TRAVEL STYLE
Fall travel clothes that combine to create stylish and comfortable outfits
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As an avid traveler, I have discovered that a capsule wardrobe for autumn travel, or any other time of year, simplifies packing and getting dressed on vacation
In autumn, I choose wardrobe classics to create looks that are casual but put together, and easy to layer: jeans, button-ups and sweaters mixed with trousers and a blazer. This is especially true if I am headed to Europe; fall is my favorite season to travel overseas.
I believe a capsule wardrobe can work for anyone because the right combination of pieces allows you to create a maximum number of attractive outfits, with less effort. And buying clothes with capsule wardrobes in mind also helps me to spend less money because I invest in classic items that don’t go out of style. Hooray, more money for travel.
Here are the pieces I used to create a fall wardrobe for a trip to Paris.
Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
DARK JEANS ~ TROUSERS (2) ~ BLAZER ~ CREWNECK SWEATER, TURTLENECK SWEATER ~ BUTTON-UP SHIRTS (2) ~ DRESSY BLOUSE ~ T-SHIRTS ~ TRENCH COAT~ SCARF (2) ~ BELT
~ SNEAKERS ~ LOAFERS ~ BOOTS
Step 1 - Choose Your Autumn Color Palette
So, where to start planning a wardrobe of autumn travel outfits? I always start with a color palette. We each have different color preferences, skin tones, and items already hanging in our closets.
I have created four fall color combos to spark our imagination. See if you are drawn to a particular one.
Sticking to a color palette allows us to pack less because the items easily mix and match. It also makes it simpler to get dressed. A color palette can begin with favorite neutrals and then you have the option to layer in a few colorful items.
Tip: If you want to explore adding color but are nervous about going all in, try incorporating an affordable piece — a plum crewneck sweater, a mustard blouse, or a green scarf. Colorful handbags are a fantastic accent as well.
Step 2 — Shop Your Closet
For a September trip to Paris, I chose an autumn capsule wardrobe of black, camel, tan and grey (above). One of my trousers has a subtle houndstooth pattern. There’s also the blue in my denim, but denim is a neutral, because it goes with everything.
After picking my palette, I took a deep dive into my closet, pulled out what I had in those colors and tried everything on to see what fit well and I felt good in.
Those pieces became the foundation; from there I decided what I needed to purchase.
I find this approach more fun and less overwhelming than buying a whole new wardrobe for fall. If you do require a new wardrobe, consider choosing classic items that you can wear year after year, at home and away.
STEP 3 — Shopping for autumn capsule items
After my closet deep dive I found I needed three things:
- flat boots that were water resistant and I could walk miles in,
- a wool crewneck sweater in a neutral color,
- a double-breasted blazer; there are so many cute ones right now!
I purchased a black blazer from Loft (linking similar). Another blazer option I love is the Sézane Michele. The navy is gorgeous.
I also bought a Quince cashmere sweater in grey, (more on it below). My boots are by Nisolo in black (water-resistant leather). These by Blondo are almost identical. They are waterproof and have memory foam cushioning, great for a trip with lots of walking.
With the purchase of three pieces, and what I had in my closet, I put together outfits for a week in Paris.
Autumn Travel Capsule Essentials
I am listing the 15 or so pieces I included in my fall capsule, with recommended options for each. These are the exact pieces I own (if available), or similar items by brands I own and trust, and items I have tried on, so I am familiar with the fabric and fit. I’ve tried to include a variety of price points.
1. Classic denim - straight or trouser style
Cute, comfy and ready for exploring, a classic pair of jeans is ideal in any capsule wardrobe. The jeans I am wearing in some of the photos are a few years old, by Paige. The Paige Anessa are very similar. I love Paige denim because they usually have some stretch, making them comfy for busy travel days.
I am currently loving trouser-style jeans with a loose fit and wider cuff. I think they are very flattering on most body types. Otherwise, I suggest a straight cut, another classic.
But really, any jeans that you love will work. I tend to prefer a darker wash for fall, and I don’t wear jeans with rips and holes (personal preference). They are easier to dress up without holes.
Another current favorite denim is Reformation; I own two trouser-style pairs. The most similar is the Bex Super Stretch High Rise Wide Leg in the color Wheeler.
Everlane also has a terrific variety of styles that are well-priced. Options include wide, curvy, straight, and relaxed, and they come in several washes. I own the Way-High and really like them. They come in two lengths. I am 5’6″ and went with the shorter option (27.5″) for an ankle length. I think it’s a cute look with boots.
Budget-friendly pick: I recently bought this well-priced pair by Quince: Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight Jeans. Love them! Just enough stretch and a flattering mid-rise. For a trouser style, the Bella comes in a wider leg as well. Love the Midnight Blue.
For a casual feeling straight jean, I like Levi’s 501 90’s Jean. They are affordable and come in many colors. Better still, you can go into a Levi’s store and try them on. Note: these don’t have stretch.
2.Trousers for Autumn (2)
A trouser pant is a foundational piece for an autumn capsule wardrobe. My fall wardrobe typically includes two pairs. I suggest a dark color for one, (it won’t show spots easily) and whatever you like for a second pair. You could choose another solid or a subtle pattern, such as a houndstooth or pinstripe.
A loose-cut trouser is especially comfy for sightseeing and lots of walking. Choose a fabric weight depending on the weather at your destination. I also like the athleisure pants from Athleta— they look sleek but feel like yoga pants. I often wear mine on an overnight flight
TIP: If you prefer, you could substitute a skirt in place of a trouser. Any skirt could work, as long as it goes with your shirts, sweater and a blazer for layering.
A few suggestions for smart looking pants that travel well and are machine washable (my basic criteria):
I love Everlane trousers, in particular the Draper Pleated Pant. They come in black, plus many other colors, and two lengths. I own them in the colors Sandstone (pictured above) and Heather Steel (pale grey). I am 5’6″ and take the shorter version (30″ inseam). They also come in 32″.
A pricier option of excellent quality is the Aritzia Effortless Pant. It comes in three lengths and nine colors! It’s a tailored-yet-relaxed high-rise pant; I am wearing it in the color heather charcoal (below). They look like wool but are a blend that’s machine washable! These are worth the investment. I’ve styled them five ways below.
Shop above items (l to r): Aritzia grey trousers, double-breasted blazer, white leather sneakers, blue button-up shirt, brown loafers, wrap shirt (not available), Aritzia brown blazer , black poncho, blue sweater.
If you want your travel pants to feel like leisure wear, the Athleta Endless Pant are fantastic. They are stretchy and have an elastic waistband. They come in many colors; I am wearing them in brown (below). Note, these are a roomy fit; you might need to size down.
Budget-friendly pick: the Quince Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide Leg Pant, available in eight colors! I’ve just ordered these to try them out; I’ll update this when they arrive.
If you would like to add a skirt for fall, I haven’t tried but really like the Washable Silk Skirt by Quince. It’s well-priced and comes in 10 colors. XS to XL.
3. Blazer (my fall wardrobe favorite)
I love traveling with blazers. They work with everything —jeans, trousers, skirts and dresses — and a nice blazer instantly elevates an outfit. One of my favorite ways to wear it is with denim and and flats as I am here, in Paris.
For autumn travel, I choose a heavy double-breasted blazer because I wanted the option to layer a sweater underneath on a cool fall day and wear it like a jacket. The Sézane James is similar. I tried it on in Paris; it’s gorgeous! Pictured below in navy; currently available in black, sand and bordeaux.
Aritizia makes my current favorite, the Producer Blazer. I have this in the Rich Mocha Brown. It’s a gorgeous cut and I love the longer length. It looks much more expensive than it is. Highly recommend!
For double-breasted blazers in beautiful colors, Sézane has two other options—I love both the Christie Jacket and Michele Jacket,. The latter has front patch pockets, a bit more casual. Colors vary by season.
Splurge options: Veronica Beard is known for it’s gorgeous blazers and its iconic classic, Miller Dickey Jacket is a classic investment piece. I also love Reiss blazers; this UK brand is widely available in the U.S. They have a stunner in eggplant for fall ’25, Reiss Solene blazer.
Autumn Capsule Outfits
4. A wool crewneck sweater (or cardigan)
I’ve included a crewneck sweater for fall because it’s an ideal style to layer under a blazer. You could also do this with a v-neck sweater, depending on your preference.
The Quince cashmere crewneck I bought for my own fall travels. Yes, cashmere can be affordable (this one is $50), and it’s both warm and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.
Note, the Quince Crewneck comes in 10+ colors and they also have cashmere v-neck sweaters.
Affordable Cashmere Sweaters for Fall
I also have the Naadam cashmere crew, in olive (above, bottom right). A slightly higher price, equally nice and even more color choices. The New York Times recommends it as the best cashmere for the price.
For inclusive sizing (XXXS-3X), J. Crew has a nice selection of crewneck cashmere—Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck. These often go on sale.
5. Long-Sleeved Button-Up (2)
From my perspective, buttoned up in my favorite oxford shirts, these classic shirts are capsule wardrobe staples—in fall, and through the rest of the year. They are versatile and ideal for layering as the weather turns cool. Wear it on a warmer day with jeans and your sleeves rolled up, or layered under a crewneck sweater and your blazer. You can also wear them open over a tank, on a nice day.
Pictured here I am wearing the Banana Republic Oversized Button-Up Shirt, which I wear in my capsule. It’s no longer available; here are a few options.
I love Boden’s cotton shirts; I have one in blue — the Sienna Cotton Shirt and it comes in many colors and patterns. The fabric is so soft and it washes really well.
Budget pick: Quince has a lovely Organic Cotton Poplin Shirt in black and other solids and a lovely blue stripe. Loving the Hudson Stripe for fall.
6. Turtleneck Sweater
A turtleneck is ideal to wear with jeans or trousers, or to layer under a blazer or trench as is pictured above. I like a style that is thin enough to layer – nothing too bulky.
Current wool options include this Merino Wool by COS and a Cashmere Turtleneck by Quince. A more lightweight option is the Intimissimi Modal Turtleneck. (It’s a more fitted style, you may want to size up.)
And if you want to add some color to your autumn capsule, this is an ideal piece to do it with! I love these options in ocean blue, plum or rose.
For a budget pick in neutral colors, look at this Cotton Micro-Rib Turtleneck. Upgrade pick in brown — the Quince Luxe Cashmere.
Or substitute a wool cardigan for this piece.
7. A scarf/poncho
A wool wrap or poncho will be one of your favorite things. I have them in black and oatmeal and bring them on every trip. It’s a cozy layer on the plane and an ideal accent to on a cool evening. Some poncho styles allow you to wear it as a scarf as well.
Pictured here is a classic option by J. Crew: Cashmere-Wool Blend Poncho, available in six lovely colors. Quince also has a Cashmere Poncho at a great price point.
9. Tee Shirts
T-shirts are a nice capsule basic, yearround. I always wear one on the plane, under other layers in case it’s warm. Two tees are plenty for a fall capsule, unless it will be warm and you don’t have access to laundry; then I’d add a third. I chose versatile white, a black and a striped, but colors depend on your capsule colors.
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.
And I am wearing the
SHOP
Reformation makes a soft and well-priced classic: Perfect Vintage T. This tee is a relaxed fit.
Boden has a fabulous Short-Sleeved Breton T as does Amour Vert: Berkeley Dream Knit Tee.
In Motion Seamless Tank by Athleta is similar to mine which I bought a few years ago.
8. Trench Coat
Whether you pack a trench coat or a wool coat in your fall wardrobe depends on where you are going and when. Amsterdam in mid-September will differ greatly from Munich in November.
If you don’t already own a trench coat this might be the piece you invest in. A classic trench is practical, versatile, and timeless — a true wardrobe staple.
My coat is the Scott Trench from Sézane; it’s a bit of an investment but the quality is fantastic. I compared it to many other options before I made the purchase. I also love it in the olive green.
You can find this classic style at a variety of retailers and price points. Choose between single or double-breasted. As for color, tan is a classic; I also love black and navy.
This affordable option by Quince, Comfort Stretch Trench Coat is available in classic tan, black, and navy.
If you like a black trench, I think they are so chic, Everlane’s Modern Trench comes in black and three other colors.
Of course, if you want to splurge, it’s the iconic Burberry classic, the Kensington Heritage Trench.
Shoes for An Autumn Capsule Wardrobe
9. Loafers (my favorite shoe for fall)
Loafers are the MVP of my autumn capsule wardrobe for travel. Whenever I put on a nice pair of loafers, I feel more put together, so I always pack loafers for a fall trip to Europe.
Mine are a classic “horsebit” style, I also love penny loafers. And a chunky loafer is also fun.
Sam Edelman makes a nice pair of classic loafers, the Loraine, found at Nordstrom and other retailers and available in many colors. They closely resemble the gorgeous Gucci classic, the Jordaan.
I am also loving Sézane’s Albane Loafers. They come in black and three other colors including a lovely glossy burgundy. And I tried these on when I was in Reformation last week, Ani Ruched Loafer—very nice! Four colors.
Budget Pick: Quince Italian Horsebit Loafer. Three colors and under $80! They look like Gucci!
10. Boots for Fall Travel (waterproof options)
If I am traveling in fall and will be doing a lot of walking, I want my feet to stay comfortable and dry. I almost always take waterproof (or water-resistant) boots.
Unless you’re certain it won’t rain on your vacation, or maybe you have other rain-friendly footwear like water resistant sneakers, I suggest bringing boots that will keep you dry.
A go-to classic for waterproof boots is the Blondo Cammie. I’ve ordered these for myself. They are reasnably priced, lightweight, waterproof and comfortable. Ideal for travel. They come in black and brown; I am loving the Java Suede (brown), for fall 2025!
Splurge option: Aquatalia is a fantastic Italian brand with beautifully made waterproof boots. I own them and they are worth the money. You can explore options at Nordstrom (sometimes on sale).
11. Sneakers for Autumn
Any sneakers will do for a capsule wardrobe, and don’t worry about being under-dressed. Even in Paris, women wear comfy running shoes to elegantly speed along the cobblestones.
I love my Allbirds wool Sneakers for fall travel (pictured hear on a September trip to Paris). They are lightweight, comfy and washable. I will add they don’t have a sturdy enough tread for hiking but are great for walking around.
Here are more of my favorite runners and sneakers for travel.
My current favorite are the Tom’s TRVL LITE Retro Runner I have them in two colors and have worn them walking in long days exploring Europe! Very comfy.They are water repellent and stylish, yet neutral enough to work with an array of travel outfits.
Cariuma is another brand I’ve recently discovered. I tried on my sister’s pair, the IBI in Sand Knit. They are ultra-lightweight so great for travel, cute and comfy. They are also ethically and sustainably made and if you have any issues with your feet, they easily accommodate orthotics.
And Rothy’s Lace-Up Sneaker in off-white which they call “blonde” is another cute option. It would go with everything and not show dirt as much as white (but they are washable). I size up a half size in Rothy’s flats but these run true to size.
12. Accessories for Fall
Accessories are one way to add color and variety to your autumn capsule wardrobe. I always travel with scarves and chose a wool plaid for fall.
Have you considered your belt as an option for adding color? I am seeing many brightly colored belts, and love them as an accent.
The belt pictured is the Artemis by Sézane. It doesn’t have holes which makes it versatile — it can be worn higher or lower on your waist. Try belting it over a button-up shirt as I did with my black shirt in one of the photos above. I love it in icy purple.
The handbag shown is the Mini Double Loop Bag by Cuyana in the color cappuccino. I find a crossbody style the most practical for travel. In the main photo at the top of the story, the bag is the Sézane Claude (color smooth denim). A Here is a similar style by Quince, the box shoulder bag.
Here are some other colorful handbag options: Quince Italian Quilted Crossbody (olive green ), and the Saddle Crossbody from Leatherology (deep plum).
Capsule Wardrobe for Fall Travel
A good capsule wardrobe will work equally well for the day and evening. Here are three outfit combinations ideal for an evening out. Just slightly elevated from our daytime outfits, I appreciate having something to change into after sightseeing. When I have space I like to bring a lightweight blouse exclusively for the evening that works with my nicer trousers. That way, I know I will always have something to change into for dinner.
Evening Outfits
Tote Bag for an Autumn Wardrobe
I recently invested in a new tote bag, the Classic Structured Leather Tote by Cuyana. I absolutely love it. I use it most days and it’s already come with me on trips to California, Canada and Europe. Note that the one I bought is a traditional tote style with an open top. They also have gorgeous zippered totes, if you want something specifically for travel: Classic Leather Zipper Tote.
Budget option: Affordable and luxe, the Quince Italian Leather Tote.
I hope this has given you some inspiration for your autumn travel wardrobe. Whether one new scarf or a wardrobe of travel outfits created with what you already have, the most important thing is feeling good in your clothes, and comfortable as you explore, in Paris or Portland.
So which color palette will you choose for your capsule wardrobe? Please share in the comments below. And I’d love to hear where you are going this fall!
Bon voyage!
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Sustainable Clothing Brands for Capsule Wardrobes
Many of the brands listed here make sustainable production a priority. Athleta, Boden, Sézane, and Reformation 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 to sustainability and supply chain practices.
The bigger brands mentioned here, such as J. Crew and Banana Republic are making strides toward sustainability but have a long way to go. Some of their products use sustainable materials.
If you have a favorite sustainable clothing brand, please share in the comments below.
More Style & Travel Style
6 Responses
Hello,
I am planning 8 days in Paris end of April/beginning of May. I’ve been in April previously, however the weather was said to be unusually warm. Generally I go late summer. How should I construct a capsule wardrobe that anticipates both cool and warm weather (and rain)?
Hi Anita. Sounds like a great trip. But yes, you could get a lot of variation in temperature. I suggest layers that work with multiple pieces. I would definitely bring a trench or other coat for rain, as well as a couple of sweaters, a warm scarf and possibly a blazer as another possible layer. For example, when it’s cool I might layer a long sleeved button up under a thin cotton crewneck sweater and then add a blazer. Bon voyage!
I love the light pink mules you have on in one of the pictures above, what brand are they?
Hi Carol. They are from Nordstrom – the BCBGeneration Zorie Bit Mule. It looks like they aren’t currently available in pink but they come in a nice tan color. There is also the Linnie Mule by Sam Edelman. Almost identical and in 8 colors. No pink at present, but have been in pink, so perhaps check back.
Thank you for all your suggestions! I’m glad I found your blog because I’ll be going to Austria and Hungary next month. I plan to bring several items you listed here. Unfortunately I can wear only running shoes (Hoka) while I’m still recovering from an ankle injury. I love waterproof boots and loafers but will skip them this time. Since I’ll be wearing running/gym shoes, I plan to bring wide-leg pants and jeans. I might bring one pair of straight jeans depending how they look with the gym style shoes. Since I get cold easily, I might pack some silk/wool leggings in case the weather gets chilly in the morning.
Is the Scott Trench from Sezane roomy? And is the fabric flowy? I really like the trench, but it might be too long from my petite frame. J.Crew has petite sizes, but the fabric is a bit stiff and it gets wrinkle easily. Should I bring a short trench or quilt jacket instead?
Hi! Your trip sounds absolutely fantastic and running shoes will be perfect. Comfort is key in Europe. Love the leggings idea. Sorry I didn’t reply to your questions sooner. FYI, I am 5’6″. I went with my true size in the Scott Trench, 36 (US 4). I would not call the fabric flowy. I like your idea of a quilted jacket that might offer more warmth, as long as it will keep you dry too. I would go with something that covered my hips. You might check out Barbour. Have a great trip!