I’ve learned the hard way about overpacking — far too many trips lugging too many things, and that one time in India when a porter struggled under the weight of my giant bag upon his head. Creating a capsule wardrobe simplifies everything: packing, getting dressed, and feeling put together on vacation. Being more thoughtful (and a touch ruthless) about what makes it into my luggage allows me create a wardrobe that works, every time.
In this guide, I am sharing the specific steps I use to pack for a trip; a system that you can adapt for your own closet, and travel plans. At the end of the story, you’ll find links to specific capsule wardrobe articles on my website. Spring in Paris, A Safari Capsule, Autumn Outfit Ideas — there’s lot’s to explore!
Keep this bookmarked as your go-to guide.
Happy travels!
A capsule wardrobe is a a collection of clothing items that mix and match easily to create enough outfits for the length of your travel, using fewer pieces than you would otherwise pack.
Very important, this is not about buying a bunch of new items, unless you want to.
Most of us have the makings of a capsule wardrobe already hanging in our closet; this is not a wardrobe you have to buy. A good capsule wardrobe simplifies packing and makes getting dressed on vacation easier. When everything works together, feeling stylish and comfortable becomes simpler.
One thing I want to clarify is that capsule does not have to mean no color or monotone colors. There’s room for color and/or pattern, and I recommend it! It will keep you feeling enthused about your fewer clothing items and keep your outfits interesting. Unless you love beige, brown and black. That’s ok too.
Fall is one of my favorite seasons to create a capsule—it’s cozy season, all about versatile pieces that take you from warm sun, cool drizzle and chilly evenings.
Here are ideas for fall capsule wardrobes that incorporate color.
Here are a few different ways you could start.
Pick your favorite 2–3 neutrals and then layer in a complimentary accent color (or two).
Start with a single favorite color such as burgundy or green. Layer in the neutrals that work best with it.
Begin with your favorite patterned piece and then choose complimentary neutrals to layer in. A plaid jacket or pant for example.
Here are four neutral fall palettes to jumpstart your creativity. Or refer back to the ideas with color, above.
Don’t worry, you can refine this list later in the process. This is a starting point. I find that deciding on your bottom pieces is key as you’ll usually wear them the most. I typically choose three bottoms for a week of travel, but the number is up to you. Here’s a sample list:
You probably own more capsule-friendly pieces than you think. Once you have an idea of your palette, and your list, pull out the pieces that might work: sweaters, blouses, trousers, jeans and outerwear. Try everything on. Only select things that fit really well and feel great. Refine your list based on what you’ve selected. Maybe you decided to bring a dress instead of a skirt, or two pairs of jeans.
Once you know what you’ve got, you can shop for anything you need.
I love investing in classic pieces that will last for years. A great blazer in a dark color (won’t show spots), a cozy cashmere wrap (doubles as a blanket on the plane), a flattering pair of jeans (I find dark denim easier to dress up) or a great pair of waterproof boots that I can walk all day in.
Step 5: Shoes
I am not going to sugarcoat it. Limiting shoes is where a lot of people get tripped up — pun intended! Shoes are bulky and quickly take up precious space. Especially if you are traveling with a carry-on only, I almost always limit to three and recommend you do the same. You’ll wear your bulkiest pair on your travel day so that means packing two.
This is where choosing the right pairs are important. For fall I will usually pick a loafer of some sort, a sneaker and a waterproof boot. For spring I will pick a sneaker and loafer, and perhaps a dressier flat for evening or outings with less walking. If you will be walking a lot, two pairs must be shoes you can walk all day in. And please break them in ahead of time.
Here is a Spring Travel Capsule that I put together for a trip to Europe earlier this year. The second image shows the outfits I created from the pieces.
I chose three versatile bottoms.
A blazer added polish to casual outfits.
Two yellow pieces added some spring flair and kept it interesting.
Think about outfits for evening. I often bring a couple of blouses specifically for wearing at night. I know they will be fresh and it’s a nice change from your day outfit.
Accessories can elevate an outfit—pretty scarves or a statement necklace.
If you think you’ll shop, bring a packable tote that you can pack up with your purchases at the end of the trip. If it’s sturdy you can check it. Otherwise, you’ll check your other bag and carry the tote on the plane.
Want more inspiration? Here are some capsule wardrobe guides I’ve shared on my travel website, Midlife Globetrotter.
Final thought… Capsule wardrobes aren’t about restriction—they’re about freedom. Less packing, more style, and more focus on enjoying your trip. Happy travels!
If you have the LTK shopping app, please join me there. I share capsule wardrobes, travel outfit ideas, my travel essentials and more. You’ll also find some of the above capsule images with links to products. Susan’s LTK.
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