The key to packing for a European excursion without sacrificing style? Create a suitcase-friendly capsule wardrobe for your vacation. You’ll be leveraging versatile pieces that can be worn in many different combinations, with finishing pieces that’ll amp up the style factor for a myriad of occasions.
Here’s what to pack for a European vacation.
Pack Jeans, Pants and Leggings in Neutral Colors
Jeans and leggings are wardrobe workhorses that can be worn 3-5 times before washing, freeing space in your suitcase. Dark wash jeans with a colorful blouse and booties can take you cozily from cappuccinos to champagne.
What pants you should pack:
- Dark wash denim
- Black Leggings
- Neutral shorts (spring & summer)
- Neutral Pants (fall & winter)
Stylist Packing Tip: Pack less and wash more with a Ziploc baggie of laundry detergent and travel set of twine and clothespins. Pour it into the tub or sink when you’re ready to wash your duds!
Bring Tops That Match with Everything
Prioritize all-purpose tops that can be worn with multiple outfits. Change up your looks by tucking, knotting or layering your shirts.
What tops to pack:
- Neutral tees
- Chambray button-down top (doubles as a lightweight layer)
- Striped top
- Lightweight blouse
- Short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops (spring & summer)
- Mid to heavyweight sweaters (fall & winter)
Stylist Packing Tip: Once you’ve arrived at your destination, hang your pieces ASAP and place any wrinkled pieces in the bathroom to steam while you shower.
Choose Dresses That Pull Double Duty
Pack shift and T-shirt dresses that can double as long tops with leggings or jeans while sightseeing. Bring your favorite LBD and change up your accessories, footwear and jackets to give your dress a new look.
What dresses to pack:
- LBD
- T-shirt or shift dress
- Sundress (spring & summer)
- Sweater dress (fall & winter)
Stylist Packing Tip: Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less prone to wrinkles than folded items.
Rely on Lightweight Layers
Warm up your looks with a jacket or cardigan that goes with anything. Offering toasty warmth without the weight, packable jackets and coats roll up and compress into a small, space-saving bag.
What layers to pack:
- Lightweight cardigan
- Zip-up knit hoodie
- Denim jacket (spring & summer)
- Packable puffer coat (fall & winter)
- Peacoat or dress coat (winter)
Stylist packing tip: Wear a heavier layer on the plane to save room in your suitcase—plus, it can double as a cozy seat blanket!
Favor Comfortable Footwear
The single most important thing to go in your suitcase should be comfortable shoes. Nothing can put a see-ya on the sightseeing like blisters and painful feet, so choose footwear with added features like padded insoles for extra comfort. Opt for neutral colors like white, black and gray for easy day-to-night styling.
What shoes to pack:
- Fashion sneakers
- Booties
- Flats
- Sandals (spring & summer)
Stylist Packing Tip: Bring Band-Aids in case you get a blister.
Carry a Hands-Free Bag
Jet-setting is easier with free hands, so bring a functional crossbody or a belt bag in go-with-anything hues like navy, black or cognac.
What bags to pack:
- Convertible crossbody/clutch
- Belt bag
- Roll-up canvas tote bag for the beach (spring & summer)
Stylist Packing Tip: A crossbody with a detachable strap can convert to a clutch for evenings out.
Mix It up with Jewelry, Scarves and Hats
When you’re rotating the same items over and over, you can ensure a unique look every day and showcase your personal style with a few key jewelry items, scarves and hats.
What Accessories to pack:
- Classic stud earrings (like pearls or gemstones)
- Pendant or dainty necklace
- Statement earrings
- Statement necklace
- Colorful and/or printed scarf
- Brim hat
- Knit beanie (fall & winter)
—Megan & Tiffany
Are your plane tickets booked for an upcoming European vacation? Well, it’s time to get packing and our expert stylists are here to help. Take your style quiz and let us know which mix-and-match pieces you need most for your travels. Let this be one less thing you have to worry about. Five curated items will arrive on your doorstep—keep what you love and send back the rest. It’s as simple as that. Bon voyage, globetrotter.