Coastal Chic Capsule Wardrobe: What to Pack for Labor Day Weekend
Though fall doesn’t officially begin until late September, Labor Day Weekend often feels like the true seasonal shift. It’s the perfect moment for a quick escape, a chance to soak up those last carefree days before regular routines call us back. But what to pack? A few well-chosen, mix-and-match pieces will keep your style effortless and ready for whatever the weekend brings.
Coastal Chic Capsules: What to Pack for a Labor Day Weekend Getaway
Whether you’re headed to the beach, wine country, or that charming mountain town with the great antique shops, these capsules offer plenty of options to take you from day to evening with ease. You can always add pieces for activities on your itinerary like swimming or hiking. Here are two “Coastal Chic” capsule wardrobe ideas (one in a cool palette, one in warm) to get you started.
Cool Palette Weekend Capsule Wardrobe
CARDIGAN | PANTS | SKIRT | SHIRT |
BANDANA | SANDALS | SNEAKERS | BRACELET | BAG
I’ve included both pants and a skirt in these capsules, but if you don’t wear one or the other, I’d suggest two bottoms, one of which can be dressed up enough for casual evenings out. I like these linen lantern pants from Eileen Fisher. I find they’re comfortable in a range of temperatures, dry quickly, and if you roll up the legs for a wade in the surf, they’ll stay up. (If you’re apprehensive about packing white, the “Bluette” color would also work in this cool palette grouping.)
Warm Palette Weekend Capsule Wardrobe
CARDIGAN | PANTS | SKIRT | BLOUSE |
BANDANA | BRACELET | SANDALS | SNEAKERS | BAG
I’ve included a brighter tee in each of the capsules just for fun, but you can always go with another neutral. And don’t forget to leverage your favorite accessories to change up the look and add your personality to the mix!
Cohesive capsule wardrobes like these allow you to do more with less. All of the tops will work with all of the bottoms, and the tops can be layered or mixed in multiple combinations. When you build a wardrobe within your best seasonal color palette, everything works in harmony, so packing and putting outfits together is a breeze. I’ll be creating some fall travel wardrobes soon. And if you need some ideas in the meantime, be sure to check out my Travel Wardrobe Resource Hub. Are you planning a getaway this Labor Day Weekend? Where will you be going?
Stay in touch
Sign up to be notified of new posts and updates from une femme d’un certain âge.
Always love your capsules!
With me a top that fits with trousers usually does not fit with a skirt etc. Which means packing is not as easy for me. Unless I stick to trousers or skirts.
Greetje
Imagine how excited I am to find I have the ingredients for this warm capsule in my closet! Copper, ivory and lime. Planning to take it on my next trip. (Includes a copper colored skirt purchased this summer at Monoprix!) Thank you.
Thanks for creating a Cool Palette capsule — it’s beautiful! I second your recommendation for the Naot Dorith sandals — they’re great walking sandals for those of us who prefer truly flat shoes.
Searched all of your “effortless” posts for the pair of jeans in the primary link to all effortless posts (with green sweater), to no avail. Any chance you could tell me the date of the post or the brand of the jeans in the picture? -Thank you!
Hi Lisa, sorry it was difficult to find. Here are the jeans pictured: https://bit.ly/3HL52iJ
Love your styling! Unfortunately the E. fisher lantern pants are totally sold out in every size and color
Still available in white, black, and natural here: https://bit.ly/3UH5MZd
I’m just curious….how many hours a week do you work for your blog alone. I ask because I’m retired and do enjoy your blog and shopping suggestions, but I don’t think I would have the type of commitment you have (I know you really enjoy what you do and that makes a difference) and you’re individual responses are so helpful as well. You do make me happier with my closet :).
Thanks and have a great day.
Hi Robin, thanks so much! Writing the blog (and newsletter) are definitely a full-time+ job for me, but it’s a job I love.
Hi, Susan…I really like the color of those EF pants in the warm collection…would consider that a Spring or Fall color? Your posts are so helpful. Thanks so much, Jean
Hi Jean, thanks, that Bronze color can work for both!
I am afraid that my Labour Day Coastal get away will be my pyjamas and a good book! After entertaining my exuberant grand children for two weeks I want nothing more than to sit on my ocean side deck staring at the sea wine or coffee in hand. Maybe a few beach walks thrown in as the laundry is going….