How to Build a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

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We are huge fans of packing light for international travel! You'll never regret it. But exactly how do you do it?

With a Capsule Wardrobe.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe is easy. Choose a color scheme and make sure everything mixes and matches.

People often promote the 5-4-3-2-1 method as a general guideline, and we approve.

Choose 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 layers, 2 pairs of shoes, and 1 dress that all go together.

Of course, you'll need to pay attention to weather forecasts, trip focus, etc., to determine whether to throw in your bikini or carry your parka onboard your flight.

With a travel capsule wardrobe, you can usually manage to pack everything inside a wheeled carry on, and that will make your trip so much simpler. 

Pro tip: Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics. 

​Worried about one color scheme or repeat outfits? Don't be! You can change the look with a scarf, jewelry, or shoe change. Plus, unless you're parking yourself in one destination, not many people are going to see any repeats. And when you mix and match, you can get 30 or more outfits out of just a few items!

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Sample women's capsule wardrobe for a spring Italian vacation:

5 Tops

• 2 T-shirts, short or 3/4 sleeve
• 1 dressy top
• 1 collared shirt that can also go over a t-shirt or under a cardigan
• 1 flowy top--long or short; something fun

4 Bottoms

• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 wide-leg pant
• 1 cropped pant or a skirt
• 1 pair of leggings

3 Layers

• 1 lightweight jacket
• 1 lightweight cardigan or kimono
• 1 tailored jacket

2 Pairs of Shoes

• Dressy flat, sandal, or wedge
• Comfortable white tennis shoe

1 Dress
Go from day to night by adding a t-shirt, leggings, jacket, sweater, jewelry, or scarf to change the look. Switch shoes for an easy update.