travel capsule wardrobe, you can do that and more.

Where can you take a capsule wardrobe?

This is where things get tricky. You can build a travel capsule wardrobe for any climate, weather, or occasion; however, creating one that spans temperatures can take more work and time to perfect. If you're going to Florida, Brazil, or Greece, you'll pack warm-weather gear. You'll pack for London, Seattle, or Debundscha with rain in mind. For those who jump from location to location, like a trip across the continent, you have to get smarter with your selections and choose more diverse gear.

Luckily, here at Pack Hacker, we've been around the block a few times. Through layering clothing, choosing materials that breathe and keep you warm, and with packable jackets that you can take anywhere, going from the water to winter is an easy transition.

However, no good thing is always good, and that's true for a travel capsule wardrobe. If you're going to fashion week, you might want extra clothing to ensure the tabloids don't catch you in the same shirt twice.

More realistically, if you're going somewhere without reliable laundry services, using a travel capsule wardrobe can be more challenging. If you only have three shirts on a two-week trip, things might get stinky after a while. Plus, you’ll likely run out of underwear. You can get around that by washing your clothing in an external pouch or sink, but only some people are comfortable with or want to do that.

A capsule wardrobe isn't always the best move if you're going on a more rugged adventure. You can choose more durable clothing, but if something happens to one of your three shirts, the rest of the trip will be a rigid rotation between what you have left. It's doable and worth a shot, but these things are worth considering before jumping into a travel capsule wardrobe.

How do you build a capsule wardrobe?

First, decide what climates, events, and situations you want your minimalist wardrobe to cover. You can have multiple capsules for different kinds of trips or one that covers all the bases for the places you like to visit or frequent. You can be as rigorous with these guidelines as you want, but it's essential to ensure that your travel capsule wardrobe isn't so specific that it only works for one trip because that defeats the purpose. Once you get started, we've got a few tips!

We look for a few materials when building a minimalist wardrobe for travel.

Merino wool is durable, breathable, and resists smells, making sense for clothing you wear more than once before washing them. If Merino wool isn't your jam, organic cotton is another great material that's more sustainable, durable, and comfortable.

Linen is another good shout if you're heading somewhere cold because it traps heat and works in moderate climates because it's breathable. Plus, it's better for the environment than synthetic fabrics. Hemp is another favorite for some travelers, considering its durability and natural resistance to mildew. It tends to wrinkle easier than some fabrics, so it’s essential to pack smart with packing cubes and other organizers.

If you are going with nylon or polyester, look for recycled materials to try and limit your environmental impact. A capsule wardrobe ensures you can purchase fewer articles of clothing, and buying recycled or repurposed materials further limits your environmental impact.

After you've decided which materials are suitable for you and your skin, you need to determine the color palette of the wardrobe. If you already know what colors you like best, that's great! If you don't, the internet is your friend. After all, it's how you ended up here. You can look up color palettes online to find a jumping-off point and hone it as it grows.

Regarding patterns and colorways, we generally avoid crazy prints and bold colorways. Instead, stick to your color palette and choose one or two accent pieces complimenting that palette. This way, your fun clothing will still go with everything else, so it isn't wasting space.

Due to the nature of a travel capsule wardrobe, layering is essential, so opt for clothing that layers well. Baggy clothing doesn't translate well because it's hard to put one baggy article over another. Form-fitting and slim-cut attire are easier to layer, so long as it isn't too tight.

Also, think about how your clothing interacts. If you bring a sweatshirt with a hood, you don't need a coat with a hood. They’ll interfere with each other, and it can be awkward to try and hide one or use two simultaneously.

Don’t worry, though—making decisions about your fit will get easier over time. It can be daunting, but once you start the journey, you'll get the hang of what works, what doesn't, and what fits your style.

How many pieces should be in a capsule wardrobe?

Like most questions, the answer depends on how you wear clothing and how you travel. A safe solution is 25—35 articles of clothing, but it may be higher or lower depending on the trip that you're going on. As a frame of reference, we try to keep our Digital Nomad Packing List has between 25 and 30 clothing-related items and accessories. Becoming a digital nomad means packing as light as possible so you can prioritize tech.

If you’re not full-time traveling (or if you’re just getting the hang of a capsule wardrobe in general), your number of items might be higher than that. And that’s okay! It may also increase for cold weather trips or activity-specific adventures, like a hiking or skiing trip. For shorter trips or warm weather destinations, your number of items might be lower, or you may be able to pack more items like tank tops and t-shirts since they pack down smaller.

Some versatile gear selections for your travel capsule wardrobe:

• Outlier New Way Shorts
• Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt
• Outdoor Research Trail Mix Quarter Zip Pullover
• Patagonia Nano Puff
• Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Dress
• Pact Purefit Legging
• Encircled The Chrysalis Cardi

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Hopefully, by this point, you’re well on your way to putting together your first travel capsule wardrobe! At the least, we hope we helped you learn how to build a capsule wardrobe. Whether you’re hoping to one bag travel in the future or want to save space on your next trip, it’s time to get to work!

May 30, 2023

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

• All , Travel Wardrobes

Finally, A Travel Capsule Wardrobe Based on Your Trip Length

• February 24, 2024

In this Article

Calling all my fellow travelers! It’s time to replace your clothing packing woes with a sleek and functional travel capsule wardrobe. Lugging around a suitcase filled with clothes you never end up wearing is soon to be a problem of the past.

What Is a Travel Capsule Wardrobe?

A travel capsule wardrobe is a set of intentionally selected versatile pieces that ensures you can create outfits easily on your trip, without overpacking. The pieces in your capsule are easy to mix and match, ensuring you are covered for multiple occasions.

The result? A simplified suitcase with all the essentials you need for whatever kind of trip you’re embarking on. 

Below, I am simplifying your packing process with a capsule wardrobe built for travel.  Yes, you can pack light and still have all your travel essentials in tow.

Read on to learn how.

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I earn a small commission when you shop the links, at no cost to you.

2024 Travel Capsule Wardrobe & Packing List

Alright, we know the purpose of a capsule closet for travel. But how many items should be inside? This, my chic jet-setter, will depend on the duration of your trip. Take a look at some travel capsule wardrobe examples for different trip lengths.

Going to Hawaii? Lucky you. This  Hawaii capsule wardrobe  is just what you need, pre-island visit. 

Eight-Piece Travel Wardrobe : Weekend Trip 

A small wardrobe for travel brings a bevy of benefits. You can pack light and create stylish outfits with this travel capsule. 

Classic T-Shirt: Dress it up. Dress it down. The classic t-shirt can be mixed and matched all day long. Opt for an easy-to-pair color like white, black, or navy. 

Boat Neck Top: Can you say effortlessly chic? A boat neck top elevates whatever bottoms you wear underneath. 

Dressy Blouse: Make sure you have a dressy top in your luggage. A lightweight blouse with a pretty neckline can add a feminine touch to your ensembles. 

Love color in a capsule? Explore two colorful capsule wardrobes for inspiration. 

Bottoms (3) :

High-Waisted Jeans: Be sure to pack at least one pair of jeans in a flattering fit. These meet the versatile and timeless criteria that a good travel capsule should aim for.  

Linen Trousers: Instead of the typical black leggings, I love a roomy pair of trousers. You can rock them at the airport , on the beach, at a restaurant, the list goes on. 

Midi Skirt: Breezy in the daytime and dressy in the evening, a midi skirt deserves a spot on your travel capsule packing list. 

Dresses (1) :

Little Black Dress: An LBD is the essential travel wardrobe piece that needs no introduction. Look stylish with minimal effort.

Outerwear (1) :

Lightweight Jacket: A utility jacket can be layered over your tops or dresses for added warmth and interest. 

Weekend Trip Outfit Ideas

14 Piece Minimalist Travel Capsule : 2 Week Trip

When you prepare correctly, your  travel style  does not have to take a hit. Focus on building a travel capsule wardrobe composed of double-duty pieces like the ones below.

Classic Button-Up Shirt: I know this piece appears in many of my capsules and on my capsule wardrobe checklist . That’s because it’s polished, chic, and pairs well with so many clothing items. You’ll be glad you packed it. 

Frilled Blouse: Weave in a delicate blouse to add some flare to your travel outfits. It can be mixed and matched with shorts, trousers, and skirts.

Knit Sweater: A cozy and lightweight sweater can be worn on its own or layered for cooler days or evenings.

Tank Top: A flattering tank in a neutral color will come in handy. Plus, it’s so lightweight it will fit in even the smallest carry-on. 

Relaxed t-shirt: The humble and casual t-shirt is perfect for relaxed outings or layered under cardigans and jackets. 

Bottoms (4) :

Tailored Trousers: If you need another piece that can be mixed and matched easily, tailored trousers are ideal. 

Denim Shorts: Perfect for warmer days, casual outings, or exploring the beach. I prefer an a-line cut for a timeless look. 

Wide-Leg Pants: A pair of flowy pants look great with sneakers as you tour a city or with heeled mules at a nice restaurant. 

Flowy Midi Skirt: Yes, Little Miss midi skirt is suitable for both daytime and evening outings.

Dresses (3) :

Midi Dress: Select a versatile maxi dress that you can dress up or down. This makes it suitable for both daytime and evening events.

Wrap Dress: A flattering and easy-to-wear dress can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with sandals.

Jumpsuit: For a one-and-done outfit, opt for a jumpsuit in a comfortable fabric. Add a baseball cap and tennis shoes for a casual look. Add heels and jewelry for a dressy outing.

Outerwear (2) :

Utility Jacket: Add a functional and stylish layer with a utility vest, perfect for exploring or outdoor outings.

Knit Cardigan: Choose a cozy cardigan that can be layered over your tops and dresses for added warmth and versatility.

Minimalist Travel Outfit Ideas

20 Piece Travel Capsule Wardrobe:  Month-Long Trip

A longer trip calls for thoughtfulness when planning. This wardrobe for travel includes some cold-weather essentials like long-sleeved tops and a trench coat. 

White Button-Up Shirt: This classic piece is like a blank canvas for your outfits, ready to be styled in countless ways.

Neutral T-Shirt: An effortless staple that’s a go-to for casual, laid-back vibes. It can be mixed and matched with pretty much any bottom making it a stellar travel essential in my book.

Floral Blouse: Let your vibrant personality bloom with a floral blouse that adds a pop of color to any look.

Basic Tank Top: Simple, versatile, and perfect for layering or wearing on its own when the sun is shining.

Gingham Blouse: This chic print looks great and never goes out of style.

Sleek Bodysuit: Another easy-to-style basic to add to your packing list. You can opt for a short or long sleeve version. 

Collared Long Sleeve: Something about this neckline is just so stylish. Wear this on its own or layer it on cooler days. 

Light Sweater: Wrap yourself in warmth and style with a cozy sweater, ideal for those crisp mornings or cozy evenings by the fireplace.

Bottoms (6) :

High-Waisted Jeans: These jeans are like a best friend that hugs you in all the right places, giving you confidence and style.

Ruffle Skirt: Show off your legs in this sassy and versatile piece that pairs perfectly with both casual tees and dressier tops.

Tailored Trousers: Slip on sleek and sophisticated trousers to effortlessly elevate an outfit.

Linen Shorts: Keep cool and chic with these breezy shorts, perfect for beach strolls or exploring sunny destinations.

Leggings: Embrace the ultimate comfort with leggings that are perfect for travel days or those moments when you want to feel cozy and free.

A-line skirt: Swing and sashay in this playful and feminine skirt. This highly versatile piece is sure to stun. 

Little Black Dress: An essential for any travel capsule wardrobe. This versatile piece takes you from daytime sightseeing to evening cocktails with ease.

Floral Maxi Dress: Dresses are a great place to incorporate prints into your capsule wardrobe. A flowy one feels as good as it looks. 

Midi Linen Dress: Flirty and feminine, this dress makes for a beautiful look on lots of occasions.

Outerwear (3) :

Lightweight Cardigan: Wrap yourself in cozy comfort with this lightweight cardigan, perfect for those chilly nights by the campfire or in air-conditioned spaces.

Trench Coat: Be the epitome of timeless elegance with a classic trench coat that adds a touch of sophistication to your outfits while keeping you dry in light rain.

Blazer: Add a dose of sophistication to your looks with a stylish blazer. 

Comfortable Travel Wardrobe Outfits

My Travel Capsule Wardorbe Packing List

This packing list offers a look at a functional and stylish travel wardrobe. You’ll be set for a range of activities, courtesy of the neutral color palette and versatile travel essentials.

Boat Neck Top: 1

Tank Top: 2

Bottoms (7) : 

Jeans (light and dark): 2

Wide Leg Trousers: 2

Denim Shorts: 1

Midi Skirt: 2

Outerwear (3) :  

Lightweight Cardigan: 1

Crewneck Sweatshirt: 1

Rain Jacket: 1

Shoes (3) : 

Sneakers: 1

Ankle Boots: 1

Sundress (printed and solid): 2

Little Black Dress: 1

HOW TO BUILD A TRAVEL CAPSULE WARDROBE

Going somewhere? Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow as you  build a capsule wardrobe  for your travels. 

Check the Weather

I always pack  this sun visor  on summer trips.

Alright, before you dive into packing mode, let’s start by checking out the weather forecast for your destination. After all, a cold weather capsule will require different travel essentials than your beach vacation travel wardrobe.

Know the forecast so you can pack light while still bringing all the pieces you need. 

Choose Versatile Basics

When building your travel capsule wardrobe, versatility is your best friend. Think trusted basics that can be mixed and matched effortlessly. And here’s the secret sauce: opt for a neutral color palette.

I’m talking about colors like classic black, crisp white, or tan. These timeless shades will ensure that the pieces in your suitcase play nicely together. Take a look at the  summer capsule  above for inspiration.

Spring travels ahead? This travel capsule is exactly what you need.

Map Outfits to Your Itinerary

Yes, it’s outfit creation time.  Rather than only thinking about what looks good, create outfits to align with activities.  So pull out the itinerary.

Nice dinner on Friday night? Create an outfit for that. You’re going hiking on a scenic trail? Pack a hiking outfit along with layers in case the weather changes.

The perfect travel capsule doesn’t just appear. Plan those outfits to avoid the dreaded “ I wish I packed [insert missing item that’s at home” moments. 

Pick Wrinkle-Free Fabrics

The colorful 17-piece summer capsule wardrobe I created.

Picture this: you’re strutting through the airport in your travel outfit and then you catch a glimpse of yourself in a mirror. What’s that? Wrinkles galore on your clothing. Let’s avoid that fashion faux pas.

Choose  wrinkle-resistant fabrics for your travel wardrobe  like Lyocell, spandex, and polyester blends. They’ll keep you looking fresh, even after flights, hikes, and tours.

Pack Layering Options

This utility vest is the perfect light layer.

I’m a layer lover and you should be too. We know that Mother Nature can be a bit unpredictable. Smart travelers should pack a few lightweight cardigans, jackets, or scarves that can be easily layered or shed depending on the weather.

This not only keeps you comfy in changing weather but also expands outfit possibilities- a win-win.

Bring Only Essential Shoes

If there’s one category where I tend to overpack, it’s shoes. And I know I am not alone. While it’s tempting to bring your entire shoe collection on your trip, you’re better off leaving most at home. 

Instead,  focus on bringing essential pairs of shoes that cover all your bases.  Think comfy sneakers for exploring, a slip-on pair of sandals for beachside activities, and a dressier pair of shoes for nice dinners. Quality and functionality win the shoe game, my friend.

Don't Forget Accessories

A thick headband and statement earrings are a power accessory duo.

No matter what kind of trip you’re going on, accessories are a travel essential. These level up your travel wardrobe without taking up much suitcase space.

Add items like jewelry, hats, and scarves to your travel packing list so you can dress outfits up and down easily. For example, pairing a dress with a baseball cap and sneakers instantly gives it a more casual and relaxed vibe.

Test Out Your Travel Wardrobe

I tried this outfit on at home and ended up wearing it on a Miami trip.

We all know the pain of trying on an outfit mentally only to hate it when we actually try it on. So, once you have built your capsule wardrobe, try on some outfits to see how they look and feel.

A trial run offers the option to make adjustments and get closer to your perfect travel wardrobe.

Explore More Travel Wardrobes 

I’ve created travel capsule wardrobes to help you pack like a pro. Click below to explore each one: 

Winter Travel Wardrobe 

Spring Travel Wardrobe

Hawaii Capsule Wardrobe 

The 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Formula

In search of a simple approach to building a travel capsule wardrobe? Allow me to introduce the  5-4-3-2-1 formula . You may need to alter the method depending on your trip length and activities.

But if you’re on the hunt for a minimalist wardrobe that you can fit in a carry-on, this is your go-to. 

Start with five tops that suit the local climate. Since you only have room for five, focus on versatile tops. Sprinkle in a combination of short and long-sleeve options to maximize outfit creation potential. 

Item Examples:  tank top, off-the-shoulder shirt, oxford shirt

Yes, the title is intentionally vague because the bottoms you choose will depend on the location. So feel free to pack shorts, skirts, pants, or a combination of the three. I recommend bringing at least one pair of dressier bottoms along. 

Item Examples:  linen shorts, wide-leg trousers, flowy midi skirt

A dress is a one-and-done item that makes outfit creation simple. This formula calls for three dresses. The combination is up to you. You can choose two casual and one formal dress, for example. I aim to bring dresses that straddle the line between formal and casual. That way, I can use accessories to dress them up or down.

Item Examples:  sundress, evening midi dress, wrap dress

3 Shoe Options

Alright, time for shoes. As you can see, the number of shoes and dresses in this formula is the same. Yes, the 5-4-3-2-1 formula should technically be the 5-4-3-3-2-2-1-1 formula. But, for obvious reasons, that mouthful of a name didn’t catch on.

Item Examples:  slip-on sandals, tennis shoes, hiking boots 

2 Swimsuits

In a summer travel capsule wardrobe, swimwear is a must. But rather than packing 15 bikinis for your beach vacation, pack light and experience the benefits. This 5-4-3-2-1 method means neater luggage and intentionality behind your swimwear choices. 

Item Examples:  one-piece, bikini set, tankini

Almost done packing. How simple is this?! Okay, for bags you’ll want a couple of options. I usually bring one large bag like a tote and then a smaller bag that I can take to dinner or wear out and about. 

Item examples:  crossbody bag, clutch, tote 

1 Accessory

Don’t panic. You’re allowed to bring more than a single accessory in this capsule formula. The idea here is to only bring one of each type. So one pair of sunglasses, one hat, and one statement necklace should suffice to round out your travel outfits. 

Item Examples:  sunhat, sunglasses, printed scarf 

What Are The Travel Wardrobe Essentials?

Your travel essentials depend on the kind of trip you’re taking. Below are the essentials for a summer wardrobe and a cold-weather capsule.

Summer Travel Wardrobe Essentials:

• Lightweight Maxi Dress
• Denim Shorts
• Flowy Blouses
• Versatile Swimwear
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Lightweight Cardigan
• Casual T-shirts

Winter Travel Wardrobe Essentials:

• Cozy Sweater
• Long-sleeve Tops
• Warm Outerwear
• Thermal Layers

Get the  full winter travel capsule wardrobe here.  And yes, it’s carry-on friendly.

TRAVEL WARDROBE FAQS

The biggest benefit of a  travel capsule wardrobe is that it makes packing simple and efficient, ensuring you have the right pieces for the entire trip. But of course, there are more benefits including: 

• Planning outfits is easier with a cohesive collection that can be mixed and matched easily. 
• Getting ready takes less time on your trip since you have planned ahead and only packed what you need.
• Looking stylish while traveling is simple with a travel capsule. You look put together on your trip thanks to your well-planned wardrobe. 
• Luggage space can be used more efficiently since you are not overpacking. You don’t have to lug around an overstuffed suitcase and have room to bring back gifts and souvenirs. 

If you want to pack light but find it difficult, the travel capsule is ideal for you. 

Great question! The number of items in your travel capsule wardrobe will depend on how long your trip is and your access to washing machines. Here are some helpful ranges to consider when packing: 

Weekend Trip:  For a short weekend getaway, a travel capsule wardrobe can range from 5 to 10 items. This typically includes a few tops, bottoms, a dress or two, and a layering piece.

Weeklong Trip:  For a weeklong trip, you can aim for a capsule wardrobe consisting of 10 to 20 items. This expanded selection offers more outfit options that align with activities on your trip. 

Two-Week Trip:  A two-week trip will require a slightly larger capsule wardrobe. Consider packing anywhere from 15 to 30 items. That way, you have enough mix-and-match options to cover different occasions and weather.

Month-Long Trip:  If you’re embarking on a month-long trip or longer (hats off to you, world traveler), you can build a capsule wardrobe of 20 to 40 items. This range allows for ample variety and adaptability to accommodate the weather changes and array of events that longer stays include. 

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How to Create the Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe

What is a travel capsule wardrobe.

The basic idea is that you pack a selection of high-quality staples that are made up of neutral colors; versatile items that can be mixed and matched in different ways. When determining your collection of basic clothing to pack, important things to consider are the weather forecast, if you will have any formal occasions, and the types of activities you will be doing on your upcoming trip.

Before you read the steps, you can grab my editable packing list below!

FREE & Editable Packing List for Women!

Subscribe below and we’ll send you a link to

our Ultimate Packing List for Women

Steps to Create Your Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Step 1. do a little research, weather at your destination:.

Hot weather will call for entirely different clothing items than chilly fall days or snowy days. Make sure you have an idea of what to expect when you arrive at your destination.

Know Your Season:

Similarly, different seasons mean different choices. A summer vacation to the beach or lake will clearly have a different packing list than an autumn trip to New York. Your color scheme will be different, the weight and style of your clothes will be different, your shoes will be different based on the season.

Activities:

A vacation will require different packing than a business trip, and a trip to the mountains will require different items from a trip to the beach. Know, or at least have an idea of, the type of activities you will do on your trip so you can choose appropriate clothes for your plans .

Cultural norms:

It’s important to respect cultural norms in different locations and countries. Oftentimes religious sites will require a headcover or for women, covered shoulders. Make sure to be prepared!

How Long is the trip?

For a week trip or more you will really need to make sure your outfits mix and match, and for the longer trips you will want to find a way to incorporate laundry. Even on weekend trips I pack 5-4-3-2-1, and on those trips I find I have way more than enough.

How long does it take to get there?

Especially if you have a long flight, your travel outfit matters. You want to look nice and be comfortable at the same time. And here is the trick. 5-4-3-2-1 packing is a guideline, not a hard and fast rule. For a longer trip I will add a travel day outfit that is not in the 5-4-3-2-1 capsule, but matches it. I like to wash my travel clothes when the trip is long. By adding in a travel day outfit I don’t have to do laundry right away. And, once I do get some laundry done, I have extra pieces to work in to the outfits!

Step 2: Choose a Neutral Color Palette and versatile pieces

We often choose clothes that are made up of darker neutral colors. Your wardrobe can be mixed and matched, and a little spill cannot be seen so easily. You will also want to pick quality pieces that that are versatile enough to be worn in different situations and weather as need be.

PRO TIP : For a long trip, you will need to do laundry. You will want to make sure that you will be able to find laundry facilities so you can keep your clothing fresh and clean during the trip.

Step 3: Add in Color and Accent Pieces

This will help to add a pop of color and fun into your travel capsule wardrobe. Keep in mind, you want your accent pieces to go with most of your base wardrobe so you have that many more outfit choices!

Colorful pieces, prints, metallics or a colorful silk scarf are all great statement pieces for your travel wardrobe.

Step 4: Be Ready to Layer

Depending on the temperature at your destination during your trip, you will want to pack items that can easily be layered together. Even on a cool summer night, an extra layer of a lightweight sweater can be important! Merino wool is an excellent fabric for layering. It keeps you warm without being too bulky.

PRO TIP: If you are traveling in cooler months, an outer jacket or sweater should be included as part of your travel capsule wardrobe. This is especially important if you will be visiting a place with unpredictable weather!

Step 5: Choose 3 Pairs of Shoes MAX!

This should be a mix of versatile shoes and shoes that serve specific purposes. Your 3 pairs can be all the same type of shoe, but more likely you will want to vary them for the types of activities you have planned.

Mix it up to include white sneakers for comfort, a trendy flat for day-to-day activities, and a little wedge for dressier occasions. Or walking shoes, ballet flats and flip flops. It’s up to you and your trip. In the fall I love to add in ankle boots into the mix.

PRO TIP: Since you are trying to pack light, try shoes can be worn without socks! This will help save room in your suitcase.

Step 6: Accessorize to Dress Up or Down

Jewelry is a great way to add some style to your outfits, but also consider scarves or belts that can be worn with different outfits to dress them up or down. Accessories are a traveler’s best friend! They help you look put together without having to pack many outfit choices.

PRO TIP : When wearing jewelry, think about metals that go with all of your outfits.

Step 7: Always consider bringing a swimsuit

A bathing suit is especially useful if you are planning to do some water activities during your trip. Even if you are not going to a beach, we often bring a suit in case we find an irresistible spa.

Bringing it All Together: 5-4-3-2-1 Packing

At ShePacksLite.com, we love to use the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method. This system to create your travel capsule wardrobe helps you curate a mix and match wardrobe for your whole trip. You will pack light and be ready for all the weather and activities of your trip.

It is CRITICAL that you choose a color palette that consists primarily of neutral colors. This way works well for all the pieces, and once you do, this combination will create so many outfits you would not believe it!

With a little planning, your next trip will have a completely versatile travel capsule wardrobe that will get you to your destination and out exploring adventuring…

Get our FREE 5-4-3-2-1 Travel Capsule Packing Guide

Before you read on for the specifics, you can download a free printable of our 5-4-3-2-1 Travel Capsule Wardrobe Packing Guide right here!

Grab our planning guide above and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter with all the latest tips and tricks for packing light!

Tops: These will include tees, nice tops, sweaters and even light jackets that will be used in outfits. If you are going with a darker them, pieces that can layer such as a black tee, black cardigan or another dark color cardigan would be nice.

Bottoms: These will includes pants, skirts, shorts and skorts. I always like to bring a versatile maxi skirt, a pair of pants that can we dressed up and down. In the fall I love a good pair of jeans, usually dark wash.

Pairs of Shoes- comfortable and appropriate to your activities

Bags, a crossbody bag is always one of my two

Hats, a straw hat for the summer and a cozy hat for the winter. Plus, I always carry a baseball hat.

Necklaces & earrings. one for dressing up, one for dressing down

Jacket for warmth

Pair of sunglasses

Be Flexible

I am somewhat flexible with a couple of the clothing types. Dresses for example, for warmer weather I will pack 3: 1 maxi, 1 sundress or casual dress, and 1 that can be dressed up. For cold weather it is entirely dependent on where and when, but I usually bring 2 as I don’t usually need that extra dress.

Swimsuits are another example: For beach vacations I will pack 2. And, I always consider packing at least 1 swimsuit. Even in the winter… you never know when you will encounter an irresistible spa!

Scarves can vary as well. For beach and warm weather vacations I will pack 1. Cooler weather vacations I will pack 2 for variety in my outfits.

This list is intended to only cover clothes and outfits, but we do have info on toiletries in another post. Check it out here! → Your Must Have List of Carry-On Toiletries

The Necessities Beyond the Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Make sure to bring the basics in a compression packing cube:

• Workout clothes
• Layering tank tops

Example Travel Capsule Wardrobe

For the purpose of having an example for this post, I will be demonstrating how I build my own Travel Capsule Wardrobe using this packing method with a recent trip my family took to visit my husband’s parents and brother’s family in Portugal.

We go every summer for 2-3 weeks and our family there always comments on how crazy it is that we are able to pack for the whole trip in a carry-on! For the purpose of this post, I am going to use that trip as an example and then provide some variations for different climates, etc.

Step-by-Step Planning for this Capsule

Destination:.

• Portugal: Funchal (7 Days), Porto Santo (5 days), Lisbon/Cascais (2 days)

Length of Trip:

• 17 Days Including Travel Days.

Weather Forecast/Climate:

• Summery during the day, evenings can be cool. We may encounter rain if we go up in the hills of Madeira. But mostly plan for warm weather with layers in case it gets cool.
• Madeira: Meals out with family and friends (nothing too fancy), pool time, potential hiking (nothing too tough – running shoes are fine for the hikes we do), walking, yoga, boating with friends, exploring the island
• Porto Santo: Beach, beach, and more beach, visit downtown for ice cream, casual dinners out
• Cascais/Lisbon: Exploring the area, one fancier dinner with friends

Your Travel Capsule Wardrobe and 5-4-3-2-1 Packing, making it work.

No matter the length of your trip, you should aim to pack a travel capsule wardrobe! To be one step ahead when packing for your next adventure consider these tips and tools to help you efficiently pack for your trip. Good luck! And have fun exploring in style.

Frequently Asked Questions: Travel Capsule Wardrobe

How many clothes should be in a capsule wardrobe.

The amount of clothing you choose to pack is totally up to you and your needs. At She Packs Lite we use the 5-4-3-2-1 Travel Capsule Wardrobe. Scroll up to see the description and method.

When deciding, how long you’ll be gone and what activities will be on your agenda, as well as the weather you are facing will be important.

Are capsule wardrobes boring?

No! travel capsule wardrobes can be for everyone. In fact, so many people get creative with the concept and it becomes a fun challenge to see how many outfits they can get from their capsule wardrobe.

Where can I buy a capsule wardrobe?

You can build your own capsule wardrobe, but there are also many brands that already have it completed for you. You can find some great pre-made travel capsule wardrobes on Amazon or at Banana Republic.

We hope you found this blog post about packing the perfect travel capsule wardrobe helpful! Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

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Hello – I stumbled upon your website and it’s awesome. I do wonder if it’s possible, for us to be able to click on the example capsule wardrobe and see it expanded. It’s very difficult to see the article of clothing you are showing. Or maybe it’s my old eyes 🙁 Thank you!

Hi! Thanks so much for your note. I totally get the old eyes thing and thank you for the reminder that I need to make sure people can actually see the images. I just changed how they are on the page. I think the change will work, but I blog from a large screen desktop Mac so would love to hear if it works on your set up. I am also happy to send you a pdf the wardrobe via email if that is easier. Happy holidays! Anne

I have a question for winter clothing, layering, shoes etc. we plan to go to Barcelona in Feb. I love all of the ideas you have posted but a little lost for winter. We live in NE USA and wear sweatshirts and jeans and heavy jackets. Can you offer some suggestions?

Thankyou so much!

Oh my gosh I totally missed this-I am so sorry! First of all I hope you had a good trip. Second, for the future, I Merino wool is a centerpiece of my winter travel, and I bring lightweight silk long underwear if I think it will be cold.

Again, I am so sorry for missing your trip, but here is a post on winter travels for the future. https://shepackslite.com/winter-wardrobe-capsule

We are going to Italy for 16 days in June and love your packing list for Portugal. Would you be willing to send it in pdf possibly with shopping links?

Sorry it took me a minute to respond – actually got a concussion in Feb and it knocked me out! I can definitely send the pdf. With respect to shopping links, the trick is that some of those items are past seasons and therefore no longer available. Let me see if I can find similar items. Best, Anne

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February 3, 2019 By Michelle Maraj 34 Comments

How to Build a Business Travel Capsule Wardrobe

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. All opinions are those of the author.

Building a professional capsule wardrobe to pick from while traveling will ensure your look is consistent, and ease the stress of planning your outfits for the week. You already have enough to deal with at the client – your clothes should not be adding any additional pressure to your mind. After three years as a road warrior, I have developed a capsule wardrobe that I can quickly pick from. I will update my closet with fresh colors, however my primary look has remained the same for over a year.

Building a Business Travel Capsule Wardrobe

A business professional capsule wardrobe will primarily be composed of staples. You can still incorporate fun items into your look, but the beauty of a capsule wardrobe is the simplicity. You do not need to think too hard about whether items match, because they should all coordinate. Because staples are minimalistic, you can re-wear pieces week to week without anyone noticing.

Professional Wardrobe Staples

For a complete business travel capsule wardrobe, I would recommend the following items:

• 10 Button-up Tops
• 5 Bottoms (Combination of pants and skirts)
• 1 Wool Coat

The above wardrobe should give you more than enough outfit options, where you can build two week rotations.

Step 1: Start with the suits

If you are building a business professional wardrobe, you will need some suits in your closet. I recommend purchasing separates that are easy to mix and match. It is easiest to first purchase a  blazer that you like, and then find multiple matching bottoms to go with it.

For every blazer that you purchase, you should have 2-3 coordinating bottoms. This means that if you purchase a black blazer, I would recommend at least 2-3 black bottoms. For a women’s business travel wardrobe, this may include a black pencil skirt, black skinny pants, and black boot cut pants.

The most professional suit will be black or navy. You should have at least one suit in these formal colors, for when you are giving presentations or need to speak to c-level executives. If you like the variety, for your 3 blazers I would recommend one in black, navy, and then gray. You may also consider a tan suit for the summer.

Step 2: Pick coordinating tops

Your blazers are chosen, your bottoms match, the next step in building your capsule wardrobe for work is to buy your tops. To make packing for work trips easier, invest in tops that can be dressed up or dressed down. My closet primarily consists of Express Portofinos , because these button-up tops can be worn under a suit or worn to team dinner. The convertible shirts can also roll up the sleeves for a business casual look as well.

To make packing and accessorizing your professional wardrobe the easiest, you will want to purchase tops in the same color family. If cool colors look good on you, all of your professional wardrobe tops may be shades of blues and purples. If pink is your favorite color, you can invest primarily in whites and blushes. While you do not need to limit yourself to a single color, having tops in a predictable range mean you do not need to worry as much about ensuring your shoes and accessories match. I know that my rose gold watch band will always coordinate with my pink blouses.

Your suits can last throughout the year, but I do like to switch out my tops depending on the season or color trends. As long as your suit is black or navy, you can wear a top in nearly any color and still look professional.

Example Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Now that you have built your professional capsule wardrobe, what does your packing list look like? If you are traveling Monday through Thursday, the above wardrobe recommendations will easily get you through two weeks. A women’s business travel wardrobe may contain the following items:

Week 1 Wardrobe

For week one, I am going to select black suits with a cool, blue palette. Notice that the tops selected are all blue or neutral colors.

Week 2 Wardrobe

For week two, I am going to alternate between navy and black pieces. Notice that the tops selected are all pink, and red colors.

Selecting like-colors for the week will help you coordinate matching accessories, such as shoes or jewelry.

Where to Shop for Business Professional Clothes

As you develop your style and you move up the career ladder, you will gain access to higher quality clothes. Because your style is changing and you are figuring out what works for you, I would not recommend investing too much money into your wardrobe yet.  As you build out your wardrobe over time and better understand what works for you and what doesn’t, then you can begin investing in those high quality pieces.

You can find quality blazers for under $100, pants and skirts for under $70, and tops for under $50, especially if you pay attention to sales and sign up for coupon mailing lists. The majority of my consulting wardrobe comes from the following stores; if you are using coupons, you can easily stay under those price limits.

H&M // H&M was where I bought my first business professional clothes, when I started interviewing in college. The pieces make a great price point when you are just beginning to build your business professional wardrobe and are collecting staples. Blazers from H&M cost $35-50, which is a steal compared to many stores. I also really like their dresses.

Express // Express is one of my favorite places to shop for business professional clothes. Over half of my business professional tops are Portofino Shirts, which are button-up long sleeve blouses that fit perfectly under a blazer. Sign up for the mailing list, and you will get coupons emailed and mailed to you throughout the year.

White House Black Market // WHBM is my holy grail for pants – the pants here fit me well and I do not need any additional tailoring, so WHBM is my #1 favorite place to shop for business professional clothes. My favorite jackets are the Essential Blazers and Long-line Blazers, and my favorite pants are the Body Comfort Side-Zip Pants. I frequently shop the sales section for my sizes that may turn up.

Macy’s // Many of my colleagues and friends shop at Macy’s for their business professional clothes. As a department store, Macy’s will have a wide variety of brands for you to try on and choose from. This can be a great place to purchase your business professional staples.

LOFT // I do not own many items from LOFT, but I hear many coworkers rave about LOFT’s clothing. Clothes from LOFT will be a great investment towards your business capsule wardrobe, and will last for many seasons to come.

In the photograph below, of my navy suit, my blazer is from White House Black Market and my pants are from Express.

Packing Your Business Travel Clothes

Our Ultimate Business Trip Packing List post goes into further detail on what to pack for a work trip, however in summary you will want to pack one extra outfit for the amount of days that you are traveling. For example, imagine I am going on a business trip Monday through Thursday. I would wear a suit with heels on the plane, for my business professional wardrobe I would pack:

• 4 Button-up Blouses
• 1 Pair of Heels

If you are traveling for work on a weekly basis, then all of your belongings should fit into one carry-on. Typically, I would fit all of my clothes into one half of my carry-on, with the other half of my carry-on left for shoes and toiletries.

To stay organized, I recommend purchasing packing cubes for your suitcase. Packing cubes are a great way to save space, and packing cubes will help you keep your business professional clothes and your casual clothes separate. I also pack all undergarments in their own packing cube, to keep these items together.

Travel Capsule Accessories

Designing a business travel capsule wardrobe does not stop at the clothes. For the complete professional look, you will want to consider your accessories as well.

Business Travel Shoes

I exclusively wear heels to work; I love the look, and it gives me a confidence boost. The majority of my heels are from Payless, and have comfort plus padding inside which allows me to stand in these heels all day. I have these shoes in a variety of colors. When I am traveling for work, I will wear one pair and then bring a pair that coordinate with my wardrobe for the week. My favorite pairs are a navy pair and a burgundy pair, which I will rotate between throughout the week.

Jewelry While Traveling

I do not advise traveling with a lot of jewelry, because many pieces tend to be expensive and sentimental. Traveling with a lot of jewelry is risky, as it can easily get stolen or lost. I love jewelry and believe it adds a professional touch, so I will only travel with one jewelry set and wear the same pieces the entire week.

In my ears I keep small hoops, which I do not change out. I would recommend small studs or simple pearls, which would match any outfit. Additionally, I typically wear the same necklace throughout the week. Occasionally I wear bracelets, but at most I would bring one to wear throughout the week. Watches are a great professional touch, so I will wear my Apple Watch everyday with my outfits as well.

If you do plan on adding jewelry to your business travel wardrobe, consider getting a travel jewelry box for keeping your pieces organized.

Handbags and Wallets for Travel

In addition to your work bag, you will typically also carry a small handbag or wallet. It is recommended that you get at minimum a professional-looking wallet for when you have to go out to team lunches or dinners. I love my Logan RFID Zip Around Clutch from Fossil, because it protects my credit cards in addition to holding my phone. This wallet fits easily into my backpack so I do not need to carry a separate purse.

Mixing It Up

The purpose of a business travel capsule wardrobe is to streamline your packing process: with a cohesive wardrobe, you do not have spend time planning your outfits the night before your work trip. However, don’t let your capsule wardrobe limit your creativity. If you have trendy tops or flowing skirts, you do not need to exclude your fun pieces from your business trips. Instead, use your capsule wardrobe as your base, and supplement unique pieces as necessary.

Overall, your new business travel capsule wardrobe will help make packing easier, and ensure you consistently look great while on the road. Have you ever tried building a travel capsule wardrobe? Let us know in our comments below.

Traveling for work? Also check out:

• 10 Work Trip Instagram Captions
• Why a Trolley Strap is a Requirement for Your Next Work Bag
• 5 Challenges of Managing Remote Employees
• Matt’s Flights Custom Search – Here’s Our Review of What He Found
• Jey&em ONE Suitcase Review

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How to Build the Perfect Fall Travel Capsule Wardrobe

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We've all been there: You're staring at a closet full of clothes and yet somehow have nothing to wear. And while you may be tempted to buy a whole new wardrobe in preparation for upcoming trips and pumpkin-themed outings, investing in a few key pieces can help spare you the need to splurge each season.

The key to building the perfect fall travel capsule wardrobe ? Finding versatile basics that can be worn with a variety of clothing pieces you already own. Investing in comfortable and timeless staples ensures you always have something to wear for every occasion, and can help trim down your packing list throughout the year (it's a more sustainable way of shopping, too). Instead of filling your carry-on with trendy items you might wear, start packing reliable essentials you are confident you'll put on again and again.

Below, we've rounded up the basic tees, packable jackets, and comfortable sneakers to help you build the ultimate capsule wardrobe for fall and beyond. Whether you're planning a New England getaway or a family glamping trip , these are the must-have pieces you'll keep reaching for.

Must-haves for a fall travel capsule wardrobe:

• The basic tee
• The long-sleeve shirt

The straight-leg jean

The trouser, the trench coat, the packable jacket, the denim jacket, the cozy cardigan, the oversized sweater, the white button-down, the versatile dress, the comfortable sneaker, the black boot, the wear-everywhere handbag, the perfect tee.

Let's start with a non-negotiable in every travel capsule wardrobe, fall included: the perfect tee. A plain T-shirt goes with every pair of bottoms you own—jeans, trousers, skirts, leggings, you name it—and can be dressed up or down. Find one you love in classic colors like white and black that you can toss in your suitcase on every trip year-round. (And maybe snag it in a few fall shades like gray or burgundy, too.)

The long-sleeve

Another must-have on our list is a comfortable long-sleeve shirt. Layer your favorite sweaters, cardigans, and vests over a go-to long-sleeve for extra warmth. The best long sleeves can be worn as easily on a long-haul flight as they can to the office or out to dinner. We turn to Everlane, Buck Mason, Skims, and Aritzia for some of our favorite travel-friendly basics .

Let's face it—you really only need one or two pair of jeans that you'll reach for weekly. A medium wash without any holes or rips is your best bet for a pair you can wear year-round and to just about any destination. A straight-leg jean is possibly the most versatile—this style can be worn with boots, sneakers, sandals, and even heels.

For something more polished than jeans yet equally reliable, a pair of neutral-colored trousers is simply a must. Whether you're commuting to the office, heading on a business trip, or touring a new museum, a trouser is always a safe bet. Pair them with comfortable white sneakers if your itinerary calls for casual or loafers for a more sleek and put-together look.

A light-colored, slightly oversized trench coat is possibly the most chic essential on our list. It's also one of the most classic—this water-resistant and lightweight coat isn't going out of style anytime soon. It offers an effortlessly put-together look and isn't too bulky to pack or too heavy to wear this season. It's that perfect in-between piece of outerwear for a day exploring New York City or London .

As the temperature begins to drop this season, you'll need a warm yet packable jacket to throw on. Water-resistant jackets from Patagonia and Carhartt are ideal for rainy days, while puffers from Girlfriend Collective and Fjällräven provide extra insulation. These options aren't bulky or too heavy, making them smart choices worth the carry-on space.

A denim jacket is a great transitional option that'll take you from summer to fall. Lightweight, versatile, and always in style, a jean jacket is a welcome addition to every traveler's packing list. Durable options from Madewell and J.Crew will last for years, making them well-worth the price tag.

What do you wear while reading a good book and sipping hot chocolate this season? A cozy cardigan is the only answer. There are a variety of styles, lengths, and materials to choose from—but the best cardigans all keep you warm and can be worn on a chilly plane, at home, or to dress up an otherwise simple outfit.

An oversized sweater is practically synonymous with fall clothing. It's one of the easiest (and warmest) essentials you can wear once the temperature drops—throw one over a pair of leggings , jeans, or a long skirt. I never travel with at least one in my suitcase come fall, and it always ends up being one of my most-worn pieces.

One versatile staple our editors agree we never travel without: a white button-down . This year-round essential deserves a spot in our suitcases no matter we're headed—it looks as great with a pair of jeans and loafers to the office as it does over a swimsuit on a beach vacation .

Some occasions call for a slightly more elevated outfit. Comfort meets fashion with these versatile dresses—they're not restrictive or difficult to style and transition well through different seasons. For occasions that call for a slightly more elevated outfit, we gravitate toward simple yet flattering dresses like these from Everlane, H&M, and more.

Chilly weather means it's time to retire your sandals and flip-flops and pull out a pair of loafers. They don't have much of a heel so they're easy to walk in, yet still look elevated with a pair of trousers. Plus, these lightweight shoes won't take up much suitcase space and can fit well in the shoe compartment of your weekender bag , too. We've got our eyes on Rothy's new lug loafer: an ultra-chic and lightweight slip-on with a chunky sole that is machine washable and is available in ivory (pictured), black, and teak herringbone (brown). (Browse more of our favorite loafers from Everlane, Franco Sarto, and Steve Madden.)

No packing list is complete without a comfortable walking shoe . Whether you're heading on a long flight or a city walking tour, every traveler needs a trusted pair of sneakers. Among our go-to kicks for long days on our feet are these neutral-colored options from Adidas, Veja, and New Balance. Wear them with quite literally everything—jeans, trousers, dresses, and more—to cut down your packing list and save your feet.

A classic black boot is an easy way to dress up any fall outfit: It's more comfortable than a pump or other heel, but still looks sleek and elevated even with a simple pair of jeans. If you only have room to pack one extra shoe, I'd opt for a black boot that transitions well from day to night.

Rounding out our list of essentials to build the perfect fall travel capsule wardrobe is a durable and stylish handbag you can wear anywhere with anything. We recommend a crossbody bag with an adjustable strap that can be worn multiple ways and in a shade that will match every outfit you're packing—brown or black is a smart choice.

Home » Wear to Work: Travel Friendly Capsule Wardrobe for Your Next Business Trip

Wear to Work: Travel Friendly Capsule Wardrobe for Your Next Business Trip

In today’s edition of Wear to Work, we’re answering a question from a reader about suits, suiting separates and creating a capsule that will travel well to a business conference.

Hello Megan, I appreciate your blog posts, particularly the focus on pulled-together office casual looks. I’m writing to suggest a blog post topic about finding a great suit for work travel. What details or cut makes the pieces look good as stand-alone separates as well as a sharp-looking suite? I’ve been looking for a suit that fits into my  conference travel packing formula: Day 1: suit jacket and dressy jeans en route (jacket doesn’t get wrinkled in my suitcase) Day 2: wear a suit for my killer presentation Day 3: suit pants + twin set A related topic that I’d love your advice on is navigating the items sold as “suit separates.” At Nordstrom Rack recently I tried “suit separates” that was hanging on the same rack by the same brand.  I was annoyed to find that the fabric and the colors were slightly different between jacket and pants – I was hoping for a mix and match option, but instead, they looked like I’d gotten dressed in the dark. This was true with both Anne Klein and  Calvin Klein. Disappointing! Do you have any hacks or workarounds for this? Thanks! Melissa Durham NC

Sample Travel Capsule

Day One – Travel :  Tank , $130  |  Blazer , $70  |  Jeans , $168  |  Earrings , $160  |  Pump , $56 Day Two – Presentation :  B lazer , $119  |  Pants , $65  |   Tank , $130  |   Earrings , $160  |  Bracelet , $110   |  Pump , $56 Day Three: Business Casual :  Pants , $65  |   Tank , $130  |  Cardigan , $27  |   Earrings , $160  |  Bracelet , $110   |  Pump , $56

Thank you for your question, Melissa!

First, let’s start with travel appropriate suiting.

Travel Suiting

For something to travel well it all comes down to the fabric. You want to avoid linen, linen blend and certain cotton blends. It’s best to look for four season wool, a wool blend, microfiber, poly blend and anything with some stretch.

I like this Anne Klein jacket and trouser , featured above, made in a poly-blend. Note the color is called “Anne Klein Black.” This tells us that these are meant to be worn together. More on this is a minute.

Hack: Pack your suit in your suitcase wrapped in a dry cleaning bag. It will arrive wrinkle free every time. 

Next, let’s talk about mix and match suiting, because it’s a question I’ve been getting for years. I came up with a simple formula to follow when using a suit as a base for a capsule:

• Mix and match suit pieces within a collection
• Layer in separate jackets
• Pair suiting bottoms with better tops and sweaters

I explain why in more detail below:

Suiting vs. Suiting Separates

Some suits are designed with true wardrobe building in mind. Brands like Lafayette 148, Hugo Boss and Theory offer a basic line of suiting that allows the consumer to purchase a few pieces each season.  You could pick up a skirt and jacket one season, then a pair of pants and a dress the next and the fabric and dye lot will be the same.

This, of course, comes at a cost. The fabric and process is expensive, but the quality is excellent. It’s a smart option for someone who spends their days in suits.

The most popular suits are in the mid range brands like J. Crew, Talbots, Ann Taylor, and Anne Klein, etc. Each season they create a few suiting capsules that you can buy and mix and match them within that collection.

Typically, you’ll see these hanging on a rack together. They will most likely not work with pieces you purchased in previous seasons, although there are a few exceptions.  But you can usually find a pant/skirt/dress/jacket combination that interchange nicely.

Shopping Tip: If you are at a discount retailer, like Nordstrom Rack or Off 5th, they hang garments by the same brand together, but those pieces might not have been designed to be worn together even if they look similar. Often they are from different collections and even seasons. 

Suits by nature are formal which is why a suit jacket looks funny when paired with jeans or separate trousers. That’s why I recommend wearing your suit jacket exclusively with the bottoms for which it was made .

When traveling, you can easily wear the suit bottoms with different tops. Statement jackets, like the tweed blazer above , gives a suited look and complements the fabric of the pants.  You can also wear the pants with a blouse or knit for a business casual outfit.

But when you’re not traveling, try to keep the suit together so you don’t wear out the bottom faster than the jacket.

Creating a Capsule

In the image above I created an example of a travel work capsule using the suit as the bridge piece. For a capsule to work, keep it simple, and limit the use of colors. To add interest, focus on accessories and textures.

Anne Klein makes an affordable suit that will travel well and work for a variety of functions on your trip.

If you want to travel in jeans ( these are my go-to ), pair them with a separate blazer for a casual yet still professional look. If you needed something a little more formal, you could swap the jeans out for the suit pants .

For the day of your presentation, wear the full suit with a simple ivory shell  ( this is a similar but less expensive option)  and classic but modern jewelry. This bracelet and these earrings are gorgeous and pack a lot of style.

Finally for walking the convention floor and attending seminars, wear your suit pants with the same shell , and add a lightweight cardigan .

I hope this helps!

Have a question? Leave them in the comments and we’ll answer them here!

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Megan Kristel is an entrepreneur, working mom, and former personal stylist. Tired of the one-dimensional portrayal of women online, she founded The Well Dressed Life as a resource for other professional women.

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Friday 15th of February 2019

I had recently ordered from Nordstroms the Anne Klein jacket that you mentioned in this post and the "separates" pants that are advertised as part of the same collection. They are both called "Anne Klein Black" but the fabric and color do not match. Those are the separates that looked like I got dressed in the dark. Frustrating!

Mary Gulenchyn

Thursday 7th of February 2019

This was so helpful to me, Megan! And the funny thing is, I'm retired and never travel for business. But, what you answered for me was the question I've had for years: Why don't I ever wear the black blazer that I bought to wear as part of a suit and, I thought, to wear with jeans and more casual pants? Well, my casual lifestyle never requires a black suit but I'd often put the jacket on to top a jeans outfit and then I'd take it right off because it just looked wrong somehow. Now I know why! I'm going to get rid of the blazer and just keep the pants. (Or maybe the pants should go too since I don't often choose those either...). Anyway, thanks so much for sharing your knowledge. I love reading your blog and seeing the outfits you put together.

Wednesday 13th of February 2019

Hi Mary! If the pants are flat front with clean lines def. keep them. Then, pick up a separate blazer to wear with jeans. I like this classic style by J crew, or this casual one by Vince Camuto.

Wednesday 6th of February 2019

I cannot see the post in Chrome, but am able to view it in Edge. Very strange - and I've never had this problem with your blog before today.

Patricia Hornbeck

Dear Megan, I am doing a trip to Athens and also a small boat cruise to the Greek Islands in May. I’ve been looking at suggested packing lists but there seems to be conflicts from the destinations being dressy casual to laid back casual. I am a very young 75 years old and some of the suggestions aren’t very appropriate for my age. The small cruise ship does not allow shorts, jeans or tees in the dinning room and I don’t want to be changing clothes several times a day. Any suggestions on how to put this together? Space in the cabin is limited and I usually travel with a 22” suitcase & a small tote carry on. Patricia

What a fun trip! We're going to Greece next year for my birthday and I'm so excited! I would focus on dress that can be layered and then use accessories to dress up or down. Without knowing your specifications I would look for something like this Eileen Fisher tank dress. You can sightsee in it with a comfortable pair of flats, or a walking shoe, then add layers. She does a great linen cardigan you could wear to cover your shoulders, or dress it up with an interesting wrap for dinner in the dinning room with a pair of heels.

Start to look for pieces in March, stores will have full spring inventory. Eileen Fisher will have the most mix and match options, so will Chico's. Both lines are versatile and very packable. Hope that helps!

Missy Miedema

Love the information, explanation, and rationale! Thank you!

Thanks Missy!

This is a fantastic post, thanks Meg!

Thanks Kelly!

I clicked thru from your email to read the post - nothing here!

I'm not sure what you mean. You can't see the post? Maybe refresh your browser, I don't see an issue on our end.

Great tips! I love all of these looks - especially the jeans and blazer look.

Thanks Tracey - glad it's helpful!

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How to create the perfect travel capsule wardrobe.

Take it from someone who has way too many clothes, I understand the struggle of trying to pack light . You want to be able to enjoy the journey, not be weighed down by your wardrobe.

With travelling, this becomes something of a necessity, as you can’t be lugging around an entire trunk of clothes for that one “just in case” moment. 

I once took three separate washbags for a two-week holiday… you can judge me, it’s okay. After this moment, (and many others) I realised that no one needs that many toiletries and decided to strip down my luggage.

So, I’ve decided to share how to create the perfect travel capsule wardrobe with you. That way, you can make packing light look like a breeze. 

This article is written by Faraway Lucy writer, Hope Titley.

Firstly, what is a capsule wardrobe? 

The term ‘capsule wardrobe’ was coined by Susie Faux in the 1970s. A capsule wardrobe is usually fifty or fewer pieces, consisting of essential items of clothing.

These should be items that never go out of fashion, such as trousers, coats and skirts, but with seasonal interchangeable pieces thrown in for good measure. 

So why is this such a good idea for travelling? Well, for one, you generally want to pack light. You will be carrying your luggage all over, and excess is not what you want.

By crafting your own travel capsule wardrobe that you can take with you, not only will travelling be easier, but you’ll never struggle to choose what to wear. 

Crafting your wardrobe and making it work for travelling

I know all too well the temptation to set out three different outfits for the same occasion just because you think they will look cool, without actually considering whether they will get any use.

I was forever returning from trips, pulling out items that I had completely forgotten that I had packed. (Sometimes, I still do.)

So here a few things that I have learnt to avoid doing this, to make your clothes work for you:

The first thing you will want to do is look at your travel plan. Are there particular occasions that may need a specific outfit? What’s the weather like? Will you be doing lots of different activities? 

Once you have answered these questions, you can start to pick things out for the specifics. Try and build the outfit you will want to wear before you go, avoiding excess. 

For example, if it’s an area where a lot of walking is involved, but you are planning on bar hopping in the evening, packing something like a comfortable pair of trainers that can double with jeans and a nice top is a safe bet.

Clothing in your travel capsule wardrobe

Now that you have the specifics sorted, you can start choosing which pieces you want to take for the rest of your trip.

Grab everything you think you want to take, then once you have an Everest of clothing, start to whittle down the pile from there by thinking about the following points: 

1. Pick your basics well

Things like your favourite pair of jeans or a pair of white trainers will go with everything, making them the ideal thing to pack. (If they are suited to your holiday, of course!)

When it comes to picking the basics, you ideally want them to be in neutral tones so that you can mix and match everything.

Then you can build off these to choose the rest of the pieces you want from there. 

2. Choose a colour palette

That being said, your clothing doesn’t need to be entirely neutral if that’s not your thing. If you are all about bright colours then go for it!

But by sticking to a particular colour palette you can be sure that your items will look good together, meaning you can mix and match pieces like a pro.

3. Where are you going?

This is something that you probably wouldn’t think about in too much depth. Beach = bikinis and snow = thermals, simple. But actually taking the time to consider where you are going can help you needle out the excess. Are you really going to need that strappy dress if you are headed on a ski trip to the Alps? (The answer is no.) One way to plan for this is to simply check the weather of the places you are headed to before you go. That way, you can be prepared for it all.

4. Will they be easy to care for?

This is especially important to consider if you are going away for a long time.

Easily wrinkled clothes, items that need special care in the wash or even pieces that are white/stain easily may be best left at home.

Not only this, but you want to take clothes that are well made. This way, you can get the most life out of them on your travels, without them breaking on you at a critical moment.

You want your wardrobe to last as long as you do.

5. Avoid buying new

I know it’s all too tempting to open up ASOS and start planning your new travel look, but before you do, delve into what you already own first.

For inspiration, look on Pinterest and make a board of the outfits you like and see what you can build from what you already own.

It might surprise you, making you look at your clothes differently. (Plus it will save you quite a bit of money, which you can then spend on the trip. You also avoid buying things you don’t need, just for the sake of having them.)

Of course, there will be some things that you don’t already have.

So when you do need to buy something new, pick an item that you really love. This way, it’s guaranteed to be worn throughout your travels and beyond.

Toiletries in your travel capsule wardrobe

This is an area that, as I said at the very start, I struggle with.

For someone who has a four/five-step skincare routine, naturally wavy hair and likes to wear makeup, packing light in this area is a real struggle.

It’s taken some time, but here are a few things I do to take as little as possible:

1. Look into solid/packaging-free products

Shampoo bars, conditioner bars and solid soaps save so much space in your luggage, and they generally last a lot longer. Plus, they are pretty light, so avoid you lugging around excess weight.

Most of the time, you will be able to keep them all in a single container. Got to save all the space you can!

2. Try and use products for multiple purposes

For example, I use my bronzer and highlighter for eyeshadows, or my bar of soap to gel my brows. Doing this means you can take less, without sacrificing products entirely.

This applies to makeup brushes too. If you can get double-ended ones, you are onto a winner.

3. Cut back that routine

This is coming from me with my total skincare obsession.

But if you are travelling, consider what the items are that you truly need. You want to clean your skin, keep it nourished and protect it.

This means taking a good cleanser (which you can also find in solid form), moisturiser and an SPF, will be the essentials to keep you going.

If you wear a lot of makeup, you might want to add a good makeup remover. (Some things can be non-negotiable!)

Jewellery in your travel capsule wardrobe

Whether you want to take your jewellery with you is down to personal preference.

If you’re going to pack jewellery, you need to carefully consider what you want to take. 

How would you feel if a particular piece was lost?  

This is a big one. If you take it only to leave it behind in your bag because you are worried about losing it, then maybe it should be left at home.

There’s nothing worse than realising your favourite necklace is gone.

Take pieces that go with everything

Look at the jewellery you wear every day as that is usually a good place to start.

Generally, a pair of gold/silver earrings, a necklace that is secure, and rings that fit will make you feel comfortable with wearing them out.

If you’re more of a statement kind of person, try and take only one or two pieces, ensuring they will be worn.

Get a safe place to store them

When you aren’t wearing them, you don’t want them to get lost in the depths of your bag.

Find a secure container to place them in, making them easy to find.

A proper jewellery travel case will keep them safe and avoid the tangled mess, but an old glasses case will work fine in a pinch! (My usual go-to.)  

Packing your travel capsule wardrobe

When it actually comes to packing everything itself. There’s a lot of debate on the best ways to do it.

Should you fold or roll? Do you try and wear as much as you can to give yourself more space?

Whatever you think is the best way to pack, I’d like to offer a few suggestions of my own to help you out!

1. Roll or fold?  

My answer? Why not both! Small and thin items roll particularly well, like underwear and camisoles, taking up way less room in your case.

Bulkier items like towels and jumpers, I’ve found are best folded, trying to get them as flat as possible.

Sometimes, you will need to just use your judgement for how you pack, but generally…

Roll:  Underwear, light tops, swimwear, socks, dresses, shorts, thin jumpers, skirts, leggings and thin denim pieces.

Fold: Towels, thicker jumpers, hoodies, coats (if you can’t wear them while you travel), joggers and thicker denim pieces.

2. Reusable items

One of my favourite sustainable travel tips is to bring eco-friendly travel products along for the ride.

However, packing your reusable water bottle or coffee cup can be bulky and take up unnecessary space.

Luckily, you can actually buy collapsible ones. So once you are done with them, you just squish them flat and slide them into your bag.

Helping the environment in a way that works for travelling is always a plus.

3. Light clothing

If you are going to take lighter coloured clothing, pack them inside out.

This way, if they happen to get a smidge of makeup on them, or maybe some dirt from your shoes, it should be hidden on the inside of your clothing.

You don’t want to unpack to realise that half of your clothes are already stained and not wearable. 

As always, this is not a by the rules list. The best part about creating your travel capsule wardrobe is that it will be unique to you and your style aesthetic. Make it work for your personal taste !

With all this in mind, go and craft your perfect travel capsule wardrobe, that’ll be with you on all your adventures.

Where are you heading this year? Let us know whether you are a travel capsule wardrobe pro, or are going to try it for your next journey!

The Work Capsule Wardrobe: 18 Essentials You Need to Look Chic Every Single Day

After spending the last year and a half working from home, I need some reminders about how to get dressed up again, so I'm relying on an office capsule wardrobe more than ever. In the mornings, I don’t like to spend time thinking about what I’m wearing. Instead of trying on endless outfits, I would rather spend my time sipping a morning latte, catching up on the news, and scrolling through the latest updates on my Instagram feed. To cut back on the time I’m spending deciding on what I’m wearing to the office, I’ve narrowed down my options to some key office essentials to develop an easy work capsule wardrobe. 

Ahead, see the 18 pieces I rely on for my outfits to wear to the Who What Wear office. I will admit that these are pieces I wear to a  fashion-centric work environment ( that take the latest trends into mind ), so they may not be suitable for every workplace, but you can tailor them to your particular workspace. Go on to see my outfits and shop the workwear staples I can’t live without.

Build a Foundation of Polished Basics

I tend to invest in great basics that I can wear and re-wear on the regular. 

1. An oversize blazer

I've been wearing this blazer on repeat since I got it several years ago, and it's truly an essential building block in my office wardrobe. It elevates a simple outfit like a T-shirt and jeans but can also be layered over slip skirts or midi dresses.

2. Great T-shirts

I gravitate toward T-shirts with a slightly boxy, oversize silhouette.

3. Wide-leg jeans

I find that jeans with a wide-leg cut—like these ones—are a great fit for the office.

4. Kitten heels

For the office, I look for low kitten heels that are comfortable and easy to walk in. 

5. A structured bag

This bag is part of my everyday office uniform.

6. Design-forward earrings

I always look for design-forward earrings that have a fun twist but still go with just about everything.

Invest in a Tailored Suit

There is no question that suiting has been one of the biggest trends in recent seasons—and it's one that easily translates to the office.

7. A suit jacket

A great suit jacket is a versatile work-wardrobe item that can be paired with any number of outfits. 

8. Matching pants

But a suit jacket looks especially polished when worn with coordinating trousers.

Look for Wardrobe Essentials That Are Finished With Interesting Details

Wearing wardrobe essentials that have unexpected silhouettes and cool design elements instantly breathes life into a simple outfit.

9. A button-down with fashion-forward finishes

Instead of wearing a standard button-down, I look for ones that feel special—like this one that has a twisted detail.

10. Modern everyday jewelry

For jewelry, I look for pieces that are versatile enough to wear every day but cool enough that they stand out.

11. An oversize button-down

Endlessly versatile and even better in a fun shade.

12. Interesting textures

Pieces with textures like ribbing or plissé pleats instantly make basics more dynamic.

A Great Pencil Skirt

There's a reason a pencil skirt is a classic office-wardrobe staple.

13. A black pencil skirt

Though you might opt for a more subdued style in some workplaces, I like to wear an updated take on the classic—like this patent version.

A Chic Tote Bag Is Key

I replaced my flimsy canvas carryalls with a leather tote bag, which instantly makes my work outfits feel more pulled together. If you end up carrying your laptop and other items back and forth from your home to the office, I recommend finding a great bag to use on the regular.

14. A tote bag

A timeless work bag you can use forever.

A Matching Set Is a Go-To for the Office

Few things are as easy to throw on as a matching set. Pantsuits are great, but I also love a cropped bottom.

15. A polished jacket

Classic prints like plaid are a personal favorite for officewear because they always read well put together.

16. And matching bottoms

How stunning is this as a set?

Tailored Outerwear

Once you hit the cooler months, refined outerwear is an easy way to finish an outfit. A long double-breasted coat is a perfect thing to throw over just about any look.

17. A tailored coat

I bought another version of this coat (see in the photo above), and it's been one of my best fall/winter purchases.

18. A leather blazer

A tailored leather blazer is a key piece I rely on to pull together so many looks.

This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated.

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.

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• Travel Clothes

How to Build a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Published April 20, 2023

Written by:

Julianne Ross

Julianne is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Wired, New York Magazine, CNN, McSweeney’s, Vox,...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

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At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Steve Jobs wore his trademark black turtleneck. Former President Obama keeps his wardrobe simple to avoid decision fatigue . Forbes even made a list of celebrities who always dress the same . What can we learn from the idiosyncrasies of the rich and famous? 

We can learn to keep our wardrobes simple, especially when traveling. 

Building a core wardrobe of matching basics will help you pare down your packing list and travel with just a carry on backpack , saving time and money.

Plus, since your clothing is meant to mix and match, a capsule wardrobe makes figuring out what you want to wear that much easier—you can recombine any pieces you like into a fresh outfit.

In this article, we’ll show you how to build a capsule wardrobe that will fit in your carry on and keep you looking sharp wherever you go. Then we’ll look at example packing lists for different types of trips and travelers . Finally, we’ll dig into specific product recommendations that deserve a spot in your bag.

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What Is a Travel Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of basic, functional clothing that won’t go out of style . Each item should be multi-purpose and compatible with the rest of the wardrobe. Think versatile staples , not this season’s must haves .

An ideal travel capsule wardrobe will also consist of a small number of quality items that can withstand the rigors of life on the go. You shouldn’t need to replace everything on your next trip.

Finally, you should genuinely like every item in your capsule wardrobe. Remember, simple and functional don’t have to mean ugly. You want to feel good about reaching for these pieces again and again.

Choose the Right Bag

A capsule wardrobe won’t go far without the right bag to pack it in. Choose a travel backpack that’s carry-on-sized like the Outbreaker Backpack . The Outbreaker fits a week’s worth of clothes, making it ideal for traveling with a capsule wardrobe.

Your travel capsule wardrobe should follow the principles of packing light .

Pack for One Week

You don’t have to replace your entire closet. Your packing list should include enough items for one week’s worth of outfits. When you travel for longer than a week, do laundry.

Pack Layers, Not Bulk

A few thin layers are more versatile than one heavy layer. Light pieces are also smaller to pack, making them perfect for carry-on traveling. 

Choose the Right Fabrics

To avoid breaking out the iron in every place you stay, opt for clothing that’s naturally wrinkle-free . 

Merino wool is good at repelling odors and regulating temperature, while synthetic performance fabrics are good at wicking sweat. Avoid 100% cotton, which is quick to smell and slow to dry.

Aim for clothes that are easy to maintain. Vacation is too short to waste on trips to the dry cleaner.

Invest in Quality Materials and Craftsmanship

A high-quality t-shirt can immediately elevate your outfit. You also don’t want ripped seams and lost buttons on the road, so don’t cheap out on the basics. Opt for well-made items that you can count on for many trips to come.

Avoid fast fashion, which won’t hold up in a capsule wardrobe.

Simplify Your Color Palette

Keep your capsule wardrobe within a matching (and ideally neutral) color palette, so you don’t have to decide which clothes to wear together. Leave bright hues and wild patterns as accent pieces or for the rest of your closet at home.

Pick Timeless Cuts

Remember, a good capsule wardrobe is made up of a small number of durable, classic pieces. Go for timeless silhouettes that make you feel comfortable and confident, and don’t waste energy worrying about the latest trends.

Consider Tailoring 

Proper fit can make all the difference between looking sloppy and looking chic. Hem pants, shorten sleeves, and take in waistbands to add polish to even the most basic outfits.

You’ll be getting a lot of use out of these pieces, so a trip to the tailor is worth the cost.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Checklists

Our basic capsule wardrobe packing list will work for most kinds of trips. We’ve based this list off of our ultimate carry on packing list , which is designed to last a week in a carry on . You can mix and match items and lists to build one that makes the most sense for you and your travels.

We’ve also included additional packing lists for business travelers , outdoor adventurers, and those heading to extreme climates below.

Women’s Travel Capsule Wardrobe

• 3 comfortable, casual t-shirts or tank tops
• 2 blouses for dinners, formal outings, etc.
• 1 light jacket or fleece
• 3 bottoms, at least one of which can be dressed up and down
• 6 pairs of underwear
• 6 pairs of socks
• 2-3 bras (including 1 sports bra; stick to smooth, skin-toned fabrics that won’t show through your tops or require delicate cleaning)
• 1 pair of multi-use shoes for walking and everyday use
• 1 pair of “nice” shoes (flats, booties, fancy sandals, etc.)
• 1 pair of athletic shorts
• Optional: 1 pair of exercise shoes (tie or clip these to the outside of your bag to save space)
• Optional: 1 midi skirt , maxi skirt, or lightweight dress (if you’re traveling somewhere cold, add a pair of tear-resistant black tights )

Men’s Travel Capsule Wardrobe

• 3 comfortable, casual t-shirts
• 1 button-up shirt for dinners, formal outings, etc. 
• 3 bottoms , at least one of which can be dressed up and down
• 1 pair of “nice” shoes (oxfords, loafers, etc.)

Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Use this packing list for beach vacations , cruises, and other warm-weather trips.

• 2-3 casual, comfortable t-shirts or tank tops in breathable fabrics (skip long-sleeve tops)
• 1-2 short-sleeved blouses or button-up shirts
• 3 bottoms, at least one of which can be dressed up and down (consider breezy pants, shorts, or lightweight skirts )
• 2-6 pairs of socks (If you plan on lounging at the beach all day, you can cut this number down to two: the pairs you’ll wear on your roundtrip flights)
• 2-3 bras (sports bra and everyday)
• 1 pair of flip flops or walkable sandals (if you’ll be doing any sort of hiking or water sports, make sure to get sandals that you can secure to your foot)
• 1 pair of “nice” sandals or shoes
• 1 baseball cap or sun hat
• 2 bathing suits (one to wear while the other is drying)
• 1 beach cover up (a lightweight sarong, beach dress, or shorts/top combo)
• 1 lightweight cardigan, gauzy button up, or other layering top (you don’t need a heavy or insulated jacket for hot-weather trips, but should still bring a light cover-up for air-conditioning and unexpected weather changes)

Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Use this packing list for winter travel, especially if you’ll be spending time sightseeing outdoors.

• 1-2 comfortable, casual t-shirts for layering
• 2 long-sleeved base layers for particularly cold days
• 1 long-sleeved button-up shirt or blouse for dinners, formal outings, etc. 
• 1 sweater , fleece, or hoodie
• 1 packable puffer jacket for added insulation (depending on how cold and wet your destination is, you may need to bring an additional coat or shell to protect against rain and wind)
• 3 bottoms , at least one of which can be dressed up and down 
• 1 pair of weather resistant boots (duck boots, Blundstones , etc.)
• 1 pair of “nice,” closed-toe shoes
• 6 pairs of tall socks
• 1 pair water-resistant gloves
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• Optional: long johns or leggings to wear under pants on extremely cold days

Business Travel Capsule Wardrobe

If your travel includes regular meetings, in person or online, consider adding the following to items your capsule wardrobe:

• 2 collared dress shirts or blouses in wrinkle-resistant fabric (having two means you can rotate while one’s in the wash)
• 2 professional bottom-half pieces, like wrinkle-resistant slacks or knee-length skirts
• 1 travel blazer
• 2 pairs of dress socks (if you’ll have in-person meetings)
• 1 pair of comfortable dress shoes, pumps, or block-heeled sandals
• Optional: 1 pair of earrings (think: simple studs or small hoops that will go with multiple outfits; don’t bring anything valuable)

Adventure Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Use this packing list if you plan to spend a lot of time in the great outdoors:

• 3 t-shirts or tank tops in performance fabrics like merino wool  
• 1 packable puffer jacket or fleece (plus climate-specific gear if necessary)
• 2 pairs wool hiking socks (yes, in addition to your other socks; you won’t want to spend the evening lounging in the same grimy socks you wore all day on the trail)
• 2 sports bras (to rotate while one’s in the wash)
• 1-2 pairs of athletic shorts
• 1 pair of quick-drying travel pants
• 1 pair of sturdy, closed-toe shoes like cross trainers, which are lightweight yet can handle rough terrain (if your trip includes serious trekking, consider clipping a pair of hiking boots to the outside of your pack)
• 1 pair of water-friendly shoes (stick to shoes like Tevas , Keens , or Chacos , which offer much more stability than flip flops)
• Baseball hat or visor for sun protection
• Optional: 1 pair of jeans or other casual bottoms (to wear when not actively adventuring)
• Optional: 1 pair of multi-use shoes for walking and casual everyday use (consider a supportive slip-on style that’s easy to don after a long day on your feet)

Depending on the weather at your destination, make two workout capsule wardrobes: one for cold weather and one for warm weather. Store one at your home base and swap it out when needed.

The Best Clothing for Travel Capsule Wardrobes

Remember that a good capsule wardrobe is made up of a small number of durable, classic pieces. No cheap throwaways. No fast fashion. 

This wardrobe is an investment. If something costs more than you would usually pay, that’s okay, as long as it lasts longer and never goes out of style. 

Travel Capsule Wardrobe T-Shirts

Merino wool is the ideal t-shirt fabric because it regulates your body temperature and repels odors. You can wear a merino shirt multiple times before needing to wash it.

Smartwool and Icebreaker are the most popular choices. We also like newer brands like Unbound Merino , Wool & Prince , and Outlier .

For non-wool t-shirts, check out brands like Everlane and Uniqlo .

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Jackets

Your choice of jacket completely depends on the weather in your destination and your travel style.

Rainy weather is easy. Most outdoor companies make thin, packable rain jackets . Multiple Tortuga recommend the Patagonia Torrentshell ( men’s , women’s ). L.L. Bean’s H2Off and Columbia’s Arcadia II are solid, affordable picks.

Temperate weather and city trips call for canvas, jean, or shirt jackets, which are easy to dress up or down. Just avoid anything too bulky. 

Leather jackets look great with just about anything but are heavy. If you’ll wear yours every day (and thus never have to fit it in your bag), a leather moto can make a strong addition to your wardrobe.

For cold (but not frigid) weather or more outdoorsy destinations, go for a packable puffer that you can layer over a fleece or under a weather-proof shell.

Down insulation offers the best warmth to weight ratio. My Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket ( men’s , women’s ) kept me warm in actual Patagonia and smooshed into the size of a baseball in my backpack. Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down Jacket ( men’s , women’s ) is a comparable budget option.

Because down doesn’t work well when wet, consider synthetic fill for drizzly destinations. Synthetic fibers dry faster than down and are also generally cheaper. Either way, stick to dark colors, which keep puffers looking sleek.

For very cold weather, invest in a hip- or knee-length water- and wind-resistant parka. While heavy, you can always stick your parka in the overhead bin during flights and leave it in your room when necessary.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Pants, Shorts, and Skirts

Jeans are some of the toughest, most versatile travel pants around. Just remember to wear them in transit as they’re big, bulky, and hard to pack. Go with your favorite style but avoid pairs with rips and distressing, as this makes them difficult to dress up.

Chinos are classics too. Our favorite travel chinos are from Bluffworks , but every brand from Gap to J. Crew to Banana Republic makes its own version. Find a pair that fits you well and isn’t too bulky. 

Active brands like Athleta , Outdoor Voices , and Lululemon also offer a good selection of comfortable, travel-ready pants. Go for dark colors and no one will be able to tell that you’re wearing performance fabrics.

Athletic shorts are another versatile option on the road. They can be used at the gym, for outdoor adventures, as a substitute for pajamas, and as swim trunks.

Midi and maxi skirts are perfect for warm climates because they look fancy while also being comfortable, breezy, and modest.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Shoes

Unless all you’ll be doing is ordering piña coladas from a lounge chair, you’ll need more than a pair of flip-flops. 

All travelers should invest in reliable, walkable travel shoes . Depending on the activity level of your trip, these can be loafers, ankle boots, cushioned flats, or even a pair of Birkenstocks . 

Cole Haan is famous for its comfortable oxfords, with the packable ZERØGRAND line being particularly great for travel.

Sneakers are fine, but avoid pairs with loud colors or logos that will clash with the rest of your wardrobe. Brands like Thousandfell offer classic white tennis shoes in stain-resistant fabrics, while you can toss Allbirds’ Wool Runners ( men’s , women’s ) directly in the washing machine when your trip’s over. 

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Socks and Underwear

Choose any brand of underwear that looks good and feels comfortable but avoid cotton if you can. You need a fabric that will repel odors and dry quickly. We’re long-time fans of ExOfficio underwear. ExOfficio has a variety of styles for men or women that dry quickly, wick sweat, and repel odors. 

For socks, we recommend Smartwool and Darn Tough . Both brands make wool socks that stay up and fit snugly. You can find both men’s and women ’s socks in every style from thick, calf-high hiking socks to thin, low-rise athletic socks.

A capsule wardrobe ensures that you’ll look great, no matter where your travels take you. You’ll also save time and money in shopping for, packing, and maintaining clothing in the long run.

Best of all, a capsule wardrobe reduces decision-making and eliminates stress from your packing list. That means you can get back to focusing on what matters: enjoying your trip.

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Julianne is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Wired, New York Magazine, CNN, McSweeney’s, Vox, and more. She’s also solo backpacked across four continents, locked her keys in the car in the middle of a safari park, and posted #travelgrams referred to as “stunning” by her mom. You can follow her on Instagram @julianneiross.

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Presenting, the Ultimate Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe for All Your Vacation Needs

PureWow Editors select every item that appears on this page,, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Read the original article on Purewow .

In the past few years I’ve fallen into the bad habit of overpacking, whether it’s a three-day weekend getaway or a week-long excursion to the mountains. But for summer 2024 I am determined to be smarter about the way I pack, and that effort all begins with a summer travel capsule wardrobe. “Having a capsule wardrobe you can mix and match with abandon is really the secret to only ever using a carry-on ,” shared my friend Shazia, who travels on average 12 weeks out of the year for work. “You’ve got to be able to make the most of every item in your suitcase—and no single-use pieces!” But what exactly does this magical mix-and-match summer capsule look like?

The specifics of any summer travel capsule wardrobe will change depending on where you’re going and what you plan to do there, but the basic idea remains the same: Only pack items that can all be paired with one another to create a range of outfits using as few pieces as possible. Those who’ve seen TikTok videos espousing the 333 packing method know all you really need is three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes, and you’ll wind up with 21 looks. For a city excursion, this might mean packing three pairs of pants/shorts and a variety of comfortable walking shoes , whereas a tropical adventure might require dresses that can double as beach cover-ups and sandals that can go from day to night . Read on for all my best tips on how to build your ideal summer travel capsule wardrobe, and the ten items that can see you through just about any vacation you have planned this season.

The Top Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Items at a Glance

How to create a summer travel capsule wardrobe.

Stick with One Color Palette

For a lot of folks, the easiest color palette is going to be neutral hues—black, white, beige, navy, forest green, etc.—but if you’re someone who really loves color, you can absolutely shake things up and add in some brighter pops. Just be sure that whatever colors you go with, that every piece can be worn with every other piece. This will ensure you can really maximize your outfit options.

Start with Shoes

Shoes are perhaps the most important part of a travel capsule wardrobe and are dictated by the types of activities you’ll be doing on your trip. In general, I find packing one cute sneaker and one walkable sandal is sufficient for summer vacations, but if you’re planning on exploring rocky beaches you’ll likely want to add a water shoe . Or, if you’re going out for a celebratory dinner you might want to add a pair of fun heels. Try to limit your footwear options as much as possible, then start building your outfits from the bottom up to match.

Then Bottoms

Your next most important category is bottoms. These should be simple and versatile, like jeans, linen pants or an easy midi skirt, so that you can dress them up or down with a variety of tops. You should be able to get through a week-long vacay with just three bottoms, so really try to limit these to basic essentials.

Go Ham with Small Accessories

The easiest way to make a repeat outfit feel fresh? With the help of standout accessories. Jewelry , scarves, sunglasses and hair clips all take up minimal space so you can toss multiple options into your suitcase to play with. Pack a few different styles of earrings, a pair of colorful sunnies in addition to classic black or tortoiseshell, a floral neckerchief or a full arm stack of bangles to accessorize your capsule wardrobe for all sorts of occasions.

Embrace Versatility

Everything in your travel capsule wardrobe should be able to be worn with multiple other items in your suitcase. If you just bought a fabulous new top but it can really only be worn with black, high-waist jeans, it’s likely best to leave it at home this time around. Double check that all your top options can be worn with all, or at least most, of your bottom options and shoe options before you go packing them all into your carry-on to guarantee you’re making the most of your precious cargo space.

How to Travel with a Carry-On Only (Because It *Can* Be Done)

1. Walkable Sandals

Time to show off that pedicure with a pair of comfortable sandals you can wear all day long, whether you plan to explore a whole city or post-up poolside. Opt for a pair of sandals that feel nicer or dressier than basic flip-flops so you can style them up for a nice dinner too. And while black, brown or beige will likely be easier to pair with other items, I love the idea of using your shoes to add some color to your ‘fit with a bright yellow or bold red.

$42 at Teva

Shop More Sandals

OluKai Tiare Slides

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Everlane Day Fisherman Sandals

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Birkenstock Mayari Sandals

https://www.birkenstock.com/us/mayari-natural-leather-oiled/mayari-core-oiledleather-0-eva-w_5326.html

2. Chic Sneakers

Dr. Scholl’s

Comfortable sneakers are key to keeping your feet happy on a full day of city exploration, but rather than reach for your chunkiest walking shoes, I highly suggest investing in a pair of sleeker kicks with a fashion-forward twist. The Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers pictured above have been going viral on TikTok for their supreme comfort and support, all without sacrificing style. And Wellness Director Sarah Stiefvater swears by the trendy Adidas Samba for travel all throughout the year. And don’t forget to pack some cushy socks to go with whatever kicks you choose.

$70 at Dr. Scholl’s

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Adidas Samba Sneakers

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Dolce Vita Notice Sneakers

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Tracksmith Eliot Runners

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Some folks swear by their denim cut-offs, but I think linen or cotton shorts are a more versatile option that are every bit as comfortable. A simple silhouette  in a neutral hue  can be more easily dressed up for dinners or other events than denim, and khaki, linen and cotton twill are lighter weight and more breathable as an added bonus.

$98 at J.Crew

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Reformation Charlotte Linen Shorts

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Aritzia Effortless Mid-Thigh Shorts

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Levi’s Baggy High-Waist Shorts

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4. Lightweight Pants

I don’t think I’ve ever gone on a trip and not packed jeans, but for summer I like to prioritize lighter weight materials to give my travel capsule wardrobe an elevated twist that’s just as comfortable as my beloved denim. Linen trousers are a fabulous option because the fabric is breathable, but the silhouette is undeniably polished. You can also try “made for travel” materials like this pair of Aday pants that can be tied in a variety of styles, won’t wrinkle and are made of a quick-drying fabric that’s also eco-friendly.

$88 at Madewell

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Athleta Retreat Linen Wide-Leg Pants

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Darling Journey Easy Pants

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Aday Easy Days Pants

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5. A Breezy Skirt

Swap the fitted miniskirts for something much more freeing, like this A-line linen number from Boden or a silky slip skirt. I find midi lengths to be the most versatile—they still allow for plenty of air flow around your legs during the day, and are easier to dress up for a fancy night out—but if you adore a mini just be sure to opt for silhouettes that will give you enough range of motion to feel comfortable all day long.

$120 at Boden

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J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt

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Banana Republic Lina Linen Mini Skirt

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Free People Lowen Midi Skirt

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6. A Button-Up Shirt

Reformation

Opt for a shirt that has a looser fit for more versatility so that it can double as a lightweight jacket or cover-up. And be sure to choose a button-up  made from lightweight, breathable materials (these are not your pressed work shirts) so you won’t feel stifled in the heat.

$128 at Reformation

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L.L.Bean Wrinkle-Free Pinpoint Oxford Shirt

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Old Navy Oversize Button-Down Shirt

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Showpo Terah Shirt

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7. Tees and Tank Tops

Tank tops, T-shirts and long-sleeve tees are staples I just can’t live without, no matter the destination. Be sure to choose options that can be layered under or over other pieces (like a tank dress or button-up shirt). I find the best options are made of natural fibers, but feel free to invest in whatever colors or even patterns you like best

$45 at Buck Mason

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Athleta Essential Tank

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Boden Sasha Broderie T-Shirt

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Abercrombie & Fitch Squareneck Rib Tank

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Lands’ End Rib Tank Top

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Kule The Modern T-Shirt

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8. A Silk Cami

Silk camisoles are my secret weapon when it comes to looking chic and staying cool in the summer. They instantly elevate the look of casual summer basics, like denim shorts or linen pants, and are far more posh than a cotton tank. Plus, silk is wonderfully breathable and won’t show sweat as easily as, say, a polyester or cotton blouse. Simply tuck it into some high-waist jeans or an equally breathable silk slip skirt, add some glam jewelry and you’ll be ready for a night out on the town.

$40 at Quince

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Ravella Amalfi Silk Tank

https://shopravella.com/products/amalfi-tank?variant=16324501766187

Cami NYC Brandice Cami

https://howl.me/link/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revolve.com%2Fcami-nyc-brandice-cami-in-navy%2Fdp%2FCAMN-WS472%2F%3Fd%3DWomens&publisher_slug=purewow&exclusive=1&article_name=purewow&article_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purewow.com&u1=summer-travel-capsule-wardrobe

LilySilk Lace Cami

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9. Versatile Dresses

My friend Shazia told me she avoids packing any single-use items unless she has a specific event she’s packing for (like a destination wedding or concert ), which for dresses means really paying attention to versatility. You’re going to want to stick with frocks that can be worn for day or night, like a black linen mini dress or a floral-print midi. They should work just as well with sandals as they do with sneakers . This is also where that arsenal of accessories can come into play to style your dress for any and all occasions.

$128 at Tuckernuck

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Boden Linen Wrap Midi Dress

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Farm Rio Banana Foliage Midi Dress

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Anthropologie Pollie Swing Tunic Mini Dress

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10. A Convertible Handbag

Handbags are my kryptonite when it comes to packing—I always want to have options but they take up so much space! So my new go-to travel bags are convertible handbags like the Madewell number pictured above. It comes with an adjustable strap that can be worn as a crossbody or a shoulder bag, and it also comes with a removable top handle for a cute nighttime look.

$118; $110 at Madewell

Shop More Convertible Handbags

Songmont Luna Bag

https://songmontofficial.com/collections/best-sell/products/luna-bag-lavender

Anthropologie Anais Mini Bucket Bag

https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=WtZFYDlO0Ks&mid=39789&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.anthropologie.com%2Fshop%2Fanais-mini-bucket-bag%3Fcategory%3Dbags%26color%3D010%26type%3DSTANDARD%26size%3DOne%2520Size%26quantity%3D1&u1=summer-travel-capsule-wardrobe

Kate Spade New York Madison Convertible Crossbody

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More Items to Consider

As mentioned above, the easiest way to shake up a repeat outfit is with bold accessories, like statement earrings , a bandana , colorful sunglasses or a fun hair clip , so feel free to add a myriad of extras to your suitcase. You may also want to add a warmer layer for after-dark activities or to wear on a plane. Opt for something easy and lightweight, like a denim jacket , oversize blazer or cashmere knit that pairs well with all your planned outfits. If your summer plans involve ample time at the beach or pool, look for a cover-up that can double as regular clothing to get even more use out of your capsule wardrobe.

PureWow’s Favorite Carry-On Luggage

Paravel Aviator Carry-On Luggage

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Béis Weekend Bag

https://go.skimresources.com/?id=27667X859343&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeistravel.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-weekender-in-slate%3F&xcust=summer-travel-capsule-wardrobe

Briggs & Riley Carry-On Expandable Spinner

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The 13 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested by PureWow Editors

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

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• Travel Products

I’ve Lived Out of a Carry-on for 3 Years, and This Piece of Clothing Is My No. 1 Essential

It's the hardest working item I own.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Trends come and go at the speed of light these days, and when you’re a nomad living out of a carry-on suitcase, you don’t have time or space to participate in any of them, really. That circumstance has drastically limited my wardrobe for the last three years, and though I wasn’t a trend-chaser prior to traveling full-time, it’s certainly given me a deep appreciation for timeless, versatile pieces. And hands-down, the hardest working piece in my suitcase is the epitome of that idea: It’s a classic white button-down shirt. 

I’ve been wearing a relaxed cotton one from Vineyard Vines on repeat for the last two years, and it’s proven itself to be an absolute MVP during trips through 23 different countries and all different climates. I’ve layered it under sweaters during zero-degree days in Copenhagen, worn it in lieu of a spring jacket to grab dinner in Mexico City, and tied it around my waist to walk the narrow streets of Naples, Italy. It can hang in a city, but it also really shines as a lightweight cover-up, perfect for hours on a boat in Hawk’s Cay in the Florida Keys or to shield my shoulders during sunny scooter rides around Tulum. 

Sebatian Gray / @sebgrayphoto

When you’re a nomad, everything has to match with everything else, and be useful in as many climates as possible, and a white button-down is simple — you might say boring, even — but it does exactly that.

Vineyard Vines Oversized Poplin Button-down

Vineyard Vines

The exact Vineyard Vines shirt I travel with is no longer for sale, but nearly any white button-down should do the trick in serving as a versatile travel piece. I love that mine is 100 percent cotton, so it’s soft, easily washable, and can be used to stay warm or keep cool. Because it’s oversized, I can also tie it into a crop top, layer it over tank tops or dresses, and wear it off my shoulders. The beauty of a button-down is that you can also constantly adjust how much airflow you want or how much skin you’d like to show, and there are infinite ways to style it so your outfits feel fresh and can match any occasion. 

White is a tricky color to travel with, but I’ve found that, with the right laundry products (and a Tide Pen ), I can get this shirt clean and bright again and again. And dealing with laundering a white shirt is totally worth it, in my opinion, because it goes with every single other piece of clothing in my bag — something that’s not just ideal when you’re living out of a carry-on suitcase, but necessary.

Still, after more than two years of travel and countless wears, I’m getting close to retiring my Vineyard Vines button-down. I’m thinking of snagging one in linen for summer, or one that’s a bit more structured to help me look more put-together during an upcoming trip to Tokyo. There are so many good styles on the market right now, it’s pretty hard to choose. Here are six I have my eye on to serve as the next workhouse in my travel wardrobe.

Madewell The Oversized Straight Hem Shirt in Signature Poplin 

Madewell’s whole schtick is offering pieces that are classic and timeless, and they were the first brand I thought of when I started considering replacing my well-loved white shirt. I love the oversized, boxy look of this one, especially for city travel. It’s 100-percent cotton, so guaranteed to be breezy even in the summer heat. Reviewers love it for its “true oversize look.” 

Everlane The Linen Relaxed Shirt

Linen is the best choice for summer, thanks to its super breathable nature. This one has a relaxed-but-classic cut, making it great as a beachy cover-up or dressier dinner shirt. Reviewers say it falls perfectly between oversized and fitted — and gets softer with every wash.

Uniqlo Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt

Linen can be pricey, but this Uniqlo pick is perfect for travelers on a budget (and, really, who isn’t trying to save money so they can go on more trips?). At just $40, I might need to get this one in multiple colors. Customers have given it a rating of 4.7 stars out of five overall, saying the only downside is that it wrinkles easily — but that’s true with most linen clothes. 

Breezy Lane Button-down Shirt

For a looser fit and more affordable price point, there’s this shirt from Breezy Lane on Amazon. Customers say it’s great as a beach coverup since the fabric is pretty thin and, well, breezy. 

Big Dart Oversized Button-down Shirt

Other travel writers swear by this affordable white button-down from Amazon, so I’m inclined to give it a try. “I used this for travel,” shared one reviewer who noted that the fabric is lightweight and the shirt has more of a “boyfriend fit.” They continued: “Love the color [and I] was able to pair [it] with so many of my outfits.” 

Amazon Essentials Women's Classic Fit Long Sleeve Button-down Poplin Shirt

More than 17,000 shoppers have given this Amazon Essentials button-down an overall rating of 4.2 stars out of five — not bad for a shirt under $30. It’s 100-percent cotton and a classic cut that reviewers love for layering. “This shirt is awesome! Bought it to travel in and it packed beautifully, no wrinkles,” wrote one customer . “Washed [it] and [the] size stayed the same and did not need ironing! Will buy more in different colors.”

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Build your capsule wardrobe with these 25 items

Discover your best baseline items for a minimalist capsule wardrobe.

We have all been in that unenviable situation where we open the closet in the morning and see a clutter of shirts, pants, jackets, and sweaters and simultaneously feel like we have nothing to wear . There is a very good reason for this — it is called analysis paralysis.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

Capsule wardrobe checklist, substitutions and cons of a capsule wardrobe.

A capsule wardrobe is the best way to strip away the bloated aspects of your clothing collection and zero in on the most basic and versatile items. A minimalist wardrobe selects only the most classic silhouettes and luxurious fabrics to ensure that everything you wear is of the highest quality and will last you a long time, keeping yourself perpetually in style among the masses.

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Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to a minimalist wardrobe for men. The first is that you will need to make some sacrifices. We know you love that Hawaiian shirt you sported in Maui, but since you haven’t worn it since stepping back into the intercontinental U.S., it’s time to move on. The second is that there is a lot of thought that has to go into building a capsule wardrobe so you get rid of what you don’t need and also so you never go without. Finding that delicate balance comes down to picking up the right items.

When putting together a capsule wardrobe for men, it’s essential to consider what a man needs in his closet to reach for whenever he is set to go somewhere important. First things first, your focus is on quality. Every item you buy should be at the high end of your budget. That doesn’t mean you have to mortgage your home or sell your car to acquire the most expensive items in fashion. It simply means don’t skimp. When you start narrowing down your options, choose the ones with the highest quality. Not having many items of clothing means what you do have, you will wear more often.

Colors and patterns are also critical. When you’re working with only a few items, you want to stick as close to basic solids as possible because the flashier an item is, the less you can wear it because people will remember it. As far as colors go, you only have 25 items in this list to choose from, which means you want to maximize the different combinations. The best way to do that is to select a color palette that consists of neutrals. The two most common choices are grayscale (basically items that are black, white, or somewhere in between) or blues and browns (which will still see a fair amount of white and gray).

The contents of a capsule wardrobe break down your collection into 25 items. Five tops, five pants, five third-layer pieces (more on that later), five shoes, and five base layer items. We will put together items in the blue and brown color palette, giving you a minimalist wardrobe that still has a little color. One last note — this list is for the big garments. Your socks, underwear, and accessories aren’t on this list. Those will come next time.

• White dress shirt – No matter who you are or what your lifestyle is, every man needs a white dress shirt. It works in the office, weddings, funerals, and even casual events. And as an added bonus, it goes with literally everything on this list.
• Blue dress shirt – As a complement to the white dress shirt, you want to pick up a blue dress shirt as well to wear on the off days when you give your white shirt a rest. It will be the best office shirt you have.
• Solid luxury sweater – Nothing beats a good sweater. There are dozens of options to choose from, but you want to make sure that this sweater is solid and of high quality. In this color palette, a dark navy would work wonders when paired with the above two dress shirts.
• Sport shirt – You can’t always be in a dress shirt when a collared shirt is required or desired. Enter the casual sport shirt. This shirt differentiates from the dress shirt with the button-down collar and it’s often a thicker cotton fabric.
• Polo – You also don’t want to always have to wear a long-sleeved shirt. So putting on the best polo you can find will keep you cool in the summer months and also give a welcome change from the long-sleeved button-ups you have collected.
• Dark dress denim – All men need a pair of jeans that go well with a sport coat and dress up a smart casual event. And they are perfect for Casual Fridays at the office.
• Tan chinos – Speaking of the office, if you work in a place that has a business casual dress code , these will be your most worn pair of pants. So make sure they are high quality so they can take the beating.
• Light wash jeans – Just like you need a pair of dark denim, you should have a contrasting light wash for the summer months and the ultra casual events.
• Gray dress pants – You can’t wear your chinos every day, and therefore you need another set of pants to wear in their stead. Light gray goes with virtually everything, making them the perfect option for versatility.
• Joggers – You won’t always be dressed up. Sometimes you need to feel comfortable in your wardrobe, and a great pair of joggers is the best way to elevate your casual wear while still feeling ultra comfortable.

5 third-layer pieces

• Blue suit – I know that if you follow the four-legged stool mindset, the blue suit is the second suit you should pick up after the charcoal suit. But for this minimalist wardrobe, a blue suit will go better with everything that is on this list. When you want to switch it up, the jacket will work just as well with the gray dress pants, chinos, and dark dress denim.
• Tan or gray sport coat – Just like the denim, you want to diversify your options in your tailored coats, and therefore, you need to pick up a sport coat. A tan or gray will work best to complement what you already have and contrast with the blue suit.
• Gray cardigan – One of the items every man needs is a gray cardigan. Sometimes you want to stay warm and still be comfortable and stylish. This piece will go over everything and bring an aura of class and sophistication.
• Leather jacket – Of course, we can’t talk about a third layer and not bring up a leather jacket. When wearing your casual wardrobe, you want to add a layer of coolness in the way of Steve McQueen, Indiana Jones, or even Wolverine.
• Wool overcoat – You can’t wear a leather jacket over your tailored wardrobe, so a luxurious overcoat like a Chesterfield or a peacoat is a must to keep you warm on the way to the office.
• Tan dress shoes – If you are going with the grayscale, then these would be black shoes. But with the blue suit, chinos, gray dress pants, and even the dress denim, tan oxford shoes will be the most striking footwear in your closet.
• Rugged boots – On the flipside of the tan dress shoes are the brown rugged boots. Whether you are wearing them on the street with the leather jacket or getting lost in the lumberjack woods, these are must-haves for your capsule wardrobe.
• White sneakers – Sometimes, you need to find a mid-point between dress shoes and rugged outdoor boots, and a clean pair of white sneakers will be your best friend.
• Trainers – You need to stay fit and healthy if you want to stick around for a while. And let’s face it, a minimalist wardrobe is meant to last, so you want your pieces to fit as long as possible. Since you can’t work out in your rugged boots and want to keep your white sneakers clean, get yourself a good pair of trainers.
• Chelsea boots – If you want something in between dress shoes and rugged boots but you don’t want to have stark white sneakers, invest in a pair of Chelsea boots . These can elevate any casual outfit just enough to keep you the most stylish in your group.

5 base layers items

• White T-shirt – From James Dean to Marlon Brando, this is one of the most classic pieces for a man’s wardrobe. Made popular as a fashion piece in the 50s, the rebellious nature of just wearing a white tee still carries with it a level of freedom that your capsule wardrobe will enjoy. If you want to elevate this look, pair this with the dress denim, white sneakers, and a blue suit jacket.
• Blue T-shirt – Sure, a white tee is a classic, but when you need to go casual and the day doesn’t call for your rebellious nature, go for another color to add some depth. In your blue and brown wardrobe, a navy tee will look fantastic with your light wash jeans and chinos.
• Long-sleeved henley – These are some of the most essential items you will have in your wardrobe. Whether you wear this long-sleeved basic on its own or under the sport shirt, it will give you a warmer version of the tee that will keep you stylish in the cooler months.
• Training shorts – Just like the sneakers, you need something to work out in, and a pair of trainers (preferably with a liner so they can double as a swimsuit) will be a versatile and functional addition to the wardrobe. Depending on the joggers you get, they may be able to work at the gym, but you can’t swim in them.
• Sweatshirt or hoodie – Warmth, comfort, and style. That is what you need a hooded sweatshirt for. The ultimate in casual wear, throwing this on over your tee and denim, or wearing it on a run in your trainers, will keep you warm and still stylish. This will also likely be your favorite thing to bum around the house in, so make sure it is high end and comfortable.

There are a lot of different events that you have to attend, and every one of them will necessitate something specific. While there will inevitably be something you have to attend that will force you to buy something special, the point of a minimalist wardrobe is to limit the pieces you have while simultaneously covering as much ground as possible.

For instance, if you go with the blue and brown wardrobe, you will likely have to buy an additional charcoal suit for weddings, funerals, or something more formal. If you elect the grayscale, where everywhere this list has blue and brown is replaced with charcoal and black, then you will likely need to purchase a blue suit and shoes for the office. The point of a capsule wardrobe is not to limit yourself to these 25 items but instead to be used as a baseline to build out from. Once you have your 25 items, then you can focus on adding the things you need and want and only get luxury pieces that fit in with what you have.

If you want to go a different route than the two color palettes listed, then your options are to swap out some key pieces. If you like green, then you can swap out the navy and blue items with different shades of emerald, forest, or pastel greens. Whatever color you want to use, the capsule wardrobe can work for you. Sure, it’s meant to make your life easier, but half the fun is getting creative to make a little bit work in a lot of ways. If you are ever feeling like you have piles of clothes and nothing to wear, consider starting over with some simple but luxurious items and putting together the perfect capsule wardrobe for yourself.

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• Men's Clothing

Men have a small amount of choices when it comes to shirts—dress shirt, polo, sweater, t-shirt that seems like all there is. Of course, that is only if you don't dive into all of the diamonds in the rough. There are a lot of unsung heroes in the closet that you have likely been overlooking. The henley shirt is the number one most underrated and often overlooked shirt in men's fashion. There are so many uses for it that men tend to forget about.

It may have started as the top portion of long underwear, but the knit shirt with two or more buttons at the opening became one of the most coveted uniform shirts due to its comfort and versatility. It became so beloved that the name henley came from its use as the uniform during the annual Henley Royal Regatta, one of the first organized rowing events in British history. Ever since, it has been a mainstay in our wardrobes, but now it's time that we all learn how to wear these in ways that get the full potential out of the henley.

Your outward appearance is a reflection of your inner self-image. It may sound shallow, but our society judges books by their cover. When you first meet someone, either on the street or in a professional setting, they make up their mind about you in the first few minutes. That means you need to build a wardrobe that expresses all you are and all you can bring to the table. With that in mind, men's fashion has some must-haves to help you make a great first impression.

Here are the 25 items that every man needs in their closet.

"Oxfords, not brogues." Thanks to The Kingsman, we now know that if you want to look your best at all times, you should always pick up a pair of Oxford shoes. Outside of the titular super spies from the movies, the Oxford dress shoe is one of the most classic in men's dress. Sometime around the early 1800s, male students at Oxford were wearing knee-high boots for everything. In a moment of rebellion, they began wearing low shoes with closed laces and the shoe became a hit. Of course, they adopted the name of their place of origin, and we have been wearing them as the ultimate dress shoe since.

Like always, we can't just tell you to run out and buy a pair of Oxfords. We have done the leg work for you and put together a list of some of the best on the market. Of course, we went the extra mile, and we want to make sure you know the difference between the Oxford, and the other popular dress shoe type, the Derby.

Chronic overpacker? You need a travel capsule wardrobe — experts share how to create one

Shop TODAY independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more .

No matter where you're headed this season , your trip should be as stress-free and uncomplicated as possible — and that includes the packing process . Because there's nothing worse than lugging a big bag through the airport, only to realize at the end of the vacation that you wore less than half of the clothes in your suitcase.

One way to simplify the packing process is by creating a capsule closet for your travel wardrobe. Here, two experts share their tips for how to do it.

How to plan a travel capsule wardrobe

The idea is pretty straightforward: Instead of throwing every item you own into one bag, you strategically pick 10 to 12 quality items that can be mixed and matched to dress up or down.

"When building a capsule wardrobe for travel , select pieces that are interchangeable and can work in multiple settings," says fashion stylist Stacee Michelle. "Be mindful of the temperature and planned activities and select layering pieces that can be added or removed throughout the day."

"You should focus on versatile pieces that don’t wrinkle, can keep you warm, withstand water and can be worn from day to night," adds style expert Melissa Chataigne. Try keeping all of your items within one color palette, to make styling easy, she said.

Related: From luggage spills to TSA restrictions, packing the right beauty items for travel can be a challenge. Here's where to start.

With that in mind, we asked the fashion experts to share their picks for the essential pieces that should make up your vacation wardrobe, plus we added some of our own based on their guidance. Below, everything you need to stay stylish and stress-free, from departure to return.

13 essentials for your travel capsule wardrobe

Lanzom women wide brim straw panama roll up hat.

Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat

• Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat $ at Amazon
• Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat $ at Walmart

Look stylish and keep cool with this straw hat. "Hats are a great way to accessorize while also protecting yourself from the sun," Michelle says. We like this option because it can be rolled up and packed away in your carry-on or beach bag.

New Balance Women's Impact 2-in-1 Running Short

Women's Impact 2-in-1 Running Short

• Women's Impact 2-in-1 Running Short $ at Amazon
• Women's Impact 2-in-1 Running Short $ at New Balance
• Women's Impact 2-in-1 Running Short $ at Zappos

If your vacation plans include plenty of hikes, walks or runs, you're going to want to have a good, comfortable pair of shorts in your suitcase. Chataigne likes these ones, which she says, "check all the boxes." They're made with quick-drying fabric to help keep you cool, and have pockets on the inner shorts, so you can keep your phone and hotel key on you at all times.

Old Navy Classic Jean Jacket for Women

Classic Jean Jacket for Women

Classic Jean Jacket for Women $ at Old Navy

"A denim jacket is arguably the most versatile layer in your closet," Michelle says. You can wear it over a tee, turtleneck or as a buttoned-up layer underneath a coat for additional warmth. "Save room in your suitcase by wearing it on the plane and using it as a pillow," she suggests.

Trendy Queen Women's Oversized Half Zip Pullover

Oversized Half Zip Pullover

Oversized Half Zip Pullover $ at Amazon

When you want to feel cozy and comfortable on your trip, opt for a half-zip sweater. This style of sweater can easily take you from day to night, Chataigne says. We like this pick, which is an Amazon shopper favorite with more than 2,700 five-star ratings.

Superga Women's 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker

Cotu Classic Sneaker

• Cotu Classic Sneaker $ at Amazon
• Cotu Classic Sneaker $ at Zappos
• Cotu Classic Sneaker $ at Nordstrom

White sneakers are like the little black dress of footwear, they're versatile and easy to style, which is why Chataigne recommends you pack a pair.

And Superga's Cotu sneakers are a classic choice. One Shop TODAY editor who tried them said that she loved the "classic feel and clean lines" of the shoes. Plus, she added that they're "supportive without being chunky, fitted without being too tight and they show just the right amount of ankle."

Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Rate Ankle Boot

Rate Ankle Boot

• Rate Ankle Boot $ at Amazon
• Rate Ankle Boot $ at Dr. Scholl's
• Rate Ankle Boot $ at Kohl's

No wardrobe feels complete without a pair of booties. And Michelle specifically recommends a black or brown pair. We like these ones, since they'll easily fit in with other pieces in your suitcase and the subtle heel makes them appropriate for dressier occasions.

Levi's Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans

Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans

• Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans $ at Amazon
• Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans $ at Kohl's
• Wedgie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans $ at Levi's

"You want a pair of jeans that are comfortable yet highlight your curves and hold their shape," Chataigne says. She likes darker pairs, like these, because they'll hide any dirt or stains so you can get a few more wears out of them before washing. One way to keep them fresh? By turning them inside-out and steaming them in the shower with essential oils, she suggests.

Numi The Signature

Numi The Signature $ at Numi

Chataigne likes Numi's stylish tops which feature a moisture-wicking gusset under the armpits and are made with a thermo-regulating TENCEL material. You can choose between a variety of styles, from tees to bodysuits and crop tops, but you can't go wrong with the brand's top-selling Signature shirt. It comes in five neutral colors and can be worn under a jumpsuit or styled with a pair of shorts or pants.

Chico's Travelers Classic Crops

Chico's Travelers Classic Crops $ at Chico's

Chico's Traveler's Collection features a range of elevated fashion staples that you can wear for almost any activity. Chataigne likes these pants, which are made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric to keep them looking their best for your entire trip.

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve 2.0

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve 2.0 $ at Lululemon

While this Lululemon long-sleeve shirt is technically made for workouts, Chataigne notes that it can be a great casual option for travel. "Pair it with shorts, jeans or leggings for an everyday look that will still keep you cool," she explains. "The fabric is a soft nylon blend and has a four-way stretch, which wicks away sweat."

Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater

Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater $ at Naadam

Cashmere may be pricier than your typical sweater, but it's worth the higher price tag. Because the fabric is breathable, the sweater will feel comfortable on warmer days but will also keep you cozy when layered over your favorite long-sleeve button-up when the temperatures drop, Michelle says. She likes Naadam's $75 Cashmere Sweater, which is one of the more affordable options out there and comes in more than 20 colors.

J.Crew Ruched Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit

Ruched Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit

Ruched Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit $ at J.Crew

"This jewel-toned one-piece swimsuit is a must-have for easily alternating between sand and city," Michelle says. "Wear it to the beach, then quickly transition to an on-the-town look by pairing it with denim shorts or a flowy skirt."

Birkenstock Arizona Sandal

• Birkenstock Arizona Sandal $ at Birkenstock
• Birkenstock Arizona Sandal $ at Amazon
• Birkenstock Arizona Sandal $ at Dick's Sporting Goods

Birkenstock's comfortable shoes can take you from the city streets to the beach and just about everywhere in between. "They are the perfect walking and travel sandal, with a contoured footbed that mimics the shape of your foot and provides excellent support," Chataigne says.

Related: The classic shoes are loved by celebrities and TikTokers.

Meet our experts

• Stacee Michelle is a fashion stylist in North Carolina.
• Melissa Chataigne is a TV host and fashion expert.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com

© 2024 All rights reserved.

Your Summer Capsule Wardrobe Is Here! 10 Pieces, Endless Outfit Options

Work smarter, not harder.

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Summer is (finally!) here, and I’ve spent the last couple of weeks transitioning my closet for the new season. What started as a cleanout and reorganization mission evolved into a thoughtful evaluation of everything I own—and what holes needed to be filled. With limited storage space, it became clear that every piece I purchased needed to be multi-wear, functional, and a true ten-out-of-ten. Working in fashion, it can also be tempting to overconsume, so I’ve realigned my priorities to build a summer capsule wardrobe that puts quality over quantity. 

After a huge purge, the coats and boots have made their way to the back of the closet, and I’ve built a 10-piece summer capsule wardrobe full of linen, wovens, and sandals that has taken center stage. I think I’ve finally cracked the code to effortlessly chic summer dressing. The secret? Less truly is more.

The Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

Find out exactly what you need for your summer capsule wardrobe below, and allow your closet to work smarter, not harder in summer 2024. 

Simple Sundress

• Lightweight Top
• Breezy Bottom
• Non-Denim Shorts & Skirt
• Layering Tee & Tank

White Denim

Everyday sunglasses, summery sandals.

• Seasonal Straw Bag
• Protective Sun Hat

For all of the minimalists out there, a solid sundress can be a summer capsule wardrobe in and of itself. A sundress is a one-and-done outfit, is easy to pack on vacation, and keeps you cool while looking effortless. This summer, I’m looking for midi-to-full length sundresses that I can pair with sandals, sneakers, or heels, depending on where I’m headed. I love styling summer sundresses with a statement belt and a thin knit draped over my shoulders to add a bit of depth to the look.   

DÔEN Carolynn Crêpê Smocked Midi-Dress

Lucy Paris Hazel Smocked Dropped Waist Dress

The Delta Midi Dress

Jem Natural Linen Maxi Dress

Lightweight Tops

I grew up in Texas, and one of the most difficult things about summer shopping is finding tops that are breathable enough to wear in peak heat. Even though I now live in Los Angeles, I still gravitate toward sleeveless vests, breezy button-downs, and girly blouses that don’t leave me in a puddle of sweat.

Brands like DOEN, Reformation, and The Great have lots of lightweight and flowy tops that I love to style with denim, linen, and silk all summer long. My favorite top in my summer capsule wardrobe is my linen vest from DISSH, as it’s as cool as a tank top, but feels a little more styled and chic. 

Oscar White Scoop Neck Linen Vest

Oversized Cotton Shirt

Breezy Bottoms

Although I still wear jeans all year round, I’ve been looking to expand my selection of pants with linen and silk pairs for summer. I’ve found that these airy alternatives are not only more comfortable and breathable but exude the laid-back energy that I’m trying to channel this year. (Plus, nothing is worse than a tight pair of jeans on a summer sunburn.) Investing in a trusty pair of white linen pants will be the best thing you can do for yourself this summer. This is the definition of working smarter, not harder—these pants will match every top in your closet. 

Olina Linen Pant

Haven Wide Leg Pant

Linen Pants

Silky Resort Pants

Non-Denim Shorts & Skirts

While there is nothing wrong with denim shorts and skirts, I personally find them uncomfortable. I know that might be a hot take, but I don’t think I’ve worn my denim shorts in over a year. Instead, I gravitate toward flowy shorts and skirts that aren’t too short or too tight. I find that the more a-line shape a pair of shorts or a skirt has, the more flattering they are on the leg. This year, I’m filling this slot in my summer capsule wardrobe with longer, more tailored shorts and full-length linen skirts.

The TENCEL™ Way-High® Drape Short

Syrah White Linen Midi Skirt

Zoey Linen Short

Smocked-Waist Poplin Maxi Skirt

Layering Tees & Tanks

Every good summer capsule wardrobe starts with one-to-two layering bases. My requirements for layering tees and tanks are that they are long enough to tuck in, are not too tight around my arms, and are thick enough not to show my bra underneath. Once you find a good white or black tee/tank, the outfit possibilities are endless. If you’re looking for a foolproof summer outfit formula, pair one of these white tanks or tees with linen pants, a comfy sandal, a sweater draped over your shoulders, and a raffia bag. Sometimes, simpler is simply better. 

La Chamade T-Shirt

The Clean Cut T-Shirt

Dusk Knit Top

Citizens of Humanity Isabel Rib Tank

Classic Crew Tee

One of my favorite summer style trends is an all-white look. I’m a sucker for white jeans and a white top with a pop-of-color shoe and bag, so finding a reliable pair of white denim jeans is essential for my summer capsule wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with any cut of white denim, as this is a classic trend that will never go out of style. White denim overalls are also a great summer purchase to style over a white tee or a bikini at the beach. Bonus points for rewearing these pieces into fall and winter—we love a winter white!

AGOLDE Luna Pieced Jeans

We The Free Ziggy Denim Overalls

Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans

ZW Collection High Waist Marine Straight Pocket Jeans

Summer is the season of sandals, so say goodbye to your favorite boots and hello to biweekly pedicures! Whether you lean toward basic dad sandals or sexy strappy numbers, your choice in sandal should be neutral, comfortable, and durable. It’s easy to be woo-ed by trendy shoes, but a true summer capsule wardrobe sandal is timeless and versatile enough to pair with every item on this list. I look for sandals that are easy to slip on and off for beach days and grassy picnics, and lay flat in a suitcase for all of my summer adventures. 

Steve Madden Sienna Sandal

Marlow Sandals in Raffia

A. EMERY Shel Leather Sandals

Ludo Toe Ring Strappy Flat Sandal

Seasonal Straw Bags

Perhaps my favorite part about summer rolling around is dusting off my woven raffia and straw bags to style all season long. Though this material will be forever reminiscent of my mom’s beach bag growing up, I love that designers have been using raffia in more modern, structured designs, giving the look a laid-back but still trendy feel. Plus, straw is a neutral, so it will match and add a seasonal flare to every outfit you create with this summer capsule wardrobe. From the farmer’s market to the beach and out to dinner, these bags can truly do (and hold) it all.

Como Woven Straw Tote

Raffia Oversized Shopper

Staud Beige Moon Raffia Bag

Natural Fibre Carrycot Bag

Protective Sun Hats

When I envision summer chicness, every look is topped off with the perfect floppy sun hat. There’s just something so opulent about a big hat and dark sunglasses that takes a basic summer outfit from simple to sexy. It’s also as functional as it is fashionable, protecting your skin during the sunny days ahead. I’m on the hunt for the perfect neutral raffia sun hat to wear at the beach with bikinis, on long walks in activewear, and everywhere in between. If a full-brim hat isn’t your style, a classic baseball hat adds a cool-girl touch to the summer capsule wardrobe while still covering your face, too.

Raffia Bucket Hat

Textured Summer Straw Hat

Lack Of Color Paloma Sun Hat

Crochet Raffia Sun Hat

Baseball Hat

I like to think of sunglasses as the cherry on top of a summer capsule wardrobe: not entirely essential, but a small finishing touch that goes a long way. I went through a phase of purchasing multiple trendy, colorful sunglasses, but after having to pack four pairs of glasses for a three-day trip, I finally said enough is enough and found a well-fitting, neutral pair that goes with everything. Sunglasses also have a tendency to get left on the dinner table or swept into the ocean, so don’t feel like you have to spend a pretty penny on this element of your summer capsule wardrobe. A designer pair of sunglasses is always a fun splurge, but more affordable pairs earn just as many compliments minus the price tag.

Le Spec Outta Love 49mm Cat Eye Sunglasses

Albie Sunglasses

Illesteva Hunter Gold Sunglasses

Women’s Plastic Tortoise Shell Rectangle Sunglasses – A New Day™ Brown

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