SPRING TRAVEL CAPSULE

Spring travel requires versatile clothing that can help you adapt to quickly changing weather situations. Crisp mornings may warm up or stay cool depending on where you visit. Layers help keep you warm and give you lots of outfit options. This 12 piece capsule includes some dressy options. Just take these as suggestions to help you build your spring travel wardrobe. If you are visiting somewhere rainy, you may want to consider pair of waterproof booties like these in addition to a waterproof outer layer like the jacket shown in the capsule. You don’t want a little rain slowing you down.

The neutral palette makes it easy to add in splashes of color here and there. Adjust your palette to suit your taste and destination but I find it easier to mix and match with a base set of neutrals to work with. In order to pack light choose lightweight knits and synthetic fabrications. Refer to my How to Pack Light post for more packing light suggestions.

Trench
I’ve gone in depth about my love affair with the trench so of course I thought I’d include it in this Spring Capsule. It’s the ultimate in versatility and light enough for warm spring weather. If a trench isn’t your thing an olive green parka is a modern classic, check out this one or this one. Classic cotton trench coat.

Wind/Rain Resistant Layer
The Marmot Precip Jacket shown above provides breathable protection from spring rains and windy days and can be layered over your lightweight layers. If your destination does not call for rain you can of course leave off this item but I generally pack a raincoat just in case.

Draped Jacket
Draped jackets offer a slightly less structured silhouette than a blazer yet still look dressed up. A draped jacket can dress up jeans and a tee shirt or add a finishing layer to blouses or dresses. Black Waterfall Structured Jacket.

Open Knit Sweater
An open knit sweater will keep you warm but with a slightly looser weave it won’t overheat you once the weather warms up. It can be layered over a tee and paired with the trench or draped jacket. Open Knit Sweater.

Open Cardigan
A cardigan adds to your layering and outfit options. Layer a cardi over a tee shirt with jeans and you’ve got a comfortable airplane outfit. Top it off with a trench and you add a bit of jet-set chic to your comfy traveling outfit. Dolman Sleeve Cardigan.

Long Sleeve Tee Shirt
Nothing beats a good tee shirt for layering. Look for fabrications like this top that are all synthetic so it won’t take up much room in your suitcase. Layer it under the cardigan or sweater as part of your airplane ensemble. Dolman Sleeve Tee shirt.

Short Sleeve Tee
A nice pop of color keeps your functional travel wardrobe from looking too dull. This tee pairs nicely with travel sneakers and layers easily under the trench. V-neck classic top.

Day to Night Dress
If you need to dress up during your travels you can choose a dress specifically for your event or try and find a multi-functional dress that can work during the day or evening. Striped Dress.

2 Scarves
Lightweight scarves can help add another warming light layer and give you another opportunity to accessorize. Bring along a scarf like the Black Crinkled Cashmere Wrap to keep you warm during a cold flight. On warm spring days go for a lightweight scarf like the Modal/Silk blend scarf shown above.

Short Sleeve Blouse
A short sleeve blouse gives you a nice option for warm spring days when you don’t have to hide under layers. Go for one that can transition from day to night if possible. Printed Tunic.

Long Sleeve Blouse
A long sleeve blouse will keep you looking dressy casual and comfortable if the temperatures haven’t warmed up yet. A neutral print can be worn with jeans or pants and worn with the Draped Jacket for a more dressed up look. Long Sleeve Blouse.

Handbags
An all purpose tote can serve as your personal carry-on bag and your day bag during your travels. Make sure you get one with a zipper for a little added security. A small clutch takes up barely room in your suitcase and will help complete dressy and casual/dressy outfits. Tote, Clutch.

2 Pants
Dark wash jeans are versatile and can be dressed up or down and for this capsule can be combined with all 3 footwear options. This particular pair from Zara is cotton blended with modal so they will be more lightweight than typical jeans. If your activities call for a smart casual or dressed up look, pack a pair of black pants. Or you can always add in another dress or skirt for dressy outfits. If your travel activities are on the casual end, another pair of jeans can be packed instead.

3 Pairs of Shoes
As long as you’ve planned your travel wardrobe carefully you shouldn’t need more than 3 pairs of shoes. Depending on your destination and the type of trip you’re taking you will probably need a good pair of walking shoes. Luckily sneakers are having a “fashion moment” and can be incorporated into travel outfits without looking too touristy, check out my Pinterest Board for styling ideas. The sneakers shown are the Nike Internationalist from J. Crew. The Cut-out booties shown above have a transitional feel to them and they work well in warm or cooler spring weather and give you more of a dressy/casual look. If you’ve packed dressier looks, a shoe like the “Now” open toe bootie from Steve Madden provide a nice alternative to pumps.

Later this week I’ll provide ideas on different outfit options using this Spring Capsule. What are your biggest struggles in packing for Spring?

Here’s a free Spring Carry-On Travel Checklist to get you started!