The phrase "capsule wardrobe" has been marketed in a way that it seems it should be something we all aspire to. And while the idea behind it sounds very appealing - a minimal collection of pieces which all work together - I personally don't think it's very realistic as a way of life for most of us. However..... creating a capsule wardrobe to take away on holiday - now that is the perfect time to whip up a capsule wardrobe.
We're all guilty of taking far too much stuff on holiday and coming home with unworn clothes. It can be difficult to predict the weather, where you might be going out in the evenings, what the etiquette will be poolside, etc. However, if we plan outfits in advance of going away and know that pieces are interchangeable and work with each other it can be a real game changer.
So let's get started.
Things to consider:
If you're going somewhere warm/hot remember to go for natural fibres such as cotton and linen - these are far more breathable than synthetics and will help to keep you cool.
Holiday is not the time to bring your new unworn sandals - make sure everything you bring is comfortable and trustworthy!
Use a colour palette that works together - this will give you more options and versatility when it comes to mixing and matching.
It's ok to wear outfits on repeat. You don't need to have a new outfit everyday - simply letting a top air after wearing it will freshen it up or bring a little travel wash with you to handwash garments.
The parameters I'm going with here is that it's a 7 day trip and somewhere reasonably warm. Feel free to swap some of my options here depending on your own criteria.
3 bottoms - 1 pair trousers which you will travel in (e.g. jeans/linen) and 2 pairs of shorts (e.g. denim & other)
2 dresses
4 tops - 2 tee-shirts (1 of these for travelling in) and 2 "nice" tops (e.g. for dinner in the evenings)
2 swimsuits/bikinis - these can be worn with your shorts during the day too to create different looks
1 shirt - to be worn with shorts or over a dress/swimsuit
1 jumper - for travelling or if it's cold in the evenings
1 light jacket
Trainers (again, travelling in)
Sandals
Nightwear (putting this in as this is often the thing I forget!!)
Accessories - sunglasses, hat/scarf, jewellery, a belt, small handbag.
I've done the sums and this formula ensures everything can be worn at least twice by having 2 outfits each day.
Now there is a reason I'm writing this piece in April. I don't want you to realise a week before you head off on summer holidays that you've nothing to wear and quickly panic buy online. I'm giving you homework! Â I want you to look in your wardrobe early on, see what you have, decide what pieces can work together and consider if you need anything to make this holiday capsule wardrobe work for you. This will give you time to carefully purchase items in a thoughtful way.
So the next time you have an hour why not prepare for your hols - put the items which fit with this checklist out on your bed and see if you're happy with the options. Is there a cohesiveness to the colours? If so, that will allow all of these clothes to work well with each other and mean you can be creative with your outfits and have a versatile holiday wardrobe.
By creating your very own holiday capsule wardrobe you can be thrifty with your packing, not stress with what to wear and ensure you won't be over the weight limit when you get to the airport check in! You'll also have plenty of room to bring back some market or foodie purchases to enjoy when you get back home. Win win!
Happy packing,
Lou x