I’ve been fascinated by the idea of a capsule wardrobe for the last year or so. I don’t know that I’d really be able to commit to it fully at this point in my life, (I think someday I might be, just not quite yet.) But, when it comes to travel, I’m totally a capsule girl.
I adopted this method of packing years ago, (I think it was when we went on our first trip to NYC) and I have never looked back. It made the trip so much better, I packed lighter than I’d ever packed, but was more prepared for what we were doing, and didn’t have to spend valuable “trip” time figuring out what I was going to wear.
So how does capsule packing work? It’s funny and almost counter intuitive. You’d think that the more you pack the better prepared you’ll feel and the easier it will be to get dressed, but I’ve found the opposite to be true. They call it the paradox of choice; i.e.. too many choices causes clutter which equals anxiety and frustration. For me capsule packing is all about simplifying: picking versatile neutrals that can be mixed and matched and are interchangeable with each other. I generally stick with one base color (usually black or navy) and work from there. If I’m going to add in color, I’ll typically add in one color that can work with everything I’ve packed. (Poppy is a great option; mint is as well.) This trip, I was feeling a little mono-chromatic so I stuck with black and white. (And yes, I am perfectly aware of how many stripes I’ve packed. I couldn’t help myself.)
The great thing about packing this way is that all your clothes can multi-task and it really simplifies the whole process especially with regard to your shoes. I usually stick with 3 pairs. Heels, sneakers, and a pair of casual shoes (flipflops/sandals in the summer, boots or booties in the winter) Shoes are a space/weight killer when you’re traveling, so keeping it all streamlined really helps cutting down how many pairs you need. **little tip for you. Cognac and camel are magic colors when packing shoes. They go with everything.
When I pack right, I can fit all my clothes in my favorite overnight bag and still dress myself for around two weeks. See my top 12 favorite outfits I put together with just what I’ve packed for this trip below.
(all items are clickable)
What are your tricks for a streamlined packing process, and dressing well when you’re traveling?
Any questions about capsule packing? Feel free to leave them below!
