My Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe for London & Paris (3 Weeks, 9 Pieces)
Whenever I plan a trip, it always feels like it exists in some distant, abstract future — until suddenly it doesn’t. A few days before departure, I shift into full Prep Mode, and just like that, it all becomes wonderfully, excitingly real. This particular trip has been on my radar for almost a year, and I can hardly believe it’s finally here. I’ll get to see my dear friends in London, and I’m especially buzzing with anticipation for my Paris Fashion Tour — a dream I’ve been looking forward to for a long, long time.
After obsessively monitoring the weather forecasts for London and Paris, I’ve made my selections. I’ve intentionally pared this down to a nine-piece capsule to save space. But these pieces should cover just about any activity on the itinerary, and accommodate fluctuating spring temperatures. (As of this writing, it calls for cool and mostly dry conditions, at least for the first several days.)
What I’m Packing: A 9-Piece Spring Capsule
To keep things simple, I’ve stuck to a single silhouette and coordinated color palette. (I’m bringing lots of scarves to add more color and variety!) All of the pieces are lightweight and layer-able and can be worn in multiple combinations.
Middle: STRIPE SHIRT | SHELL | CARDIGAN
Right: LEOPARD SHIRT (SIMILAR) | STRIPE TEE (SIMILAR) | KNIT JACKET
Shoes: SNEAKERS (SIMILAR, SIMILAR) | BOOTS (SIMILAR) | SNEAKERS
So let’s break it down….
Travel Shoes: Where Every Wardrobe Starts
When planning my travel wardrobes, I always start with the shoes. If my feet aren’t happy, I’m not happy. For women over 50 especially, it’s so important to have comfortable, supportive, and stable footwear.
Sneakers. Over the last dozen years or so, sneakers have gone from a “tourist red flag” to a ubiquitous style worn almost everywhere. I prefer sneakers that aren’t too clunky or highly athletic-coded, but you’ll see just about everything worn these days, even by locals, so go with what works best for you. I’m bringing two pairs, a lightweight slip-on knit sneaker (similar) for travel and casual days, and a sleeker style that’s also comfortable and can dress up to Smart Casual.
Boots. I’ve gone back and forth between packing boots or flats, and with the cool temperatures forecast decided I’d be more comfortable with an ankle-covering bootie. Mine are a few years old, and I treat them with a waterproofing spray before every trip. Here’s a similar style, and if you want something seriously weatherproof, I highly recommend these.
Bottoms: Two Jeans, One Trouser
Jeans. I always travel with jeans as they’re what I wear most and are easy to style. I stick to fabrics with some stretch, and that aren’t the heaviest weight. Both of these are barrel leg styles from Ruti, which I love. Dark Wash | Medium Wash. (Save 15% with code SUSAN15)
Pants. I don’t have anything on the itinerary that requires more formality than Smart Casual, so I’m packing this comfortable pair of cotton twill pants, also a barrel-leg style. (See how I wore them last fall in Paris HERE.)
A note about Ruti pants and jeans: I find they run small so usually size up.
Tops & Sweaters: Mix, Match, and Layer
I’ve included 2 collared shirts, one in a stripe and one in leopard print. (My leopard print shirt is from a few seasons prior and no longer available, so I’ve linked to one with a similar look.)
My striped layering tee is from Vince and is probably five years old. Here’s one with a similar look.
Last spring, I discovered how much of a travel workhorse a “twinset” (matching shell and cardigan) can be! Wear them separately or together for a multitude of combinations!
Outerwear & Bag: Ready for Anything
Outerwear. I purchased the Varley raincoat in London last year. It’s lightweight and packable, and really waterproof! (In the photo above, I’ve folded it under at the bottom — the length hits me mid-calf.) I sized down to the XXS. Unfortunately it’s sold out in smaller sizes, but here’s a shorter style, still available in most sizes and colors.
I’ve had that leather jacket for a couple of years now, and it’s great for travel!
Bag. I purchased this ME+EM crossbody bag last spring in London, and used it for the entire rest of my trip. It’s lightweight, comfortable, secure, and holds quite a lot!
Underpinnings I Never Travel Without
In addition to underwear, socks, and sleepwear, I always bring 2-3 of these silk tanks from Eileen Fisher to wear as base layers. And just in case the weather turns unseasonably cold, a set of silk long underwear (top | bottom).
Before I Head to the Airport
I’ll do a final weather and vibe check, and may swap out a piece or add a “Wild Card” at the last minute. Sometimes my Wild Cards end up being the pieces I wear most often.
Learn My Packing Tips
I’ve shared lots more travel wardrobe tips and capsule ideas at my Travel Wardrobe Resource Hub. You can even filter the articles by season and trip length, to find the information that’s most relevant to your travel plans.
And as part of our Los Angeles Spring Color Event in May, I’ll be presenting an in-person seminar, Pack Less, Wear More: A Guide to Smart, Stylish Travel. It will give you the tools to plan and edit travel wardrobes for your destination, activities, and personal style, as well as how to pack and travel in comfort. I hope to see you there!
Your Packing Questions, Answered
Here are the questions I’m asked most often about my travel wardrobes.
1. Does this capsule include what you’ll wear on the plane?
Yes, it does. I’ll usually layer up for the flight, as the temperature in airplane cabins can be unpredictable.
2. Will you do laundry while traveling?
I’ll usually hand wash underpinnings and some lighter items in the sink and hang to dry, once or twice during longer trips. Other items I’ll spot clean with a Tide Pen or Janie Stick (for grease stains). And I’ve started bringing an empty spray bottle that I can fill with cheap vodka and spray clothing to remove odors. When absolutely necessary, if I don’t have access to laundry facilities, I’ll occasionally use hotel laundry service or dry cleaner for a piece or two.
3. Do you fold or roll clothes?
Usually some of both. I’ll roll jeans and other pants that don’t wrinkle. I fold and pack shirts in these flat garment “folders.” Everything else goes into these compression packing cubes.
And that’s everything that made the final cut! I’ll be sharing outfits and updates as I go, so follow along on Instagram for the real-time version. And if you’re not already subscribed to my newsletter, now’s a great time — I’ll be sharing some exclusive content from the trip there. When I’m back, I’ll report on what I actually wore, what I wished I’d brought, and what’s coming home unworn. Because honestly? That’s where the real packing wisdom is.
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Just returned from 9 days in europe and counted the shirts when I got to the destination… 16. Whoops. Definitely need to take lessons from you!!
Because I hate feeling that my feet are tightly enclosed, I always pack a sandal or ballet flat ( from a comfort line) so that I have an option for dinner or even lounging around a hotel room. But that’s just me. I also love a dress for sightseeing or dinner. chaucan son goute.
Wishing you a wonderful and exciting trip! Can’t wait to see your observations and read about your travels! Bon Voyage!
we just arrived in London too. looking forward to seeing what you are doing in the city while you are here.
Very interested in the scarves you’ll be bringing to spice up the outfits. Please share – and thank you!
I wouldn’t give up valuable space to pack a second pair of sneakers. I would take only the more comfortable ones.
Something I always travel with is a pair of nicer lightweight rubber sandals, which function as shower shoes, slippers, and outdoor wear (in case it gets hot or my feet need a break from shoes). I take only those and one pair of supportive black sneakers, which never actually get packed in my suitcase.
I second the rubber shoes. I cannot abide showering barefoot in hotels. A pair of rubber flip flops are a must have for me.
What brand are your actual boots? I have seen you wear these in many photos and LOVE them! And do you have a suede spray recommendation? Have a terrific trip!
Thanks, they are Khaite “Marfa” boots, and are about 3 years old. I don’t have any particular suede spray recommendation, the ones I’ve used over the years all seem to work about the same.
Love your blog and have followed for years although I seldom comment–I do have a query about the short sezane striped blouse–how do you wear that? As a jacket? I am fairly short-waisted, but I prefer a little tuck if possible.
Hi Rhoda, thanks! I usually do a “French” or front tuck with that blouse.
How many shirts can fit into a medium folder? I had never seen these before and am thinking they look really helpful. Thanks
Hi Barbara, when I traveled with my husband, I could fit 6 shirts and 2 pairs of trousers in one of the larger envelopes. (The ones I have were purchased 15 years ago and are no longer available, so I linked to a similar product.)
I love the leather jacket! I’ve always wanted to wear one in Europe, and yours looks perfect, especially since it has the patina that comes with wear. You will look more like a local.
Since I always travel carryon, I try to stick to two pairs of shoes — daytime sneakers and a slip-on pair for evening dining and to wear in the hotel to avoid walking around barefoot there.
Why not ditch that second pair of sneakers and add another tee that goes with both the green cardi and knit jacket?
Base layers add so much versatility, especially in a variety of weights. I’m glad you mentioned them. A base layer can convert that twin set from easy-breezy to cozy depending on the weather. But, instead of tanks, lightweight ones with short or long sleeves protect the armpits of the “good” clothes they are under, and they dry quickly overnight after a sink wash.
You didn’t mention your airline “personal item.” Yours is probably stylish. But if that’s not a priority, Amazon has a lot of cheap foldable bags that maximize your personal item allowance because they are specifically designed to fit under the seat. Whatever personal item you were already planning on would probably fit inside one of them with room to spare for last minute additions or souvenirs.
Now, I am looking forward your posts from my two favorite cities (and the unpacking recap when you come back.)
Nice selection! I admire your ability to create a lot of outfit variety with just a few pieces. Have you chosen what you’ll be wearing on the plane yet?
Wishing you a great trip with the fewest hiccups possible (and when they occur, as they always seem to do, may they turn into happy accidents!)
Bon voyage!
Hi Susan, I’m in Paris right now enjoying warm sunny days! Today I went to the Palais Galliera, where I think you’re going during your Fashion tour. I got a combined ticket for the 2 current exhibitions, STELLAR! Hope you love it!
Wonderful, thanks Carol! I can’t wait to see it.
I think you are going to be chilly! I would bring a beanie and a cashmere pullover. (Honestly, I would probably pack a Uniqlo packable down jacket as well, but I run very cold.)
Hi Amy, so far (in London) it’s been cool in the mornings and evenings, and warm mid-day. I find when it cools down, a scarf really helps prevent feeling chilled.
I fold and roll, depending upon the type of clothing, always using compression packing cubes, and sometimes the “folder”. I’ve been looking at the 3x3x3 method for a little bit. Glad to see you using it here. Your travel wardrobes always seem to work out for you. I leave for a Med cruise next Friday, and will try to use this method also, with my new wardrobe. Packing carry-on only as usual, but flying ITA Airways for the first time on the DC to Rome leg, and they have much more stringent luggage and weight restrictions. Skincare, etc., decanted this afternoon. I’m finally getting excited. This is my first big trip since my husband died almost seven months go, so, fingers crossed.
Have a wonderful time on your cruise, Judith!
Hi Susan: have a great trip! Can’t wait to see everything that you wear and everything that you all do! I have the hardest time finding sleek sneakers! Most of the popular sleek brands are too narrow. And the Ruti pants are darling but I find they’re just too cropped. My height seems to be in my legs. I’d have to wear sneakers or loafer-type shoes and my ankles would get cold (!). Although some stylists say to wear sock the same color but I think the gap between the pants hem and the bootie is interrupting the visual line too much. Maybe that’s just me. I’ll continue to search for the perfect sleek sneaker.
Hi Susan,
Have a lovely trip! The twin-set you list is available in a raspberry color. Do you think that would be a good shade for a summer? Thanks so much!
LLBean silk underwear has been my saviour more times than I can count – thanks to you Susan. 😊😊
Susan, thank you for these ideas! Great suggestions. Would you please share which suitcase you’ll be using for this trip? (I hope it didn’t miss the link in the post.) Thank you!
Have a wonderful safe and happy trip Susan! Love the pistachio twinset with the brown colors so gorgeous! If you can go and see the Queen Elizabeth exhibition and I highly recommend seeing Paddington the musical. I loved it.
You always find the most interesting sneakers! I can’t wear most of the styles because I have wide flat feet, but I hope for trickle down. I like having two pairs for travel; shoes benefit from a rest period..
Until I got continuous hot flashes, silk tanks and camisoles were just the best base layer. I can’t give mine up even though I haven’t worn them in about 10 years.
Could you please remind me if you take a personal bag on board in addition to your carry-on and purse? I always seem to need one for extras, but some have so many pockets that I never remember where my things are. Wondered if there is a brand/style you can recommend?
Do you always wash silk underwear by hand?
Greetje
Hi Greetje, silk I wash by hand when traveling, and in the machine on the “delicates” cycle (cold water) at home.
Susan, I love your newsletters. Just one comment — so often the item I go to look at is sold out in my size, even sold out in many sizes. I just received today’s newsletter. The Dilla light cotton openwork cardigan is already sold out in most sizes. Of course this is something beyond your control. It does make the ‘window shopping’ less fun. I wish you all the best; I love the newsletter and the many items you share. Thank you from Canada.
Thanks for the hard work/time you put into your articles…..cheap vodka for a soil is a first I’ve heard. Can you elaborate a little on when you may use (maybe fabric and type of soil). Thanks and so glad it was a nice trip for you. I’ll be doing Ireland this summer and love your tips and clothing suggestions (logic in packing what you do).