Fall is my absolute favorite time of year. It’s also an ideal time to travel. With temperatures that can fluctuate from warm to crisp it’s necessary to have layers of clothing to stay comfortable. Use my template as a guide and and adjust any items to suit your travel needs and the climate of your destination.
I channeled a bit of inspiration from the 70’s in putting this fall capsule wardrobe together. I also added another outerwear piece to the traditional trench to change the vibe and feeling of the looks. Two pieces of outerwear can stretch the limits on packing light so use your best judgement and wear your bulkiest pieces in transit.
This capsule consists of 11 mostly neutral pieces with bits of pattern and texture thrown in the mix. For more packing light inspiration check out this post.
Trench Coat
You can’t go wrong with packing a trench coat. For ideas on how to style your trench check out my ode to the trench coat here. Zara Trench.
Light Suede Jacket
A lightweight suede jacket can give you just enough warmth to fashionably handle cool evenings. This topper is a great piece to wear when your travel activities take you from day to evening without a break. Suede Jacket.
Long Cardigan
Long Cardigans are trending strongly right now and just about every major retailer is carrying a version of this sweater. It’s a versatile piece that can go with just about anything. For the purposes of this capsule it could go with the dress, jeans, skirts or trousers. In colder weather it can layer under the trench for added warmth. Long Cardigan.
Black Blouse
A simple silk blouse gives jeans a boost and can dress up easily with black trousers. Silk also has the advantage of being super lightweight which is just what you need to pack light. Layer with the cardigan, trench or suede jacket in cooler weather. Silk blouse.
Day to Evening Dress
Finding the perfect travel dress can be challenging if you don’t already own one. It’s worth the effort because a dress gives you the ultimate in pack-ability. Ideally you’ll choose a dress that’s that rare breed that can looks as appropriate for evening travel activities as it does for day. Paisley Print Dress.
Grey Tee
While it is nice to be dressed up when you travel it’s also important to be comfortable. That’s why I always advocate packing at least one tee shirt. Look for tees with nice draping or special details to keep you from looking too casual. Tees can be kept casual with a cardigan topper or dressed up with a blazer or trench. Side slit grey tee.
Flared Jeans
Flared or bootcut jeans are a nice alternative to skinnies. Look for a flattering cut that coordinates with your travel footwear. Flared jeans.
Blue Button Down Shirt
Button down shirts are a classic and easy to style for travel. They pair well with dressy and casual pieces and layer well under toppers. You don’t just have to go for a solid color, plaids and other patterns will add some fun to your travel wardrobe. Blue button down.
Denim Skirt
The denim skirt is having a bit of a revival and I’m adopting it as a travel piece. It can pair up with everything from sneakers to dressier footwear and a pair of tights can extend its wear-ability. There’s silhouettes that vary from pencil to A-line so choose what works best for you. Denim Skirt.
Striped Long Sleeve Tee
A striped top gives you all the comforts of a tee shirt but the timeless pattern helps travel outfits from being too plain. If you’re not into stripes find another pattern or solid color that suits your travel look. Striped top.
Cropped Black Trousers
Black pants with a cropped cut have a modern feel and work well with loafers and surprisingly sneakers. They also offer the basis for a smart travel outfit if that’s what you require. Cropped black trousers. Cropped Black Trousers.
3 Pairs of Shoes
Booties and Sneakers will get you through most of your travel activities. Loafers will help provide a pulled together look. Check out my Pinterest boards for ideas on how to wear your sneakers and booties for travel.
Accessories
Accessories really add the finishing touch to your travel outfits but we are packing light so need to go overboard. Scarves are perfect for travel and if you don’t believe me just read my 12 reasons to always pack a scarf. A lightweight casual scarf is great for wearing in transit and with more casual outfits. A dressy scarf adds a fun touch to a tee shirt or to a blouse. For practical purposes, it’s nice to have a warm and cozy scarf to wrap around your neck on chilly day.
A large tote will serve you well as your airplane carry-on and your day bag to hold all your travel essentials. Choose a tote that’s zippable and can be worn across the body for extra security in crowded areas. A smaller clutch or handbag is nice for evening travel activities. Keep jewelry simple and to a minimum with dainty necklaces and earrings. A wool hat is not essential but it’s nice to have during drizzly, rainy weather. A nice pair of sunglasses, however, are absolutely essential.