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

A button-down shirt needs no introduction. This one is made of breathable, yet sturdy cotton, so it works in all kinds of climates and won’t get too wrinkled in your suitcase. Wear it open over a tank with jeans and sneakers for daytime, then with trousers, heels, and earrings for dinner. ($138, Buck Mason)

No matter what climate you’re heading to, you need a couple of these tanks in your rotation. These are soft, stretchy, and light enough to wear underneath sweaters without adding bulk. Or wear them as is — they’re not see-through. Since they’re so inexpensive, you can pick up a few in different colors. ($12, Parade)

Fashion girls know the Aritzia Effortless Pant. These trousers are slouchy but not sloppy, lightweight but not flimsy, and go with literally anything you throw at them — from a nice top and heels for cocktails, to sneakers and a sweater for daytime. They’re even comfy enough to wear on the plane. Plus, they come in four inseam lengths and over 20 colors, so there’s something for everyone. ($148, Aritzia)

Reformation may be known for wedding guest dresses and going-out tops, but they also make some of the best cashmere sweaters on the market. This Boyfriend Sweater is one editor’s holy grail. It’s the softest sweater she owns, and it’s roomy enough to layer over a T-shirt while still looking polished. And since it’s not super thick, you can easily tuck it into jeans to look even more put-together. She’s asking for it in another color for the holidays this year. One is simply not enough. ($168, Reformation)

While you don’t have unlimited room in your suitcase for clothes and shoes, you can pack a little more jewelry. These knot earrings are a great place to start — they’re small enough to wear daily and elevated enough to dress up an outfit for evening. SInce they’re mixed-metal they’ll go with any other jewelry you have on (though sticking with one metal palette is passé, don’t at us). These cost under $100, though you might have seen that knot design on some pairs that cost double the amount. ($90, Heaven Mayhem)

Yes, everyone is still wearing Sambas. Which means they’re incredibly versatile — you can even get away with wearing them with a slip skirt for cocktails, and they’ll make a simple jeans-and-a-tee outfit look cool. Luckily for city-goers, they’re comfortable for hours-long adventures. ($100, Adidas)

The slip skirt in question. It’ll take up approximately zero space in your suitcase, and it’s the platonic ideal of a day-to-night piece. We also love that it has a comfortable elasticated waistband and comes in three separate size ranges: standard, petite, and plus. If it’s wrinkled on arrival, use the bathroom-steaming method or embrace the effortlessly-undone look. A little bit of rumple never hurt anyone. ($98+, Anthropologie)

You really only need to pack one purse, so long as it’s as versatile as this one. This crossbody bag has an adjustable strap, so you can also wear it slung over your shoulder, and the textured black leather will go with anything you pack. The chain-link strap elevates it for nighttime purposes. ($228, Nordstrom)

Need a bag with more room for your daytime activities? Use this one from Quince, which can also work as your carry-on tote. It’s made of nylon, so it won’t add any extra weight as you stuff it full of newly-purchased items, and the leather straps add a stylish touch. We also love that it has a padded laptop sleeve and a few inner pockets to keep all your things organized and within easy reach. ($89, Quince)

This $35 midi dress looks much more expensive than it is, thanks to its trendy high neck, cap sleeves, and ruched bodice. The midi length looks good with any shoe height, from knee-high boots to strappy sandals. Plus, the stretchy rayon-and-cotton blend won’t wrinkle. ($24.49, Old Navy)

There’s nothing a classic blazer doesn’t look good with. Wear it on the plane as your outer layer, during the day with jeans and a sweater, and then at night over your skirt, dress, or nice top. This one has a trendy, slightly oversized fit and comes in a great selection of colors and prints. ($198, Everlane)

No travel capsule collection is complete without a pair of jeans. The Levi’s Ribcage jean is a classic for a reason: The ankle length, high rise, and straight leg look good on every body, with every top, and with every shoe. Good news for longer trips — the more you wear them (and the less you wash them), the more comfortable they get. ($98, Levi’s)

Chelsea boots are ideal for a travel capsule wardrobe since they’re super comfortable and look great with everything. And since they don’t have laces or buttons, they’ll get you out the door of your hotel (or that boutique changing room) in seconds. These have a small stacked heel — which we think is even more comfortable than a completely flat sole — and an almond-shaped toe that won’t squish your toes. Wear these on the plane to save even more room in your suitcase. ($238, Stuart Weitzman)

You might not need to pack heels, but if you do, opt for a pair you can walk in. Because what’s more magical than a post-dinner stroll in a far-flung locale? These Dolce Vita sandals have an ankle strap for stability, and a low, wide heel that won’t get stuck in those pesky European cobblestones. Chic with jeans, sexy with a silk skirt. ($69.90, Dolce Vita)