How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Travels Light and Always Looks Elegant

Packing for a trip is always stressful, especially when it comes to choosing the wardrobe. You want to look good, but dragging a heavy suitcase around is not a good idea. 

However, there is a simple solution for that: a capsule wardrobe. Capsule wardrobes work not only for people wanting to separate their office and non-office outfits; using the concept of a capsule wardrobe is very useful for travelling. 

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothes you can mix and match easily, depending on what outcome you want to achieve. When travelling, a capsule wardrobe will help you always look stylish without packing too much. 

In this post, we will look at the basics of a capsule wardrobe for travelling. 

Why a Capsule Wardrobe Works for Travel

The key purpose of having a capsule wardrobe is to know that you can rely on versatility, functionality, and at the same time, style. Instead of stuffing the suitcase with a bunch of “just in case” clothes, you can pack items that look well together. A capsule wardrobe will take away the headache of choosing an outfit for different occasions and in different weather. 

Capsule wardrobes: 

• Less weight to carry.

• Provide faster choices in the morning.

• Guarantee a polished look even with limited options.

When you don’t have to drag tons of clothes just because you are not sure what to wear, travelling becomes easier. And don’t worry about repeating outfits - normal people wear the same quality, good-looking clothes day in, day out. We are not in a Hollywood movie; people wear what they own. 

Next, let’s go through the process of creating a capsule wardrobe step by step. 

Step 1: Choose a Color Base

The first secret to a capsule wardrobe is color. Here, your task is to decide what two or three basic colors you prefer to wear, so that they match and reflect your style. Most people choose these combinations:

• Black, white, and gray.

• Navy, beige, and white.

• Black, cream, and camel.

It is a good idea to consider your own color type and what occasions you will be wearing these clothes for. 

The idea behind color base is to create a combination of colors that always work well together, and you can add more colors on top. This way, one piece of clothing can be worn with several other pieces, and they will always match in terms of color. 

And then on top of the base, you will add personality - scarves, accessories, and even makeup. 

Step 2: Build Around the Basics

Comfort and covering your basic needs are two features of a capsule wardrobe. It has to be wearable and comfortable! So, when you start creating your capsule, begin with simple items that always look elegant, don’t go out of style fast, and actually look good on you. 

For example: 

• Blue jeans; 

• Dark jacket; 

• Cosy or elegant coat; 

• Classic skirt; 

• Small black dress; 

• Tops: two or three neutral T-shirts, one or two blouses or shirts, one lightweight sweater.

• Shoes: one pair of comfortable flats or loafers, one pair of sneakers, and one pair of versatile dress shoes or ankle boots.

Don’t gamble with the items as if you are playing at a 3$ deposit casino; think carefully about what you will really wear, what you like to wear, what suits you, and what items you are lacking. 

Pro tip: Give preference to simple shapes, so that all pieces of clothes fit well with each other, and you wouldn’t have to juggle items trying to figure out if the silhouette is okay. 

Step 3: Focus on Fabrics

There are several important considerations concerning the choice of fabrics. Travelling can be stressful in itself, so you want something comfortable and really convenient to wear at all times. Also: 

• Choose clothes that don’t wrinkle easily; 

• Go for fabrics that are easier to wash or clean; 

• Opt for something more lightweight, if possible; 

• Check if your clothes can be layered comfortably. 

Merino wool, for example, is light, warm, and resists odors. A simple merino sweater takes up little space but works in many situations. 

Avoid clothes that need special care; if you accidentally spill a glass of wine on a dress that must only be dry-cleaned, you will be in trouble. 

Step 4: Keep It Simple With Shoes and Bags

Shoes can be the hardest part to pick. They usually take up a lot of space in the suitcase, can add a lot of weight, and you might have issues deciding whether you want pretty shoes or comfortable shoes (always go for comfortable over pretty!) 

The key is to stick to two or three pairs as a bare minimum. One pair for walking, one pair that looks polished, and one optional pair if you have a specific activity planned.

Follow the same mindset for bags. Choose neutral colors and reliable materials that will pair with any outfit. The minimum is to have one bigger bag that works day and night, and a smaller, elegant bag for evenings. 

Step 5: Plan Outfits Before You Pack

Before your trip, lay everything out on the bed and plan your outfits. Match items of clothes, check what accessories you can add or mix, and whether everything goes well with the shoes you decided to take. This step might feel unnecessary, but it saves you headaches later because in the morning, you will know exactly what options you have. 

Also, when you consider these options in advance, you might notice gaps and extra items you might not really need. Make sure you have plenty of basics in the first place, and then just sprinkle a little bit of fancy over it (unless you need everything fancy!). 

Moreover, there is always the option of buying something you are missing on the spot. Unless you are going to a jungle for a month, most places will allow you to buy (or rent!) a more elegant dress for an unexpected date or the theater in the evening.