How to Pack a Rotating Capsule Wardrobe (Aka, Our Guide to Not Overpacking)

This classic button-down is made of a breathable, yet sturdy cotton, so it works in different climates and won’t get too wrinkled in your suitcase. Throw it on over a tank and leggings for a more elevated look at the airport, before pairing it with jeans and statement earrings for dinner after you land. ($148, Buck Mason)

We believe a layering tank should be equal parts stretchy and breathable (without being see-through) for optimal wearability. This tank checks both those boxes. It’s made with a soft knit fabric that hugs your body without being too tight. It won’t add bulk layered under a sweater, but also offers enough coverage to wear on its own. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon) 

These wide-leg editor pants have become a staple here at HQ, because they look business-casual while feeling like athleisure. They’re made with a unique Japanese crepe fabric that holds its pleats well, even after you’ve tossed them in the wash, and come in 16 chic colors. ($148, Aritzia)

If you like your sweaters to feel like a blanket with sleeves, you’ll love this slouchy, oversized cardigan. It’s made from 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere that’s insanely cozy and sustainably sourced. Since it’s designed to be loose-fitting, you can consider this a chicer alternative to your travel hoodie. ($139.90, Quince)

There's no need to spend extra on trendy “vacation” jewelry. Instead, bring one or two of your favorite accessories, and add these silver and gold huggies to help bring the whole look together. They’re water-resistant, which makes them a great option for any beach or lake trips, and won’t cause irritation for anyone with sensitive skin. ($65, Ana Luisa)

A good transitional sneaker is the cornerstone of any capsule wardrobe. We love this cool and casual pair because it has a cushioned memory foam insole and comes in standout prints and color combos. They're a great option when you want to dress down a dress or a skirt, or dress up a pair of shorts or jeans. Oh, and did we mention they’re under $25? ($22.98, Walmart)

Our favorite thing about this skirt is not only that it comes in three lengths (mini, midi, and maxi), but it goes just as well with a cropped T-shirt as it does a going out top. In other words, this might actually give your go-to jeans a run for their money. The skirt’s 100% silk fabric gives it its shine and won’t get destroyed in the wash. Add a tee and sneakers for walking around town, and swap in strappy heels and a leather jacket for a nighttime look with just enough edge. ($69.90, Quince)

Speaking of transitioning from day to night, this adjustable Cuyana crossbody reigns supreme when it comes to versatile accessories. It’s large enough to fit travel essentials like a wallet, phone, hotel room key, and any knickknacks you pick up along the way; and small enough to look polished for nice dinners. ($298, Cuyana)

If you need more space for your things, this buttery leather bucket tote from Madewell is your solve. It has a large opening with a magnetic closure, which makes it easy to fill it up without having to take it off your shoulder. The strap is adjustable and wide, so it won’t dig into your shoulder — even when stuffed with a laptop, notebooks, wallet, camera, phone, chargers, and more. ($198, Madewell) 

If you’re racing from plane to train to car (or any combination of these) without any time to freshen up before the evening, let this midi dress do the work for you. It’s impossibly chic, thanks to its boat neckline and ribbed cotton-cashmere knit material, and requires exactly 10 seconds to put together (i.e. throw on). While it works perfectly well on its own, we would add bold earrings and a light jacket to complete the look. ($59.90, Quince)

There’s just something about a blazer over jeans and a tee that gets us going. For travel, we recommend this one from Garnet Hill. The fit is looser and the wrinkle-resistant material has more give than a traditional blazer, so you can easily roll up your sleeves. It has two pockets in the front and folds up easily in case you get hot and want to toss it in your bag. ($179, Garnet Hill) 

When choosing jeans for a trip, we believe you can get away with just one pair: these. They’re a true straight-leg that sit right at your waist. The frayed hem at the bottom hits just above your ankle, so they’ll go with any shoe. ($98, Free People) 

For something more elevated than a sneaker, go for these black booties.  The two-inch block heel adds height without sacrificing comfort, and you can wear them for just about any occasion. They’re Clarks, so you know they’re going to be just as comfortable as a pair of walking shoes. ($99.99, DSW) 

Just because you’re visiting a city riddled with cobblestone streets or a small town up in the mountains, doesn’t mean you should be afraid to pack a pair of heels. We find these slip-on heels to be the least intimidating option. The low, wide heel is actually easy to walk in (we promise), and the square toe and minimalist design make them a versatile option for any outfit. ($69.95, Nordstrom)