How to Build a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Your travel capsule wardrobe should follow the principles of packing light.

Pack for One Week

You don’t have to replace your entire closet. Your packing list should include enough items for one week’s worth of outfits. When you travel for longer than a week, do laundry.

Pack Layers, Not Bulk

A few thin layers are more versatile than one heavy layer. Light pieces are also smaller to pack, making them perfect for carry-on traveling. 

Choose the Right Fabrics

To avoid breaking out the iron in every place you stay, opt for clothing that’s naturally wrinkle-free. 

Merino wool is good at repelling odors and regulating temperature, while synthetic performance fabrics are good at wicking sweat. Avoid 100% cotton, which is quick to smell and slow to dry.

Aim for clothes that are easy to maintain. Vacation is too short to waste on trips to the dry cleaner.

Invest in Quality Materials and Craftsmanship

A high-quality t-shirt can immediately elevate your outfit. You also don’t want ripped seams and lost buttons on the road, so don’t cheap out on the basics. Opt for well-made items that you can count on for many trips to come.

Avoid fast fashion, which won’t hold up in a capsule wardrobe.

Simplify Your Color Palette

Keep your capsule wardrobe within a matching (and ideally neutral) color palette, so you don’t have to decide which clothes to wear together. Leave bright hues and wild patterns as accent pieces or for the rest of your closet at home.

Pick Timeless Cuts

Remember, a good capsule wardrobe is made up of a small number of durable, classic pieces. Go for timeless silhouettes that make you feel comfortable and confident, and don’t waste energy worrying about the latest trends.