Ultimate Spring Travel Capsule Mixing the High and Low

ByCindy Hattersley Hours Posted on Hours Updated on
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We all know packing can be a bit of a chore. Especially when you want to look effortlessly chic without lugging your entire wardrobe. So, I’ve put together a versatile travel wardrobe, a mix of investment you may already own, and some fabulous, budget-friendly finds that make travel a breeze. It’s all about creating that perfect balance, a bit of high and a bit of low so you can travel the world with a perfectly curated collection of clothes for every destination and occasion. Ready to pack light and stylish? Le’s chat about the ultimate Spring travel capsule mixing the high and low and join my friends Jennifer from A Well Styled Life and Susan from Une Femme d’ Un Certain Age for their insight.

I posted the original of this post last year but of course many of the items are no longer available, so I am updating it will all new outfits. I usually put together a travel capsule by season. As you know, a capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. The concept behind a capsule wardrobe is that everything goes with everything. The capsule will only include limited pieces of clothing, but each piece is versatile enough to be styled in multiple ways. Having a travel capsule will save you time and money.  You will spend less time wondering what to bring, less time packing, and less time deciding what to wear each day.

Keep it Simple. Neutral colors work best. Start by thinking about where you are headed and the activities you’ll be doing. Versatility is key, so choose pieces that can be mixed and matched. Think basic tees, and shirts, versatile bottoms, and pieces that can transition from day to night. Next up, raid your closet. You will be surprised at the gems hiding in there. Take stock of what you already own and see if there are any pieces that can be repurposed for your trip

I have intermixed some cheap chic options that can be combined with your quality basics for some great looks.

Frank and Eileen Carmel Travel Set

When I travel I always wear one of Frank and Eileen’s travel sets (versatile pieces you can’t go wrong with) on the plane both ways. I am particularly fond of their terry travel sets, they add new pieces all the time. I usually pack the belfast jacket in my tote (instead of a cardigan) for an extra layer on the plane, and it is great to have during the trip as well.

How to Build a Chic Travel Capsule Mixing the High and Low

This year I added a pop of red, and a bit of leopard to my capsule wardrobe for fun. You could easily substitute whatever pop of color is in your wheelhouse, or keep it entirely neutral for simplicity. I have created twelve outfits and you could easily stretch it to 14 or 16.I try to take no more than three pairs of shoes, (sandals if weather permits) and or boots. I have included a zara skirt, and several Quince items, their cross body bag, woven leather tote, cashmere wrap, leopard scarf, cashmere sweater and their great ponte pants. ( allat a good price point.)

Travel Capsule with Zara Skirt
travel capsule with J Crew Leopard Dress

travel capsule frank and eileen & quince sweater

Travel Capsule with frank and eileen jacket & lululemon jacket

Shop the Looks

Of course you could switch out the leopard pants for pairs of jeans, a leather jacket or other outer layers, for the belfast jacket. It all depends on your lifestyle and what works for you.

Remember, don’t forget about accessories. You could add several scarves and other jewelry items to the mix for pops of color or texture. I just wanted to keep it simple here. They are the secret sauce that can elevate the most basic outfit. A statement necklace, a colorful scarf, or a great hat can instantly jazz up your look without costing a fortune.

If you wanted to expand the color palette add another t-shirt or blouse in a pop of color. A pair of white denim jeans, a blazer, swimsuits and a cover-up if you are headed anywhere with a pool. You could switch the leather sneakers out for canvas, or to white sneakers. For simplicity, I did not include all the essentials, such as sunscreen, under garments etc. I merely intended to give you styling options.

Last but not least, Pack Like a Pro. Roll, don’t fold, to maximize space in your suitcase. And don’t overpack – less is more when it comes to travel. Stick to your carefully curated capsule wardrobe, and you’ll be ready for anything your adventure throws at you. I purhased this this Quince luggage last year and have been very happy with it. You might also enjoy this article on How to Pack a Suitcase with Marie Kondo.

quince luggage tan

Creating a chic travel capsule wardrobe that is both stylish and budget-friendly is completely achievable. By following the tips and principles outlined here, you can build a versatile and styish collection of clothing that will make your travels a breeze. Remember to invest in high-quality basics, mix and match pieces, and prioritize versatility and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, a well-curated capsule wardrobe is the key to effortless and stylish travel. Go ahead and pack smartly for your next adventure, and let your wardrobe do the heavy lifting. Remember, the beauty of a capsule wardrobe is that it’s always a work in progress. So, keep experimenting, adding and subtracting pieces until you find the perfect combination for your unique style and needs. Happy travels!

SHOP THE POST

Thanks for reading Ultimate Spring Travel Capsule Mixing the High and Low. This was an exhaustive post to prepare!! You can find all of my other packing related travel posts here. Have a great day and thank you for being here.

Now let’s pop over and visit my travel savvy friends Jennifer and Susan.

A Well Styled Life

Une Femme D’un Certain Age

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48 Comments

  1. Love your website, love your fashion , but would love to see clothes for full figured women .

    1. Hi Robin

      I do my best to offer items with extended sizing as often as I can. Interestingly enough, very few ever purchase which is perplexing. I cannot show them on myself because they wouldn’t fit properly. Do you have any brands that you love?

  3. Great outfits and styling ideas! I agree that the Frank and Eileen travel sets are very chic for travel. However, the price point of nearly $500 for what is essentially an upscale jogging suit seems high to me. While I don’t mind paying for quality items, I’ll be on the lookout for a similar set at a more reasonable price.

    You always look so put together! Love your style!

    1. Hi Catherine

      I totally understand, but I always try to consider cost per wear. I live in mine.

  4. I find I pack 3x as much for local trips than *any* plane trip! Ridiculous And then I wear the same yoga pants + flip flops 😹 Great post as always.

  5. Love this! I am sitting on the plane on the way back to the East Coast, with my F & E set on.
    They make you look so put together and are so comfy.
    My only complaint with them is, the pants stretch out easily. I roll up a different pair for the return trip.
    Loved our little jaunt out to CA – coming to see you next time! 😉

  6. I love these outfits, Cindy! You’ve illustrated so well how to create multiple looks with this capsule.

  8. Completely love the addition of red and leopard to a capsule travel wardrobe. I took screenshots of some of the outfits and sent them to my Pinterest “LookBook”. I am pretty good about packing a reasonable amount for shorter trips (5 days or so). But hubby and I also make several 2 week trips a year. Usually in May and September, when weather can be variable. I have a hard time packing light for those trips because they can cover a lot of ground (most recent was CA, Carmel to Arroyo Grande) and climates vary. But also because weather moves in and out. I ended up not wearing the “hot weather” clothes I packed for that trip. Next one is Ireland, so have to pack for rain……..packable rain jacket and cute rain hat (bought on earlier trip to IRL) are easy to pack…..but also umbrella, and shoes that can take the rain.

    1. Hi Sheila

      I agree. We made a trip to Italy several years back in March. They had snow and freezing weather. I packed boots etc. Luckily I packed a pair of flip flops. I ended up wearing them because most of the days were warm when we got there. Spring is always tricky!

  9. not loving the leopard print dress looks like 15 yards of fabric + tend towards more useful items worn various ways after years of travel I can state the more I take the less I enjoy it

    1. Hi K

      I really like that leopard dress because it can be belted. I will be sharing that next week. However, I understand that many of the popular dresses right now have a lot of fabric that many do not like! Less is more when traveling…I agree!

  11. We have traveled for a month with carryons. I wear an (outfit of course) and have 2 other outfits. It gets boring but makes life SO simple. I apparently need too much stuff to keep my hair looking reasonable and need room for that, pictures last forever you know. Traveling anywhere is so easy compared to visiting my hometown. I don’t want my old friends seeing me in the same thing over and over, no matter how much I mix and match, haha!! But white anything?!? Never.

    1. Hi Pearl

      Less is more when traveling for sure. It sounds like you have it down to an art!!

  12. I just heard on the news that a couple went to check their luggage, and they were told it was going to cost $200 extra due to the weight. They went into the airport bathrooms and took out clothes and put them layered on. Went back to check in – no problem. They wore them on the plane! I am going to Paris this spring with my daughter and two young ganddaughters. The oldest one said she was taking a particular big suitcase. When I told her we always take just a carry on she just looked at me! Seriously, this was a very timely post. Half the fun of the trip is preparing your wardrobe. Our last trip of this nature was to Italy right at the start of the pandemic. We were gone 2 weeks and only took a carry-on. It can be done.

    1. Hi Lyn

      That couple must not have traveled much lately! You are right. It absolutely can be done, and it makes life so much easier!!

  13. What a great how-to to follow! I haven’t had the opportunity to travel in years but will save this post for the future. Thank you.

    1. Hi Debra

      We have not either since we have the pup!! Only short stints. When I feel comfortable enough that he won’t eat the house, I hope to! Right now he is too big a responsibility for a dog sitter for a long period!!

  14. Hi Cindy,
    I’m on a ship sailing from SFO for 80 days. I definitely agree with a travel capsule. I’ve packed one large bag, a pilots case and a carryon (Wallace backpack)for important documents, cpak, statement jewelry. This includes one week of evening wear, day wear onboard, onshore wear, shoes, hats. All interchangeable. Some thrifted. And art supplies. Enough meds for the length of the trip. I love the challenge of minimal packing, while another person onboard has a fresh outfit every day, packed in multiple boxes which was shipped to the boat and then back to her home for close to a thousand dollars.
    Neither of us are considered wealthy or booked in a suite. Just different life choices.
    Charity, thrifting, Op Shops buying are common among those I’ve met onboard.
    I miss not reading your post, WiFi isn’t often available.

    1. Hi Ann

      My friend Wren above is on a similar trip. Wouldn’t it be funny if you were on the same ship? You two world travelers need to get together! I enjoy the challenge of packing light as well. I will be traveling with a carry on tomorrow. The weather is so unpredictable right now, it is going to be tricky! Have a wonderful voyage! Report back when you return!

  16. brilliant tips as always Cindy. I’m resending this to myself so I can study it this weekend and by study I mean order. ha. if you see smoke its just my credit card. xoxo, nancy

  17. Go Cindy! Knocking it out of the park again. I’m definitely on Team Carry On. You have great suggestions. I’ve traveled that way for decades. Everything needs to layer and most be hand washable. The only thing I would add it that as much as I adore my Paris ball hat I would never wear it abroad. Sure way to get robbed or cheated. If they don’t have it for sale there you likely don’t need it. And it’s so great not to have to think about what to wear.

    1. Hi Leslie

      Agree regarding the hat…when in Paris don’t wear a Paris hat, or when in London …

  18. I just can’t travel with a limited wardrobe. I tried it once and was so bored with my chooses, plus the other lady had a different dress for every night. I felt…stale, boring and less appealing in the same three dresses.
    I don’t mind checking a bag. I do carry a small bag with some essentials, in case of loss.

    1. Hi Joanna

      I have a friend that is a consumate traveler and she can’t either. I totally understand!!

  19. Fantastic post thank you Cindy you have such a wonderful eye!! I bought the Spanx white plants you recommended and love them!
    Happy weekend:)

  20. Love this, as we are planning a trip up to Sonoma County, and I’ve been planning my capsule. Just wanted to add that, while I haven’t tried the Spanx pant, Quince carries ultra-stretch ponte pants in several styles and lengths that could be a budget-friendly substitute.

  21. Awe-I love the entire wardrobe. I am a Quince fanatic. I love love love everything that I own from Quince. I ordered my husband’s entire wardrobe for my son’s June wedding in Dominican Republic. Linen suit to linen shorts. Perfect.
    I live in my Quince cashmere boyfriend cardigan. The obsession is my sisters fault-she gifted me a gift certificate and it was off to the races ever since then.
    thanks for this wonderful post.

  22. I have those Spanx pants and love them. You’ve given me so much inspiration here!! I will be back!

    1. Hi Mary Ann

      I think you have the straight leg pants, correct? I must try them. I have the kick flare crop and the wide leg.

  23. What an awesome post Cindy! We can tell it was exhausting cause its a great reference for us fashion less peeps. Thank you so much for sharing with us. I’m going on a 10 night Spain & Portugal cruise in November & I think I’ve found my formula. I love thrifting for items for a special vacation & mixing with my closet items. Thank you again. Love your channel. – Michell

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