How to pack for fall or spring travel with a cool neutral capsule wardrobe

Many of you have mentioned that you have travel planned this fall, and have asked for suggestions on what to pack. Earlier this week I showed you a 12-piece travel capsule in warm neutrals. Today I’m sharing a capsule wardrobe for fall travel in a cool color palette.

This fall travel capsule utilizes the same guidelines for selecting pieces to create a cohesive wardrobe. (Meaning the pieces can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfit options.) Here’s a quick recap:

• start with the shoes. Choose 2-3 pairs of comfortable shoes.
• stick with lightweight layers. Fall temperatures can fluctuate, being able to add or remove layers will keep you comfortable
• neutral basics will be most versatile, and easier to dress up or down
• “tabletop” dressing. pack a 2:1 ratio of tops to bottoms. Keep the bottom half simple and use the top half pieces to create variety.

What to pack: a travel capsule for fall in cool neutrals

For many of these pieces, I’ve chosen the same or similar items as the warm capsule, but in cool colors this time. I’ve included black, navy, gray, and white as the neutrals, and added pops of cool burgundy red as accents. Yes, you CAN wear navy and black together, but most of the navy pieces are also available in black and visa versa.

Here’s what I’ve included & why:

Footwear

• waterproof ankle boots (similar). I’ve traveled with this style and recommend highly for comfort, good looks, and durability. These go from day to evening, and work with most pants styles and skirts. For a more budget-friendly option, these are very well-reviewed and available in multiple colors.
• sneakers (similar). a sleek, classic style will have the most versatility, but be sure they have enough support and cushioning for your needs.
• a sturdy flat. (optional) I’ve selected a classic loafer here. But any style that is comfortable enough to walk in for hours and that can rise to the “smart casual” level will work.

Pants & skirts

I usually pack dark neutrals for my bottom half, as they don’t show dirt and are easier to dress up if needed. Straight leg pants with an ankle or top-of-the-foot length hem will be most versatile and practical for travel.

• skirt. I don’t wear skirts myself, but many of you do and have asked for them. So I’ve included a pleated midi-skirt that has a narrower silhouette but still enough room to move. And it’s machine washable!
• corduroy trousers (similar). a fun alternative to jeans.
• dark trousers. these will dress up enough for evenings, but aren’t too formal to wear for daytime activities. Lightweight wool is an excellent choice for travel as it resists creasing and doesn’t pick up odors.
• jeans. I know some people don’t like to travel with jeans, but I always do. This time of year, I think a non-distressed, medium-to-dark wash works best.

Tops & sweaters

Tees and shirts. I’ve included a variety of styles here, but if you wear more tees than shirts, or visa-versa, feel free to swap out as needed.

• I always pack a striped tee (sleeve length dependent on forecast temperatures) because they add some interest and are easy to style.
• silk blouse or top. It can dress up for dinner, but won’t take up much space in luggage. Here are some budget-friendly options:

textured button-front shirt (similar) This one is relaxed enough to wear on its own, but not so oversized that it can’t layer easily underneath a sweater or jacket. Here are a few more tops in Burgundy/cool reds:

Sweaters & cardigans. For travel, I leave the chunkier or oversized knits at home, and go with lightweight merino or cashmere.

• classic cardigan. can be worn multiple ways.
• I always pack one or two simple crewneck or v-neck sweaters that are fitted just enough to layer under a jacket.
• sweater vest. can be another good option to add warmth without bulk.
• sweater comb to remove any pills and keep sweaters looking fresh.

Jackets & outerwear

Choose carefully here, as these can often be the bulkiest, heaviest items in your travel wardrobe. For fall (and spring) travel, I usually pack one water resistant outer layer that’s light enough for warm days but has enough room to layer underneath for warmth if needed.

belted sweater jacket. I thought I’d show you another option to the button front sweater blazer I featured in the warm travel capsule. This one’s also a versatile option which can be worn open or closed, and is lightweight enough to layer underneath your outerwear. Yes, it’s spendy, so here are some other options:

• plaid blazer. it’s a very subtle plaid, and yes, it’s a shorter length (which will work well with the skirt, just saying…). But here’s a standard length blazer, also with a plaid subtle enough to easily mix with other pieces in the capsule.
• water-resistant topper (similar). If a classic tan or khaki trench is too warm for your coloring, you can often find in black, navy and blue. Here’s a packable rain jacket, offered in both black and navy.

Just a reminder, this capsule wardrobe for fall travel is just a starting point. You can always add or substitute items or colors, as suits your style and requirements.

For more travel wardrobe ideas and packing tips, be sure to visit my Travel Wardrobe Resource Hub. You can filter the articles by season and trip length to help find the content that’s most relevant to you.

And visit my SHOP for more travel-friendly clothing, shoes, and accessories.

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