Mapping Out A Spring Travel Wardrobe

12-piece Spring travel wardrobe capsule based on navy and grey. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

The 12-Piece Travel Wardrobe Capsule

Going somewhere this Spring? If so, and you’re looking to pack lighter and smarter, here’s a Spring travel wardrobe capsule you can use as a starting point to plan your own travel wardrobe.

As always, the pieces shown are intended as examples. You may want to make adjustments based on you destination, activities and weather forecasts. The 12 items don’t include shoes, outerwear, accessories, or underpinnings/base layers.

When considering pieces for a travel wardrobe, I do my best to balance three factors:

  1. They work as part of a cohesive whole and can each can be worn in a number of combinations.
  2. They pack and travel well.
  3. They rise to the level of Smart Casual.
12-piece travel wardrobe capsule based on navy and grey. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

Scarf (similar)| Shirt | Shirt (similar) | Scarf
Tee | Sweater | Cardigan (similar)| Tee
Sweater (similar, or similar)| Bag | Umbrella | Jacket (similar)
Skirt (similar) | Pants | Jeans | Pants
Boots | Sneakers | Loafers (similar)

The 12-Piece Wardrobe above is built on a neutral palette of navy and grey. I always recommend a core of neutral pieces as they’re easy to combine multiple ways, and adapt to varying levels of formality. I chose navy because it’s easy to combine with other colors, and there’s a shade of navy that will work for any palette. You may prefer to start with a different neutral base (black, beige, taupe or brown). And yes, you can always add more color!

Spring travel outfit using pieces from navy capsule wardrobe. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

Accessorized with: Earrings (similar)| Raincoat | Bag | Guide

In general, I find that Smart Casual is as dressed up as I need to be when we travel. But if you have a special event on your itinerary (a cocktail party, wedding, formal nights on a cruise), you’ll need to add items as appropriate.

So let’s break it down…here’s what I included in this capsule and why:

Footwear

When planning a travel wardrobe, I always start with the shoes. It’s the most important part to get right. You want footwear that’s comfortable enough for several hours on your feet, and works with the rest of your wardrobe. I’ve shown three types of shoes here, which is what I usually bring (including what I’ll wear on the plane).

  • If you anticipate cool, wet weather, a pair of water-resistant ankle boots is a good choice. I almost always travel with a pair as I find them versatile as well as protective for travel days.
  • Sneakers, because they are a popular and comfortable choice.
  • As an alternative to either the boots or sneakers, you may prefer a pair of loafers or oxfords.
  • Though I didn’t include them in this grouping, I always bring a comfortable pair of walking sandals if we are anticipating warm weather. (I wore this style all over Paris and London last summer.)

Bottoms

Spring travel outfit from navy 12-piece capsule. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

Accessorized with: Earrings | Bandana (similar) | Guide | Bag

I find that a ratio of two tops to one bottom works best for me. I use the concept of “tabletop dressing,” keeping the bottom separates simple and using the tops to add interest and variety. I find straight leg pants that can be cuffed to be the most versatile cut.

  • I’ve included a skirt in this capsule as many of you have mentioned you tend to wear and pack them. This one isn’t too full, so should work with most of the tops.
  • Some don’t like to travel with jeans, but I do. I find non-distressed styles are appropriate in most places, and are easy to style. If weather will be warmer, you may find a slightly relaxed cut that allows some air circulation is more comfortable than skinnies.
  • I’ll usually include a pair of knit pants, either ponte knit in cooler seasons, or stretch crepe when it’s warmer. (During seasons when temperatures fluctuate, I’ll often pack both.)
  • A pair of soft trousers. For this wardrobe capsule, I’ve chosen grey chinos, which add some lightness to travel outfits, but won’t show dirt quite as quickly as white. Navy would also be good choice.

Tops

Travel outfit for Spring using pieces from navy 12-piece travel wardrobe capsule. Details at une femme d'un certain age.

Accessorized with: Earrings (similar)| Bracelet | Bag | Guide

To get the most out of your travel wardrobe, look for tops that layer well. This is key to a creating a travel wardrobe that accommodates a wide range of temperatures. Avoid or limit oversized and bulky tops. You’ll want to adjust the weight of your tops based on the forecast at your destination(s), but it’s a good idea to allow for temperatures either 20F/6C above or 20F/6C below averages.

  • I’ve included two tees and two blouses, but you can adjust based on your preferences. One thing I’ve finally figured out is that when temperatures are too warm to layer, tops with color or pattern add a bit of visual interest and help the outfit look more “finished.”
  • I’ve included three sweaters. One cardigan that can be worn either open as a top layer or buttoned up as a mid-layer. Two pullovers, which should be able to layer over the tees and shirts. Merino wool is an excellent choice for most travel, as it’s lightweight, comfortable in a range of temperatures, and doesn’t pick up odors. I usually pack at least one cashmere sweater during the Spring in case of chillier days.
  • A lightweight blazer or jacket can add some structure and/or visual interest. This one (similar) would fit underneath a raincoat or other outerwear if needed.

Base Layers

  • I always pack a few silk tanks and camisoles, and wear daily underneath my tops. They insulate and (I believe) help keep my tops and sweaters fresher longer. I can rinse out or hand wash in the sink, and they hang dry overnight.
  • If there’s any chance that the weather will turn cold (always a possibility in Spring, especially at altitude), it’s a good idea to include some thermal tops and bottoms. They can also double as sleepwear on cold nights.
  • For no-show socks, these are the best I’ve found. They stay in place, wick moisture, and don’t pick up odors. For regular socks too, I’d recommend lightweight wool in general over cotton or synthetics for the same reasons.

I’ll cover outerwear and bags in a subsequent post. And yes, I’ll also show you some ideas for adding color to a travel wardrobe. 😉

What items do you always pack for travel?

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57 Comments

  1. Nice assortment here. One thing I try to keep in mind is the lengths of tops, so that they layer nicely. A tunic might look great on its own, but if it’s cold and I add a sweater, it might look weird unless it’s the right shape and length. As a result, I try to stick to similar kinds of tops, the the T-shirts you have here.

    1. Yes, Taste of France makes a great point about top length. I have quite a few tunics……too long and too heavy for travel (pack light!). Thanks to Susan’s tutelage, I’ve purchased a small collection of simple, neutral tees in V and crew collars.

  2. I have many smart wool no show socks. WHIle I love them , I have always been irritated by the thick edging they have sewn on the tops. I found a brand called “Feetures” from Zappos that work great. Seam free toes and no bulky edging to bother the tops of my feet. I love the loafer and Oxford ‘no sock’ look so this was a bonanza for me.
    Carefully noting all your ideas for a spring river cruise in chilly Bavaria… 🙂
    Gathering my EF pants and light tops now. Of course a raincoat is a must because it always rains on my vacations. The shoes are all walkable and easy to mix, thanks for the ideas!

    1. Hi Meg, same for me with the edge of no show socks. I found these on amazon and the edges are smooth and flat, they come in sizes so don’t cut into my feet and have a tiny bit of cushy arch support. These are my go to socks. I also have the lower cut ones by this brand but I don’t like them as well as these. https://www.amazon.com/Womens-Support-Sponge-Cushion-Shoe-Size/dp/B0721QMK6J?ref_=w_bl_sl_ap_ap_web_14560228011
      Not cheap, but I have had two pair that I wear a lot and they are still going strong!

      1. Yes. These are the ones I wear too! Don’t cut into feet and come in two sizes. That little foam arch is often just enough for my feet.

    2. I have both kinds of the Smartwool “no-show” socks – the ones with the edging and the newer ones, that are edge free, and they both slip horribly in most shoes, the newer ones to the point where I can’t really wear them at all. I just ordered some Stance and Darn Tough Vermont to see if they are any more reliable. (Wanted to try Feetures as well, but I need a lower-cut sock for my upcoming trip – will definitely try them in the future. Thanks for the tip!) In general, I swear by Smartwool socks, but their no-shows just don’t work for me. I end up having to stop and remove them and then go barefoot — not ideal!

      1. I guess everyone’s feet are different, but the Smartwools are the only ones I’ve ever tried that don’t slip on me. Here’s another thought…just wear regular socks but with a color that coordinates with your outfit, or a fun pattern or texture. In Europe I often see “visible hosiery,” but it’s worn as an accessory and meant to be seen.

        1. I keep trying that look, Susan, ever since you wrote about Parisian women showing visible socks, but it always looks wrong on me. Maybe because I have short legs or the wrong socks? I’d love to see you model that look sometime, though! Sometimes it’s all about adjusting your eye. 🙂

    3. I tried so many no-show socks without success until my girlfriend (who is a podiatrist) bought me some Bombas for my birthday. They are thin, virtually seamless and stay in place all day. I recommend them to all my friends!

      1. Thanks for the recommendation. I’m always getting offers in the mail from them but wasn’t sure if they were worth the money. I’ll will have to try them next!

  3. I’m headed to London, March 1st. Transitional weather is a given. I’m taking two different pair of black ankle boots and one pair of sneakers. Outerwear is still the question mark. Weather forecast tbd the day before departure. However, coming from Texas, it always seems cold to me!

  4. This is the BEST! We usually cruise Europe in Sept/Oct and I am not as restricted on my packing.
    However, this September we will be touring Germany for 16 days and then “recovering” in Nice for 5 days.
    I really needed to see this! Your style is almost identical to mine, so the pics make this so easy for me! I recently lost some weight, but my lower body is a bit curvier, so I am working on getting bottoms that fit me better. Also, loved & bookmarked your piece on black pants!

    1. We went to Germany a couple of Octobers ago and it rained or sleeted for part of all 10 days. This didn’t ruin our enjoyment of that lovely country, but be prepared for colder than expected weather.

  5. This is precisely what I need for two upcoming trips – a short cruise to Mexico, and a long cruise/stay to and in New Zealand. The first doesn’t have a weight limit, but the second certainly does, involving as it does a long flight home. I so appreciate your sharing these ideas, and knowing that they are based on your own adventures and careful considerations!

  6. Such a great post Susan! I’ll be sure to keep this on hand to doublecheck my travel wardrobe for Paris in mid April. I often go that time of year so I know layers are important. I’m taking grey and navy neutrals, with a little pale pink for colour, instead of my usual red, am already putting those items in a pile in the closet, will be checking this post I’m sure!
    Thanks again!

  7. Found a nice, comfy, travel worthy longer skirt (to my knees) at Nordstrom rack yesterday ~ Philosophy brand under $20. Black, navy, grey. Was hesitant as it seems pretty inexpensive but felt great on!

    1. I second the Philosophy brand for skirts. I got a navy pencil skirt by Philosophy at a consignment shop and wear it all the time. I wasn’t familiar with the brand but now I know to look at Nordstrom rack.

  8. I remember you usually include a wrap for air travel, so I now pack a cashmere blend button poncho from Woolovers. It’s even going with me to Niue (South Pacific) in August as it’s cool at night at that time of year.

  9. One item I am buying/packing from here on – NUDE tee shirt bras. I was constantly hand washing the one I packed on my last trip. Nude always works. Try everything on before you leave. Especially out of season clothes you may not have worn in awhile. Most importantly, walk-able footwear.

  10. This is a great post for me, my husband and I are planning a trip to Ireland in September and I need reminders to layer and to mix and match to pack light. Thanks so much.

  11. Such a great travel wardrobe!

    FYI: I really like Veja sneakers – they are comfortable, a little wider than other fashion sneakers, and available in some fun styles and colors. I have a gold leather pair with embroidered stars (purchased at Madewell) and a new pair of black leather velcro ones. I remove the insole and use orthotics.

    It’s an ethical company too!

    https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/veja-espalar-3-lock-sneaker-women/5081547
    https://www.madewell.com/madewell-x-vejatrade%3B-esplar-low-sneakers-in-star-embroidered-gold-leather-J9289.html

  12. I have a ‘uniform’ of sorts, nothing fancy, but mostly washable which keeps me either warm or cool depending on the time of year. I like JJill pants for travelling because they wash and dry really easily in a sink. I find that black is not the best color to travel in; light-to-dark grey, like charcoal, is. I will usually bring two pairs of JJill pants in either navy or charcoal. If I’m travelling into winter temperatures, I include silk thermal underwear, or if the temperatures are warmer, my cotton-rich JJill pants work okay. If it’s *hot* I will always bring a maxi skirt or a maxi dress. In winter I pack my Eddie Bauer winter coat, which has a waterproof exterior and a button-in liner. I have Mephisto tall and short waterproof (Gore-tex) boots for winter as well as Mephisto hiking boots, but warmer temperatures means my walking shoes (usually Dansko) and sandals (Aravon for problem feet). I also wear compression socks to fly in. I always have some kind of cardigan sweater for the flight, but if it’s winter it’s cashmere and I bring my cashmere scarves.

  13. I love the look of this wardrobe. Do you have any suggestions for a stylish and lightweight rain jacket? I have trips planned for Portugal (June) and Italy (October). I have a couple Uniqlo Down jackets, but I don’t think I will need something that heavy.

  14. If you’re looking for no-show lightweight socks, check out Stance (available on Zappos and at Nordstroms). They come in sizes, so there’s a better fit.

  15. Lisbon and Porto – mid-April to early May….your travel wardrobe suggestions are very helpful for a Canadian trapped in chilly winter and dreaming of spring.
    I’ll use these ideas as I assemble my items for packing – river cruising, wandering both cities. Any further suggestions for visiting this part of the world at this particular time happily accepted.
    Cheers to Spring!

  16. So in May we are headed to the UK and Israel. Any suggestions for packing for two different locales with different weather? I am a bit stumped as I don’t want to overpack! Thanks.

    1. London is tricky in May – we had snow one day and sunny and 60’s the next! I take short sleeved shirts that can be layered under a solid colored cardigan, sweater blazer or jean jacket with a rain coat that fits over the layers. Been very happy with the jcrew raincoat, both stylish and functional. Once in Israel you can lose the layers and just wear the short sleeved shirts alone. What Susan said about pattern keeping short sleeved shirts more interesting without layers is so true. I never thought about why my summer wardrobe is so much more colorful than my neutral winter wardrobe.

      1. Obviously it is much warmer in Israel or anywhere in the Levant, but remember that arid climates can get surprisingly chilly at night (I remember that from Calabria and Sicily). And obviously it is chillier at night in hilly places.

        Looking forward to raincoats. Navy is not one of my favourite colours: I want a deep (but not muddy) red or a forest green, ideally. While black suits me, I’m tired of defaulting to it and think that even winters need some colour as we get older.

        I so want to travel to Portugal! Fish and seafood, very good white wine at good prices, and I have friends in Porto.

  17. I’m going on my first overseas trip, Scotland in June, and love your carry on wardrobes! Any ideas for hats? I have thin hair and my scalp “talks” to me if it’s uncovered in the sun too long.

    1. I have found a UV blocking umbrella more useful than a hat if you have such things in the US. It kills two birds with one stone in the UK 🙂

    2. Tilley makes a packable summer hat that looks great with everything: Tilley R2 Rebecca Straw Sun Hat. It’s pricey, but IMO, well worth it. I’ve had so many compliments on this hat that I’ve purchased a backup. (I buy mine directly from Tilley; the one I purchased from Amazon must have been squished for months, as it wouldn’t regain it’s shape.)

  18. Love this☺️ So simple and every outfit is good-looking! Smart! I adore the J Crew stripe cashmere. Do you own it? Is it scratchy at all? I am allergic to wool but I can put up with some cashmere. I just think that sweater is the cutest!!

    1. Hi Elizabeth, I don’t own that particular sweater, but do have several of the same style in solid colors and love them! Not scratchy at all.

  19. My husband and I are planning for traveling in carryons for a year or 2 to a lot of the world. I feel quite blessed but this travel clothes thing is stressing me out!! We live a pretty active lifestyle but I don’t like dressing like that. (If you see a boomer hiking in linen and pearls, it might be me.) I think I will have nice pants and just go to H&M for tops wherever I am and ditch the clothes when I need to. Does anyone have a better plan!!???

    1. Would you consider shopping at some of the local markets to help support local merchants at your various destinations?

    2. Nancy, I too am a more active traveler. All of the lovely sightseeing, dining, and museum going outfits are great looking, but don’t suit my daily hikes, beach walks, and love of great local spots, sometimes an order at the window type, sometimes a food truck for meals. We also like to shop locally, and picnic, or cook, , and enjoy local “food tours”.
      Susan, in an earlier post, recommended some sporty/casual pants from Athleta. I bought a pair, and have worn them numerous times. They are both comfortable, and polished looking. On Athleta’s website, they have a “Travel & Commute” category. I think making some of those pieces the base of a travel capsule might be more versatile for me.
      I like to look put together, and usually end up changing clothes part way through the day. My husband and I often plan to be active in the first part of the day, then will have a little down time, and change before dinner.

      1. Thank you. My sister loves Athleta pants, the one pair I tried had microscopic pockets. Always a trade off. I’ll have to revisit them.

  20. With one pair of nice pants, all you need is your travelling pearls and a pashmina to dress up one of the tops you already have and you are good to go. (Maybe throw in a pair of foldable ballet flats if you only need them for dinner.) A merino pullover sweater is breathable and naturally odor resistant.
    It will hike during the day , dress up for dinner, and wash out in a sink when necessary.
    There’s no point in getting much dressier than your husband. Whoever has the most casual dinner clothes will set the upper level for your restaurant choices.

  21. Thanks as always for great ideas. For some other great travel (and home) clothes, check out encircled.ca They make a wonderful jacket/blazer that’s perfect for travelling as well as some other pieces that are just great. Canadian and sustainably made.

  22. Ordered the Ecco sneakers and I am SO disappointed! They are really cute and the insole is very comfortable BUT that seam across the toe digs into the top of my foot. AND THEY SQUEAK! Oh, well – back they go.

    1. Depends on what you’ll be doing, but I’d say jeans, sneakers, a lightweight sweater, a casual blouse or 3/4 sleeve tee for warmer days. It’s often still cool with some rain in March.

  23. Hi Susan, How will you wear that pleated skirt? I bought one after returning from Rome in October
    and seeing many smartly dressed Italian women wearing them. Most paired them with short sleeve tee shirts which just didn’t look right on me. Wondering how someone our age (60’s) and our height (5’2″) would wear a midi skirt without looking dowdy. Any suggestions would be helpful. I did wear it Christmas day with a matching jade cashmere long sleeved sweater and it was fine, not great, just fine.
    Thanks!

    1. Hi Lisa, the short answer is, “I wouldn’t.” 😉 This capsule is intended as an example, and isn’t necessarily representative of the exact items I’d pack. I personally find skirts don’t suit my style so don’t wear or pack them. But a lot of readers have asked me to include skirts, so I try to find examples that might travel well. With this skirt, for example, the sweaters and tees could be worn with a half-tuck. The blouses would be worn tucked in. Hope that helps!

      1. LOL Thanks so much. I did purchase a midi skirt from J Crew for the holidays however, I’m afraid it’s destined to become one of those “wear once” mistakes we all occasionally make. By the way, going to contact someone here in RI to have my colors redone. Thanks for providing that link from a few days ago.

      2. I’m about the same height as you and Lisa, and wear skirts a lot, especially in warmer weather, and actually find they are more practical (with leggings or athletic shorts underneath) than jeans or other trousers. I find that pleated skirt would emphasize the bit of a tummy even older women who aren’t remotely overweight tend to get.

        Pencil skirts are not practical travelling in the summer but a more v-shape skirt certainly is. I’d get too hot in full-length jeans or trousers in hot weather, and never wear shorts except at home and gardening. I’m more than a bit boho so a skirt with leggings underneath suits me fine (obviously not for everyone, and not for business travel if you are working in a banking or corporate environment). I have some nice skirts from Prana and other supposedly “ethical” and travel-oriented companies. I don’t have to tuck the tops with those (and I rarely wear blouses).

  24. Hi Susan,
    So I am putting my capsule wardrobe together for Paris in March (has become our annual trip) and I am pretty knowledge now about what works for me and doesn’t. But I have noticed int he pieces I have pulled for this trip I have primarily navy and soft black. I want to pull off the combination with confidence, but still not sure about combing the two colors. (My scarves are wear I add color)Would so appreciate your thoughts!
    Also, like black, do you ever find navy to be difficult to match with another navy? Do you just go for it anyway? Thanks for your input!
    Mary

    1. Hi Mary, of course you can mix navy and black! Whether mixing black and navy, or mixing mis-matched navy pieces, I apply the same formula as mixing mis-matched blacks: keep textures and weights of fabrics different enough that it looks intentional. Example: a soft or textured sweater with a pair of wool pants.

  25. Hi Susan,
    that stone metallic color on the sneakers- is that cool or warm? I’m an autumn, wondering if they’d go with my wardrobe.

  26. As a hospital chaplain I am now using your travel wardrobe instead of my usual dry clean clothes.