Must-have items for your capsule wardrobe for holiday
Creating a holiday capsule wardrobe is a transformative way to simplify the packing process. A holiday means new experiences and creating memories that last a lifetime.
But once the excitement of booking a new trip has worn off, you have the hassle of packing and choosing what to pack. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the endless outfit choices and luggage limitations.
That’s why a holiday capsule wardrobe is the perfect solution. It is a minimalist approach to travel fashion that ensures style isn’t forgotten and suitcase space isn’t a worry.
We have created the ultimate guide to curating a holiday capsule wardrobe that not only reflects your personal style but also adapts to your travel needs, ensuring you look effortlessly chic without the burden of overpacking.
From choosing a versatile colour palette to multifunctional pieces that can be mixed and matched, we guide you through the process of creating a travel-friendly wardrobe that’s ready for any adventure. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring city streets or attending sophisticated dinners, discover how to pack smart and travel light, all the while staying stylish.
A guide to creating a holiday capsule wardrobe
Establish your base
Pick a base colour for your capsule wardrobe. This should be a neutral shade like black, navy, brown, or taupe, which will serve as the foundation. Pick a colour that you already have in your wardrobe to prevent unnecessary purchases.
Build with key pieces
Add essential items in your base colour or neutral prints like stripes and polka dots to add a touch of variety to the capsule wardrobe.
Introduce touches of colour
Choose two to three accent colours that you love and work beautifully with the base colour you’ve picked. Incorporate these colours into the capsule wardrobe through key pieces to add a touch of brightness.
Patterned pieces should also be included for a little bit of spice in your capsule holiday wardrobe. These should still align with your chosen colour scheme and will work to add a little personality to your looks.
Add layers and accessories
Depending on your destination’s climate, include versatile layering options like jackets, cardigans and blazers. You might consider practical yet stylish options like a denim jacket or a linen blazer.
Choose shoes that balance comfort and style, such as sandals for evenings and the beach and trainers for sightseeing. Accessories like jewellery, hats, and sunglasses all elevate your looks without taking up too much space in your case.
Finalise with speciality items
For beach destinations, remember to include swimwear that can double as daywear and a versatile cover-up for quick transitions from beach to casual outings.
Ten must-have items for your holiday capsule wardrobe
Creating a holiday capsule wardrobe involves selecting versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create numerous outfits.
Here are ten must-have items to build a practical yet fashionable wardrobe for your next getaway.
1. Linen shirt
A linen shirt is the epitome of holiday chic. Lightweight and breathable, it’s perfect for warm climates and can easily transition from day to night. Wear it buttoned up with shorts for a classic look, open over a swimsuit as a chic cover-up, or pair it with a pair of wide-leg trousers for an elegant evening outfit. The natural fabric is a gorgeous way of adding a touch of sophistication to any holiday ensemble. Keep it simple in a block colour, or add some variety with a striped option.
2. Loose-fitting jumpsuit
A loose-fitting jumpsuit serves as an all-in-one outfit that’s both comfortable and stylish. Opt for a neutral colour or a subtle print to guarantee maximum versatility. It’s perfect for exploring during the day with sandals and can be dressed up with heels and jewellery for an evening out. The relaxed fit ensures comfort even on long travelling days, making it a great choice for getting to your destination or coming home.
3. Dress up and dress down dress
A versatile dress that can be dressed up or down is a capsule wardrobe must-have. Look for a midi or maxi length for more coverage that works for various occasions. With a quick change of accessories and shoes, you can transform a casual day dress into an elegant dinner outfit. Fabrics like cotton or silk blends offer comfort and a bit of luxury, making them perfect for holiday wear.
4. Versatile sandals
Sandals that can carry you from the beach to the city are essential. Choose a pair with a comfortable sole and a design that matches most of your wardrobe. Leather or high-quality synthetic materials in neutral colours like black, brown or metallics are versatile and durable options. Ensure they’re comfortable for walking long distances but stylish enough for a nice dinner out.
5. Wide-leg trousers
Wide-leg trousers are both comfortable and flattering, making them a great addition to your holiday wardrobe. They’re perfect for cooler evenings or dressier occasions. Choose a pair in a lightweight fabric like linen or cotton blend. They can be paired with a tank top and sandals for a casual look or with a blouse and heels for a more formal setting.
6. A co-ord
Co-ords offer the ease of a matched set with the versatility of separate pieces. They’re easy to mix and match with other items in your capsule, doubling your outfit possibilities. Look for sets in breathable fabrics and prints or colours that complement the rest of your wardrobe. They’re perfect for creating a cohesive look with minimal effort. If you want to add an eye-catching print to your capsule holiday wardrobe, a co-ord is the perfect way to do this, as you’ll still get to make multiple outfits from this item.
7. Roomy bag
A spacious bag that can hold your daily essentials while adding style to your outfits is a must. Consider a tote or a large crossbody bag in a durable material like leather or canvas. A neutral colour or a subtle print can complement most outfits, making it the perfect accessory for your holiday capsule wardrobe.
If you really want to amp up your holiday or summer capsule wardrobe, choose a raffia bag instead. This natural, woven texture offers a quintessential summer aesthetic that is hard to beat. You’ll find yourself wearing a bag like this year after year.
Try to find a roomy bag that comes with a matching clutch insert, this way, you’ll have two pieces for the price of one and the perfect clutch for your evening holiday looks.
8. Colour block swimwear
Swimwear is a holiday essential, and a colour-block swimsuit combines style with function. Choose a flattering silhouette that provides enough coverage and support for beach activities while also making it a versatile option that you can wear out and about in the day. Look for swimwear with UV protection for an added benefit.
9. Shorts
A pair of shorts in a neutral colour like khaki, navy or white can be the workhorse of your holiday wardrobe. They’re perfect for hot days and can be paired with almost any top. A pair of denim shorts should also be considered as an option for your holiday wardrobe, these look great in the day worn over your swimwear or in the evening paired with a simple tank top and lots of gold jewellery.
10. Breezy blouse
A breezy blouse adds a feminine touch to your holiday wardrobe. Look for styles that have details like embroidery, lace or unique silhouettes to add a little something extra. Lightweight fabrics like cotton and silk are ideal for staying cool and comfortable. Pair your blouse with denim shorts for a casual look, or tuck it into trousers for a more sophisticated outfit.
Implementing your capsule wardrobe
Once you’ve selected your pieces, experiment with mixing and matching to create different outfits for various occasions. Planning ahead allows for a streamlined packing process and allows you ample time to come up with outfits that suit your personality and are versatile for you to make multiple looks.
Using a capsule wardrobe approach helps to simplify decision-making when it comes to packing and also makes for a more enjoyable travel experience that means less baggage but multiple outfit options.
Be ready for your adventures with versatile pieces that are perfect for mixing and matching. Pack light without sacrificing style, comfort, and practicality. Whether you’re exploring a new city or lounging by the pool, a well-planned capsule wardrobe will make all the difference.
