I’m a big fan of the “work smarter, not harder” mentality. As it pertains to clothes, the mantra aligns with the idea of capsule wardrobes, which prioritize versatile staples that can be mixed and matched. If there’s any time to test out the method, it’s while you’re jet-setting. Packing is hard, but a curated wardrobe makes it easier. As such, I present you with the ultimate capsule wardrobe for traveling.
You could fill your suitcase with items you might wear, or you could use your space wisely, packing items you know you’ll wear. Ahead, I’m breaking down the nine categories that I think are must-haves while traveling.
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The Oxford Shirt
You see a button-down shirt; I see a standalone top, a layer, and a lightweight shoulder covering all rolled into one breezy essential.
Classic Fit Cotton Oxford Shirt, $289, Ralph Lauren.
The Swimsuit
I never travel without a swimsuit; you never know when your hotel might have a hot tub or pool. You can’t go wrong with a classic black two-piece.
DG-logo Triangle Bikini, $830, Dolce & Gabbana at Farfetch.
The Jeans
Denim: the workhorse of every woman’s wardrobe. Levi’s 501s are tried-and-true for good reason.
501 Straight Jeans, $137.93, Levi's at Revolve.
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The Sneaker
Sneakers are a given when it comes to traveling, especially if you plan on sight-seeing or touring a city on foot.
VL Court 3.0 Shoes, $69, Adidas.
The Utilitarian Bag
What do I mean by utilitarian? For travel, that means having a zip-top closure and a crossbody strap. Consider these your two safety essentials for travel bags.
Side Trunk MM East West, $5,650, Louis Vuitton.
The Trouser
It’s hard to find a pair of pants that look nice, feel good, and pack well. I love this pair from Vuori, which are wrinkle-resistant and comfortable enough to wear all day.
Elevation Trouser, $225, Vuori.
The Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a travel no-brainer. Don’t pack your most expensive or treasured pair in case they get lost or broken. Instead, go for a more affordable style, like these.
Sunglasses, $280, Longchamp.
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The Day-to-Night Dress
I recently tested this dress for a story and couldn’t believe its versatility (and comfort). It looks darling with sneakers during the day, but you can easily dress is up for a fancy dinner or event.
The Sloane Dress, $302, Hill House.
The Ballet Flat
I really debated what shoes to include in this capsule, and ballet flats won out. You’ll reach for them more than you would a heel, plus they take up less space. And these are machine washable!
Élan Nappa Leather Ballerinas, $1,490, Miu Miu.
This article was first seen in ELLE US.