It’s a well-known fact that I tend to overpack when traveling. A girl needs options, after all! What if I get to my destination and the weather is not as expected? What if I’m not in the mood to wear what I packed? These are super important considerations, after all; and I’ve actually experienced each, hence my penchant for adding a few extras to the mix.
I do love a good capsule, however. For years, I built my wardrobe around the concept of color capsules of navy, caramel, cream, and black. I’d add a pop of red, warm pink, or warm blue to the mix and when the leopard pattern came on to the scene, I raised my hand and said “yes, please!” Having a few “pop” colors and a few on-trend pieces help keep the wardrobe from getting stale.
This season, with many of my favorite neutral tones on trend, I decided to play a little with some of my favorite color palettes. Early in the spring, I purchased a pink leopard print blouse which I got lots of wear out of even as the weather warmed. (Button-ups are great as swim coverups, and worn open over a cami and a pair of wide-leg pants.) I just love the color and the pattern. It looks amazing with cream, blue jeans, and with caramel tones, so I thought it would be the perfect anchor piece for my four-piece capsule.
Back in the day, I would often build mini capsules like this for business travel. I’d make sure I had a pair of comfortable pants, a skirt, and two (or more tops) which I could mix and match during the whole trip. I’d pack a pair of heels and a bootie or flats and I’d be good for a two or three-day conference. Though, I must confess, once I had the capsule pulled together, I’d often add a second, or throw in more shirts and possibly a pair of jeans.
In the first look, I am wearing a caramel two-piece knit, perfect for travel because it packs well and can be accessorized several different ways with necklaces, or scarves.
I can wear the cream wide-leg crop jeans with the pink leopard top or the caramel knit or both! And, finally, I can wear the skirt with the blouse styled several different ways, depending on my mood. Using the button-down as a swimsuit cover-up is a great way to expand your capsule to the pool.
To create a similar capsule you will need:
One two-piece same color skirt or pants and top. (A business suit will also work here)
A patterned button-down blouse that goes with the solid pieces above.
A pair of complementary trousers or jeans. Heck, why not both?
One or two pairs of shoes
A few complimentary scarves and necklaces.
…and you are good to go.
Do you use the capsule wardrobe technique? What are your favorite capsule color combinations?
Grab a copy of my worksheet Important Questions To Ask Yourself Before Shopping for Clothes–it will help you hone in on what you will really wear this season.
Mature Style: Summer Shapewear for Women Over 50
Spring Dresses for Women Over 50
I really like that pink leopard print top, cute. I do the same when I travel… pack a set of things that I can mix and match with each other.
I am loving these neutral fall colors! So many amazing outfits to inspire me as I transition my wardrobe. Have a gret weekend, my friend!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
This is such a helpful post! I definitely tend to overpack also while traveling!
https://colorandgrace.com/
I love all of these pieces on you! How smart too to wear the basic colors of navy, cream, black and camel and add bits of color. The leopard print top with the camel skirt is so pretty! Im going to have to pack like this when I go to Nashville in Nov. May I ask where you bought the first set, I just LOVE camel and have been looking for something like this. thanks Nina! You beautiful!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
I got that at Mango! My new best friend.
I have bought much from Mango for Spring and summer, it was my go to! Do you have the links for the sweater and skirt. It looks so fab, and as seperates! thank you!!
I also do a capsule when I travel, packing mostly neutral pieces with one accent color. And I make sure that everything can be worn together—it gives you so much more flexibility!
Cheryl Shops | www.
I love the knitted two piece and the pink leopard shirt! I always overpack too for exactly the same reasons, although I’m slowly getting better! Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com