TRAVEL STYLE
Wardrobe basics combine to create stylish and comfortable outfits for a spring vacation
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I really struggle with packing so decided that the simplicity of a spring capsule wardrobe could be the answer to traveling light and looking stylish on a spring getaway.
I’ve scoured my favorite retailers, as well as my own closet, to come up with a simple yet chic collection of spring BFF’s (best fashion friends) – pieces that will carry us stylishly through a week in Paris, Prague or Palm Springs. I believe a capsule wardrobe can work for anyone. By choosing a combination of classic pieces, and adding a few accents, you can mix to maximum outfit effect this spring.
Even better, I’ve created this spring capsule wardrobe to fit into a carry-on bag, if you wish to travel light. I recently traveled with a carry-on to Europe and it was wonderful to not have to worry about a missing checked bag.
Finally, since these pieces are mostly versatile classics, you will turn to them again and again at home as well.
25+ Chic Outfits with 15 Pieces
Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe - The Pieces
CROPPED JEANS ~ MAXI SKIRT ~ TROUSERS ~ BLAZER ~ CARDIGAN SWEATER ~ PULLOVER SWEATER ~ COTTON SHIRT (long-sleeved) ~ COTTON SHIRT (short-sleeved) ~ T-SHIRTS ~ TANK ~ DRESS ~ TRENCH COAT
MULE LOAFERS ~ SLIDE SANDALS ~ SNEAKERS
Spring Capsule Wardrobe Color Palette
For spring, I chose navy and white. From there, I layered in colorful pieces: a dress and skirt in shades of pink, and a green scarf. I also added two black basics. That created a spring wardrobe with enough color to make it interesting but it was still easy to combine the pieces.
Does it have to be colorful? No. Color or neutrals — your choice. The one exception is a safari where it’s better to stick to neutrals. See What to Wear on Safari.
To create a color palette, start with neutrals, then layer in color. Colors can vary by personal preference and the season. (If you’ve found your way here in fall, explore my Autumn Capsule Wardrobe for Travel.)
In the photos below, you will see the spring capsule with the navy and white items and then with the colorful pieces added in.
This concept can work with any color palette. Some other examples: brown and cream plus blush and forest green. Or black and white plus avocado and coral. If you have no idea where to start, pick a favorite scarf or patterned blouse — make those colors your palette.
Spring Capsule Wardrobe - The Essential Pieces
1. The Cropped Jean
Cute, comfy and ready for long travel days — the cropped jean is a perfect staple in your spring capsule wardrobe. The warmer weather brings the chance to let our ankles show, but the jeans don’t have to be cropped; any favorite pair of denim will do. If you prefer a classic length my current favorite denim are the Way-High by Everlane; I just ordered them for myself.
The jeans in my capsule are the Emma High-Waisted Crop by Citizens of Humanity (pictured). They may be hard to find now, but similar styles are everywhere (and listed just below).
If you don’t like high-rise, pick a mid-rise pair instead. Jeans are very personal, so grab any favorite pair and let’s explore the many ways we can style them for our spring vacation.
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For a tapered crop, Levi’s are another great option. I own three pair and they are typically under $100. For an ankle length — great for spring — I have my eye on the Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans.
BUDGET PICK: This well-priced pair by Quince, the Stretch High-Rise Relaxed Straight comes in two washes and two lengths (inseam). I am 5’6″ and go with the 28″ inseam.
2. Lightweight Trousers
After your jeans, this piece will be fundamental to your capsule wardrobe. Choosing the right trousers is important because they have to be comfy enough for wearing all day, and stylish enough to dress up in the evening.
My trousers are by Rag and Bone. They are a couple of years old so I am listing several options below. This is where a search of your closet might produce something that could work. Any lightweight pants in a neutral color, that you feel good in, are a winner. They could either by slightly cropped or standard length.
Spring Capsule Wardrobe - Trousers
Everlane make quality, well-priced items. My current favorites are the Draper Pleated Pant. I bought them and find they work with sneakers and a tee, or I can dress them up with a blouse. So versatile! The fit is very flattering and they come in two lengths. I am 5’6″ and ordered the 30″ inseam which is the perfect length for me. If you are taller you could go with the 32″.
Their Tencel Way-High Taper Pant in Ash Brown would also be lovely for spring. They look like dress trousers but are lightweight and machine washable.
I also own three pants from Athleta, all fantastic for travel because they feel like yoga pants but look like trousers. The Brooklyn Mid-Rise Ankle Pant will be your new favorite travel pant. A comfy wasitband is great for long travel days!
I’ve written more about my Athleta favorites in Athleta Travel Outfits.
3. The Maxi Skirt
I like the simplicity of a maxi skirt for spring and think the style is flattering on many women. This is a great piece for dressing up in the evening but is also cute and comfy for a day of sightseeing, paired with sneakers and a tee.
For my spring travel capsule color palette I picked a bright skirt. You could also select a neutral pattern or solid color — solid bottoms can simplify combining outfits. I am also loving green for spring.
Any skirt that you like can work as long as it goes with several of your tops and either of the sweaters or the blazer. (Examples in the photos below).
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The skirt pictured is by Lucy of Paris from a few years ago. Budget Picks: If you like pink, Quince has a nice Pleated Midi Skirt in soft pink for $50. I own many items by Quince; the quality and prices are great. This orangey-red maxi is also fun and pretty, and $60! Organic Cotton Tiered Maxi Skirt.
If you like green, this maxi skirt from Tuckernuck is on my own wishlist— so gorgeous!
4. Cotton Cardigan Sweater
To V or not to V, that is the question. I chose a navy v-neck cardigan for this spring capsule wardrobe, but a crewneck is equally nice as a versatile staple. I like that a v-neck is the perfect shape for a statement necklace without fussing with the buttons and neckline. My sweater is from Banana Republic and I’ve had it for years. Several options are linked below.
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J. Crew Factory has a classic navy crew neck cardigan that is well-priced: Classic Cotton Cardigan Sweater.
And this lovely relaxed-fit cotton cardigan by Everlane, the Boxy Cardigan comes in a pretty navy and lots of other colors. It’s a slightly heavier option.
5. Pullover Sweater
What says spring in Paris, or anywhere else, more than a striped sweater? Stripes are a classic. I might even call them a neutral. If you aren’t as striped-obsessed as I am, pick any sweater you like. It only has to work for daytime in this capsule, but if you want to go with something more versatile that you can dress up, that works too. Make sure it goes with either your trousers and/or skirt as well.
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I am wearing the Leontine sweater by the French brand Sézane. It’s available in multiple colors; if your favorite is out-of-stock, check back as Sézane restocks frequently. Everlane also has a lovely striped sweater, perfect for a spring wardrobe, the Half-Zip Cotton. It is an oversized style, so size down for a more traditional fit.
For more French style inspiration, you might enjoy my story: French Wardrobe Basics.
6. Blazer
Since my spring capsule wardrobe was created around a navy and white palette, I chose a classic navy blazer. If I am traveling to Europe in spring, I am packing a blazer. If you were going somewhere warm, you could opt for linen instead, navy, white or beige are all nice. You could also pick a blazer with a bit of pattern, but in that case I would choose a solid skirt that works with it.
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I like the lines of J Crew’s Going-Out Blazer in Stretch Twill and it’s available in sizes 00-24, in classic, petite, and tall.
If you are headed somewhere warm, or it’s later in spring so you prefer a lighter color, I like the relaxed fit of the Classic Relaxed Blazer in Oyster, by Reformation. Everything I own by Reformation, I love. Worth the splurge!
Budget Pick: For a linen option check out Quince’s European Linen Blazer. Three gorgeous colors and it’s only $70! I bought their linen shirt and really like it. Quince makes stylish products at great price points and I own several other items from them that I am happy with.
7. Short-sleeved Shirt
Another workhorse of the spring capsule wardrobe, the short-sleeved button up shirt. This piece should be ultra comfy and breathable, keeping you cool through a day of sightseeing or lounging with a good book and a great view. There are lots of high-tech breathable fabrics that will whisk away any hint of perspiration, but I also love classic cotton. I bought this shirt which is part of Banana Republic’s new Heritage line, a return to their roots as a clothing for adventurers. Adventure is always in style!
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The Banana Republic Essential Roll-Cuff Shirt is sold out. Here are some similar options. Quince has a European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt which comes in seven colors. Similar to the one I am wearing, it’s a relaxed, boxy cut.
I also like Madewell’s Signature Poplin Camp Shirt.
8. Long-Sleeved Button-Up
I love the look of a long-sleeved shirt rolled up; I think it is so versatile for spring travel. I was imagining a trip to Europe when I planned this wardrobe and chose black. But you could go with any solid color that works with the rest of your capsule wardrobe. I also love light blue or a striped shirt for spring!
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I like Everlane’s Oxford shirts, well made for a reasonable price. They come in solids and stripes.
If you prefer linen to cotton, I own the Quince Linen Shirt, as I mentioned.
Finally if you also love stripes, I love Sezane’s shirts. I have Cotton-Button-Up in the Ecru/Camel stripes and it is incredibly soft. Consider sizing up for a relaxed fit. It comes in many fun colors for spring.
9. Tee Shirts + Tank
You can decide how many t-shirts you need, perhaps depending on whether you have access to laundry and how warm it will be. I chose 3 tees for my spring capsule, a white, a black and a striped, as well as a pink tank which you will see in the outfits below.
Most of us have t-shirts in out wardrobe. If you need a new one, my striped tee is by Boden. I also have t-shirts by Vince, Madewell, Banana Republic and so on. I am linking a few options below.
My pink tank is by Athleta. I am linking a similar one below.
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Reformation makes a soft and well-priced classic: Perfect Vintage T, which is a relaxed fit, and I have the Vintage Classic Crew Neck by J. Crew in three colors. It’s nice quality, and the fit is just relaxed enough.
10. Spring Dress
This is the one thing in your spring capsule wardrobe that doesn’t have to go with everything else. A dress is a stand-alone piece; it can be any color or pattern.
You should love it and feel comfortable, and make sure it works with at least one pair of shoes and possibly your cardigan or blazer for layering. But you could also wear your trench coat if it’s chilly.
I picked this pink chevron patterned dress because I liked the colors for spring and the jersey material makes it easy to pack – it doesn’t wrinkle!
It’s from Loft, the Chevron Dress Flounce Pocket, from a few years ago, so I am linking other dresses. (Note: that if you do purchase this specific dress on resale somewhere, you will need to wear a stretchy “tube bra” over your regular bra because it clings a bit at the chest. )
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For something colorful, I like Boden’s Pleated Knit Dress comes in petite and regular, in sizes from 0-22. I own one dress by Boden and would happily fill my closet with them. They are well-made and comfortable.
Tuckernuck is one of my favorite websites for dresses. It’s a well-curated collection at various price points. Here are a few current favorites for spring. For something colorful, Magenta Floral Ruffle Collar Louisa Maxi.
I have this Bettina Tiered Shirt Dress from Anthropologie and it’s great loose and belted.
And for a splurge, consider J,. McLaughlin. They carry gorgeous dresses for spring. I like the The Belle Dress in Tulip Pop. And for a neutral option, this Cagney Dress in classic and lovely. It’s made of their “catalina cloth” which doesn’t wrinkle-free— great for spring travel.
11. Trench Coat
If you don’t already own a trench coat this could be the piece you invest in, especially if you are headed to Europe in spring. The classic trench is versatile and a true wardrobe staple.
I recently purchased the Sézane Scott Trench Coat. (I am wearing it in Paris in the above photo.) I am thrilled with it. It’s the perfect weight, the fabric is beautiful and it’s a classic cut. Sézane ships free to the U.S. on orders over $200.
This timeless style will forever be available from a variety of retailers. The old-school original was made by Burberry in 1916, so I’ve included it below, as well as a couple of budget-friendly alternatives. You could go with grey or black but if your style inspiration is the same as mine, Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, then choose tan.
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For a short style, consider the Comfort Stretch Trench by Quince. I own several Quince items and am very happy with the quality. And prices are great. This piece is $99 at time of writing.
And if you want to channel Audrey Hepburn and splurge on the ultimate investment piece, or just explore a trench treasure trove, you can see Burberry’s classic the Burberry Waterloo Heritage.
Spring Capsule Wardrobe Shoes
If you told me you start planning any capsule wardrobe with shoes, I would tell you that you are brilliant. The right shoes solve most problems that come up when planning the essential pieces to take on your trip: The problem of space in your luggage, the problem of comfort and practicality, and in the case of Europe, cobblestones aren’t especially forgiving. And of course, the requirement that you like how it all looks when you head out the door.
Shoes for a Capsule Wardrobe for Europe
My basic rule of thumb is no more than three pairs of shoes on any trip and this is especially true if you are packing light, say a carry-on for Europe. The shoes will change with the seasons and destinations, but the criteria will not.
At least two pairs of shoes you can comfortably wear and walk in, all day. I say two because even the comfiest shoes can give you blisters if you walk in them long enough (I was recently reminded of this in Paris), so you need a second pair to alternate. A third pair can be more dressy, say for evenings. You’ll find more tips on comfortable shoes for Europe in Shoes for Paris Travel.
I had Europe travel in mind when I selected these for spring travel — a mule-style loafer, a sandal slide, and a pair of sneakers. All of them are comfortable, stylish and work with multiple outfits.
12. Loafers (Mule or Classic Style)
Are these mule loafers the MVP of this spring capsule wardrobe? Chic, comfy and well-priced – I think they are! The Italian Leather Horsebit Loafer by Quince are a good looking copy of the classic, Gucci Princetown.
Every time I slipped them on with one of my outfits, I instantly felt more put together. I did end up exchanging the pink for the tan. Perfect for my upcoming spring trip to Paris. And there are several other color options as well. I love the white for summer.
BCBGeneration Women’s Zorie Mule Loafers are comfy and stylish and come in five colors; I have them in beige. These Women’s Linnie Tailored Mules by Sam Edelman are very similar, slightly more expensive.
Tory Burch makes a chic style, the Jessa Mule, which comes in black and cream.
13. Sandal Slides
A flat slide-style sandal in a chestnut color truly goes with everything you’ll wear this spring. Dress it up, keep it casual. I love these, no accident considering they resemble the classic Oran sandal by Hermés.
Mine are from Target. I never buy shoes from Target because I don’t buy a lot of shoes. So when I do, I typically invest in shoes made to last. But rules are made to be broken and I have been pleasantly surprised. They are so comfy and have held up well with considerable wear. Mine aren’t available this season but you can get an even nicer pair—the Alibi by French Sole.
Or if you are in a position to splurge on Hermés, well, I won’t tell you not to. They are also linked, because when do I ever link to anything from Hermes?!
The Haydn Sandal by Steven Madden is a great lookalike. Everlane’s Day Crossover Sandal has a similar feel and comes in a lovely cream and taupe.
Or if you want the original—Hermes Oran Sandal (sigh).
14. Sneakers
Any sneakers will do for a spring capsule wardrobe, and don’t worry about being under-dressed. Even in Paris women wear comfy running shoes to elegantly speed along the cobblestones.
Since it was spring and I was ready for a new pair, I chose the Esplar Canvas Sneakers by Veja.
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The style are the Esplars in canvas, but they do get dirty so I recommend leather.You can explore all their cute styles here: Veja Store.
I also own this pair by Cole Haan and they are incredibly lightweight. I’ve walked all over Paris in them.
These are cute by Cariuma, in white or peachy-beige. This brand from Brazil is both comfy and eco-friendly with lots of fun styles for women and men
If you want a color, I also recently bought a great pair from Toms, the Women’s Trvl Retro Runner. Also very lightweight and water resistant! Highly recommend.
Spring Capsule Wardrobe Accessories
15. Scarves, Belt, Statement Necklace
With the right accessories, your capsule will feel much more varied. I always travel with scarves, and included two of my favorites here. Mix in one fabulous belt by Sézane, and garnish with a pretty necklace which makes it easy to dress up for evening. My necklace is a souvenir from a trip to India. Anything fun will do!
The Artemis Belt by Sézane comes in many wonderful colors and the lack of holes makes it really versatile — it can be worn higher or lower. Try belting it overtop of a button-down shirt as I did for an evening outfit.
Capsule Wardrobe for Spring in Europe
Evening Outfits
Our spring travel capsule has to work for evening as well. I am showing you three outfit options here but I think we can stretch it to six evenings for a week away.
I would wear the dress twice – with or without the blazer. And I could also pair the skirt with the black long-sleeved shirt and necklace.
If I had space (and I did when I packed it all in a carry-on) I would tuck in an additional lightweight blouse that I would wear in the evening with the trousers.
Tote Bag for a Spring Capsule Wardrobe
My tote bag is the Class Structured Leather Tote by Cuyana. It’s a traditional tote style with an open top. I do travel with it, and use it at home to carry my books to French class, to meetings, or to work at a coffee shop. Cuyana also has totes with a closed top, the Easy Zipper Tote.
Cuyana totes are pricey. For something similar for less, I like Quince’s Classic Leather Italian Tote. It’s available in four lovely colors, including classic black and cognac.
Sustainable Clothing Brands for Capsule Wardrobes
Many of the brands listed here make sustainable production a priority. Athleta, Boden, Sézane, Reformation, and Veja are all certified B Corps. To earn B certification a business must meet high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits tosustainability and supply chain practices.
Everlane, a great source for well-priced basics, gets high marks for sustainability in many areas, but isn’t B Corp Certified. You will find the name of the factory a piece was made in, in each product listing when you click on “More detail”.
The bigger brands mentioned here, such as J. Crew and Banana Republic are making strides toward sustainability (some of their products use sustainable materials), but have a long way to go.
I am making an effort to purchase from small sustainable retailers, going forward. That’s why I’ve included them here; I hope you’ve discovered some new brands. And you have a favorite sustainable clothing brand, please share in the comments below.
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Have I convinced you that a spring capsule doesn’t have to mean boring basics and that there are endless combinations to choose from when you create your own capsule wardrobe color palette? The right combination of pieces will be easy, comfy and stylish. Try not to fret too much over this jacket or that sweater… the goal is simply feeling good and enjoying yourself on your spring adventure!
Bon voyage!
