Just because you’re Team Carryon doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. We walk you through packing light fashion so you look (and feel) stunning. With the right strategy and versatile pieces, you can create a chic travel wardrobe that fits into a single suitcase. Whether you’re off for a quick weekend getaway or hitting the road for a summer in Europe, this guide will help you be on the cutting edge of packing light fashion.
Follow these tips to build your perfect capsule wardrobe and enjoy stress-free packing on your next adventure!
Creating a Travel Capsule Wardrobe
When you start looking into packing light fashion the idea of a capsule wardrobe immediately comes up. A great go-to light packing list is based around key pieces that work together to create many outfits. To maximize outfits and get the most bang for your buck here’s how to build a travel capsule wardrobe for packing light.
- Choose a Color Palette. Pick one or two base shades and two to three accent colors. The key is to avoid oddball colors that will be hard to match with other items. Many people start with a neutral color like black, white, beige, navy, or gray, and then add accent colors. This makes mixing and matching effortless.
- Look for workhorse pieces that can be used in several ways. Versatile options like jumpsuits, dresses, tailored trousers, wide leg dark jeans, and solid dresses can be dressed up or down making them suitable for multiple occasions.
- Play with the matches before you pack. Don’t wait until you’re packing to plan outfits. This is the time to start that Pinterest board or list outfits as you’re shopping. Planning outfits in advance ensures every piece serves multiple purposes (and is worn on multiple days).
- On that same note: Spend a little bit more for those champion items. As you play with those outfit combos you’ll notice a few items that really pull their weight. Invest a little more in those pieces that will be worn in heavy rotation.
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Our Top Two Pack-Light Picks: Splurges That Travel Well
Packing light and perfecting that travel capsule wardrobe is easier when you start with clothing that delivers. These versatile items are stylish and functional and we’re always going to make sure they are packed first!
Elegance Miss’s Parisian Dresses
These are the dresses you spin in slow-mo with romantic music and a stunning travel backdrop. I’m always willing to spend a little more for a good quality day-to-night dress. Plus there’s something really satisfying about being able to say, “Thanks. It’s from Paris,” when someone compliments you.
The Parisian dresses by Elegance Miss feature lightweight wrinkle-free fabrics that are easy to pack. Pair them with a pair of flats during the day or pop on a pair of heels at night for instant chic.
Options include various hem lengths from above knee to maxi (and everything in between) and a variety of sleeve styles. Personally I’m a sucker for the Ophelie and Kayz which are collared long sleeve styles with pockets. They scream elegance and sophistication. Versatile options are endless, including great black and navy midi dress styles.
La’ Agra’s Blossom Collection
As an ethical collection from a South Asian female designer we’re already rooting for La’ Agra. Billed as modern artisanal fashion, their Blossom Collection and its statement floral-inspired pieces are the perfect accents to any travel capsule wardrobe.
Several items in this collection stand out for their day-to-night versatility. The Dahlia Floral Strap top or The Petal Top would pair well with a classic pair of wide leg jeans for daytime art museums and shopping. At night, swap out the jeans for a skirt and heels for drinks and a meal on the waterfront. The back detail on the Dahlia and the lace-look sleeves on the Petal top will perk up any neutral.
Another great option that veers a little more luxe is the Slip Dress. With unique accents that create the visual snatched waist we all love, this dress is a winner. It’s a natural match for heels and an updo or could be dressed down with a jean jacket and some cute boots.
Favorite Essential Clothing Items for Light Packing
Every capsule wardrobe has some basics that really pull their weight. We recommend packing a few of these items in different colors. You can build so many outfits off of these pieces.
Women’s Everyday Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is a travel wardrobe hero. Not only are they usually made out of lightweight wrinkle-resistant fabric but with so many necklines and color options, everyone is sure to find a favorite. We love these options that are perfect for a day of sightseeing or dinner out.
Cupshe Surplice Neckline Wide-Legged Jumpsuit
This option by Cupshe can be found at Target, Macy’s, and other major stores for around $50. There are multiple neutral colors available including navy, olive, and tan. The v-neck shoulder style and wide legged bottoms accentuate and flatter your waistline. This comfortable option looks cute on pretty much everyone.
Pretty Garden Summer Sleeveless Tank Jumpsuit
Pretty Garden is a go-to on Amazon for standard, comfortable options that are available in numerous colors. Their sleeveless tank jumpsuit is more casual and the perfect option for summer vacations and beach time.
Anrabess Sleeveless Women’s Jumpsuit
We love a great sleeveless jumpsuit for evening. This Anrabess Amazon option has a chic back cutout detail and comes in a wide variety of colors. Add a clutch and you’re ready to hit the town.
Tailored Trousers in a Stretchy Knit
Stretchy knit trousers are the acceptable sweatpants of the dressy pant world. They are comfortable yet polished, making them perfect for packing light. Many brands make signature styles of these trousers. I’m sure we’ve all been bombarded with Halara ads. With so many options, picking the right one can be tricky. It’s a great opportunity to select a few staples. Picking one classic pair, one special waist detail pair, and one fun color will give you tons of outfit inspiration on the road.
Lillusory Wide Legged Dress Pants
These ones are so comfy that I gave them a pass on having visible elastic at the back waist which is usually a hard pass for me. I just pair them with a belt. If you’re working on the road or need to dress up, these pants are perfect. They look corporate and feel like lounge pants. Plus they don’t wrinkle and come in a ton of colors.
Magellan’s Wrinkle-Free Travel Pants
Magellan’s has made great travel clothing for years. If you’re more of a bootcut gal these are a great option that looks dressy but can be crammed into a suitcase and come out looking freshly pressed.
BTFBM High-Waist Palazzo Pant
These pants look classic but have a reverse pleat detail that adds attention and flair to a simple wardrobe piece. Multiple color options mean that you can pick the right neutral or bold for your wardrobe.
Lepuno Tie Waist Palazzo Pants
I love these as an option for evenings out. They look best paired with a fitted shirt tucked in. The waist tie is elegant and dresses up the entire look.
Wrap or Multi-Configuration Travel Dresses
A good wrap or multi configuration dress is worth its weight in gold. When one dress can single-handedly serve up 10+ different looks it makes packing light a breeze.
Grecian Multi-Configuration Maxi Dress
We love the versatility of this dress. You can twist and position the straps in a myriad of different styles. There are actually more than 24 ways to wear this dress!
This dress offers two looks in one—a space-saving dream!
72 Styles Infinity Dress
This option is often mentioned in wedding articles because of the versatility in both style and body type. It’s a popular bridesmaid dress, but we think this knee-length dress is also a great travel option.
Amazon Essentials Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress
There’s a reason why this dress consistently rates over 4 stars. It’s a classic, it fits well, and it comes in a multitude of colors. I love this as a dress-down option with sandals.
Lightweight Button Up Shirts
Linen and linen blends are breathable and stylish. It’s a great second layer for warmer climates. Paired with shorts or pants, you can look effortlessly chic with the right button up.
Short Sleeved V-Neck Linen Button Up
This stylish short sleeved button up is perfect to throw on with trousers or wear more casually over jean shorts.
Minibee Hi-Lo Roll Up Sleeve Shirt
This linen cotton blend is stylishly oversized. It can go from beach coverup to casual top to nighttime option.
AStylish Women’s Roll-Up Sleeve Button Up
This option is a linen-look shirt. It isn’t actually linen but is lightweight, doesn’t wrinkle, and comes in more than 30 colors.
Merino Wool Options
Merino wool is lightweight, odor-resistant, and wrinkle-free. It may seem counterintuitive to choose wool on warmer vacations but it breathes and can be layered in colder climates. Options have become higher quality and more abundant over the years.
Manote 100% Merino Wool Maxi Dress with Spaghetti Straps
Let’s face it, sometimes we need to embrace our youth and throw back to the spaghetti strap dress. It goes with everything. This black merino wool option is the perfect chameleon of the travel capsule. Wear it solo or with an oversized blazer or shrug.
Adeptwool Women’s Merino Wool Swing Dress
This long sleeve dress pulls on easily, is soft, comes in neutral shades, and hits at the perfect right-above-knee length.
Merinnovation T-Shirt
This base layer t-shirt is cute enough to wear on its own. Not only is it super soft but merino wool is naturally moisture wicking making it ideal for more active days.
Skirts and Shorts
For warmer vacations, shorter stretchy skirts and cute shorts are a packing-light must-have.
Rekucci Stretch Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are often looked at as officewear but with some stretch these short skirts are perfect pairings for tanks and button ups. This one is a travel staple in classic black.
Dani’s Choice High Waisted Flare Knee Length Skirt
With 12 color options and pockets (yay!) this skirt swirls and hangs just right. You can layer this with tights and boots in cooler weather or go bare legged with strappy sandals on warmer vacation spots.
Wihion Women’s Bahama Shorts
This structured, sophisticated pair of shorts is the perfect packing-light option. They can go casual or elegant.
Grace Karin Bowknot Tie Casual Shorts
An abundance of colors and the jaunty waist tie make these cute shorts the perfect pairing for fitted tops on your next trip.
Versatile Pieces for a Stylish Travel Wardrobe
Investing in versatile pieces ensures you maximize outfit options while minimizing luggage space. There are some excellent clothing items that can either be utilized in different configurations or even cute sets that can be mixed and matched.
Travel Sets to Mix and Match
One way to maximize those fashion dollars is to pick a few sets. If you steer towards classic lines and fuss-free shapes, you’ll be able to use the pieces in a ton of different outfits.
Loungewear Tank & Pant Set
This set feels like sweatpants, but pick a darker color and you’d never know. The top on this set can be worn with the jersey wide leg pants or pair the bottoms with a merino t-shirt on a more active day.
Wide Leg Pant and Top Set
We love a matching set that’s simple and elegant. This top-and-bottom set can easily be casual or dressy depending on the color you choose and how you accessorize. The bottoms are flowy and comfortable. These are a great replacement for linen pants because they have the same vibe but won’t wrinkle into a crumpled suitcase casualty. Wear the top under a blazer with some jeans to mix it up.
Anrabess Crochet Sheer Knit Top with Wide Leg Bottoms
This outfit screams European villa. Just add a wide-brimmed sunhat (foldable of course) and cute leather slides. Pick a neutral and match the tank to the sheer top or pick a contrasting color for a bolder look.
Blazers
A great blazer can elevate any outfit. Go oversized on more casual vacations or pick something a bit more tailored if you’ll be working.
Cicy Bell Women’s Tailored Blazer
This wardrobe champion deserves a very special shout-out! The polyester/viscose/spandex combo doesn’t wrinkle and it can take an outfit from casual to polished in an instant.
Long Dressy Cardigan Jacket
This long jacket can dress up anything from leggings to trousers to a maxi dress. It’s the perfect option for a comfy layer that elevates any outfit. Its open style means you don’t have to fuss with buttons or coordinating accessory color combinations.
Satin Trimmed Tuxedo Blazer
This slightly oversized blazer by Ann Taylor is an elegant option for pants or dresses. We love the glam look and fit!
Chic Jeans
Finding the perfect pair of jeans can be a monumental task. When you find that perfect pair for travel that has a little give and is comfortable to sit in for hours, snatch it up!
AE Dreamy Drape Stretch Jeans
I’ve been an American Eagle girlie since the 90s. They still have it. If you haven’t been in for a while, swing by. These jeans have the perfect amount of stretch. You can easily sit on a long flight without the waistband digging in and the lines are stunning with sandals, heels, or clogs.
White House Black Market High Rise Double Pret
These wide-legged khaki jeans fit like they are tailored. White House Black Market always has great jean options. They tend to run a little bit long even in their short length. Take these jeans from day to night with ease. I also love their wide-leg cargo pocket style.
J. Crew Slim Wide Button Fly Jeans
Look put together in this pair of fitted J. Crew jeans. The button fly elongates short torsos and the slim wide style is the perfect compromise between skinny jeans and wide-leg jeans.
Best Fabrics for Lightweight and Elegant Travel Clothing
We touched on fabrics above when discussing individual items, but an overall fabric manifesto will help you choose well when packing light. These are some of our favorites for versatility, comfort, wrinkle resistance, and ease of travel.
- Micro Modal: Ultra-soft, lightweight, and wrinkle-resistant—perfect for trips to tropical or warmer climates.
- Merino Wool: Naturally odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. Wear it alone in warmer weather or layer in cooler climates.
- Stretchy Jersey Knit: Comfortable and polished. You can try to wrinkle it but it’s hard. We love it for trousers and dresses.
- Linen: It’s fantastic because it’s breathable and helps keep you cool. While it comes in clutch for hot destinations, it is prone to wrinkles. Look for a linen/synthetic blend for less wrinkling.
- Polyester/Nylon Blends: These heroes of the travel wardrobe are quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, and durable. Perfect for your basics like tops and pants.
Packing light doesn’t mean you need to look like a slob or repeat outfits. Don’t sacrifice style—it’s all about smart choices. With versatile pieces like jumpsuits, well-made dresses, tailored trousers, and breathable fabrics like micro modal or merino wool, you’ll look chic while traveling minimally.
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