Build a Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe in Seven Easy Steps

Whenever we travel, we face a significant challenge – what to pack? Of course, it must be something bright and fashionable, something for everyday wear, something for cold and hot weather, and something for an apocalypse. It always seems like if we want to be prepared for everything we need more than one suitcase. But let me make this choice easier for you. Follow me as I have prepared a step-by-step guide to assemble a travel capsule and a wardrobe checklist that will work for any occasion and make your suitcase lighter.

Tips for Packing

1. Luggage 

As the theater begins with a hanger, any journey, even a forced one, starts with the right suitcase. Choose a suitcase or a stylish travel backpack made of modern lightweight materials and the size of hand luggage so that you don’t overpay for bags and generally have no cargo. Don’t forget a travel pillow, earplugs, and a sleep mask – this travel kit will ensure you rest and recover on the road no matter the circumstances.

2. Wardrobe for a week 

Avoid attempting to bring everything with you. Instead, take a kit with enough looks and accessories for one week. Do laundry if you will be gone for more than a week.

3. Do not take bulky things 

One thick layer is less adaptable than several thin ones. Items that are lightweight and compact are perfect for carry-on luggage.

4. The suitable fabrics 

Wear clothes that don’t naturally wrinkle to avoid wondering where to put an iron. Linen is the best material for the summer. Additionally, linen clothing can be worn slightly wrinkled and is a fabric that “breathes” and even delightfully cools. Merino wool, for instance, regulates temperature and effectively repels odors. Synthetic textiles effectively absorb perspiration. Avoid wearing 100 percent cotton since it dries slowly, becomes yellow, and will rapidly reveal you if you sweat.

5. Prefer the quality 

As always, less is better. A decent capsule wardrobe comprises a few sturdy, timeless items. Avoid items from fast fashion because they obviously cannot pass the test of time. Moreover, who needs damaged seams and buttons?

6. Neutral palette 

Any capsule wardrobe uses neutral colors: black, white, gray, blue, and beige. By choosing clothes of only these colors, you will forever forget the question of what goes with what. Prints and bright colors as accents are better left for later.

7. Out of fashion 

When collecting a travel capsule, you should forget about fashion trends, giving preference to a classic clear cut and silhouettes tested by time. Do not be lazy to try on and check all your items for shrinkage, length, and comfort. Maybe somewhere, you will have to shorten the pants, sew up the waist, and something will go to scrap. After all, the perfect silhouette decides everything!

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Checklist  

For most travels, the basic capsule outfit selection below will be adequate. This list includes a week’s worth of carry-on luggage based on the aforementioned capsule travel guidelines. The list’s elements are simple to combine and match to create outfits for daily travel.

• 3 comfortable casual t-shirts and/or tank tops
• 2 blouses / shirts for dinners, formal outings, etc
• 1 sweatshirt / skinny fleece or cardigan
• 3 bottoms: pants, jeans, shorts
• 6 pairs of underwear
• 6 pairs of socks
• 2-3 bras, including 1 sports cropped top; use smooth, flesh-colored fabrics that will not be visible from under clothing and are easy to take care of
• 1 pair of multifunctional shoes for walking and everyday use: trainers / sneakers
• 1 pair of model shoes: ballet flats, ankle boots, fashion sandals, etc
• 1 pair of rubber shoes: flip-flops, crocs, slates
• 2 swimsuits: separate and one-piece, which can also be worn as a bodysuit
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 panama / cap
• 1 voluminous shopping bag or beach bag
• 1 pair of sports shorts / leggings

Additionally:

• 1 dress that does not wrinkle, for example, knitted
• 1 midi / maxi skirt. If you’re going somewhere cool, add a pair of sturdy black tights.