What I’m packing for 2 weeks in London
I’ll be leaving for London soon, and am really looking forward to this trip! I have loads of activities and meetups with friends already scheduled. And lots more on my list to check out once I arrive; I’m sure I’ll have no trouble keeping busy. But before I go, I wanted to share my London travel capsule wardrobe: what I’m packing and why.
(You may have noticed that I haven’t mentioned Paris. I’ve decided to postpone that part of the trip until next spring, as the girlfriend I was going to meet up with is no longer able to go. I’ll also be able to schedule more time in Paris then.)
My travel capsule wardrobe for London
So this is probably one of the most pared-down travel capsules I’ve packed to date. (10 pieces, not including shoes, outerwear & “underpinnings.”) There are a few reasons for this. First, because these pieces work so well in so many different combinations, it just didn’t feel like I needed more. I’m staying with friends, so will be able to do laundry if I need. And, I always seem to end up doing a bit of shopping in London 😉 🛍️ , so can supplement if needed.
It’s been cool and wet in London, and per the current forecast, doesn’t look like it’s going to warm up during my visit. So this capsule is pretty sweater-centric. I decided to go with brown/beige/camel as my neutrals, and add red as my primary color accent. (I’ll add more colors with scarves.)
Planning a travel capsule wardrobe is always a matter of balancing practicality and style. Many clothes that travel well can be a little….bland. And more stylish pieces don’t always pack and travel well. But I think I achieved a pretty good balance this time. Breaking it down (photos have been lightened slightly to better show detail):
Shoes
I’m only bringing 2 pairs this time, a pair of comfortable, stylish sneakers*, and a pair of weatherproof ankle boots (also comfortable enough for extended walking). The suede boots can dress up as much as I’ll probably need.
*yes, with socks. 🧦
Pants
- Jeans. For casual outings. I went with a medium-wash, straight-leg jean. They aren’t rigid and have a little stretch, so are quite comfortable.
- Trousers. These are coated denim, and have a bit of a leather look. They are very comfortable and can dress up or down. (See how I wore them here.) I think they run slightly large, so would suggest sizing down. (I tried a 27 and 28, kept the 27.)
- Ponte knit “lantern” pants. Mine are from a prior season, similar styles here and here. (These knit trousers have also been getting rave reviews, available several colors in Misses size 0-24, also Petite and Tall.)
Tops & pullovers
- Merino crewneck. Mine’s a few years old, here’s one that’s similar. I’m always banging the drum about merino wool for travel: it’s lightweight, comfortable in a range of temperatures, doesn’t hold odors, and is usually washable (dry flat). A style like this can layer under shirts, other sweaters, jackets.
- Silk blouse. This is my “dress up” piece. I purchased this top last year, and this espresso color works so well with the coated denim trousers. Even though the sleeves are puffy, they layer well underneath cardigans or jackets. Yes it’s a bit spendy; here are some options that are more budget-friendly.
- Striped sweater. Well, you knew I’d have to bring at least one, didn’t you? 😆 This one is lightweight cashmere, and coordinates well with all of the bottoms (and outerwear).
Jackets & cardigans
Cardigans can be such versatile players in a travel wardrobe. Wear closed as a top/sweater, or open as a topper over another layer. This time I maximized my sweater options by including three!
- Plaid cropped blazer. This one is lightweight enough to wear underneath my coats. If the cropped style isn’t for you, here’s a similar look in a longer style.
- Cashmere hoodie. I love the color and fit of this one, and those sporty little stripes on the sleeves. It’s a great travel day piece, and will layer under the blazer as well. Here’s a budget-friendlier hoodie option, available in several colors.
- V-neck cashmere cardigan. Casually elegant worn on its own, but can also layer like a champ. (It coordinates well with those coated denim trousers.)
- Sweater jacket. I’m a big fan of these collared sweater jackets, which also look great worn as a top. The coral red is so festive (great for Springs and most Autumns), and there are several other colors available.
Outerwear & accessories
When I refer back to my prior travel wardrobe recaps from late fall, I’m reminded that I often wished I’d brought more outerwear options. My London friends have warned me that it’s turned chilly, and advised me to bring a wool coat. Both of the coats above are several years old.
- Wool coat. This one is from agnes b., purchased in Paris in 2017, I think. I still love it, and don’t have as much opportunity to wear it Southern California. It’s quite soft and lightweight, but very warm. Here are a some with a similar look:
- Packable down. My truly water-resistant raincoats are all a bit too lightweight for this time of year in London. So I’m bringing this one as an alternative. (Similar: Misses / Petite / Tall / Plus) It’s very water-resistant (even after all these years), lightweight, and packs down to nothing. But I’m probably going to shop for a good quality raincoat while I’m there.
- Scarves. I’ll be bringing several, both for warmth and to add color and interest to my outfits. Shown at top: leopard print, printed silk.
I have room for a “wild card” or two, which I’ll select just before I leave for the airport.
You can find more travel-friendly styles in my SHOP. And for more packing tips and wardrobe ideas, be sure to visit my Travel Wardrobe Resource Hub. 🧳
I’ll be sharing some updates from London, and have pre-scheduled a few posts, so be sure you’ve subscribed to get all of the latest. And if you’re on Instagram, you can follow me there to see what I’m up to in London in “real time!”
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Interesting travel capsule. I can see how this will mix and match well. I was surprised you didn’t add any long sleeve T-shirts as I find them useful when travelling at this time of year in the UK. Safe travels.
Hi Maryann, I’m bringing a couple of camisoles and a couple of long sleeve tees to wear as base layers. I consider those “underpinnings” so haven’t counted them in the capsule here.
Bon voyage Susan!
Your trip sounds exciting and your travel wardrobe is great. I’m a huge fan of merino too.
What a wonderful buy your wool coat was. I’m sure your new raincoat will be a great souvenir too.
Have a lovely time!
Best wishes,
Julie x
I am sure you will be very snug. We are having a lot of rain this year – a LOT – but not very cold. Still, more excuses (if any were required) to go inside and have a cup of tea and a scone. Enjoy the best city in the world.
Looks absolutely PERFECT!
Helen (in London)
That looks so awesome – you’ve done a great job with those pieces. I will be anxious to read how it all works out for you when you return. Do you ever pack a thin layer of warm camisole – like a cuddle-dud or such? I know you don’t mention those items but I’m curious.
Have a wonderful time despite the rain we’re getting in the uk .
Love your choices – and particularly like the red cardigan, but the link was no good. Can you provide details so I can look for one ?
Thanks !!
Hi Mari, here’s an updated link: red cardigan It’s from Sezane.
Oh wow I love all of those pieces! Looking forward to seeing pics of London!
If you’re in the vicinity of Covent Garden, do pop into the new Uniglo store, great choice of clothes. Also, the Diva and Chanel exhibitions at the V&A are amazing. Re shows, Crazy for You at the Gillian Lynne is a must see; Charlie Stemp is superb. Above all, enjoy your trip, making new memories xx
Love this whole wardrobe! It will be perfect ~ the leather like trousers will fit in well. I have been seeing them all over Italy this past month. Have so much fun.
Lovely travel wardrobe ! I know it took a lot of thought and planning. I’m getting better. I’m going to north Georgia for 3 days and I’m just taking booties and hiking shoes. I live in southwest florida where it’s still in the eighties so a dip into the forties will be refreshing!
I have seen many travel wardrobes and I believe this is the best one ever. And no black! Have a fun trip and can’t wait to see what you find in London
I hope you have a wonderful trip. If I were packing I would switch out one of the sweaters for another top. It is a beautiful wardrobe for London.
The colors and textures look so rich, warm, and versatile. Thank you for creating and sharing such a great travel ensemble. Have a fantastic trip:)
Would love to see your outfits from every day after you return, to see how it all ended up working.
Yes, I’ll take outfit photos as often as I’m able, and post a recap upon my return.
Love your choices! You have both color and neutral, comfort, casual and dressier.
WOW! I love this post! You are going to look fabulous in London. I am lucky to be a Spring Gamine, as are you, and I get so many great ideas from your blog.
Could you please check the link for the red button-up sweater? It may be broken.
Have a wonderful trip!
Have a fantastic time and enjoy your blessings.
Hi Susan, Have fun, and you will look great. I have a home in the UK and spend a lot of time in London. You may already know this but the Chanel exhibit is on at the V&A. It’s sold out so the way to see it is to become a member of the V&A, which gives you access. It’s a FABULOUS show. Hope you get a chance to see it.
Wishing you a wonderful trip! Looking forward to your photos.
Great selections ..do you do a check in bag or is all of this packed in carry on? Love London..have a safe and pleasant trip.
Elizabeth
It will fit in a carry-on, but I take a slightly larger bag that I check (so I have room to bring home any shopping finds).
I don’t check bags but I do take a large “Mary Poppins” type bag that folds quite small and I end up with my 2 carry one because that bag becomes my “purse”!
A few notes and maybe it will add to the help you give on packing. I routinely pack in a carry on which I did last Christmas season for 3 weeks in France and Germany. It is liberating. One of my key pieces was the Quince zip cashmere hoodie and another was a selection of packable down vests and jackets all of which can layer. I use Icebreaker merino pieces and they are fantastic. Eileen Fisher silk tee shirts come along too. BUT here is my newest travel workhorse: a Veronica Beard dickey jacket. Mine is navy and I brought 3 dickey inserts: a navy hoodie, a denim “shirt”, and a navy/cream stripe “sweater”. You can layer under them with a tee shirt or tank or even a merino wool item or a shirt. A zillion looks for almost no space in your suitcase. Have fun Susan…you deserve a break!
Thank you for another interesting and helpful post. Your posts post having your colors done were so enlightening. I have been slowly changing my clothing from blue/black to warm colors and loving what a difference it makes in looks and mood. Literally life-changing. Have a safe and fun trip. And thanks for sharing your travels with us.
Susan, you have outdone yourself. What a great capsule collection.
The colors are so lovely together! I think I like the agnes b. coat most of all.
Have a lovely time!
Hi Susan, love this travel capsule, but the links for the sweater jacket are not working. They go to a nonfunctioning website.
Hi C.D, sorry about that, try this one: https://www.sezane.com/us/product/betty-cardigan/coral-red#size-XXS
Thanks, Susan. As a winter, I’m also loving the navy version.
Are those suede boots really waterproof? Have you had experience with them getting wet?
Yes, and yes. Haven’t had a problem!
Hi Susan,
You are quite a prepared traveler. I am a widow, and curious to know if you solo travel? I’m considering it, just not overseas? Be safe! Pat
This is a really great selection and you are sure to come home having worn every item — or what I call a 100% score. And…..since you have that 1″ leopard belt which would take up very little room in your suitcase, why don’t you consider taking it along? It’d look great with your jeans plus any of your tops/pullovers and those truly perfect ankle boots! Bon voyage.
Thanks and yes, it’s one of the accessories I packed! 😉
What a terrific capsule wardrobe! perfect for you. I know you’ll have a wonderful time- how could you not? Glad you are getting a change of scenery especially after what has to have been a very sad and stressful time these past few months. Can’t wait to see your bulletins from London! Enjoy, enjoy.
Susan your wardrobe for London looks great. I love those booties and wore them back east. I can’t wait to see the postings from your trip! Have a wonderful time!
I love the coated denim trousers! And they look so cute on you. I’d like a pair, but as a summer I can only seem to find them in brown or black. Any suggestions?
Have a great trip!
My silk top underwear helps out so much with a thin warm layer it creates. I saw your Sezane red sweater. Sezane is big here in Paris, I never knew. Will go back to look at the cardigan. It looked more sophisticated. I didn’t like their more bulkier sweaters.
What will you being wearing on the plane?
I wore the knit pants, hoodie (with camsole underneath), and boots.
I used one of your archived travel posts to help me pack for my recent London trip. This is maybe a dumb question – does the capsule include clothing you will wear on the flight over? Thanks!!
Thanks Lisa, and yes it does. I’ll share in the recap but I wore the hoodie, knit pants and boots on the flight.
I have enjoyed following your travels over the years. Can you share your favorite lodgings?