travel wardrobe europe spring

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Spring

Europe Packing List , Packing , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Spring in Europe is a beautiful time of year to visit, whether you’re north in Ireland or south in Italy. We’re sharing our ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring to help you nail your travel wardrobe.

Packing for Europe in Spring

Table of contents.

Europe can be an unpredictable place to travel to in terms of weather, and no matter what time of year you go, you could get sun or rain. It’s a huge continent with stunning and diverse countries, and vacations here can last from a weekend getaway to an entire year.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast for each destination on your itinerary before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Spring in Europe runs from March through May and can be a beautiful time to visit, as the temperature is warming up and the tourists have yet to arrive. While the flowers will be starting to bloom, the weather will still be pretty cool and rainy in some parts of the continent.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

• How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
• How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
• How to Pack for Europe in Spring
• Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

No matter where you visit, you should always be prepared for changing conditions, using layers and accessories to ensure you stay comfortable if the weather changes.

Tip: If the weather forecast predicts colder weather, read our  packing guide for Europe in Winter !

Using tips from our readers, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring:

Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench Coat Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | S-XXL Tall | 1X-3X Plus

United Kingdom

The weather in the UK is always unpredictable, including spring time. One of the most important things to remember is that just because it’s “spring” doesn’t mean it will necessarily be warm. The weather can vary hugely hour by hour and day by day.

In general, the east is drier than the west, and it’s cooler up north than it is south. And then there’s the rain, which can be expected in spring, along with wind, especially in hilly or mountainous areas. However, there can still be sunnier days.

Because of the varied weather, layering is a must. Wear a merino base layer and add a sweater and a beanie hat that won’t blow off from the wind. Don’t forget gloves and a scarf ! For shoes, pack a few pairs. Flats are great for days when it’s warmer or for a dinner out. For walking and rainy days, wear flat ankle boots .

You’ll also need a raincoat  when packing for Europe in spring. If you’re in a busy city like London, forget the umbrella as it will be hard to carry around in crowds. Wear a hat or a jacket with a hood. Stick to a lightweight, windproof, waterproof jacket and wear a fleece zip-up underneath for colder days.

Tip : The Tube and trains can get very hot, so this is where layers come in handy! Make it easy to strip off layers as you go into warmer buildings and out into the cold. 

Want more tips? Find out  what to pack for London  year round!

Qunice Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater : Sizes XS-XL

France is beautiful in spring, but it can still be chilly in the early months. In some parts, you can expect frost until May, while in the south, it can get suddenly warm by May and summer can appear early. If you’re near the Alps or Alsace region, expect colder temperatures, while the weather will be more mild in Nice and French Riviera regions.

When packing for Europe in spring, choose “smart” or “dressed up” casual attire. For example, you could wear well-tailored jeans with a white shirt , trench coat , and comfortable ankle boots . Depending on how much time you plan to spend outdoors and how low the temperatures, you may need warmer outerwear, so you can plan to layer for the weather as needed.

A sweater dress would be comfortable for indoors or outdoors with thick tights , while a cinched shift dress with thin stockings can be worn both museum-hopping or dancing at night as things warm up. You can also layer thin and thick tights if the temperature drops or wear them under jeans or leggings .

For outerwear, opt for durable synthetics that provide a measure of warmth plus wind- protection– especially near the coast. A weatherproof shell or rain jacket will help keep you dry, but be prepared for slippery cobblestone as well.

Tip : Springtime in France is less crowded, but it can also be wetter from other seasons and places. A rain poncho or travel umbrella will keep you and your bag dry and will save you up to 42 Euros for an umbrella upon arrival. 

For more tips, read our guide on  what to pack for France !

Sorel Out ‘N About III Classic Waterproof Boot 

Austria in early spring can be decidedly chilly, with snow potentially still in the forecast. Later on, in the season is an ideal time to visit as you’ll likely encounter pleasantly warm, sunny weather, although be prepared for the occasional shower and gray, overcast day.

For a typical springtime visit to Austria, bring lots of layers, as you can never be fully sure how the weather will progress when you set out in the morning. And if you’re traveling early in the spring season, you’d be wise to bring a few extra layers and sturdy, waterproof footwear.

For cute outfits for your spring trip, pack jeans, skirts, a variety of long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops, and sweaters to layer. For outerwear, go for a light trench coat—it’s a timeless piece that’s comfortable, practical, and sophisticated, and looks good thrown over jeans or a dress.

In terms of footwear, pack sleek (preferably waterproof) Chelsea boots . They’re comfortable but always look on-trend and go well with both dresses and jeans. A chic ballet flat in a neutral shade like blush or black is another footwear option that’s perfect for spring for dressier evenings.

Tip : During colder weather, the restaurants stores and hotels may be very warm. If you tend to get hot easily, take at least one short-sleeve top to wear as a base layer so you can take off your layers as needed. 

Before your trip, find out what to wear in Austria !

Taos Star Fashion Canvas Sneaker | Taos Website

Spring in Italy is unpredictable. The temperatures can vary from chilly to warm and sometimes even hot. Plus, the temperature greatly varies where you are in Italy. The north will be cooler, while the south will be more Mediterranean and warmer.

Despite the unpredictable weather, Italian spring is beautiful and you can spot flowers and greenery everywhere. To prepare for warm or cold weather, pack for both. Look for bright and light colors during this finicky season; when it’s sunny, it’s very warm. Jeans are a must, along with skirts in light fabrics. Stick to dark denim–it’s always in style.

When packing for Europe in spring, don’t forget a sweater and light jacket for layering on cold days and evenings and a waterproof outerwear item, such as a light trench coat , for unexpected rainstorms.

Perhaps most important for Italy is comfortable shoes , as you’ll likely be walking for hours and on uneven cobblestone paths. Ankle boots and flats are a safe bet. Sneakers have also become very popular in Italy. You can’t go wrong with a pair of comfortable chic sneakers.

Tip : Pack a pair of dressy shoes as locals like to dine out with style and elegance. In some venues, hosts at the entrance might not let you in if you’re wearing flat shoes. You’ll also want to bring along a scarf for coverage at religious sites where you’ll need to dress conservatively. 

For more tips, please read our complete Italy packing list !

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Like many northern European countries, Germany’s spring weather greatly varies depending on the month and year. While it’s typically cool and rainy, some years have been warmer while others have still experienced snow. There’s even a nursery rhyme in Germany, which basically translates into: April doesn’t know what it wants– sunshine and rain and sometimes snow in between.

Since the weather during spring can be unpredictable, you will need to be prepared to face all the elements. When packing for Europe in spring, start off with the basics. You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans.  Opt for darker washes as they are figure flattering and will disguise any dirt. An ideal outfit would consist of a pair of jeans or your favorite lightweight pants and sneakers, ankle boots, or long boots . If you want to wear a skirt or dress, wear tights underneath.

An umbrella and a raincoat is a must in spring, as you never know when it might rain! It’s best to pack a lightweight and small umbrella or a thin and lightweight raincoat , so it doesn’t take too much space up in your bag.

Don’t forget a hooded jacket or parka to keep you warm if it gets chilly. Be sure you have a waterproof outer layer and a layer underneath that you can take off on warmer days. Women in Germany love wearing black leather jackets and a cardigan underneath.

Tip : For accessories, bring a large and thin scarf for those chilly days. On warm days you can easily take it off and pack it in your purse. 

For more tips, read up on  what to wear in Germany !

Lands’ End Insulated 3 in 1 Primaloft Parka : Sizes XS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | S-XXL Tall

After a cold winter season, the days start to get longer in spring but you can still expect cold weather in Sweden. March often still sees snow, and the northern part of the country can remain white and wintery through the whole season. Towards the end of the season, it’ll warm up, but don’t expect temperatures above the low 60s (Fahrenheit).

In the spring, your essentials should include a pair of comfortable loafers or slip-on shoes , dark jeans that work for day and night, and a crossbody bag. If the forecast shows snow, bring waterproof boots that will keep your feet warm. An easy overcoat and a nice scarf are perfect additions for cooler days and nights.

A dress can always look pretty and feminine, but don’t opt for light materials. Pack a dress in a thicker material such as denim or wool and add a pair of black stockings to your look to warm your legs.

If you’re in a stylish city like Stockholm, don’t forget to pack a stylish silk top, black pants , and ankle boots with a slight heel for evenings out when visiting the wide variety of bars and bistros all over Stockholm’s city center.

Tip : Bicycles are a popular form of transport within the cities, and a great way of getting around and sightseeing. However, make sure that you dress appropriately, such as shoes, pants, and a cross body bag or something that will not interfere with your bicycle riding abilities. 

Here are some packing tips and Swedish style ideas to help you decide what to wear in Stockholm any time of the year!

J.Jill Wearever Smooth-Fit Slim-Leg Pants : Sizes XS-4X | XS-XL Petite | S-XL Tall

Switzerland

Spring weather in Switzerland can be unpredictable and so it is important to layer. You can wake up in the mornings to nearly freezing weather and it can warm up 30 or 40 degrees by the afternoon and cool back down in the evenings.

When packing for Europe in spring and Switzerland’s on your agenda, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Your daily outfit for spring would be a light top teamed with a pair of jeans and a warm jacket.

Start with your base including a good pair of jeans or trousers in a darker shade. Generally speaking, dark blue denim is considered timeless European fashion . Pair this with a light blouse or sleeveless top in a bright color as it is spring and you are celebrating this. This outfit can be accompanied by a lightweight denim jacket or a cardigan to protect you from the chill of the mornings and evenings. 

Tip : Although most Swiss people are able to speak English it shows respect if you attempt to address them in their native tongue “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” (“Do you speak English?”) This will result in you receiving a much warmer reception. 

For more tips, read our guide on  what to pack for Switzerland !

Waterproof Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

For spring in Ireland, you can expect mild temperatures with occasional rain showers, wind, and spells of sunshine. The days grow longer during the spring months, and further into the country you will see green landscapes, yellow tulips, and countless spring lambs.

Almost anyone will tell you that rain is always a possibility in Ireland. When packing for Europe in spring, waterproof boots and a warm waterproof jacket are musts. Waterproof sneakers are another stellar choice

Since spring in Dublin is cool, you will need a good pair of jeans in a dark shade–black is always a favorite. Layering is also essential. Sweaters, jackets, and tees are perfect. Try to stick to neutrals or pastel colors. A splash of color can come from a simple crossbody bag and scarves. Cashmere or silk scarves are perfect for the spring weather and look elegant, instantly enhancing a look.

Remember that the major cities like Dublin and Galway are very trendy, combining formal and casual wear. The most important thing is to always look presentable and avoid anything too revealing, like crop tops or short shorts. You will be cold and look inappropriate.

Tip : When traveling to Europe in the spring, consider visiting Ireland for St. Patrick’s day when the cities are alive with festivals! Dublin and Galway, among other cities, also host a number of festivals during the spring that are worth visiting. 

Are you wondering what to wear in Ireland ? Use these packing list ideas for Dublin as a starting point for your trip!

Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket : Sizes XS-XXL | Petite XS-XL | Tall S-XXL | Plus 1X-3X

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time of year to visit Norway, but the spring weather can either arrive incredibly early (in February) or late (with snow still there in May). You’ll want to check the weather before your trip to know which kind of spring weather you can expect.

In general, spring in Norway is chilly. Along with snow, you may encounter lots of wind, so you’ll want to pack and wear plenty of layers.

When you’re planning what to pack for a trip to Norway, keep in mind that locals like to keep things simple in their wardrobe, right down to the colors. They tend to gravitate toward gray, beige, black, and blue.

A pair of black or navy trousers and dark jeans will work great as your base. Pair these with long-sleeve shirts and sweaters, along with a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Since it can be warm indoors, wear pieces that are easy to take on and off.

For footwear, boots are fabulous. Not only are they comfortable and waterproof but they are perfect for all elements and all occasions. Since it may be windy, skip the umbrella and wear a beanie, scarf , and hooded jacket on those rainy days.

Tip : The Danes are some of the friendliest and happy people you will encounter, and the vibrant Oslo metropolis has a reputation for entertainment and an energetic nightlife. Pack an item that is slightly dressier for a fun night out! 

Here are more tips on what to wear in Norway !

Wool& Rowena Swing Dress : Sizes XS-2X

Spring is a dynamic time in Russia. The temperatures can change rapidly or stay stagnant for weeks. The temperature difference between April and May could be drastic. Be prepared for gray skies and rain. However, the flowers and trees start to bloom in May and June, making it a delightful time to visit.

Since Russia in the spring can still be quite chilly, jeans and boots are a smart choice for casual wear. Sweaters will keep you toasty warm, though if you visit in the late spring you might want to wear layers for sunny days.

In the spring, skirts get shorter, but women still typically wear tights under them for warmth. It can also be wet, either from rain or a late snow. Make sure you pack an umbrella and a raincoat . You’ll want sturdy shoes as well–ones you don’t mind getting wet.

Tip : When in doubt, dress more conservatively. It’s a good idea not to show cleavage, unless you have a layer underneath, or wear see-through clothes or bright makeup. Choose understated jewelry instead of flashier pieces. 

If you’re wondering what to wear in Russia , take a look at what they recommend you bring for your vacation.

Blondo Dakota Waterproof

The Netherlands

Spring is the time the trees and tulips are blossoming and blooming, the weather is getting warmer, and the sun is shining, but sometimes there’s still rain. Layering is the best way to handle this weather; you can remove items when it’s warm and keep them on when it’s cold. Have an umbrella ready for those wet days!

When packing for Europe in spring, choose long pants, like jeans, with a warm jacket. It can be your favorite black leather jacket or a 3-in-1 outdoor jacket in your favorite color. These jackets will keep you warm and dry, plus you can remove the inner fleece jacket if it’s too warm or use the fleece jacket by itself and leave the outer layer at your hotel.

Underneath, you could wear a lightweight turtleneck sweater. Have a matching scarf to keep your neck warm. At the moment, Dutch women love to wear oversized scarves !

Watch this  video review  on the Blondo Villa Waterproof boot!

Good walking shoes are most certainly important for your travels to the Netherlands. If you wear ankle boots , be sure they’re comfortable. Or choose stylish sneakers . Even if you plan on using the tram system or riding bicycles throughout the city, you will at some stage find yourself walking across the remarkable cobblestone streets , just to explore or browse through the busy shopping streets. Sensibility should reign here with your choice of footwear; avoid heels and opt for shoes that offer grip and are slip-resistant.

Tip : If you go on a bike tour through the Netherlands, you need bike-friendly clothes. For your bag, wear a backpack so you can be hands-free. Choose one that’s water-resistant so your personal belongings stay dry. 

Visiting the Netherlands on your next trip? Read up on  what to wear in the Netherlands !

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag 

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Spain. The weather is not too cold, flowers bloom in abandon, and the streets come to life with music and delicious farm fresh foods. While March and April can still be chilly, it starts to warm up in May. Warmth comes with the sun, but as soon as it disappears you can feel the draft, so it’s best to layer your clothing.

Have fun with your travel outfits for Spain in the spring. Bright colors, pastels, and florals are appropriate for this season, as everyone mimics nature’s vivid colors. Long tunic tops can be paired with  leggings , replacing trousers and denim. Dining out is popular in this fair weather, but make sure you bring along a scarf or a jacket. March can still be quite chilly so a denim jacket or blanket scarf can be a lifesaver when the weather gets crisp.

Comfortable footwear is a must for those long days of walking, but you can also pack a low chunky heel that can be worn out at night or for less strenuous activities.

Tip : Petty theft in Spain is very prevalent. Always keep an eye on your things, and remember to pack them securely. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Read these anti-theft tips for more information.

If you’re traveling to Spain, read our full  packing list here !

J Crew Classic Denim Jacket : Sizes XXS-3X

Greece is a beautiful Mediterranean destination, and springtime brings fairly mild weather. You may enjoy some warm days, but you can expect evenings to be chilly, especially when you’re on the coast.

When packing for Europe in spring, include jeans and smart capri trousers in darker shades that you can team with bright tank tops and blouses for the warmer days and long sleeve shirts and 3/4 tops for cooler days. Bring a light jacket like a blazer or denim jacket for the evenings to ward off the chill. 

Accessorize your outfit with sunglasses and a chic sun hat. Skirts and shorts are perfect to wear during the day with ankle boots . Bl a ck is a great color choice because you can wear it with anything, and it’s forgiving in regards to dirt.

If you’re visiting Athens, you’ll want to take your style up a notch. This city is known for its smart-casual style. This means that the men are dressed impeccably and the women are unashamed of their bodies, opting for figure-enhancing clothes. It’s acceptable to wear jeans around the city, providing you dress them up with a smart blazer or blouse and elegant accessories.

Tip : Since there are many historic and beautiful sites throughout Greece, like the Acropolis, make sure you have appropriate footwear . The easiest method for sightseeing and getting around is on foot. 

For more tips, read our full packing list on what to wear in Greece .

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Organize Your Clothing

Packing cubes  can help organize all the clothes you want to bring, not just your cardigan! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The  video  below shows you how!

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the   video !

We also put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

Printable Travel Checklist

What are your tips on packing for Europe in spring? Share in the comment section below!

For more Europe packing tips, please read:

• 10-Step Packing Guide for Europe
• What to Wear in Europe: Packing List for Every Destination
• The Only Packing List for Europe You’ll Ever Need!
• 2 Weeks in Europe in Winter – Carry On Only

Suggested travel resources:

• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Wow! Thanks for all the information. Never have heard about dressier shoes for Italy! Had planned on only bringing flats, but will now include one dressier pair for dinners out!

Can’t wait to get to Europe next spring!

So helpful ! Thanks

This is so helpful for my trip to Switzerland and river cruise next May. I’m looking for the perfect waterproof rain coat that’s lightweight. You have given me great ideas!

Thank you and happy 11th anniversary!

The TFG packing suggestions and lists are beyond helpful! I have discovered several travel go-tos through these blog posts.

These lists are perfect and so very helpful! Thank you so much as these are life savers!

Thank you so much for all the information you compile here! My husband and I are about a year away from retirement and when we do, we want to travel. To that end, I love all the ideas and recommendations you’ve gathered and organized so logically that it’s a delight to browse. Little by little I am making my purchases (using TFG website links) in preparation for our first trip. I feel confident we will have everything we need!

Spring in Portugal is like Spring in Spain?

Hi Debora, for more tips to help you pack for Portugal check out this guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-lisbon/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Have an incredible time on your travels!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Spring Edition (+ What to Wear)

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about putting together the perfect packing list for Europe in spring, it’s to always expect it to be both colder and rainier than you hope for… especially if, like us, you hail from a climate where summer weather starts sneaking into the calendar as early as March or April.

It’s not all bad news, though–March, April, and May are wonderful months to travel in Europe!

Delectable farmer’s markets, adorable small towns decked out for Easter, coastlines that are slowly waking up from their winter hiatus and aren’t crowded yet, and blooming flowers everywhere you look are just a few of the fun things to see during spring in Europe!

And, after many springs spent hopping around the continent, we have plenty of ideas on how to put together the perfect spring packing list for Europe (many of which come from learning from our mistakes).

We’ve rounded up everything you need to pack for Europe in the spring here–plus some advice on what to wear.

Table of Contents

How to Use This Packing List for Europe in Spring

The absolute essentials for visiting europe in spring, travel gear you should definitely pack for europe this spring, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for women, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for men, other travel gear for your europe packing list for spring.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

While we talk mostly in general terms about packing for spring in Europe here, it’s of course important to remember that the continent has a wide variety of landscapes and weather patterns to offer!

Spring in the south of Europe is a totally different temperature than more northern parts of Europe, and the best things to wear in Scotland in March will of course be wildly different than what to wear in Sicily in May.

This packing list is designed to cover packing for Europe in March, April, and May, with an emphasis on visiting central and southern Europe.

Think strolling the streets of Paris, visiting the castles of Germany, or eating your way through Rome –that’s what this guide to what to wear in Europe in spring is designed for.

You will be prepared for spring showers and cold snaps, as well as bright sunny spring days.

Of course, always be sure to carefully check the weather in the destinations you’re planning to visit as your trip gets closer, but this spring packing list for Europe will provide a great jumping-off point for deciding what to bring (and what to leave behind).

All of the photos of Jeremy and me in this blog post were taken throughout Europe in March, April, or May–and as you can see, that has called for everything from peacoats to sundresses depending on the trip!

(Planning a trip to Europe in a different season? We also have packing lists for visiting Europe in the summer , fall , and winter !)

Passport — If you’re traveling internationally, your passport is an absolute must: there’s no point in packing for Europe in the spring without it!

Travel Insurance — No one like to think about the possibility of canceled or interrupted trips, let alone accidents on the road.

Anything can happen while traveling, though–and that’s where travel insurance can help.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices with Safety Wing  for your trip here.

Visa (If Needed)  — Though 26 countries in Europe are part of the Schengen Zone that allows many nationalities (including US citizens, Canadians, and Australians) to enter and travel freely between their countries for 90 days for tourism, that still leaves around half of Europe’s countries that are  not  part of this agreement.

Regardless of where you are from, always double-check entrance requirements before showing up at the airport to fly to any European country (or any country at all that isn’t your own, for that matter).

Money  — We recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and two debit cards. Ideally, bring cards with no foreign transaction fees.

We’ve never felt it necessary to obtain currency before arriving (we just withdraw from an ATM when we get there), but you can purchase most currencies in your home country if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Keep in mind that not all countries in Europe are on the Euro, so be sure to double-check what currency you’ll need based on your itinerary!

International Driving Permit — If you are visiting Europe this spring from outside the EU and plan to rent a car, you may need an International Driving Permit to do so!

Italy is particularly well-known for enforcing this requirement.

Be sure to check the rental requirements in any country that you plan to drive in before you arrive!

Camera — We use a Sony a7R III  and absolutely  adore  it, but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Be sure to check the requirements for the particular countries you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

Apple Air Tags — Air Tags are a relatively new addition to our Europe packing list, but we’ve absolutely loved having the extra security when checking out luggage! They’ll be coming with us from now on.

They’re incredibly handy and we recommend adding one to your packing list for Europe this spring.

We’ve been carrying ours for years and it still comes in handy constantly and is holding up perfectly!

Comfortable Day Bag — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

An umbrella is a must-have on a spring trip to Europe, and by buying a dedicated travel umbrella before you leave, you’ll end up with a much higher quality umbrella than if you buy one from a street vendor once it starts pouring.

Student ID  — If you’re a student, you’ll be entitled to lots of discounts on museums and attractions throughout Europe.

Be sure to add it to your packing list for Europe (but do keep in mind that some student discounts are only available to travelers studying in the EU–double-check before counting on the discounts!).

Cell Phone  — We spent more than a year traveling without working cell phones, just relying on wifi… and while that’s completely fine, we would never go back

Consider purchasing an international plan for your cell phone (most carriers offer them), or, if you have an unlocked phone, you can just buy a local SIM card once you land in Europe.

You can also buy EU SIM cards online before you go, though it’s not strictly necessary!

You’ll want to structure your personal wardrobe for traveling in Europe based on where you’re going, of course.

A glamorous trip to Rome calls for different clothes than hiking in Iceland or soaking up the first rays of sun in Greece–but if you’re looking for a great all-in-one spring packing list for Europe, this is it!

Sprin g in Europe is a really special time, places that close down for winter start opening up and preparing for the summer season and the weather starts to have more warm sunny days than cooler.

These picks reflect my personal favorite things to wear in Europe in the spring.

I love wearing dresses in Europe in the spring (and year-round, frankly)!

They’re easy to pack, easy to wear, look great just about anywhere you go, and manage to look pulled together while only requiring one piece of clothing.

When it is a little colder you can add tights and a jacket , layers are key in spring in Europe!

Dresses like this and this are generally what you’ll find me in when traveling through Europe in the spring. Be sure to bring at least one or two maxi dresses ( I love this one , for example), which fulfill the double purpose of being extremely photogenic while allowing you to visit religious sites like churches and mosques without issue.

Simple blouses like this are perfect for most places in the fall in Europe.

Be sure to also bring a sweater or two along–thinner ones are easier to pack and layer, so keep that in mind when shopping. Something like this is a great option.

A Europe packing list for spring absolutely requires a pair of jeans–I’m obsessed with this pair and had them for years, but am branching out with straight-legged jeans now after a decade of skinny jeans.

If it’s not quite warm enough for shorts so jeans are a perfect low-maintenance polished option.

If you prefer wearing pants, you might also like to bring an additional pair of jeans–black ones like these are a great way to mix things up.

If you are like me and prefer to wear dresses and skirts more often than not, a cute skirt like this layered with tights is a fashionable and comfortable choice for your Europe spring packing list.

It also provides you with options if it is warmer, then you can forgo the tights.

Bathing Suits

Depending on if you’re planning to visit some warmer beach destinations, I’d pack 2-3 bathing suits for visiting Europe in the spring. I love choices like this and this .

If you’re planning on trying out any active water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving, consider packing at least one one-piece suit , too.

The absolute most important rule when determining what shoes to put on your packing list for Europe this spring is making sure that they’re comfortable to walk in!

I’ve been wearing these white sneakers in Europe during the spring lately and love them, and this pair is another longtime favorite of mine.

Boat shoes are also a great option, and Converse are popular with backpackers and travelers along the tourist trail.

You might also prefer to bring a pair of boots, evenings can still be cold so you will be thankful for something drier and warmer than sneakers! Something like this is perfect.

Spring in Europe is the optimal time to plan for layers.

We once visited the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre during an unseasonably cold and rainy May… and we were so glad we had brought layers!

A light jacket like this is also a great option paired with an umbrella in your bag.

If you’re heading to outdoor-focused, more rainy places like Ireland or Scotland, you’ll also want to pack a rain jacket .

Accessories

Sunglasses are essential for traveling in Europe during the spring, that hazy spring sun can be strong!

You can either purchase them ahead of time or plan on picking them up as souvenirs.

Cheap sunglasses are sold on just about every corner in Europe, and designer sunglasses from European brands are generally far cheaper within the EU (I once paid under 200 Euro for a pair of Valentino glasses listed on Saks’ website for $400).

Scarves are also great for having handy if it gets chilly and to layer over a light jacket.

Fitted, casual shirts like this and light sweaters like this are both great options for men when packing for Europe in the spring.

Casual slacks or chinos like these are a versatile and easy option for your spring in Europe packing list.

We recommend bringing at least one pair of fitted jeans like these  as well.

Jeremy tends to opt for light, casual shoes like these during spring in Europe–whatever you pack, just make sure that they’re well broken in and easy to walk in for hours before adding them to your spring packing list for Europe!

Subtle boots like these or classic shoes like these are both good options.

Bathing Suit

If you’re planning on hitting warmer beach destinations in Europe this spring, make sure to bring one or two bathing suits along with you. Suits like this work perfectly.

Depending on the weather for your trip to Europe, you may not need a heavy jacket at all when visiting Europe in the spring.

Jeremy is comfortable in this jacket all the way through most of March, April, and May in Europe , give or take additional layers.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

Trust me–you don’t want to miss out on the joys of boating around the Mediterranean due to seasickness!

True, it’s a bit of a pain to carry and not advised in busy areas, but the memories are priceless and the photos you end up with are generally  so  much better than the ones you get by asking a stranger to snap a photo for you.

Money Belt  — This is up to you: we no longer use one, but if you’re more comfortable having your passports on your person while exploring Europe this spring, you can consider bringing one.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

We’ve never regretted adding our own over-the-counter meds to our Europe packing list.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Best Travel Clothes For Europe In Spring

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Oct 16, 2023 | Europe , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Being such a vast continent, the climate in Europe varies drastically, depending on where you go.

In addition, traveling in the shoulder season of spring makes the weather in Europe even more unpredictable. 

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

Check Prices

So, if you’re planning an epic Europe trip in spring, it’s only natural to feel a bit confused about what clothes to take with you.

Luckily, thanks to our experience traveling in Europe, we know the best way to dress in all seasons.

So before you start packing your backpacking essentials for Europe , read our guide on the best travel clothes for Europe in spring .

What To Pack For Europe In Spring

When deciding what to pack for Europe in spring, think about what countries you are visiting before planning your outfits.

It’s no secret that spring can be winter-like in some parts of the continent, like Sweden, Scotland, and Poland.

In contrast, in the Mediterranean areas of Spain and Greece, Spring has a warm, summer feel.

If you’re only visiting one country, the packing will be a much easier process than if you’re backpacking across the continent.

Even so, as spring in Europe is so changeable, it’s also best to pack for multiple seasons regardless.

Of course, if you’re traveling with a backpack or small suitcase, you can’t take your entire wardrobe.

So how do you ensure you’re covered for the varying climates while still traveling light? 

The best way we’ve found to do this is by taking multiple layers.

Having a mix of short sleeve t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, jumpers, and a good jacket or two will allow you to adjust to the unexpected weather changes.

So let’s break down exactly what layers you’ll need when packing so that you can know exactly what to wear in Europe during spring.

Wondering Where To Buy Your Clothes For Traveling Europe?

We love how convenient Amazon is. We understand that buying clothes online is not always easy.

Our packing list will still help you figure out what to pack for Europe.

T-shirts & Vest Tops

Short-sleeve tops are a base layer that you’ll be wearing every day during your trip. So pack plenty of t-shirts, vest tops, and tank tops.

You’ll find spring days in Europe often start chilly and then warm up considerably throughout the day.

So, if you’re out hiking or walking around, you might find you get warm enough to take off your outer and mid-layers.

Hoodies & Sweaters

Hoodies, sweaters, jumpers, and cardigans make warm mid-layers, offering you insulation against the cold winds.

Even if it seems like a warm day, we recommend taking a hoodie and sweater with you wherever you go.

As spring is such a temperamental season in Europe, you just never know when the temperature will drop.

During the day, you may be able to interchange jumpers and jackets as your outer layer. Still, in the evenings, you might find you need both layers.

No matter where you go in Europe in the spring, don’t forget to pack a jacket. Unless you’re heading to a nordic country like Denmark, Norway, or Sweden, you probably won’t need a super thick winter coat.

However, a thin, lightweight jacket with some insulation will undoubtedly come in useful.

A windproof and water-resistant jacket like this MAGCOMSEN Men’s Hooded Windbreaker Jacket is ideal, as it gives you total protection from the elements. It’s also lightweight and quick-drying.

Note that if you’re traveling around only one European country, the climate can differ significantly from the north to the south.

Spain and Italy are two examples, as the northern regions remain cold during the spring.

However, the southern areas are starting to feel summer-like. So, you may not need a jacket for your entire trip, but you will most likely need it for part of it. 

Rain Jacket

If your jacket or coat is not waterproof, you’ll need to bring a rain jacket too. Of course, certain countries in Europe have a higher chance of rainfall in spring than others.

However, as many rain jackets are thin, lightweight, and can be packed down to a small size, there’s no reason not to include one when packing your travel outfits for Europe.

For example, this 33,000ft Packable Shell Rain Jacket is 5000mm waterproof with fully sealed and welded seams to keep water out.

It’s so easy to fold down and pack in the included carrying pouch, which you can keep in your daypack or hang from the outside of it.

Long pants are the most common lower body apparel in Europe during the spring, so ensure you pack plenty of these.

Include a mix of jeans for city exploring, hiking or sports pants for outdoor activities, and a couple of smart/casual trousers. 

For women, leggings are also one of the best travel clothes for Europe in spring.

Or, if you’re traveling in colder countries, take a couple of thermal leggings like these Conceited Premium Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings . 

If you’re visiting a Mediterranean country like Greece , Malta, or Cyprus, expect warmer temperatures than elsewhere in Europe. In that case, pack a couple of pairs of shorts. 

Even if it doesn’t seem hot in the morning, the temperature can quickly rise around midday. So keep some shorts in your daypack that you can change into if needed. 

Scarf & Hat 

If you’re traveling in Northern or Eastern Europe, a scarf and hat are necessary for spring. This is because the winds here are still icy, so it’s essential to protect your neck and ears.

Even if you’re visiting the UK, Ireland, France, or Germany, we still recommend a scarf, but you can choose a thin fashion shawl instead of a thick winter one.

Even if the temperature is low, springtime in Europe brings increased sunshine and daylight hours. Therefore, even if it’s not beach weather, you can still expect bright, sunny days, so sunglasses are essential. 

Footwear is another important consideration when choosing travel clothes for Europe in spring. Again, the countries you’re visiting will determine the footwear you’ll need.

Still, in general, we suggest a good-quality pair of ankle boots that will offer you comfort and warmth when exploring cities and sights.

Choose a low heel for comfort and opt for waterproof material to keep you dry in the unexpected April showers.

We love these SOREL Chelsea Rain Boots for women, which have rubber sole traction and a supportive EVA footbed.

Don’t forget your favorite sneakers or running shoes for long walks and hikes.

And if you’re heading to the Mediterranean and planning a beach day or two, pack a pair of flip flops or sandals. 

Finally, an additional item that women may want to take to Europe in Spring is a couple of long dresses.

One or two chic dresses are enough to give you something nice to wear whenever you go out to a nice restaurant and bar. 

As the nights are still chilly in most parts of Europe, we suggest avoiding short, strappy summer dresses.

Instead, opt for a midi or maxi dress for more coverage. This Boho Floral A-Line Flared Midi Dress by Floerns is ideal.

Pair it with boots rather than sandals or heels, and if you’re traveling to a chilly part of Europe, you’ll need some warm tights too.

Europe Travel Outfit Ideas For Spring

Now you know the type of layers you’ll need on your upcoming trip, it’s time to plan some stylish outfits.

Here are our top Europe spring outfit ideas for men and women.

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for men during European spring.

City Explorer

When you’re walking around a new European city, you want to look stylish, feel comfortable, and blend in with the locals.

Create this look with these comfortable and durable Rockport Waterproof Storm Surge Toe Boots.

They feature an Adidas adiPRENE shock-absorbing heel cushioning so you can walk around all day without getting sore feet.

Pair them with these Match Straight Tapered Jogger Trousers and Sailwind Henley Long Sleeve T-Shirt .

Layer with this Esobo Cotton V Neck Sweater and this Sandbank Softshell Flight Bomber Jacket .

It not only looks fashionable but it’s windproof, too. However, it won’t keep you dry in the rain so don’t forget your rain jacket!

Outdoor Adventurer

Europe is an adventurer’s playground, from hiking to mountain biking to canyoning. Whatever activity you choose, stay dry and warm with this comfy yet functional outfit.

Start with top-quality waterproof boots like the NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Hiking Boots . They feature shock-absorbent cushioned insoles, lightweight EVA midsoles, and high-quality rubber soles. 

Pair them with these TACVASEN Quick Dry Hiking Pants , made from a breathable, lightweight, and fast-drying fabric.

Up top, choose the Under Armour Tactical Tech T-Shirt as your base layer and the CRYSULLY Men’s Tactical Pullover as your mid-layer. 

Finally, stay dry with the Columbia Men’s Watertight Ii Jacket with waterproof and breathable technology and an adjustable storm hood with an abrasion-resistant chin guard.

It’s also super lightweight and can be packed down to the size of a pocket.

Sleek Traveler

A night out in an exciting new destination calls for a stylish and sleek look.

Many of our favorite evening outfits for Europe involve these Polar Fox Brooke Lace-up Chukka Boots , made from hand-crafted, durable vegan leather.

Pair them with these Plaid&Plain Men’s Slim-Fit Dress Pants and the Calvin Klein Liquid Touch Polo Shirt , made from a soft, durable, and lightweight cotton fabric.

Add a layer of warmth with this Goodthreads Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater and this URBANFIND Slim Fit Bomber Jacket . 

Finally, if you’re in a colder European country, add this stylish Marino Avenue Knit Striped Scarf in a color that compliments your outfit. 

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for women during European spring.

Whether you’re admiring the ancient monuments of Athens or shopping in Milan, you won’t want to stand out as another classic tourist.

So pair these pretty MaxMuxun Faux Suede Flat Ankle Boots with these comfy but elegant GRACE KARIN High Waist Pencil Pants . 

Next up, pair this SheIn Keyhole Back Blouse in a light color like beige with the MEROKEETY Waffle Knit Batwing Cardigan .

Then, stay warm and dry no matter the weather with the SaphiRose Long Hooded Rain Jacket .

This look gives the perfect balance between smart and casual, so you can go straight from sightseeing to bar hopping without having to change your outfit. 

Wear this cozy and comfortable outfit if you’re exploring the English countryside, hiking in the Alps , or going for a coastal walk in Portugal.

First, give your feet the ultimate protection with these Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Shoes . Then keep your legs warm with these OUGES Women’s High Waist Yoga Pants .

They are designed for sports and outdoor activities and are made from a super soft moisture-wicking material.

Up top, start with this C9 Champion Soft-Tech Tee , made with comfortable and breathable fabric. Then, layer it up with the TBMPOY UPF 50+ Hoodie .

The lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric will prevent you from overheating, and the sun protection qualities will prevent any sunburn. 

Finally, stay dry with the Diamond Candy Lightweight Hooded Hiking Coat . The soft and lightweight shell is windproof and waterproof, and the adjustable cuffs help you retain warmth if the temperature drops. 

Chic Traveler 

If you’re checking out the city’s most hip bar, fine dining restaurant, or iconic theatre, do it with style and elegance.

Pair this MEROKEETY Striped Knee Length Swing Midi Dress with these Tish Lucia ​​Pointed Toe Ankle Boots .

Then, stay warm with this Allegra K Faux Suede Biker Moto Jacket and this gorgeous MaaMgic Cashmere Feel Pashmina Shawl .

Final Thoughts On Travel Clothes For European Spring

We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of what to pack for Europe in spring.

As the climate varies throughout the continent, we strongly recommend researching the usual spring weather in each destination.

Moreover, always pack for unexpected weather when traveling during the shoulder season!

Need help with clothing? Read one of the following blog posts:

• What to wear camping
• What to wear kayaking in spring
• What to wear kayaking in summer
• Packing for Europe in winter
• Packing for Europe in fall
• Packing for Europe in summer

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

18 Spring Travel Essentials I'm Scooping Up for My European Vacation

Sunglasses, sneakers, and sundresses.

Welcome to this week's roundup of the best sale finds from across the web. As a shopping editor, a large chunk of my day is spent scrolling my favorite retailers—and every Friday, I'm sharing what I've uncovered so you can scoop up the best of this week's sales.

In less than two weeks, I'm heading off to multiple European cities on a family vacation, so this is my last chance to score travel essentials . In an effort not to overpack, I found versatile, staple spring pieces, from button-down shirts and trendy sneakers to jeans and light spring jackets . I'm deeming the picks below my spring travel capsule wardrobe, plus they'll be great additions to my warm-weather wardrobe when I return.

You'll never catch me traveling without a big cardigan in my carry-on. Not only is it a versatile layering piece, but it also works as an impromptu blanket or pillow on chilly airplanes. Save even more with one of our Everlane promo codes .

A pair of medium-wash straight-leg jeans like these are my saving grace on long vacations. They pair with everything else in my suitcase seamlessly, not to mention they're so much more elevated than leggings when out and about. Save even more with one of our J.Crew promo codes .

I've made the mistake of wearing heels on vacation far too many times, so I prioritize comfy walking shoes over anything else. I'm obsessed with the neutral shades on this pair since I won't have to worry about the rest of my outfit matching. Save even more with one of our Finish Line promo codes .

A tip I've learned from a travel expert is that the best purse for traveling is always one with two strap options. This one from Madewell can be carried by the top handle for fancier occasions or used as a crossbody for any time you need to go hands-free. Save even more with one of our Madewell promo codes .

Unless you're heading to the tropics (which I'm not this time around), you never really know how the weather will play out. This spring jacket is just what I'm looking for—it's lightweight, easy to style, and something I can keep in my closet for years to come. Save even more with one of our Mytheresa promo codes .

I'm blaming Zendaya and her Challengers press tour looks for my newfound love for Tenniscore. While I won't be donning a pair of tennis-ball heels anytime soon, I can get behind this fun tee, which would work so well with the J.Crew jeans and Puma sneakers above. Save even more with one of our Lacoste promo codes .

Black jeans are a piece I'll always make room for in my suitcase. I can wear them with sneakers and a T-shirt during the day, then pair them with a nice top and sandals for dressier occasions at night. Save even more with one of our Nordstrom promo codes .

While this would make for a great personal item, it would make for an even better work bag . It's got so many pockets on the inside to keep your things organized and the sleek, minimalist design pairs perfectly with your go-to spring work outfits . Save even more with one of our Tory Buch promo codes.

When I pack jewelry for trips, the pieces I choose have to be wearable with every outfit. This textured bracelet is the only one I would need for some added sparkle to all of my looks. Save even more with one of our QVC promo codes .

I refuse to wear anything other than a great loungewear set to the airport and this sweatshirt (complete with the matching joggers ) fits the bill. This Barbie pink shade is eye-catching and loads more fun than the average grey sweatshirt. Save even more with one of our Neiman Marcus promo codes .

With my tendency to lose my sunglasses, I only bring one pair while traveling so they have to be versatile. These classic black frames work with anything I have on, plus the rectangular shape complements my round face the best. Save even more with one of our Ray-Ban promo codes .

I'll never stop talking about my love for button-down shirts. It's the one piece I can wear multiple times a week with a fresh way to style it every time. I'm looking at this striped shirt to work with my more casual outfits during my trip. Save even more with one of our Anthropologie promo codes .

On the off chance I get lucky and encounter hot weather, I'm packing this dress. It's breezy and plenty comfortable for days spent walking for hours on end. It also works as a dress for nice dinners with sandals and minimal jewelry. Save even more with one of our Free People promo codes .

I've been in desperate need of a camel blazer for my office wardrobe anyway, but this purchase would kill two birds with one stone. Not only can I wear it to work, but it would also make me look just as polished as Europeans while on my trip. Save even more with one of our Banana Republic promo codes .

Another pair of sneakers I'm considering scooping up are these Nikes. These white sneakers may be simple, but that's what I like about them. And because they're made of all leather, they clean up easily. Save even more with one of our Champs promo codes .

For those days I need to switch it up from jeans (I'll be traveling for over two weeks, after all), I'll be wearing this denim skirt. It's just as easy to style as my jeans with sneakers and T-shirts, but it feels more forward and fun. Save even more with one of our Bergdorf Goodman promo codes .

Weeks of travel calls for comfortable bras and SKIMS is most well-known for their comfort. This demi bra has breathable, lightweight cups, making it the ideal pick for long days spent walking. Save even more with one of our SKIMS promo codes .

This jumpsuit would take zero thought to style, which is why it's most likely ending up in my suitcase. I'd throw on a pair of sneakers and a crossbody bag and call it a day. Save even more with one of our Mango promo codes .

Stay In The Know

Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.

Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes across the board from fashion and beauty to books and celebrities. As a pop culture junkie, Brooke obsessively consumes and writes about the latest movie releases, streaming TV shows, and celebrity scandals. She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.

The news was accompanied by a never-before-seen photo of the King and Queen Camilla, taken the day after their 19th wedding anniversary this month.

By Rachel Burchfield Published 26 April 24

The actress said it “makes it about her pleasure.”

By Danielle Campoamor Published 26 April 24

"If there was a moment, maybe I would, you know, put out a little something."

With the weather heating up, your closet should too.

By Brooke Knappenberger Published 12 April 24

Spring sales are in full bloom.

By Brooke Knappenberger Published 5 April 24

It's time to build up your warm-weather office wardrobe.

By Brooke Knappenberger Published 29 March 24

Warm-weather sales are officially in full swing.

By Brooke Knappenberger Published 22 March 24

Plus summer dresses, vacation-ready pieces, and designer sandals.

By Brooke Knappenberger Published 14 March 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Advertise Online
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy

Marie Claire is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

ULTIMATE Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Are you looking for the ULTIMATE Spring travel capsule wardrobe? In this guide we tell you exactly what to pack for Spring travel in Europe and around the globe.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

But before we get onto the specific items we put in our favorite spring travel capsule wardrobe, we first thought it would be a good idea to tell what is a travel capsule wardrobe is, why you should pack one and where it can be used.

Table of Contents

What is a Travel Capsule Wardrobe?

To know what a Spring travel capsule wardrobe is, it is worth outlining what a travel capsule wardrobe actually is!

Generally speaking a travel capsule wardrobe is a method of limiting what you pack for vacation by creating more minimalist packing lists , and thus preventing you from overpacking .

A travel capsule wardrobe uses a few key pieces of clothing to make up several mix and match outfits. Basically meaning that every piece of your wardrobe, can be used in multiple outfits to create completely different outfits.

Now depending on the length of your travels or vacation, the time of year you are traveling and the destination will depend on how many items should be included in your capsule wardrobe. However in my opinion the less the better. But be sure to pack enough so you don’t have to do laundry or buy new items at your destination.

Some ways we create out capsule wardrobes are using the following packing methods:

• The 54321 packing method
• the Sudoku packing technique (3 x 3 packing method)
• . 4 x 4 packing method

Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe

So now you know what a travel capsule wardrobe is we will look at capsule wardrobe for Spring in particular.

Our Spring packing list and capsule wardrobe is designed to be used in the traditional Spring months of March, April and May in places associated with typical Spring weather. This means Europe, Asia in places like Japan to see the cherry blossoms and of course the USA and Canada.

Note : if you are traveling to the Southern hemisphere Spring is catagorized as September, October and November.

And if you are traveling at another time of year of for a specific type of vacation be sure to check out our other capsule wardrobe packing lists for more specific guidance:

• Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe
• Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
• River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
• Safari Capsule Wardrobe.

So now you know what a Spring travel capsule wardrobe is how do you begin to put one together?

How to put together a Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Whenever I am putting together a capsule wardrobe I always start making my wardrobe in the same way using a couple of considerations these are:

Color palettes

Having a clear color palette is essential for creating any successful capsule wardrobe. Without a clear color palette your items will not mix and match correctly and therefore will not create multiple cohesive outfits.

Now obviously monochrome is the easiest capsule wardrobe to make as you are so limited in colors. However I find this makes my vacation photos look a bit boring, especially in Spring.

When I put together my own Spring capsule wardrobe I always gravitate towards pastels and florals. This is especially true when I am traveling to see flower such as Kyoto in Spring for cherry blossom season or to see the tulips in Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam in April .

My favorite color palettes for a Spring capsule wardrobe are:

• baby blues.

But this is very much a personal choice and you should pick a color palette that you feel comfortable in.

Plan out your outfits in advance

Whenever I am packing my travel capsule wardrobe, I always lay my clothes out and plan my outfit combinations in advance.

This way you know that everything you have goes in your outfits and can be used multiple times. This is why I like the sudoku method as it is the easiest method of laying out outfits.

Check weather and itinerary before travel

Obviously this is a generic Spring capsule wardrobe designed for use during traditional Spring weather. As such we do make considerations for wet weather. However a word of caution is to always check the weather at your destination 7 days before travel and keep an eye on it up until departure.

That is because you can always get heat waves and cold snaps even in Spring. If this happens to you be sure to check our other seasonal capsule wardrobes such as our Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe and our Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe .

Also it is worth mentioning that we have seasonal travel lists for specific destinations. To check your destination and time of travel head to the search function on the top of this page and type your destination and month of travel (i.e. Venice May or Italy April ). This will give you packing tips for local dress codes and weather in more specific detail

Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essential Items

So now you know the principles of how to put together a Spring travel capsule wardrobe we will look at some of our favorite pieces to include no matter the destination:

Best Pants for your spring Travel Capsule Wardrobes

Usually when I start putting together my capsule wardrobes I start with the pants / trousers first. I generally speaking own more tops than bottoms, therefore I like to pick our the pants first as I have more tops to play with.

Athleta Brooklyn Travel Pant

My absolute favorite travel pant of the moment has to be the Athleta Brooklyn Pant. These pants have a stylish but comfortable elastic waistband which for me make them my go to airplane outfit.

But not only that the fact that they do not wrinkle, along with the ability to machine wash and dry make them perfect for traveling.

I like to wear these as part of my airplane outfit which again saves room in your suitcase and means you can try and pack carry on only. They also work well for nights out where you want smarter trousers.

Click here to shop the Athleta Brooklyn ankle pant for travel.

Although we don’t normally have pairs of jeans as part of our summer capsule wardrobe they are absolutely an essential for any Spring packing list. We recommend picking a lighter weight pair if you are traveling in May though as the weather warms up.

But in regards to color I tend to move away from the black jeans I wear in Winter and pick a lighter wash pair. However it is worth noting if you are traveling to Europe in Spring, that you will still want a more tailored pair to fit more in with local style.

Dress / Skirt

As you transition into Spring from your Winter attire, you will want to change the skirts and dresses you wear. I usually move away from sweater dresses to wrap dresses. But I still wear them with tights in March.

A dress that can be used for sightseeing in the day but that can also be dressed up at night is a great addition to the capsule wardrobe. Especially if you can add splashes of color with accessories such as jewelry and pashminas.

Click here to shop Spring dresses.

Best Tops for Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobes

So now you know our favorite bottoms for your Spring travel capsule wardrobe we will turn our attention to tops.

And our first pick has to be:

A basic t shirt is a great staple and an essential of any packing list at any time of year. Now depending on the color scheme you are going for will depend on what color you should have. But in my opinion you can never go wrong with a plain white tee.

For Spring I tend to pack more short sleeve t shirts as opposed to long sleeve ones.

Click here to shop basic tee shirts.

Note: For Europe in Spring I would avoid a graphic t-shirt or slogan tee for several reasons. Firstly they are less versatile so aren’t as easy to combine in your Spring outfit combos. But also they aren’t in keeping with many local European styles.

For Spring travel I always have a printed blouse with a 3/4 length sleeve with me. These are great for places with dress codes such as Churches in Italy , the Vatican and Sagrada Familia to name a few.

And as an added bonus can look casual with some jeans or be dressed or with accessories for a more smart casual look.

I like to have a patterned blouse as the pants I pack are plain, a patterned top is a great way of adding some texture, color and detail.

Click here to shop printed and patterned blouses.

As well as a blouse, I also like to have a button down shirt with me. Now depending on when in Spring I am traveling, the weather and activities I am doing will depend on the shirt I pack.

However for the most versatile shirt to pack, you really can’t go wrong with an over sized white button-up shirt or with a linen blouse.

Click here to shop shirts for travel.

Best Layers for your Spring Capsule Wardrobe

Layers are important no matter the time of year you travel however these are especially important in Spring when there is changeable weather. I normally try and take 3 top layers and 3 base layers with me when I travel which in Spring usually consists of:

A cardigan is essential for this time of year as it can be layered on top of blouses, tops, t shirts and dresses.

You can choose the color based on the palette you have in your wardrobe.

Click here to shop cardigans for Spring.

A sweater is another great day to night transition piece. I particularly like sweaters made of merino wool as they are light and easy to pack, but also look very stylish.

Click here to shop merino wool sweaters.

Although a casual item, my capsule wardrobe is never complete without a hoodie and is often worn as part of airplane outfit.

I tend to wear this for more day time sightseeing as opposed to nightwear.

Click here to shop hoodies for travel.

Best Jackets for Spring Travel

Leather jacket.

I personally prefer a leather jacket over a denim jacket. That is just because I hate denim on denim and there are always jeans in my capsule wardrobe. However this is just my style.

Click here to shop leather jackets for travel.

Waterproof Jacket

Spring in the northern hemisphere has notoriously changeable weather which includes showers! As such having a lightweight waterproof jacket is a good idea for Spring travel. My favorite type is a waterproof trench.

Click here to shop jackets for travel.

Shoes for Spring Capsule Wardrobes

I often find that shoes are the easiest item to overpack. However for Spring I recommend packing just two pairs of shoes. They are:

I never travel without a pair of sneakers. Some of my favorite travel sneaker brands are Hoka and All Birds. BUt ecco are a good brand if you want a sneaker with some waterproofing. However my favorite sneakers of the moment are the Addidas Cloud Foam . These are white sneakers which are very versatile as part of a capsule wardrobe but also are very comfortable for walking long distances.

On top of sneakers I also recommend packing:

Ankle Boots for March

Ankle boots or chelsea boots are great for travel in March. They look smarter for dinners than sneakers and can also cope with cold and even rainy weather if you pick the right pair.

Shop ankle boots here.

However for April and May I would pack a sandal in stead dependent on the forecast and specific location of course.

I usually opt for a sandal over a boot for travel in Late April or May. I only ever pick sandals with good arch support that can cope with long sightseeing days though.

Best Accessories for your Spring Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

The items that are included in this section are definitely nice to haves rather than Spring travel wardrobe essentials. However, packing at least one of the below items can really help transform your outfit and make it pop.

Some of our favorite Spring travel accessories include:

Pashminas are my number one  travel essential for women  as they are so versatile as a great layering piece and are always part of my perfect Spring capsule wardrobe. They can be used as an extra layer in the cooler weather or even as a scarf, and can also make outfits more modest at religious sites. And of course they are a great day to style an outfit differently for a day to night transition.

Click here to shop pashminas.

Traveling with jewelry can feel a bit like a minefield especially if you are worried about traveling with expensive or precious jewelry.

The type of jewelry you travel with is really a personal choice about what you feel comfortable with. However we think even traveling with some costume jewelry is a good idea to help you make your capsule wardrobe outfits look a bit different.

Crossbody Bag

A crossbody bag anti theft type is actually always on my packing lists especially for traveling in European cities such as Rome and Barcelona which do have pickpocket problems.

I find these types of bags give me a bit more peace of mind when traveling as they make it harder for pickpockets to get into. When selecting a crossbody bag I would pick something in a neutral color such as brown, black or navy depending on the palette of your capsule wardrobe and think about one that can be sued throughout your seasonal capsule wardrobes.

Shop crossbody bags here.

Note: a tote bag is also handy for souvenir shopping too.

Again, a hat is by no means an essential but they can transform an outfit and can make for some great instagram worthy photo. Let’s face it who hasn’t posed at a famous landmark with a hand on their hat?

We like the floppy wide brimmed hats in a color that complements rather than matches your capsule wardrobe colors is what I would suggest

Click here to shop Spring hats for travel.

We hope this has helped you put together your own Spring Capsule travel wardrobe! And we would love to hear about what you pack for Spring in the comments belows

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Opinionated Travelogue of a Photo Maniac

• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Pacific Islands
• FOOD & WINE
• TRAVEL GUIDES
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• Rants & Raves
• Travel Blogger Interviews
• Contact Form
• Privacy Policy
• Featured Elsewhere

How to Dress Like a European – The Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Last Modified: January 31, 2024 //  by  Anda //   104 Comments

Ready to spend a couple of weeks in Europe but still struggling with your packing list? Most of us care how we look and how others perceive us. But even if looking sharp is not your main priority, blending in with the locals and not being labeled a tourist is always a good idea when you travel. In this guide I will give you some guidance on how to dress like a European and avoid embarrassing fashion mistakes.

But before I tell you what to pack for your trip to Europe, there are a few things you need to know about the European dress style.

Table of Contents

European Fashion

European dress style is all about the fit, how to dress like a european, can you be fashionable on a budget, european attire for women, european attire for men, what you should not wear in europe, where to buy good quality clothes in europe, how to avoid looking like a tourist.

If this is your first time in Europe, there may be a few things that will surprise you . And one of them is how the Europeans dress. You will notice that Europeans always seem nicely dressed and well put-together. While in North America we tend to favor comfort over style, in Europe people are way more concerned about the way they look. 

While there isn’t a dress code per se , the European dress style is first about  chic and then about comfort. You don’t see many Parisians wearing something ill-fitting or unflattering just because it’s comfortable!

Traditionally, clothing is much more expensive in Europe than in other parts of the world. But it’s also of very good quality. European women may not have many outfits, but what they have is of good quality and it fits nicely. 

If you want to dress like a European woman, think chic and elegant . You don’t need to wear a cocktail dress or high heel shoes in order to be elegant. All you need is pair up your clothes in such a way that you don’t look like a hiker.

There is a great variety of clothes and shoes which can be both comfy and chic. Keep it simple. You don’t need a hole lot of cloths, but what you wear should make a statement.

What I need to make clear from the start is that I’m not a fashionista. However, as someone born and raised in Europe, I can give you some good advice about how to dress like a European.

I also need to clarify that in this article I basically discuss how people dress in the major European cities like Paris, London, Venice, Rome, Amsterdam, etc. In smaller European towns, resorts, or in the countryside the fashion is very different. Therefore, your packing list for Europe will vary depending on your destination. Packing for 3 days in Paris will certainly differ from packing for a few days in Zermatt . 

Not everybody can afford designer label clothing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable on a budget. Today it’s actually a bigger demand for low-budget fashion than it is for high end designers. As a result, most of the department stores carry very stylish clothes at very affordable prices.

If you look up any fashion magazines or online websites, you will find plenty of fashion ideas that will help you stay fashionable within your budget. It’s easy to create your own fashion style with with some simple and trendy ideas.

Packing List for Europe

Here is what you could consider for your packing list for Europe:

When traveling to Europe remember that people seeing you briefly for the first time will judge you completely by your appearance and will treat you accordingly. As a traveler, most of your personal contact will be with hotel clerks and restaurant waiters. To get a good table and good service you need to dress as if you deserve it. Finding the perfect balance between comfort and style may be difficult, but it’s not impossible.

So here is what you could wear in Europe as a woman:

  • Comfortable, but nice shoes

European streets, subways and busses are very crowded, so open toe shoes or are not always a good choice. Unless it’s hot. Since we started traveling in 1989 I have walked hundreds of miles in Born , Ecco , and Clarks shoes and have always been happy with these brands.

If you travel to Europe in winter you should pack a pair of low heel boots, as they are more comfortable on the uneven pavement of the European streets. The most popular winter shoes for Europe are Dr. Martens. This is a military style boot that is thick and comfortable, but not very flattering for older women. I personally prefer Born and Clark’s, which are a little more elegant but still comfortable.

•Dresses, skirts, dress pants, short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops  

Depending on the season, you  should bring some short-sleeve/long-sleeve tops , a sweater dress to wear with tights , a skirt and some dress pants . All these items are a must for your Europe packing list.

Wearing jeans is not my first choice, but if you wear them with a pair of boots , a nice top  and a blazer , you’ll be just fine. 

For fall or spring, a trench coat or a  blazer  that you can wear over your dress, or with any pair of pants.                                                   

• Scarfs and accessories

Scarfs, belts, and some costume jewelry are great accessories for your outfits. They add color and style to any outfit and they are easy to carry around. You can wear the same dress three days in a row, yet make it look like a different outfit if you wear it with a scarf, a belt, or a piece of jewelry. I have a great collection of scarfs and belts which are always part of my packing list for Europe.

• A Nice Bag (preferably not cross-body)

Bags are fine for both men and women. The best would be a shoulder, anti-theft bag that lies somewhat flat to your body, so you can lay your hand over it as need. Also, backpack-style bags work great. Not the kind that you would wear on a hiking trip, of course, but the small leather ones that you can wear both on your shoulder or on your back.

Don’t bring a messenger/cross-body bag to Europe! No one carries them there, except the American tourists.

European males are equally preoccupied with their looks as women. But as a male, the packing guides out there are pretty vague. If you want to dress like a European man think basic luxury and  neat and tight clothes.

When traveling to Europe you’ll need to make a little investment into some good quality clothes. Also, make sure your clothes fit nicely and don’t sag. Europeans love their clothes to fit a little slimmer, almost tight. Therefore, if you want to look  Parisian, don’t wear baggy clothes!

 Another trick to make you look European is to layer up: shirt, sweater and coat on top. Men in Europe love to wear layers, especially during the colder seasons. 

• Pick slacks over jeans and shirts over T-hirst

Leave the jeans and T-shirts for your travels to Las Vegas and pack a couple of pairs of slacks , a few casual shirts and a nice blazer when you travel to Europe. Most importantly, reconsider the synthetics, but keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and  linen. 

If you travel during the cold season, a good quality  coat (which may be a bit pricier), a cashmere turtleneck and a scarf will really give you an edge.

• Choose comfortable, but dress shoes

It’s much easier for men to find comfortable shoes, since they are not after high heels. Grab some leather pointed shoes in neutral colors, like blacks and browns. Make sure they are always polished and clean. It’s important to choose comfortable shoes, with thicker rubber sole, that can absorb shock. In Europe you’ll most likely do a lot of walking and thin soles will give  you a lot of pain.

When it comes to European fashion, there are a few faux pas that you should avoid at all costs. So here is what NOT to pack for Europe: 

• College/university apparel

University wear is not a big fashion trend in Europe. If you spot anyone in Europe wearing a Harvard, UC Berkley or UCLA sweatshirt, chances are they are a tourist.

• Baseball caps and athletic gear

While it may be comfortable to wear athletic gear while sightseeing, it’s generally considered a fashion faux pas in many European cities. Instead, opt for casual but stylish clothing that blends in with the locals. 

• Khakis, shorts and sweat pants

Khakis, shorts and sweat pants will be frowned upon in most European cities, therefore you shouldn’t include them in your packing list. Unless you are planning to go hiking in the mountains, shorts and sweat pants are a no-no in most European cities.

• Tennis Shoes, Convers, Flip-Flops

Flip-flops and sneakers may be popular among the youngsters in many countries. In fact, they are so popular in California that most young people wear them everywhere. But nothing screams  ‘tourist’ like bouncing down the streets of Europe in Flip-flops, converse, or tennis shoes! 

• Flashy colors and clothing embellished with flags or chauvinistic slogans

Patriotic or flashy logos may work in the USA, but they are considered ostentatious and perceived as a lack of class in Europe. Americans love to wear strong colors and patterns , but Europeans like subtle colors. Wearing bright, flashy colors will signal that you are a tourist from a mile away, therefore you should stay away from them.

• Cameras around your neck

We all love to take home digital memories from our travels, but wearing your camera around your neck wherever you go is bad taste. Besides, broadcasting to everyone that you are a tourist may increase your risk of attracting thieves. 

It’s best to keep your camera in a bag and take it out only when you are planning to use it.

READ NEXT: Best Time to Travel to Europe

If you live in a small town where it’s difficult to find fancy clothes, don’t panic. You can always do some shopping while visiting Europe. Don’t get set back by the huge prices you see displayed in the windows.

Get inside and look through the inventory. You’ll be surprised how many great deals you can find, even in the most sophisticated stores. In fact, I strongly encourage you to buy some good quality clothing from Europe. You’ll most likely turn some heads when you wear them back home.

Some people couldn’t care less if they have the word “ tourist ” written all over them. However, blending in with the locals has many advantages. And perhaps the most important one of them is that you’ll be less of a target for petty theft. Here are a few other things to consider if you don’t want to be labeled a “ tourist “:

• Don’t carry maps or guidebooks everywhere you go
• Walk with a purpose, not like someone who is lost
• Don’t carry large backpacks everywhere
• Learn local customs and etiquette
• Avoid taking selfies
• Eat where the locals do

I hope my post answered some of your questions about European fashion. So how does one dress like a European? By simply looking casually elegant. At any rate, have a great trip regardless of what you wear or not wear.

If you found this information useful, please pin it for later : 

RELATED POSTS:

• What to Wear in Greece – the Ultimate Packing List
• What to Wear in Hawaii – the Ultimate Male & Female Packing List
• Riga’s Architecture: Testimony to the City’s Fascinating History
• Patagonia Packing List – Essential Items to Pack for a Patagonia Trip

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

February 14, 2024 at 4:57 pm

Hello Anda,

You have brought up a timeless and forever important topic and intersting too. You also have a wonderful website blog that’s easy on the eyes. I would like to say that I notice here on your blog and on many other blogs or forums about “What to wear in_____”, it’s also about SECURITY. Of course it’s about fashion, style and being presentable and respecting the culture and people’s ways of the country, but dressing well and dressing of the mode of a place helps keep you away from becoming a target of theft, scams, and God-forbid other crimes from horrible unbecoming people, which has been an issue for some time plaguing European countries unfortunately. But this one is a different topic altogether.

So when you hear or even say “be safe out there” or something like that, you must know that safety is also about the way you dress, not just in your activities or where you go. If you dress up inappropriately or not even trying to blend in, will simply make you as good as “wearing” a target or red flag ready to be approached, bothered or harrassed by those problemtic people.

February 14, 2024 at 5:19 pm

Thanks for your comment, Antonio. I’m glad you my article useful.

September 22, 2023 at 4:34 pm

You seem to be one of those people who pride themselves on looking like tourists. My only question is why are you reading posts about how to dress in Europe when you are convinced that you already know how?

September 17, 2023 at 4:01 pm

“No athletic gear”: Um, what? We have clearly experienced European countries differently. I’ve seen more Adidas athletic clothes over there than on the street in the U.S. Also lots of slide-on sandals in summer (so much for “ no sandals”).

People *do* wear shorts in many European countries, especially given the recent heat waves. It was a thing from the 90s to not wear shorts — recently I heard a German say that nothing will make you stick out more than wearing long pants and leather shoes when it’s 35 degrees C. Just wear the shorts already if others are.

Ball caps and Converse are also more common than people think.

September 18, 2023 at 10:37 am

Obviously, you’ll see some people wearing athletic shoes, shorts or cargo pants in Europe, but those are mainly tourists or very young kids. Generally, Europeans dress much more stylish than Americans. And even though it has changed a little over the years and Europeans now dress more casually, the difference is still visible.

August 30, 2023 at 8:09 pm

I too enjoyed your suggestions about travel. Yes, I agree that whatever an American wears in Paris will be unfashionable if it is comfortable. In the UK, things seemed more relaxed. In Ireland at the cliffs of Mohr, an American was extremely fashionable, but dressed in white wool clothing, covered in mud from the cliff trails. So dress appropriately for weather, mud, etc. Secondly, to Americans I say stick to single tone pieces of clothing and lots of different silk scarves to change up the outfit. People, unless on a tour bus, will only see you for a day. My husband and I try to fit into the culture. It was fun when a proprietor of a store in the Alps could not decide in which language to speak to us, until we spoke to each other. We are American, but my husband’s heritage is Swiss-German. Enjoy the journey.

August 18, 2023 at 10:54 am

Thank you Anda this was a great article and very helpful guide. I loved the Primo Sacchi handbag in the suggestions and ordered it. It seems like just what I’m looking to carry a few essentials and beautiful quality as well. Hope it works out.

August 18, 2023 at 5:30 pm

Thank you for your kind words. It’s comments like yours that encourage me to keep writing. Hope the beg will work for you.

October 13, 2022 at 6:25 am

Very interesting and informative article. I’m getting ready for a trip to Europe and this is really helpful.

dave barnes

August 30, 2022 at 9:19 am

You might show styles for fat old American males. Not all of us are emaciated 20-something models. On the other hand, cargo shorts are always in style. In 2019, we were having lunch in a mid-scale restaurant in Bologna and noticed that the table of 6 Italian males were all wearing cargo shorts.

July 22, 2022 at 1:16 pm

Converse is definitely popular in Europe, BUT make sure they are in conversative colors (white, black) and kept CLEAN. I almost never see a worn-out or dirty pair, they don’t add character, just sloppiness.

July 21, 2022 at 6:49 pm

We are taking a river cruise and I don’t like the look of sneakers and shorts AT ALL, not ever, not even in the US. I wear sneakers while exercising and with leggings occasionally. But—I also think Borns, Clark’s, and those other awful “comfort” sandals look no better. They are hideous and unflattering period. Soooo…my question is, what do EUROPEANS wear when they have many days of walking tours? Which version of ugly do you suggest I wear? I’m 42 and thin and fit, and those school marm you suggested make me want to cry. But sneakers, ugh! Please help. 🙂

July 21, 2022 at 9:45 pm

I know what you are saying, Susan. I’m also trying to compromise between feeling comfortable and looking good. Unfortunately we have very few good choices here, in the US, which is why I buy my shoes in Europe. I like Born, Clark and Ecco, that sometimes have good looking and comfortable shoes.

January 19, 2023 at 8:24 pm

Adidas, Veja, Tretorn. A gum sole is very in right now. Allbirds are my favorite because they are extremely comfortable. Sandals in a city are gross and you will hate it, trust me.

January 20, 2023 at 1:41 pm

I walk the a lot in sandals in summer and didn’t feel it’s “gross,” but I guess that depends where you walk. I usually avoid filthy neighborhoods, lol!

July 1, 2022 at 11:12 am

People don’t remember what you were wearing after you die, but they remember how you treated them. Most people will choose to spend their money on experiences (Trip to Europe) over fashion and I will always support that. I think you can look respectful and mindful on a budget. I can buy a cheap scarf at Target if that’s what it takes and move my Travelon black pickpocket/slash-proof purse strap to my shoulder instead of across my body because you’re telling me fashion should take priority over getting my passport and credit card stolen?? My husband is going to wear his favorite dark blue Asics and Levi’s no matter what fashion shoe or pants I try and put him in. (He’s paying for the trip) and I’m okay with that because I’m just grateful he worked hard to help pay for the experience.

July 1, 2022 at 11:21 am

Dressing like a European doesn’t mean spending a fortune on clothing, Michelle. You can have good taste and dress fashionably even from Target. For some people blending with the locals and not looking like a tourist is important, but if for you it isn’t, then just don’t do it.

July 29, 2022 at 10:18 am

Dear Meryn, First of all thank you for taking time to comment. I really appreciate that. As a European myself, I am well aware that the dressing style in Europe is changing lately, but the basic principles are still the same. My article is not intended to give advice about the latest fashion, but rather some general ideas about how people dress in Europe. You can always wear what you like in Europe, as long as you dress in a stylish manner.

September 8, 2022 at 3:26 pm

Damn straight! Nobody we pass on the street during our travels gives our fashion choices more than a fleeting thought. Be comfortable, be safe. Screw anyone that finds your fashion choices distasteful. That’s their problem, not mine. Wear what makes you feel good and enjoy your time traveling. Don’t waste time stressing about what everyone will think of you.

September 8, 2022 at 5:46 pm

Nothing wrong with dressing any way you want, Jane. What puzzles me is why are you reading this post if you don’t care to dress like a European?

November 19, 2022 at 12:46 pm

I was in Europe in the ’60’s and have no desire to go back. Dress codes in public were oppressive, women wore dresses or skirts, never pants or shorts. Now people are held back from flying home if they test for covid and have to stay in a motel 14 days instead of flying home with spouse or friends. Unless people are in social classes (wealthier class) people don’t care in the U.S. about fashion if clothes are clean and basic incl joggers or nike’s worn most anywhere. Ripped jeans and revealing ill fitting clothing is a turn off no matter where your at.

July 24, 2023 at 1:18 pm

I laughed when I read this because I could have written it. I completely agree with what you said. I trip to Europe should not require a complete redesign of your wardrobe. Also, I am lucky I have already convinced my husband he cannot wear his cargo shorts to DINNER. If he wants to wear them sightseeing in July, so be it. He is a kind and polite person and I want him to enjoy the trip as much as me. I will probably make some adjustments to my packing selection, but I will do so out of what I currently own.

June 13, 2022 at 2:11 am

Black or white low converse are worn regularly here, but as the casual twist to an outfit. Those and vans are much loved because they are cobblestone and hill friendly. Smooth leather soles are deadly. No one looks good in a cast.

May 20, 2022 at 4:14 pm

I was wondering how people can even walk around with heels all day in the city. I’ll be in Europe soon walking constantly and I’m not sacrificing my comfort over a fashionable and uncomfortable shoe.

May 21, 2022 at 3:06 am

Oh, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort over fashionable. You can wear nice, lower heel shoes.

April 3, 2022 at 6:09 am

I am a Brit born and bred. Jeans are perfectly acceptable for daytime casual wear here but never ever wear double denim. An absolute no-no.

February 15, 2020 at 5:29 pm

I know this beautiful article/post is to help people blend in and not look like a tourist when visiting other countries, in this case specifically European countries, but besides the “not looking like a tourist” factor and purpose, here’s a huge point: RESPECT. It’s all about showing respect for the places and societies you visit or travel to. We are not all the same. We all different, and when you visit countries, it is not your country and it is not a Disneyworld. Countries are real life and real society. It also goes back to the classic saying “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. But overall, it’s about respect.

August 5, 2019 at 8:03 pm

I’d agree with most of these points, but I WILL carry a cross-body messenger type bag on my upcoming European vacation. It is small and black, not “loud,” but it’s a necessity for me when spending a day walking through larges cities like Rome or Paris and needing to keep items handy, but secure. Maybe the locals can get away with a shoulder bag, but they probably aren’t carrying all the cash, credit cards, passports, and electronic devices I’ll have with me. And they aren’t going to be targeted by pickpockets the way I will once someone hears my accent and figures out I’m American. So yeah, if that makes me look like a tourist, well that is what I am after all. I’m not going out of my way to flaunt it, but some things like a cross body bag are non-negotiable for me.

Anda Galffy

August 6, 2019 at 10:59 am

I hear you, Lisa. We are all concerned about petty theft when we travel. No worries about the cross-body bag. Yea sure, the Europeans don’t wear them, but if that makes you feel safer do it.

Maite Stephens

July 17, 2022 at 9:28 am

I am from Europe and I can assure you that when we, Europeans , travel for vacation in Europe and are sightseeing, we wear crossed body bags to prevent being a target while looking at building, or walking in a museum! The rest of the advice is on point.

December 11, 2021 at 6:35 pm

Lisa, i was going to return my anti theft Crossbody bag until I read your response. I actually marked off to return my Crossbody bag on the notes I take researching my three week trip to Western Europe in the shoulder season, September ’22.

Now I can relax a little, along with my pick pocket proof pants. I want to look like I have moey but I’m prepared at the dame time. Thanks for you excellent feedback. Besides that I thought the article was spot on.

June 24, 2019 at 12:57 pm

This article is definitely accurate in the sophisticated clothing but I think it is some what outdated in the footwear and shorts. I was recently in London and Paris and while people wore nice clothing a lot of locals wore shorts and practically everyone was in tennis shoes. Wearing Tennis shoes and shorts might mark you as a tourist in a ritzy area but not in the main part of the city.

June 24, 2019 at 4:22 pm

That is valid for the young generation. Sadly, the tendency in Europe is to copy the Americans, so I’m not surprised to see they began wearing shorts and tennis shoes.

June 5, 2019 at 6:08 am

This article, while informative, is mostly a preconceived notion. A Parisian here (insert a wave). A friend forwarded a link to this article and asked whether I agree. I’m married to an american, living in the U.S. part-time, traveling for living, with family located all over Europe: Paris, London, Moscow, Prague, Oslo, Munich, Vienna. What I agree with: european men do prefer slim/tighter fit of both, tops and bottoms. Layers – yes, scarves – yes. Fit is everything. That being said, the style has relaxed IMMENSELY over the last few years. In fact, simple dresses with trainers (keds, skechers, converse) are very popular for casual outings. Even major theaters have relaxed their dress codes and i’ve seen lots and lots of locals wearing casual bottoms and slightly dressier tops for orchestra performances. I personally detest it as I am all about tailored clothing, heels and quality handbags, but comfort is taking over. The way I recognized americans without a fail is no longer by keds or skechers or crossbody handbags (the latter is now worn by just about everyone in every major city) but by plastic, unnecessary smiles. 20 years in the U.S. and it still perplexes me. In summary, european men dress more differently from their american counterparts than european vs american women. I do agree, quality over quantity is what sets us apart. And scarves 🙂

June 5, 2019 at 11:01 am

Thanks for your comment, Julie. Truly appreciated.

August 24, 2019 at 3:12 pm

A spaniard here currently living and working in Dublin. I am not sure if, perhaps, this targeted to a much older audience…? I am in my late 30s and wear mostly good quality leather cross body bags (so do all my colleagues and friends here in Ireland and back in Spain. Same in all european capitals that I travel to frequently for work: London, Berlin, Paris…). I also wear jeans most of the time and some times fashion sneakers. It is true that I prefer to wear a chelsea leather boot to a pair of runners, but seems to me that that the style here is way more relaxed than what this article suggests…

Shreya Saha

May 13, 2019 at 10:06 am

This is an informative post. I did not know that I have to think much before dressing up in Europe. But I like to know about the thoughts from someone who grew up in Europe. I loved the fashion for women and really want to have a Clarks shoe soon.

Kristy Sheridan

March 19, 2019 at 6:45 pm

Thank you for this helpful article! Hub and I are planning 2 weeks in Switzerland, Lake Como, and Provence this September, including stops in cities- Lucerne, Geneva, Nice, etc…. Planning on taking a basic, classic, wardrobe and I wanted to include a blazer. My favorite is lightweight navy wool gabardine from Ralph Lauren, with a simple crest on the lapel. Would this be considered too flashy? Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

March 20, 2019 at 11:46 am

No, that’s not too flashy. It’s just perfect. Have a safe trip.

November 8, 2018 at 1:04 am

Hello! my family is touring Europe in December. Any advice on the clothing during the winter period? Thank you!

November 8, 2018 at 11:08 am

Depending where in Europe you go, December may be very cold. It can get bitterly cold even in Rome and Paris, although you will most likely not encounter snow in these areas. I would recommend you take a good winter coat (it may be a peacoat) with you and some dark pants. Black jeans will work also. Take a few turtle necks (there may be strong winds) and a wool scarf. Don’t take a ski jacket if you want a smart, elegant look. Hope this helps.

February 16, 2019 at 6:22 am

We are going to Europe in October. I’m having a hard time finding comfort shoes for my husband that can be walked in all day but could be worn with slacks too. Is there anything you can refer? I clicked on the picture for the men’s shoe but they are not being sold on amazon.

February 17, 2019 at 3:01 pm

Hi Nihi, thanks for your comment. I updated the Amazon links for men’s shoes, so all pairs I have there are available now on Amazon. All these three brands make great walking shoes for both men and women.

October 8, 2018 at 11:12 pm

Super good in depth review. I have a mandatory study abroad for my degree in Bonn Germany and want to have some pretty good outfits I can wear to not feel like an outcast. I’ll look further into these!

September 14, 2018 at 1:06 am

I grew up in the US but visit Belgium for a few months every year. Clothing here is casual but elegant and not expensive! There are high-end shops but on the whole clothing is cheap here. For example, you can buy a nice, decent quality stripped basic shirt that is casual but elegant for maybe 10-25 euros.

I always feel a little inferior here. I mostly wear US brands like LL Bean and Lands’ End and that comes off more sporty than elegant. It’s kind of drab too compared to the clothing here. However, I have never been denied anything here due to my clothing, or anything else for that matter.

September 14, 2018 at 2:07 pm

I think you misread my statement about “being denied access in certain places because of the way you are dressed.” In most places you won’t be denied access, it would be horrible if they did that. However, there are certain places in EUrope (mostly high end restaurants) that require a certain attire. If you show up there dressed in jeans and a t-shirt they will not let you in.

August 4, 2018 at 1:48 pm

I live in Europe. I divide my time between Paris, Zagreb, and Prague although for work I’m frequently in Berlin and Bucharest also. Many of your points are spot on, but you could not be more wrong about sneakers. We wear them EVERWHERE. (Except for places like the opera and to church) The New Balance 574, for example, is a chic choice for women all over Europe. Merrill and Born?! I only see them on American travelers.

Now, the white, flashy American sneaker? That is not a fashionable choice in Europe, for sure. But cute, dark colored sneakers? You see them on all of the chic girls.

August 4, 2018 at 5:11 pm

Hi Elle, Thank you for taking time to comment on my post. I am European myself and travel to Europe every year. I am quite aware of the fact that the young generation there tends to follow the American trend and believes that wearing sneakers and ripped jeans everywhere is “cool.” However, that’s not the norm. At least not yet. It’s quite possible that in the next 30-40 years the classy European style of dressing will be replaced by a more sloppy one. For now though, people still dress nicer in Europe than in America.

July 16, 2018 at 3:44 pm

We’re leaving for Bavaria in six short weeks and I am very thankful I came across your article. You’ve provided useful information for both my husband and me (thank you!). I do have a question though – I’m 52 and love wearing jeans (not ripped). I planned to bring a dark wash blue and black skinny jean, but now I’m not so sure that’s a good idea. I had planned to dress them up with nice tops, booties & a jacket. But will I look like a fool? Do older (over 50) women wear jeans? Will my husband look dumb too?

July 16, 2018 at 8:40 pm

Hy Pollyanna, I’m glad you found my article of help. I actually mentioned the jeans somewhere in my post and even have a picture of a young woman wearing jeans and boots. I am actually older than you and I love wearing jeans.

Depending where you are in Europe, wearing jeans is not necessarily out of taste. Especially if you wear them with a nice pair of boots, or some dress shoes and a nice top. Besides, Munich is not exactly Paris or Milan. Germans have a little more relaxed style. Hope you’ll have a great time in Bavaria.

June 18, 2018 at 10:25 am

Thin soled shoes will not give you pain. The more “minimalist” your shoes are, the more comfortable they will be. Your feet will strengthen eventually, so you won’t need all that support and motion control. Thank me later.

June 18, 2018 at 11:06 am

I wish you were right, Nathan, but my experience proves differently. I love thin soles and delicate shoes, but unfortunately they are good just for show off, not for long walks on the European streets. If you talk to any podiatrist he will tell you the same thing: that shoes with cushion protect your feet. The pressure you put on your feet when you walk on high heels or very thin soles irritate the nerves that lead to the toes.This irritation triggers the thickening of the nerve tissue, though causing a “neuroma.” I’ve learned my lesson the hard way. After each trip to Europe I would return home and run to the podiatrist’s office for a cortisone shot in my feet. Despite his advice, the following year I would go back to my fancy thin-sole sandals. After a few years of stubbornness I ended up with neuroma surgeries on both feet.

May 3, 2018 at 8:17 am

Hi! I’ve been reading lots and lots of articles as of what to wear in Europe. I’m traveling soon to western European trips and I’ve been worried that if what I’m going to wear is frowned upon. I don’t own any long dresses or long skirts. So I was wondering if it’s okay to wear skirts then wear stockings or tights underneath it? We are visiting various religious sights, would they allow me in if I have a skirt on with tights covering my knees?

May 3, 2018 at 9:25 am

Absolutely. You can wear stockings or tights and skirts, no problem.

March 24, 2018 at 7:49 pm

We are traveling abroad this year for several weeks with our kids (ages 12 and 10). Could you offer some tips for them? My daughter is VERY sporty and not accustomed to dresses or frills. Would my son be ok in nicer linen shorts? To us that’s somewhat fancy but still comfortable.

March 25, 2018 at 7:02 pm

Hi Becky, I think 10 and 12 years old are still kids, so they would probably get by with less formal clothes than adults. However, if you plan to go to fancy restaurants or attend some cultural events, they should definitely dress appropriately (more elegant). For your daughter a white pair of pants with a nice top and some ballet flats would work great. For your son, knee length linen shorts may work all right during the day time, but not in the evening.I hope this helps.

Elaine Masters

February 25, 2018 at 7:35 pm

I spend so much more time packing when I go to Europe than any other destination! These are great tips that I wish more tourists, especially from the US, would pay attention to. It’s true as well that especially in Paris, no matter what I might wear, I’ll feel underdressed. Tant Pis! My motto is to dress to see and not be seen (necessarily.)

February 25, 2018 at 10:32 pm

Hahaha, I hear you, Elaine!

February 10, 2018 at 11:53 am

Hello, Anda! I discovered your post researching about what to wear in Europe in the spring. Your article is very informative. Thank you! May I pls. know the brand of those brown ankle length women’s boots you showed here? I’m currently on the hunt for a stylish, comfortable footwear. Thanks much!

February 10, 2018 at 11:59 am

Thank you for your comment, Ella. Those are Pikolinos. They are extremely soft and flexible. Excellent for long walks, yet very stylish.

Jo Americano

January 6, 2018 at 11:13 pm

I was going to spend a few hundred dollars to avoid being frowned upon by judgmental strangers (the double standard of accepting any cultural wear tourists may wear to america but having to change your own culture when you travel…) but then I realized I could just be myself and not care what other people think for free. And I won’t even have to tithe because my Apparently God doesn’t invite you into his house in Europe unless he’s impressed by the material wealth you flaunt on your feet!

July 11, 2018 at 8:37 am

Spoken like a true “Merkin” Ignorance is bliss as they say.

Thedollysmama

March 20, 2023 at 8:45 pm

Oh, Dolores, you need to google the definition of ‘merkin’. I think you meant ‘Murican’. A merkin is a ‘pubic wig’, very different thing entirely!

June 11, 2017 at 5:38 pm

Hi, what is brand and model of first shoe you posted under women section? Thanks!

June 11, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Those are Pikolinos, but I can’t see the model written anywhere. They are extremely comfortable and can be worn even in a colder season (like spring and fall) with a pair of socks.

February 9, 2017 at 2:31 pm

Very useful tips! I have the same impression that clothing in Europe is more expensive than it is in the States, even when it comes to the exact same brands and sales/outlets. But on the other hand, I believe, in Europe you could find more small local boutiques (some family-owned for generations) where one might buy smth that would really last. I´ve also bought a pair of random boots in Rome once and after years of wearing them they look better than some of the high-end worldwide known brands I have. And absolutely agree that in different European countries it might be harder/easier to fit in… I lived in Berlin and that one day you wear heels – you immediately look overdressed, while every time I come to Italy I feel like I don’t have enough clothes lol

Kind regards from Spain, Anna

February 9, 2017 at 2:40 pm

Thanks for your comment, Anna. If you live in Europe, you know better how easily it is to look underdressed in some cities. Overall though, no matter where you are in Europe, people look more put together and nicely dressed than in most parts of the USA.

January 19, 2017 at 5:19 pm

Awesome post! I had a quick question, do you know what kind of shoes the brown ones are (the big picture below the three smaller pictures of shoes for women)? Thanks so much! Alyson

January 19, 2017 at 10:52 pm

Those I Born, Alyson. Born makes extremely comfortable yet very stylish walking shoes. I strongly recommend this brand. Also, the Clarks are excellent for travel. Thanks for commenting on my post.

January 7, 2017 at 12:08 pm

I have a serious foot problem and must wear thick orthotics. They really do not fit into anything except extra depth tennis shoes. Any suggestions?

January 8, 2017 at 1:07 pm

I wear orthotics too, Ann. I don’t know how thick yours are, but mine are designed according to the shoes. I even wear orthotics in my high heel shoes (the ones I wear for only 2-3 hours when I go to a special event).

October 16, 2016 at 3:05 pm

December 27, 2016 at 4:10 am

Here is just a bit of my 2cents on the subject: “Keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and linen, but reconsider synthetics.” While this is quite true for Italian people, you would wondering stares in northern Europe. Synthetics are everywhere. Leather is nice, bit only when its cold – and norvegians dont freeze so easily. Thats why you can see mini skirts all years round with proper warm pants under them if needed. There is just one point where you are perfectly right: Europeans wear shorts and flip flops only on the beach, but not in the streets. And if we see a (mostly russian) tourist in bathing suit and naked chest – preferable wet from tip to toe – in a Thai shopping mall, we are near vomiting. And speaking of Thais… in the north you will see 80% wearing flip flop on the streets, not so in Bangkok. So Marta is right in saying you can’t throw all Europeans into one box. You must differentiate a lot. We have very distinct cultures here.

December 27, 2016 at 9:54 pm

My post is not an analysis of the European culture and its diversity, nor is it a generalization of the dress code in Europe. These are basic recommendations for those who travel to Europe and want to look nice and well put together. A guide for people who want to blend in rather than stand out as tourists. As someone who was born and raised in Europe and travels there every year, I’m pretty aware of the fact that many young Europeans slobber over looking like a Gringo and dress sloppy, but that doesn’t define Europe. As for your ‘2cents’, they don’t make much sense when you bring Asia into this conversation.

September 5, 2016 at 3:40 am

Thanks for your informative article. I’m kind of lost when it comes to dressing properly in a big city.

April 10, 2016 at 11:15 am

Great post! I swear by the scarf anytime I travel anywhere! They are so versatile! The struggle is real to find comfortable shoes to walk around a European city all day and also not look like a hobo though. Thanks for the great tips.

April 10, 2016 at 7:24 am

I was pretty gobsmacked to read this article. Living in Europe all I see is people wearing shorts, t shirts and jeans. Really our fashion is very similar to American fashion unless you’re in expensive hotels/eateries in Rome, Paris or Milan! The only time I would dress as you recommend is if I was going on a night out, out for a fancy dinner or to the theatre – and almost everyone I know would agree.

April 9, 2016 at 4:11 pm

Love this post so much, I love Europe and dressing up appropriately when travelling, nothing screams tourist like some t shirt and shorts with flipflops! A scarf or hat for those bad hair days are a must for me as well. I’m always looking for comfortable but stylish shoes and you have some neat options here!

April 9, 2016 at 4:00 pm

Being a European and travelling in Europe quite a lot… I read this post opening my eyes really widely. Some of the comments surprised me even more 🙂 At first I thought you might be talking about big fashion capital like Paris or Milan, where I haven’t been for quite a few years, but then when you mentioned Eastern Europe (where I live) I found it really, really strange. Come to think of it, I dress like a tourist in my own hometown, more – I can see other local people dressed like tourists.

The funny thing is that I actually quite often dress the way you recommend, but at the same time I dress the way you advise against and I can see I’m not any different from the people around me – it just depend what you do, where you work etc.

However, I’ve never been to the USA so unfortunately I cannot compare 🙂

April 10, 2016 at 12:08 am

I don’t know where in Europe you live, Monica, but I haven’t seen people in shorts and flip flops anywhere there (not even in the countryside.) From big metropolitan areas to small provincial towns, people in Europe dress nicely. That doesn’t mean that you are not going to see a pair of jeans here and there, but the overall impression you get when you travel to Europe is what I describe in my post. To have a better understanding of the comparison I’m making, you should probably come visit America.

April 10, 2016 at 1:47 am

When it is hot in summer I usually go outside Europe on my holiday so I’m not so sure about flip-flops and shorts 🙂 I would find beach flip-flops awfully uncomfortable in the city and shorts in the city are for teenage girls in my opinion 😀 Open toes, jeans and T-shirts? They’re everywhere. But I guess you’re right, I should probably go visit the USA to understand it better 🙂 I live in Poznań (Poland) – it’s a city right in the middle between Berlin and Warsaw. But as I say, I never think that I should wear different clothes in other places – it only depends on the weather and what I’m going to do. However, I guess tourists are excused when putting comfort over elegance even because they walk more and do different things.

April 10, 2016 at 2:18 pm

Monica, how you choose to dress when you travel is up to you. If you want to dress smart and elegant, that’s considered a plus in Europe (unlike in America where nobody cares). This post was meant as a tool for those who want to look and feel good when they visit Europe.

April 10, 2016 at 4:40 am

Dear Monica, I’m from Central (in my opinion) Europe (Poland) and I think the point here is other style of jeans e.g. We dress all those things but in other style. We don’t dress baggy unless we meant to dress “oversize”.

April 9, 2016 at 12:34 pm

Having visited Europe a number of times now, the differences in the fashion between guys from the US and guys from EU are strikingly different in many ways. I’m always a shorts guy back in the states (I’m from Texas, it’s a necessity!), but always leave them behind when traveling abroad.

April 10, 2016 at 12:20 am

There is nothing wrong with your Texan cloths, Justin. In fact I love that style, but when you travel you want to blend in, not be spotted as a tourist.

April 6, 2016 at 7:59 pm

This is such a useful post! When I was first traveling in my early 20s, I used to not care about how I dress. I thought it was rather superficial. But then I landed in Tokyo for the first time —- and boy, did I feel so insecure! Even though I thought I dressed up pretty well in a jeans and a North Face jacket (cringe), I felt like such a country bumpkin amidst all the fashionable Tokyo men and women.

Good thing when I went to Europe for the first time I have already developed a bit of class. Dressing well and appropriately is not just about caring what people think — it does enhance the experience, and as you pointed out, you get good service and a good table. It also shows that you respect the culture, especially when you try to go to certain establishments like theatre.

Definitely learned a lot from this post and will keep it handy for when I’m next heading to Europe. 🙂

April 7, 2016 at 1:50 am

Thank you, Liz. I’m glad if I could bring anything new to the table.

Suze - Luxury Columnist

April 3, 2016 at 2:54 pm

You make such a good point about scarves, Anda – I’m here in Andalusia at the moment and it’s quite chilly in the morning and evening, I wish I’d brought more of them!

April 3, 2016 at 11:30 pm

I don’t think you can have too many scarves when you travel, Suze.

Lyn @thetravellinglindfields

April 3, 2016 at 2:22 pm

Striking a balance between comfort and elegance is a topic close to my heart. We like to be active when we travel, even if that just means walking huge distances rather than hoping in and out of taxis. Sometimes it is hard to look reasonable without risking being too hot, too cold or having aching feet. It always surprises me how casually Americans dress for dinner (not at flash restaurants but just about everywhere else) but I do find the casual styles great for long days on the tourist trail. We have not been to Europe for quite a few years but your comments definitely resonate with memories of our last trip to Buenos Aires when I think I looked like a bag lady most of the time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:39 pm

The older I get, the more comfortable I want to feel when I travel Lyn. However,you can feel comfy in nice cloths as well as in sloppy one and believe me, nothing feels so good as looking good.

Ruth - Tanama Tales

April 2, 2016 at 10:24 am

I made a lot of mistakes when I visited Europe as a college student. My attire consisted of jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. But, the thing is that nobody instructed me on how to dress properly in this area of the world (and the Internet was in its infancy during those years). Now, I usually take dresses, long pants and nice blouses. And, I take scarfs too since they can change the appearance of an outfit in one second. My biggest headache is shoes. I usually have problems finding a pair that is comfy but nice looking at the same time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:51 pm

Yea, I agree with you, Ruth. Nice and comfortable shoes are hard to find and they are a must when you travel.

April 2, 2016 at 6:15 am

This is the best packing post I’ve seen, Anda. I even showed it to my husband, who is quite looking forward to the day that he needs to buy dressier clothes for a trip to Europe. When I traveled to Europe in my 20s, I did okish because I wore lots of darks and neutrals, but I did wear jeans. I remember people laughing at my countrymen who wore spring colors in winter. Now, living in the tropics, I dress like a bum, but I hope to have some dress-up time in a cooler climate in the future.

April 4, 2016 at 12:01 am

You probably miss a little dressing time if you live at the tropics, Karen. I remember enjoying the tropics but looking forward to going back home where I can dress up nicely.

Connie Reed

April 1, 2016 at 7:49 pm

This is great information, Anda. My first trip to Europe was to my daughter’s wedding in Paris about twelve years ago. She told me then not to bring sneakers or bluejeans. I see that one of your photos includes bluejeans. Are jeans acceptable now?

April 1, 2016 at 10:55 pm

The photo with jeans was used to illustrate what NOT to wear in Europe, Connie.

April 10, 2016 at 2:44 am

I am European, I used to live in Poland, Germany and the UK, currently in Switzerland. I visited almost all countries in Europe. And as long as I can agree to many advices above, the blue jeans advice is a lie, sorry. Everyone wears blue jeans here. No, not to Opera or fancy restaurant or client-focused work, but anything then this – blue jeans is a daily outlook and nobody will look touristy just because of wearing jeans. This will just look normal and not fancy/exclusive.

April 10, 2016 at 2:12 pm

I think you didn’t understand what you were reading. Nowhere in this post did I say that jeans are inappropriate in Europe. Shorts, T-shirts, sweat pants, baggy cloths, sneakers, converse and flip-flopsre the only NO-NO items listed here.

January 30, 2017 at 11:28 am

I think she was referring to the photo included with the scarves section…

April 10, 2016 at 4:35 am

Dear Connie, I am European so I can explain you the difference: in Europe, of course, we dress jeans almost daily but they look way different than a photo in this post. Our jeans are usually one-colored (so no brighter parts), dark (dark blue, black, dark grey), even if they’re in light colors they usually white or light grey, they have to fit (but don’t have to be tight, they just cannot be baggy). So they are almost boarding elegance. And you have to consider kind of event: if it’s really chic restaurant, you should consider dress (not too short) or pants other than jeans. If it’s less chic (let say: typical evening with friends) but still not a fastfood or ‘milkbar’ it’s enough to dress those jeans a little bit up: nice blouse and jacket or blazer, no sporty shoes, definately no flip-flops. In other cases we dress those jeanse with a pair of (really clean) pair converse, some t-shirt (also well-fitted, not baggy). This is kind of rule: we don’t wear baggy if we don’t mean to wear “oversize”.

Rhonda Albom

April 1, 2016 at 4:11 pm

This is great, and the complete opposite of how I am packing for our upcoming 45 day America adventure. I was very glad to read that America is still about comfort. My goal, although yet to be determined if I will succeed, is all carry on. A mix of smart-casual and comfort, and everything can be layered. Good thing I am not headed to Europe right now – of course I would be packing differently.

April 1, 2016 at 11:16 pm

Truth is Rhonda that no matter how much I like to dress up for Europe, I feel way more comfortable when I am in the States. Here nobody judges you too harsh for wearing comfy clothes.

April 1, 2016 at 10:46 am

Anda, this is one of the most informative and useful posts I have seen in a while and I especially appreciate that it was written from the perspective of one who grew up in Europe. While I don’t mind being an American, I prefer to blend into the surroundings rather than wear something that immediately brands me as one and screams “TOURIST!”

Shoes are my biggest issue; it’s frustratingly difficult to find comfy walking shoes that fit my small, narrow feet. I’m definitely going to have to search out Born; I’ve not tried them yet.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

All rights reserved © Travel Notes & Beyond. The material on this website is protected by copyright law. Republishing the content on this blog (including text, photography, etc.) is strictly prohibited.

AFFILIATE PROGRAM DISCLOSURE

Some of the pages and posts of this blog contain links to products and services that may be useful for my readers. When clicking on these links you will have the option to purchase or register for a service at no extra cost to you, but doing so can help me offset the costs associated with running this blog. Thank you for your support!

Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Packing Guides , Style , Travel Tips · Last Updated: July 27, 2022

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: How to Dress Like A European

The ultimate travel capsule wardrobe.

Being a skilled packer is not an easy feat. There is a formula that goes into creating the perfect Travel Capsule Wardrobe and I’m here to teach you my ways! With a little bit of strategy and a few classic versatile pieces, you will be packing light in no time. Along with that, while this collection can take you anywhere in the world, it’s designed for a European destination. Finally, read on for tips on How to Dress European so you don’t stand out as a tourist!

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources!!

Classic Clothing Items to Invest in

When curating your travel wardrobe you want to start off with good solid pieces that will interchange with many outfits. These are the pieces to invest in because they will last for your trips in years to come! Also, always remember the cardinal rule when packing: stick to a similar color palette. It makes life easier when you’re on the road. Consider this your packing list for classic items:

Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is the clothing equivalent to a good black purse. It’s a wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. Being that it’s lightweight, I travel with mine the majority of the time. When shopping for your trench stick to a classic style.

White Button Down

The perfect all-season staple is a white button-down . Whether you’re wearing it with jeans, a leather skirt, or simply leggings you can never go wrong with this minimalist piece. I love wearing mine through the airport with leggings or with jean shorts in the summer. Being that they will never go out of style, this is a great piece to invest in.

A classic blazer will dress up any look with its sharp silhouette! It’s no longer a staple for the office we are taking the blazer everywhere with us. You can never go wrong styling a blazer with jeans and sneakers for a casual look. Or take it out to a fancy dinner paired over a midi dress and heels. Finally, throw it on with leggings and a tee at the airport for a polished look.

Wide Leg Trousers

Wide-leg trousers have taken the fashion industry by storm in the past few years. They have become a new classic staple and I am here for it! Not only are they comfortable but they’re uber stylish as well. You can’t go wrong with that combo and the trousers I linked come in multiple colors.

Midi Dress (Spring/Summer)

A midi dress is a perfect balance between casual and polished. For summer travel, you can easily wear it with sneakers for a day of sightseeing or paid with heels and a clutch for a night out. It’s also a very flattering silhouette to add to your closet!

Sweater Dress (Fall/Winter)

The fall equivalent of a midi dress is a sweater midi dress . A cold weather staple and one of the most comfortable pieces of clothing to travel in during the colder months. Pair with sneakers for a daytime look or high-heeled boots for a fancy dinner. It rounds out your travel capsule wardrobe perfectly.

Straight Leg Jeans

I have a love-hate relationship with jeans when it comes to traveling but they are no doubt one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can add to your wardrobe. Stick to a straight-leg style since they are very trendy at the moment. You also want a pair that fits properly or else you will be uncomfortable. These AG Golde jeans come highly recommend and the material is a bit stretchy.

Neutral Cardigan

Cardigans have been in fashion for decades. Not only that but a cardigan comes in handy during those long-haul flights and train rides. I like to pair my neutral cardi with straight-leg jeans, a tank top, and sneakers for a travel day polished look.

Trendy Pieces

Trendy pieces are a great way to round out your travel capsule wardrobe. You can easily filter these pieces in and out as you see fit. Finally, when shopping for trendy clothes I tend to go out of the box in terms of colors and patterns as I will filter out these pieces within a year or so.

Statement Blouse

A statement blouse truly makes a statement. The best part about wearing a statement blouse is you can keep your other articles of clothing simple. Let the blouse have its own moment!

Leather Trousers

Leather trousers are another hot item that has taken the fashion world by storm. I don’t see leather slowing down as a trend so pick yourself up a pair of classic pants to last years to come.

Black Split Front Pants

These split-front pants elevate any outfit but feel like leggings. Sounds like a win-win for me! Pair this with a white button-down, black booties, and throw on a trench coat and you have yourself a solid European Outfit.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Accessories

Retro sneakers.

The sneaker trend is not going anywhere so buckle up sister and buy yourself a nice pair of retro sneakers . These can easily be styled with a dress and denim jack. Or opt to wear them with split front pants and a white button-down.

Wearable Heels

I tend to only pack one pair of wearable heels when traveling to Europe. Mostly because of the cobblestone streets. They do not pair well with heels. However, if you choose a pair with a chunky heel you’ll be waltzing down those streets in style.

Black Heeled Booties

The versatility of Black Heeled Booties is endless! Whether you pair it with leather trousers and a statement blouse or opt for a more casual look with jeans and a white button-down you can trust these booties to last for years. I always splurge on accessories because they are mostly worn in my wardrobe.

Crossbody Bag

I love a good shoulder bag like the rest of the fashion world but when traveling I always carry a crossbody bag . For multiple reasons one being scams and pickpocketers. When wearing your crossbody in front of your person you are less likely to have someone rummaging through there when no one is looking. I love this trendy crossbody from Marc Jacobs because it’s the perfect blend of classic and trendy.

Wide Brim Fedora

An easy way to elevate any daytime look is by adding a wide brim fedora . You can pair it with a leather jacket and jeans for a daytime look or with a sweater dress and over-the-knee boots for a night out. The best part about wearing a hat while traveling is not only do you look chic but it protects your face from the sun.

Travel Tote Bag

An ideal tool that comes in handy for travelers is a tote bag . Whether you’re toting around your laptop at the airport or simply shopping in the European markets, bringing a classic tote bag on your trip will always be a good idea.

Black Sunglasses

Chic, timeless, and classic. I am describing these Le Specs Sunglasses that I own in two colors because they are that good. We love a good pair of sunglasses to hide our tired eyes while traveling. Finally, they are under $70 so it’s a steal.

How to Dress European

The key to blending in with the Europeans is creating an outfit that has 3 elements: classic, cool, and minimalism. If you can learn this formula you will be golden. Another important thing to remember is that Europeans do not wear activewear as a leisure outfit unless they are quite literally on their way to the gym. So leave the lululemon and baseball caps at home! One of the main reasons we want to blend in as locals when traveling is because you are less susceptible to being targeted for a travel scam. Here are a few packing tips to help you dress like a European:

• Stick to classic clothing, you can also dare to be trendy with some pieces because it is Europe after all
• Wear neutral colors
• Bring comfortable walking shoes that look elevated
• Leave the athleisure wear and logos at home
• Don’t wear jeans often, they used to be a big no-no but in recent years have become more accepted in Europe. Opt for a straight leg or wide leg pair they are tres chic
• Alternatively, if you are wearing a feminine outfit choose a menswear-inspired shoe

Thank you for reading my “Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe” post. I hope you gained insight into how to dress like a European. If you have any questions leave them below. Don’t forget to check out more of my styling guides .

pin this post for later

You’ll Also Love

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12 Amazing Things to Do in San Juan Capistrano

• Privacy Policy
• Work With Me

Copyright © 2024 Le Travel Style · Theme by 17th Avenue

Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe

TRAVEL STYLE

Wardrobe basics combine to create stylish and comfortable outfits for a spring vacation

There are affiliate links within this post which may provide me with a commission, at no cost to you. More information at: Privacy & Disclosure .

I really struggle with packing so decided that the simplicity of a spring capsule wardrobe could be the answer to traveling light and looking stylish on a spring getaway. 

I’ve scoured my favorite retailers, as well as my own closet, to come up with a simple yet chic collection of spring BFF’s (best fashion friends) – pieces that will carry us stylishly through a week in Paris, Prague or Pasadena.  I believe a capsule wardrobe can work for anyone. By choosing a combination of classic pieces, and adding a few accents, you can mix to maximum outfit effect this spring.

Even better, I’ve created this spring capsule wardrobe to fit into a carry-on bag, if you wish to travel light. I recently traveled with a carry-on to Europe and it was wonderful to not have to worry about a missing checked bag.

Finally, since these pieces are mostly versatile classics, you will turn to them again and again at home as well. 

25+ Chic Outfits with 15 Pieces

Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe - The Pieces

CROPPED JEANS ~ MAXI SKIRT ~ TROUSERS ~ BLAZER ~ CARDIGAN SWEATER ~ PULLOVER SWEATER ~  COTTON SHIRT (long-sleeved) ~ COTTON SHIRT (short-sleeved) ~ T-SHIRTS ~ TANK  ~ DRESS ~ TRENCH COAT

MULE LOAFERS ~  SLIDE SANDALS ~ SNEAKERS

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Color Palette

For spring, I chose navy and white. From there, I layered in colorful pieces: a dress and skirt in shades of pink, and a green scarf. I also added two black basics. That created a spring wardrobe with enough color to make it interesting but it was still easy to combine the pieces.

Does it have to be colorful? No. Color or neutrals — your choice. The one exception is a safari where it’s better to stick to neutrals. See What to Wear on Safari. 

To create a color palette, start with neutrals, then layer in color. Colors can vary by personal preference and the season. (If you’ve found your way here in fall, explore my Autumn Capsule Wardrobe for Travel .)

In the photos below, you will see the spring capsule with the navy and white items and then with the colorful pieces added in. 

This concept can work with any color palette. Some other examples: brown and cream plus blush and forest green. Or black and white plus avocado and coral. If you have no idea where to start, pick a favorite scarf or patterned blouse — make those colors your palette. 

Spring Capsule Wardrobe - The Essential Pieces

1. the cropped jean.

Cute, comfy and ready for long travel days — the cropped jean is a perfect staple in your spring capsule wardrobe. The warmer weather brings the chance to let our ankles show, but the jeans don’t have to be cropped; any favorite pair of denim will do. If you prefer a classic length my current favorite denim are the Way-High by Everlane ; I just ordered them for myself.

The jeans in my capsule are the Emma High-Waisted Crop by Citizens of Humanity (pictured). They may be hard to find now, but similar styles are everywhere (and listed just below).

I like high-waisted jeans. If you don’t, pick a mid-rise pair instead. Jeans are very personal, so grab any favorite pair and let’s explore the many ways we can style them for our spring vacation.

For a tapered crop, I like Boden’s High Rise True Straight Jeans, which come in several colors. I own several items by Boden and love them all. 

It can be hard to order jeans online. If you prefer to try them on (very helpful for me), I suggest Madewell. They have many styles in store and are relatively well-priced and often have sales.

Levi’s are another great option, I own three pair and they are typically under $100. For an ankle length — great for spring  — I have my eye on the Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans.

BUDGET PICK: This well-priced pair by Land’s End comes in white and two denim washes: Women’s Recover High-Rise Straight. 

2. Lightweight Trousers

After your jeans, this piece will be fundamental to your capsule wardrobe. Choosing the right trousers is important because they have to be comfy enough for wearing all day, and stylish enough to dress up in the evening. 

My wide-leg trousers are by Rag and Bone. They are a couple of years old but I am listing several options below. This is where a search of your closet might produce something that could work. Any lightweight pants in a neutral color, that you feel good in, are a winner. 

If you’d like to buy something, I am listing a few ideas below. 

Everlane make quality, well-priced items. My current favorites are the Way-High Drape Pant . I bought them in the Sandstone color and they work with sneakers and a tee, or I can dress them up with a blouse. The fit is very flattering and they come in two lengths. I am 5’6″ and ordered the 30″ inseam which is the perfect length for me. If you are taller you could go with the 32″. 

Their  Tencel Way-High Taper Pant  in Ash Brown would also be lovely for spring. They look like dress trousers but are lightweight and machine washable. 

I also own three pants from Athleta, all fantastic for travel because they feel like yoga pants but look like trousers.  The Brooklyn Wide-Leg Pant is very similar to the style to mine. They will be your new favorite travel pant. 

Spring Capsule Wardrobe - Trousers

3. the maxi skirt.

I take a maxi skirt on almost every warm weather trip. I like the simplicity of it and think the style is flattering on many women. This is a great piece for dressing up in the evening but is also cute and comfy for a day of sightseeing with sneakers and a tee.

For my spring travel capsule color palette I picked a bright skirt. You could also select a neutral skirt — solid bottoms can simplify combining outfits. I am also loving green for spring and have ordered this A-line style from Boden to try out, the Isabella Skirt .

Any skirt that you like can work as long as it goes with several of your tops and either of the sweaters or the blazer. (Examples in the photos below). 

The skirt pictured is by Lucy of Paris from a few years ago.

Quince also has a very nice Washable Silk Midi Skirt that my friend has and loves. The lilac or the navy would be nice for spring. I own many items by Quince; the quality and prices are great. 

If you prefer something more sporty, I like Athleta’s Stride Midi Skirt , violet or black. I have many Athleta pieces I travel with. 

4. Cotton Cardigan Sweater

To V or not to V, that is the question. I chose a navy v-neck cardigan for this spring capsule wardrobe, but a crewneck is equally nice as a versatile staple. I like that a v-neck is the perfect shape for a statement necklace without fussing with the buttons and neckline. My sweater is from Banana Republic and I’ve had it for years. Several options are linked below. 

J. Crew Factory has a classic navy crew neck cardigan that is well-priced: Classic Cotton Cardigan Sweater . 

This one at Banana Republic Factory has a deeper  V than mine and is also affordable: the Forever Cardigan in Preppy Navy .

And this lovely relaxed-fit cotton cardigan by Everlane, the Organic Cotton Cardigan, comes in three colors.

5. Pullover Sweater

What says spring in Paris, or anywhere else, more than a striped sweater? It makes a statement, yet stripes are a classic. I might even call them a neutral. If you aren’t as striped-obsessed as I am, pick any sweater you like. It only has to work for daytime in this capsule, but if you want to go with something more versatile that you can dress up, that works too. Make sure it goes with either your trousers and/or skirt as well. 

I am wearing the Leontine sweater by the French brand Sézane. It’s available in multiple colors; if your favorite is out-of-stock, check back as Sézane restocks frequently. Madewell also has a lovely striped sweater, perfect for a spring wardrobe, and it comes in two colors: the Conway Pullover Cotton Sweater.  It is an oversized style, so size down for a more traditional fit. 

For more French style inspiration, you might enjoy my story: French Wardrobe Basics.

Since my spring capsule wardrobe was created around a navy and white palette, I chose a classic navy blazer. If I am traveling to Europe in spring, I am packing a blazer. If you were going somewhere warm, you could opt for linen instead, navy, white or beige are all nice. You could also pick a blazer with a bit of pattern, but in that case I would choose a solid skirt that works with it.

I like the classic fit of J Crew’s Going-Out Blazer in Stretch Twill and it’s available in sizes 00-24, in classic, petite, and tall. 

If you are headed somewhere warm, or it’s later in spring,  I love the pale color and relaxed fit of the Classic Relaxed Blazer in Oyster , by Reformation. 

For a linen option check out Quince’s European Linen Blazer . Three gorgeous colors and it’s only $70! I bought their linen shirt and really like it. Quince makes stylish products at great price points and I own several other items from them that I am very happy with.

7. Short-sleeved Shirt

Another workhorse of the spring capsule wardrobe, the short-sleeved button up shirt. This piece should be ultra comfy and breathable, keeping you cool through a day of sightseeing or lounging with a good book and a great view. There are lots of high-tech breathable fabrics that will whisk away any hint of perspiration, but I also love classic cotton. I bought this shirt  which is part of Banana Republic’s new Heritage line, a return to their roots as a clothing for adventurers. Adventure is always in style! 

The Banana Republic Essential Roll-Cuff Shirt is sold out. Here are some similar options. Quince has a European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt which comes in seven colors. Similar to the one I am wearing, it’s a relaxed, boxy cut. 

I also love this option from Everlane: The Short-Sleeve Box Shirt, in a classic neutral for any spring capsule wardrobe: white, black, slate blue, and ReChambray blue (made from recycled cotton), and this one from Madewell:  Signature Poplin Camp Shirt.   

8. Long-Sleeved Button-Up

I love the look of a long-sleeved shirt rolled up; I think it is so versatile for spring travel. I was imagining a trip to Europe when I planned this wardrobe and chose black. But you could go with any solid color that works with the rest of your capsule wardrobe. I also love a striped shirt for spring!

Pictured here is the Banana Republic Oversized Cotton Shirt, which I wear in my capsule. If you prefer a more tailored shirt, the Tailor Fit Easy Care comes in black, navy or white.

If you prefer linen to cotton, I own Boden’s Linen Shirt and the quality is fantastic. I’m linking to a pretty navy; it also comes in white. And this Quince Linen Shirt, as I mentioned. Boden is slightly softer but I like them both. 

Finally if you also love stripes, I’ve just ordered this Cotton-Button-Up in the Ecru/Camel from Sézane. It comes in many fun colors for spring.  I will update this with my thoughts once I’ve tried it.

9. Tee Shirts + Tank

You can decide how many t-shirts you need, perhaps depending on whether you have access to laundry and how warm it will be. I chose 3 tees for my spring capsule, a white, a black and a striped, as well as a pink tank which you will see in the outfits below. 

Most of us have t-shirts in out wardrobe. If you need a new one, my striped tee is by Boden. I also have t-shirts by Vince, Madewell, Banana Republic and so on. I am linking a few options below. 

My pink tank is by Athleta. I am linking a similar one below. 

Reformation makes a soft and well-priced classic: Perfect Vintage T, which is a relaxed fit, and I have the Vintage Classic Crew Neck by J. Crew in three colors. It’s nice quality, and the fit is just relaxed enough. 

For stripes, Boden has a fabulous Short-Sleeved Breton T.

10. Spring Dress

This is the one thing in your spring capsule wardrobe that doesn’t have to go with the color palette. A dress is a stand-alone piece; it can be any color or pattern.

You should love it and feel comfortable, and make sure it works with at least one pair of shoes and possibly your cardigan or blazer for layering. But you could also wear your trench coat if it’s chilly.

I picked this pink chevron patterned dress because I liked the colors for spring and the jersey material makes it easy to pack – it doesn’t wrinkle!

It’s from Loft in 2021, the Chevron Dress Flounce Pocket, so I am linking a few other dresses I love. Note: that if you do purchase this specific dress on resale somewhere, you will need to wear a stretchy “tube bra” over your regular bra because it clings a bit at the chest. 

I love Sézane’s Alani dress . Shirt-dress styles are classic. I own several and wear them often. For something colorful, Boden’s Linen Kaftan Maxi comes in two pretty options, a solid coral and a stripe, in sizes from 2-22. I own one dress by Boden and would happily fill my closet with them. They are well-made and comfortable.

If you prefer something sleeveless, Athleta’s Santorini Midi Dress travels well. The name references the island of Santorini, and this would be fabulous for spring in Greece! (I was in Greece in mid-May last year, and it was very hot. I wore light dresses every day.

11. Trench Coat

If you don’t already own a trench coat this could be the piece you invest in, especially if you are headed to Europe in spring. The classic trench is versatile and a true wardrobe staple.

The one I am wearing in most of the photos was 10+ years old, by Tori Burch, so I recently purchased the Sézane Scott Trench Coat .  (I am wearing it in Paris in the above photo.) I am thrilled with it. It’s the perfect weight, the fabric is beautiful and it’s a classic cut. And  Sézane ships free to the U.S. on orders over $200.

This timeless style will forever be available from a variety of retailers. The old-school original was made by Burberry in 1916, so I’ve included it below, as well as a couple of budget-friendly alternatives. You could go with grey or black but if your style inspiration is the same as mine, Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, then choose tan.

For a short style, consider the Comfort Stretch Trench by Quince . I own several Quince items and am very happy with the quality. And prices are great. This piece is $99 at time of writing. 

A similar option and price point is the J. Crew Classic Trench : available in tan or navy, sizes 00 to 24. 

And if you want to channel Audrey Hepburn and splurge on the ultimate investment piece, or just explore a trench treasure trove, you can see Burberry’s current collection here: Burberry Trench Coats .

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Shoes

If you told me you start planning any capsule wardrobe with shoes, I would tell you that you are brilliant. The right shoes solve most problems that come up when planning the essential pieces to take on your trip: The problem of space in your luggage, the problem of comfort and practicality, and in the case of Europe, cobblestones aren’t especially forgiving. And of course, the requirement that you like how it all looks when you head out the door.

Shoes for a Capsule Wardrobe for Europe

My basic rule of thumb is no more than three pairs of shoes on any trip and this is especially true if you are packing light, say a carry-on for Europe. The shoes will change with the seasons and destinations, but the criteria will not. 

At least two pairs of shoes you can comfortably wear and walk in, all day. I say two because even the comfiest shoes can give you blisters if you walk in them long enough (I was recently reminded of this in Paris), so you need a second pair to alternate. A third pair can be more dressy, say for evenings. You’ll find more tips on comfortable shoes for Europe in Shoes for Paris Travel. 

I had Europe travel in mind when I selected these for spring travel — a mule-style loafer, a sandal slide, and a pair of sneakers. All of them are comfortable, stylish and work with multiple outfits.

12. Loafers (Mule or Classic Style)

Are these mule-style loafers the MVP of this spring capsule wardrobe? Chic, comfy and well-priced – I think they are! They are inspired by and a nice copy of the classic, the Gucci Princetown . 

Every time I slipped them on with one of my outfits, I instantly felt more put together. I did end up exchanging the pink for the tan. I think they will take me right on through fall in Europe! (I’m planning a fall trip to France). And there are several other color options as well.  I love the white for summer. 

BCBGeneration Women’s Zorie Mule Loafers  are comfy and stylish and come in five colors; I have them in beige. These Women’s Linnie Tailored Mules by Sam Edelman are very similar, slightly more expensive. 

Tory Burch makes a chic style, the Jessa Mule, which comes in black and cream.

13. Sandal Slides

A flat slide-style sandal in a chestnut color truly goes with everything you’ll wear this spring. Dress it up, keep it casual. I love these, no accident considering they resemble the classic Oran sandal by Hermes.

Mine are from Target. I never buy shoes from Target because I don’t buy a lot of shoes. So when I do, I typically invest in shoes made to last. But rules are made to be broken and when I saw these I grabbed them. I have been pleasantly surprised, they are so comfy and have held up well with considerable wear. Mine aren’t available this season but you can get an even nicer pair – the Alibi by French Sole.

Or if you are in a position to splurge on Hermes, well, I won’t tell you not to. They are also linked, because when do I ever link to anything from Hermes?!

Alibi Sandal by French Sole, available at Tuckernuck in classic Cognac (pictured above), and white. Or if you want the designer version, consider the Hermes Oran Sandal (sigh).

Everlane’s Day Crossover Sandal has a similar feel and comes in a lovely cream and taupe. 

14. Sneakers

Any sneakers will do for a spring capsule wardrobe, and don’t worry about being under-dressed. Even in Paris women wear comfy running shoes to elegantly speed along the cobblestones.

Since it was spring and I was ready for a new pair, I chose the Esplar Canvas Sneakers by Veja.

My sneakers are by the French brand Veja; the style are the Esplars in canvas. It may be unavailable but you can explore all their cute styles here: Veja Store. Mine are canvas, but I find leather are easier to keep clean. 

I also love this style by Cariuma in white or peachy-beige. This brand from Brazil is both comfy and eco-friendly with lots of fun styles for women and men

And for an affordable pick, you can’t beat Classic Keds.

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Accessories

15. scarves, belt, statement necklace.

With the right accessories, your capsule will feel much more varied. I always travel with scarves, and included two of my favorites here.  Mix in one fabulous belt by Sézane , and garnish with a pretty  necklace which makes it easy to dress up for evening. My necklace is a souvenir from a trip to India. Anything fun will do! 

The Artemis Belt by Sézane comes in many wonderful colors and the lack of holes makes it really versatile — it can be worn higher or lower. Try belting it overtop of a button-down shirt as I did for an evening outfit. 

Capsule Wardrobe for Spring in Europe

Evening outfits.

Our spring travel capsule has to work for evening as well. I am showing you three outfit options here but I think we can stretch it to six evenings for a week away. 

I would wear the dress twice –  with or without the blazer. And I could also pair the skirt with the black long-sleeved shirt and necklace. If I had space (and I did when I packed it all in a carry-on) I would tuck in an additional lightweight blouse that I would wear in the evening with the trousers.

Tote Bag for a Spring Capsule Wardrobe

My tote bag is the Class Structured Leather Tote by Cuyana. It’s a traditional tote style with an open top. I do travel with it, and use it at home to carry my books to French class, to meetings, or to work at a coffee shop. Cuyana also has totes with a closed top, the Easy Zipper Tote.

Cuyana totes are pricey. For something similar for less, I like Quince’s Classic Leather Italian Tote. It’s available in four lovely colors, including classic black and cognac. 

Sustainable Clothing Brands for Capsule Wardrobes

Many of the brands listed here make sustainable production a priority. Athleta, Boden, Sézane, Reformation, Amour Vert and Veja are all certified B Corps. To earn B certification a business must meet high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits to sustainability and  supply chain practices.

Everlane, a great source for well-priced basics, gets high marks for sustainability in many areas, but isn’t B Corp Certified. You will find the name of the factory a piece was made in, in each product listing when you click on “More detail”.  

 The bigger brands mentioned here, such as J. Crew and Banana Republic are making strides toward sustainability, but have a long way to go. Some of their products use sustainable materials. I own many J.Crew and Banana items which I’ve purchased over the years. A nd I am making an effort to purchase from small sustainable retailers, going forward. That’s why I’ve included them here; I hope you’ve discovered some new brands. And  you have a favorite sustainable clothing brand, please share in the comments below. 

Join Midlife Globetrotter. Receive a monthly newsletter with travel ideas for women, planning tips, midlife stories and living-well inspiration!

Have I convinced you that a spring capsule doesn’t have to mean boring basics and that there are endless combinations to choose from when you create your own capsule wardrobe color palette? The right combination of pieces will be easy, comfy and stylish. Try not to fret too much over this jacket or that sweater… the goal is simply feeling good and enjoying yourself on your spring adventure! 

Bon voyage!

More Style & Travel Outfits

  Packing Guide for Overpackers

Travel Essentials for Women

What to Wear on Safari

Fall Capsule Wardrobe

Shoes for Paris Travel

Affordable French Clothing Brands -Shopping in Paris

French Wardrobe Basics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

FOR UPDATES & MIDLIFE INSPIRATION

Please check your email for confirmation. 

I’m glad you’re here. Can we talk about midlife? I reached my late 40’s, realized my kids were growing up, and adventure began calling in a new way: big travel adventures as well as everyday ones. I want Midlife Globetrotter to be a place where we explore how to add a sense of fun, freedom and meaning to these precious years. Let’s celebrate how far we’ve come, and all that’s ahead.

LET'S CONNECT!

• Destinations
• Travel Planning
• Solo Travel
• Make Travel Matter

More to Explore

Autumn Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

Quick Links

• [email protected]

© COPYRIGHT Midlife Globetrotter 2020-2024

Privacy & Disclosures

Type and press Enter.

What to wear in Europe: spring style 2020 & packing tips

While the French Riviera is harvesting its first lemon production of the year, Northern Europe has just woken up from the long winter sleep.

Europe during the spring is especially charming. So it's pretty much natural that people want to look colorful and fresh in spring, as an awakening from the winter.

But what to wear in Europe spring time?

KEEP READING, AS WE HAVE THE ANSWERS!

It's such a joy for visitors from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of the flourishing flowers, chill in the outdoor terraces of cozy little European cafes.

It’s all accompanied with that captivating, spring aroma in the air.

See the Contents

Our favorite travel clothes for Europe Spring 2020

I’m sure that the first question or at least one of the first that pops into our minds is - which travel clothes for Europe spring season should I choose?

Feeling god and looking good is as important as the trip itself.

There’s nothing better than feeling confident, not just in daily life but also when travelling. So chic outfits are a great help to feel that way.

A trip to Europe in spring is a great reason to add some latest spring style inspired items of clothing to your wardrobe. And don't forget about a nice pair of walking shoes for Europe exploration!

But if no new spring purchases are planned, then all it takes is to use some creativity.

Combining colors and accessories of your existing outfits in a proper way can make you look just as chic as any trendy fashion lady.

And we’re here to help you with that.

HERE IS OUR LATEST SPRING FASHION INSPIRED PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE TRAVELS IN SPRING! USE THESE TIPS TO CREATE YOUR PERFECT EUROPE TRIP OUTFITS FOR THIS SPRING.

Pick the kind of outfits that are possible to combine with each other.

This way you will save up a lot of space in your suitcase.

You’ll be thankful once you get to go shopping in Europe and have enough space in luggage to bring all those new goodies back.

1. Travel dresses for Europe in spring

Click on the image to see the price & availability 

2. Think about the rainy days

During the spring time in Europe is always worth to carry a small, pocket-size umbrella or a rain coat. Occasional showers of rain will surprise you without any warning. Also the rainy days in Europe are often a bit cold, so a light coat will be perfect for such days, to hide from the humid air.

The top choice this season are light check fabric coats that look good with sporty style as well as classic outfits.

3. Best travel pants for Europe

Colorful, single color, classic cut, silk! Ohh, what a choice! And there’s one thing in common with all of them - they are comfy to wear! A comfort and awesome look of your outfit is the golden combo for travel, isn’t it?

4. Travel shoes for Europe trip in spring

Wearing sandals in the spring time in Europe might just be too early. Unless you are going to one of the Mediterranean beaches.

For your trip to Europe choose one pair of shoes that will be good and comfortable for walking long distances, as you will probably wanna do as much sightseeing as possible. And Europe is known for having a lot of pretty palaces to see.

So you pick could be sneakers or tennis shoes or seasonal low-cut boots. Make sure to bring a pair of lighter flats for the most sunny days of your trip.

Click on the image to see the price & availability

5. Choose light & bright colors for your outfits and accessories

Make sure to pick some of the trendy bright tones for your outfits. The mustard-yellow or retro-red are great tones to freshen up your look and create a bright accent.

If you prefer to dress neutrally, that works too. Just add some bright accessories and you’re ready for the perfect Instagram shot in form of the Eiffel tower , the Brandenburg gate in Berlin or any other European spot you'll visit this spring.

6. Bags, oh bags!

A great choice for any kind of trip is a light and large tote bag or a backpack. If you have a large tote bag, it’s easy to carry all the stuff that you might need. A camera, warm jacket or a scarf, a small umbrella and other valuables.

Also a large tote or your backpack can easily be used as your carry on bag for the flight. For example, in a roll-up backpack you can quite often fit more things than you would in a carry on size suitcase. Depending of how full your backpack actually is, you can adjust the size of it.

For tote bags it’s important to have them with zipper, an option to keep it closed. Pickpocketing is a thing in many European capitals. You shouldn’t be crazy worried about that, but precautions like a bag that zips are always good to do.

7. Pick a jacket/ cardigan instead of a sweater

All of those will be perfect for chilly evenings. A cardigan is also a great piece to wear to the airport and to hide from the cold air conditioned air in the airplane.

If you put your jacket or cardigan on while travelling, that way again you free up a luggage space for other more important things.

OK! NOW SOME IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN ORDER TO MAKE A PERFECT PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SPRING.

To get a good idea of what to pack for Europe trip in spring, you have to consider the weather in Europe that you will experience in your destination.

When is the best time to visit Europe in spring?

The spring in Europe starts in different times across different European countries. For example, you can enjoy blooming cherry trees in Paris already at the end of the March, while eastern Europe, like Baltic countries are still party covered in snow at the same time.

Check out our findings of the best chic dining spots in Paris , if that’s your destinations this year.

The best time for a spring vacation in Europe is end of April and beginning of May . Even though spring time peaks at different times in different European countries, April/May are kinda like the perfect average for the continent.

During that time days will mostly be warm and sunny in day time, and pleasant for walking around when it’s dark.

In Southern Europe - Italy, Greece, Spain you can even start the beach season, while Northern and Eastern Europe will offer you blooming spring and rays of sunshine for a good mood.

What kind of weather to expect?

Even though the sun is warm and nice in the spring time, always remember that spring is the trickiest season in Europe. It’s so easy to end up with a cold if you choose inappropriate clothing.

This is especially true for unexpected warm days, when the thermometer goes up and everyone rushes to ditch their warm clothes and walk around in t-shirts and shots, just like they’d do in summer. But actually it’s not that warm and people catch a cold more easily than in winter.

In European cities like London or Paris, there are only two seasons, autumn and spring, throughout the year. The weather in these cities is rather unpredictable, because suddenly it can rain or unpleasant cold winds may occur every day.

Read more about the best things to do in London and two of our absolute favourite areas - the street art paradise Shoreditch & one of the richest areas in the world Belgravia .

During our extensive travels all over the Europe, I’ve noticed that it’s nice and warm during the sunny days until the moment when sun goes behind the cloud.

Then immediately the summer feeling is replaced by the stinging cold, that get’s all the way to your bones.

So in spring time it’s worth to carry a warmer jacket and a rain coat even if your weather app is promising sun and blue sky all day long.

Recommended for you

One comment

Thank You for sharing these tips! OMG, and that red Free People dress is a MUST HAVE. :* :))))))))

Comments are closed.

Advance Planning: Spring Travel Wardrobe For Europe

It’s hard to believe, but we’ll be taking off for Italy in just a little over five weeks! We’re really getting excited about this trip. It’s been six years since we last visited. We’ll be spending a few days each in Rome, Lake Como and Venice, before stopping for a couple of days in Paris on our way home.

When we were last in Italy in 2011, much of Europe was experiencing an unusually hot and dry Spring. Temperatures were in the mid-90’s to low-100’s F for most of our visit that May. While it’s still too early to get a reliable weather forecast for this trip, I’m starting to compile my packing list based on average temperatures and the types of items that have worked best in my past travel wardrobes. (Have my fingers crossed for cooler temperatures this time, but at least I’m better at packing for the heat than a few years ago.)

Above, a potential “starter kit” for my Spring travel wardrobe. Yes, I’ll add a few pieces incorporating more color and pattern to fill out this wardrobe. Some of the items pictured in the collage above are no longer available, so I’ve linked to similar items in those instances.

Left: scarf ( similar ) | top ( similar ) | pants | shoes Middle left: sweater ( similar ) | tee | cardigan Middle right: scarf | tee ( similar ) | jeans | sandals ( similar ) Right: jacket ( similar ) | pants ( similar ) | boots (similar)

My Travel Wardrobe Building Blocks

• Shoes:  I usually bring 3 pairs total, and wear the heaviest one on the plane. Comfort is key, and I look for styles that can be dressed up or down.
• Bottoms:  I usually include 4 total, one of which is worn on the plane.. one or two pairs of slim dark-wash jeans, one or two pairs of black pants ( Eileen Fisher stretch crepe is a favorite…they dress up or down and are washable), and possibly a pair of lightweight chinos or cargo pants. If you prefer skirts, you could substitute for some or all of the pants.
• Tops:  Two tops for every bottom is the ratio I find works best for me. Depending on the forecast I’ll bring a mix of long or 3/4 sleeve tees, woven shirts, sweaters, and cardigans. For warm weather travel I’m a big fan of linen knits  which have the breathability and washability advantages of linen without worry about wrinkles. A linen shirt that can be worn on its own or open as a lightweight outer layer is another favorite. I find that when the sun is beating down, I actually stay cooler with more skin coverage as long as the fabric is light and breathable. Cotton gauze is a another good shirting option. For sweaters, I’ll pack at least one lightweight linen – or tencel-blend sweater, and one cashmere cardigan or pullover for the plane and for chilly conditions. Merino wool is another good choice for travel, as it adjusts to a variety of temperatures, is lightweight and resists picking up odors.
• Dresses:  Up to you. I don’t wear them often at home so rarely pack them for travel. As with tops, look for lightweight fabrics and styles will layer well. Washable  knits  are an option that travels well.
• Scarves and accessories:  These are great way to add color and pattern, and create variety in my travel wardrobe. I usually bring 3 scarves of varying weights that coordinate well with my wardrobe pieces. A cashmere scarf or wrap for the plane is a must. I don’t pack a lot of jewelry, and especially leave any fine jewelry other than my wedding ring at home. I’ve learned to select my jewelry using the concept of “ Beauty Bundles ” that helps me coordinate and choose well.
• Outerwear:  I always wait until immediately before we leave to make my final outerwear choices, based on the most updated weather forecast where we’re headed. For cold weather, I love my packable down parka . A lightweight water-resistant jacket  is likely to make my final cut for spring travel.

I’ve found that “smart casual” is almost always as dressed up as we need to be. Simple pieces in neutral colors are easier to dress up with a bit of jewelry if needed. I usually include a lightweight jacket and at least one silky top which also skews more formal if needed. If you have a truly formal occasion as part of your travel itinerary, you may need to pack shoes and clothing that would not be worn for other activities.

Do you have any strategies for packing for those seasons when the weather can be quite unpredictable?

Spring Travel Wardrobe Options…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Stay in touch

Sign up to be notified of new posts and updates from une femme d’un certain âge.

Affiliate links in posts may generate commissions for unefemme.net. See my complete disclosure policy  here .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

34 Comments

Layers are always good, and don’t feel bad if the weather is so nice that you don’t wear the coat you brought. Better safe than sorry. I have found that leather is good in spring–waterproof and windproof, so if you have layers underneath and button/zip it up, you can stay warm, but if it’s nice out, you can go with a T-shirt and leave the jacket/coat open and be comfortable (and set for warmth when evening falls by just closing the coat). Unless it hits 100, but then you leave it at the hotel.

I’m really loving this blog.

My treat Is to travel by myself overseas every year which I have done for quite a number of decades now. My husband wont travel to the places I want to see.

I research my holidays up to 12 months in advance.

I always choose natural fibres/fabrics over man made and footwear that is versatile (roughly three shoe choices) – ballet flats, leather ankle boots and a dressy sandal.

I also use scarves to dress up and add colour to an outfit , my jewellery choices are simple with necklaces, rings and earrings in matching colour combinations which have no intrinsic worth.

I.E. If they get stolen – I wont miss them.

The same for my handbags – I take bags of little value so, if they get ‘stolen’ – I wont miss them.

I’m a big believer in layering. If you can master that – you’ll do well.

For example – if I was heading to Europe in Autumn /Winter I would have Merino wool camisole (s) in my luggage.

Colour choices are also important and will help you look more coordinated and put together. Know the colours that suit you!

I concur with Susan – I’ve never taken a dress overseas to wear. Ever!

For myself – overseas travel is about being relaxed – being comfortable in the outfits you would normally wear at home – without the “I’m a tourist look”!

I’ll be accompanying my son to Germany and Prague on a business trip in May. It’s his gift to me! My challenge is that he does carry on only — no checked bags. We will be flying business class. Any tips for a 7-day wardrobe in a carry on bag? I like leggings, skinny jeans and tunics. Will also take a trench coat.

I will be the oddball here, I love to travel with dresses in hot weather. I am a big fan of the Eileen Fisher jersey dresses, and I prefer the sleeveless ones for travel- you can always pop a little cardigan over them, or a big slouchy sweater for that skirt- sweater look. They roll up wrinkle free and take up very little room in the suitcase. I toured Italy three years ago with 4 dresses, 2 pair of capri pants, on e pair of long pants, and an assortment of tops and sweaters. I find the best thing to take with me for unkown weather is a waterproof light jacket that is large enough to layer over warmer sweaters. Note, waterproof. not Resistant- believe me I learned the hard and soggy way to shop for waterproof. This means I don’t need an umbrella, and the jacket is light enough to shake out and fold into my purse if the weather breaks.

I’d certainly take skirts in warm or hot weather. I never wear shorts except for doing house or yard work in hot weather, and am too hot in trousers in the heat. For pseu’s trip to northern Italy, I’d take some dark jeans-type trousers in a light fabric that isn’t too hard to dry, and at least two skirts. Travel skirts are easy to wash in the basin of a hotel room.

I am also a believer in skirts and dresses in warm weather. I leave tomorrow to Myanmar for two weeks, no knees or shoulders allowed in public ☺️. 4 skirts, one long dress, two short dresses, one pair Of capris and the long pants I’ll wear on the plane. Probably too many tops but they all go with everything. I’m doing carry on going over and I’m thinking I may have more than I need. We tend to pack to fill the space we have.

Like Meg, I wear dresses a lot. I wear them at home in Dallas and when traveling. Several years ago, I traveled in China with mostly dresses and the same in Europe. The exception is a trip to England during January. I also wear Eileen Fisher’s jersey dresses–and yes, they are mostly sleeveless.

I second traveling with dresses in hot weather – 1 piece and done! And I have to admit that I struggle with Eileen Fisher pants – they bag at the knees, on me, and that’s never a good look…

Are we lucky to always be thinking about our European packing? We’re not going to Paris until September this year, but I’m already thinking…

hugs, Janice

Hi Susan! I am planning a trip to italy too. Would you share the hotels you havenbooked and your itinerary? I could really use some reccomendations and dont favor the tours. Many thanks.

What would we do without our black pants? They’re certainly a workhorse on our monthly travels! Your daily basics work for me too – although I’m probably a foot taller than you 😉 The main difference in our packing needs is that on our Music and Markets Tours I need skirts or dresses and dressier shoes for the evening concerts….usually packing multiple jackets, jewelry or scarves to wear with a black sheath, or multiple tops with a black skirt. Black’s always part of the equation!

Hi Susan! Oh lucky you! I love Rome & our week in Varenna on Lake Como still ranks as one of the most relaxing/beautiful places ever. Just hopped on the ferry to go anywhere- great food, villas, shopping! I’m jealous! But I am already mentally packing my carry on for Austria/ France this fall- fun!

Was in como late may 2015. Weather was wet and mild. Took a trench coat and glad I had it!

Want to go back to Italy soon – wondering how you plan to get between Rome, Como and Venice- Airplane, train, or ? I assume you will fly to Rome, Milan or Venice at start of trip, but then what…

Oh yes, I love your posts! Another big EF fan for daily life as well as travel.

Italian high speed trains are really quite good, particularly between Milan and Rome or Milan and Venice, Rome and Venice. But it’s essential as well as paying for the journey to take the additional step and pay extra for allocated seating. Otherwise if the train is fairly full you can wander from carriage to carriage looking for a seat. Have seen people sitting on their bags in carriage entrance ways for an hour or two or more. Not a good way of travelling. If when you board the train someone is already sitting In your allocated seat you have to approach them and show them your ticket and carriage/seat numbers. They’re required to vacate the seats for you. You also need to get your ticket validated at one of the date/time stamping machines on the platform before you board. Otherwise if an inspector boards and checks your ticket you will be fined quite substantially and are forced to pay – even if you tell them you’re a tourist and didn’t know it was necessary. Have seen it happen! It’s also important to keep a close eye on your bags – sometimes thieves board the train with you and make off with unattended bags at the first stop. We usually travel First Class or Frecchia (spelling?) Rossa on longer distance trains. There’s a bit more room and comfort and they serve coffee and snacks included in the fare. There’s a shorter distance train service from the huge grand Milano Centrale station to Como and also to some of the other small towns along the lake – but the smaller stations are usually unattended and you may have to walk across the lines with your bags to get to the exit platform. Then you have to get from the train station to your hotel. Or, instead, your hotel in Milan can usually arrange a private car/driver transfer direct from there to your hotel on Lake Como. A bit more expensive but pleasant, comfortable and relaxing, particularly if you left your teenage backpack days behind a long time ago. You probably already know this, Diana, but others planning a trip to Italy may not. Best wishes, Pamela

PS If you’re taking a train from Milan (or elsewhere in Italy) to Monaco be sure to pay for a ticket for a train to Monte Carlo – and look for Monte Carlo on the train timetables/rotating signs at stations. If you get on an Italian train that goes from a station in Italy to MONACO you will find yourself many hours later in Munich. As MONACO to Italian speakers is actually Munich! This is a serious trap! When we were learning Italian in Florence at a language school there many years ago our teacher warned us to be careful. Was v important for us as we were going to stay in Monaco with friends at the end of that trip to Italy. Later we actually met some more Aussies who’d done exactly that and couldn’t understand why they’d ended up in Munich. They then had to get from there to Monaco/Monte Carlo. Best wishes, Pamela

frecciarossa. Means red arrow. In Italian it could certainly be freccia rossa, but the brand is one word.

Veramente, grazie mille, Lagatta. Esatto. E tredici anni fa percio le mie lezioni di Italiano – e dimentico troppo. E non buono. Ma adesso non sono giovane, sono Nonna. Parlo francese miglior. Cordialement, Pamela

Love everyone’s suggestions! So helpful! One thing I wear every time I fly is compression socks. It is amazing the difference they make on your feet and calves. Do try them if you haven’t. Also I too never take good jewelry on a trip…only my wedding rings. So much easier and safer. Well, that’s my little tidbit! Have a great day!

Oh yes, I am a compression sock convert. I dress in very neutral colors – usually black & grey with some accent colors in a scarf & accessories. We wear very similar colors! One thing I would have to have is a brimmed hat for outdoor excursions. I would either wear it on the plane (I have a couple of cheap fedoras that are great for plane travel) or buy a crushable/packable version.

Love your blog, especially your travel posts! I was interested to see that you’ll likely be including a pair of slip on sneakers this time. After thinking about it for awhile, I recently got a similar pair by Ecco, and feel they are a very nice update for my wardrobe. One of the reasons I hesitated to acquire them was that I don’t really like walking in flat shoes. Frankly, they make me feel like I’m waddling rather than walking, which is somewhat uncomfortable and also not exactly a confidence booster:) However, I found these inserts at Ulta called Invisible Heels, and wow, what a game changer! I got a pair of the 3/4″ inserts (the lowest they make), and they have made me so much more comfortable in my slip on sneakers. I also feel they are much more flattering with a little heel boost. In fact, I’m so pleased with them that I got some Stan Smiths, which I’d been hesitating to get for the same reason. They are also transformed with my heel inserts! I promise I’m not affiliated with Invisible Heels – I’m just so happy to be able to wear sneakers comfortably and confidently that I wanted to share!

Just perfect Susan! I could travel with your wardrobe so easily. Everything is planned so well.

I really like the initial ‘palette’ and look forward to not only seeing what you take but reading your post-trip report (I love it when you break down what you wore, what was surperfluous, etc). I just wrote about this very topic on my blog yesterday. It’s all about layers, as you know, and choosing the right fabrics to allow for style and on-the-go climate control.

There are a couple of linen skirts among your well chosen clothing picks. Does anyone have a trick for traveling with linen, which is so comfortable in summer but, esp. in a skirt, can be very hard to keep looking nice while traveling. Otherwise, any other suggestions besides E.F. jersey dresses?

Hi Jeanne, it’s just the nature of linen to wrinkle. I find that a bit of spray wrinkle remover http://bit.ly/2nC1bcO helps. (You can sometimes find this in a travel size, or can decant into a travel-size spray bottle.) Or you can just dampen with water and smooth with your hands, and hang to dry overnight. The best linen pieces for travel are the softer ones, not too structured or starched.

Susan, you know this already, but for inexperienced travelers…Take only carry-on luggage!!! On a trip to Italy, I foolishly checked my bag. It was “lost”, and because we took 2 airlines they blamed each other. All the Italians I spoke to on the phone advised me to forget about it–I’d never see my bag again. The airline gave me $50 to replace my clothes and toiletries…I wore my husband’s underwear and shirts for several days 🙂 Was determined I was getting that bag back…after making many calls and going to the airport in Palermo myself, I finally located my bag sitting in a puddle of water outside. Lesson learned…you can have fun wearing someone else’s underwear, and NEVER check a bag going to Europe.

I’m with you, Mary, and it only takes once to learn the lesson. . . Sue, I’ll be watching your time in Venice closely as we’ll be there for a few days several weeks later. . . .

I find it difficult to not check a bag for a two week trip. So what I do is pack a couple of pairs of underwear and socks, shirt, toothbrush, brush, and my non-liquid makeup in my carry on tote bag so that way if heaven forbid my luggage gets lost or stolen, I at least have a few things on me that will allow me to feel comfortable until my luggage is located. I also wear on the plane the things I need most on my trip. So if I am doing an active trip and sneakers or hiking boots are vital for my trip, then I am going to wear those on the plane so I know they won’t get lost.

I also learned the hard way to pack those things in your tote bag coming back. I once got stuck in a city and the airline sent my luggage ahead without me. I had nothing but the clothes on my back, which was awful.

I travel internationally every year and check bags every single time. Fingers crossed have never yet lost a bag. Some airlines do have worse reputations than others for lost bags, including Al Italia. The main things to remember to minimise chances of bags going astray are 1. avoid checking in late as your bags may not make it to your flight 2. don’t book connections with very tight turnarounds – your bags may not make the transfer 3. make sure you have the baggage checks for every bag you check in – they can use these to track where the bag has got to, 4. make sure that in addition to your own baggage tag with your name and destination address attached to the handle SECURELY (and a duplicate name and destination address label inside the bag) there is another clear identifier on your bag. Some people paint large initials on all bags – I tie a very brightly patterned ribbon – usually a striped or spotted one – firmly to the handle of each bag to be checked in and also of my cabin baggage, as many airport carry on bags are similar. I keep an additional length of the same ribbon in my handbag. Last time we were in Paris my husband took the baggage checks on his boarding pass – but didn’t count them. It wasn’t until we got to the lounge that I asked him to let me check them. There was a baggage check missing. I reported it immediately to the staff member on the lounge entry desk. Ultimately the woman who’d done the check-in denied we’d checked four bags but I stood my ground and insisted on speaking to the baggage manager for the airport. I showed him the ribbon and he had his crew do a quick check by sight of all the bags lined up behind the scenes in the airport. They found all our bags, including the one which didn’t have the official airport baggage information. They fixed it immediately and it was loaded with the rest. So have never actually lost a bag but it is important to be alert and speak up if concerned. Best wishes, Pamela

Great tips thank Pamela!

I always enjoy these posts. We are headed to Granada, Spain, for a few weeks and my travel wardrobe looks very similar to yours. I travel with a small carry on and a daypack, purse tucked inside. I sub out one dress with leggings for a pair of pants, and I pretty much always travel with a dress. I considered skipping it this time, but they are really my favorite things to wear. If the nights keep looking as cool there as they are now, I’m bringing my packable down parka, purchased after you raved about yours. We’ll be out late watching the processions for Semana Santa.

I want to share the fantastic sneakers that have accompanied me now on trips to Europe and New York where I walked all day. They are the Ecco Chase Tie II, and I get compliments on them all the time. They are stylish, have good support, and are extremely walkable. I’m considering ordering another pair in case they discontinue them.

I love traveling with a large silk scarf. It takes up no room at all, but it can work as shawl over a dress or scarf around the neck, and I carry it in a red print to spice up my outfits. I’ve also decided to always have a pair of pants — lightweight yoga pants, not leggings — and a wrap to wear on the plane. It also works for lounge wear once I’m there, and in this case, for a day of hiking. But I really like not arriving with stretched out pants I’ve been wearing for 12 hours. And I’m more comfy for the flight.

Have a wonderful trip!

Thank you Susan and everyone else for your travel input. The workhorses of my warm weather travel wardrobe are Eileen Fisher crepe ankle pants and their knit dresses. Susan, we pack many of the same tops. I always include a white lightweight Talbots denim jacket. I roll up the sleeves and it finishes a look as well as providing some coverage. Since I am very fair, sun coverage is a necessity. Last spring, I purchased the Lands End jacket that you show in this post. It’s been a terrific addition to my travel repertoire. Have a great trip!

I almost always travel with a carry-on size rolling suitcase now. Both my husband and I now use the Briggs and Riley “Cabin Duffle” for our personal bag. This small duffle can be slid over the handle of a suitcase and secured with velcro for stable transport. This system allows me almost as much room as a larger suitcase. I make sure to leave room in the duffle for my purse. On a trip to Italy a couple of years ago in May, one person in our party traveled with a checked bag, and it was lost for three days. My friend finally found her suitcase by physically going back to the Rome airport and searching all around herself. The staff at the help counter in Rome were not at all helpful. They had been telling her that her suitcase had probably been sent back to the U.S., but weren’t really sure where it was. Finally, by luck, my friend spotted her suitcase being rolled off to who knows where and at the bottom of a huge cart. She spotted the bright and unusual ribbons on her bag. Her trip was saved!

Thanks to you, Susan, I have become a very efficient packer. I just returned from a two week group trip to Israel where almost everyone had twice as much luggage. So much easier with less! There was a big range in the weather – layers and ankle boots saved me.

Thank you for this post, it’s very timely as I am heading off to Paris in two weeks! The weather for this time last year looks cool, but it was quite warm in April two years ago when my father was over. I feel the cold (I live in Melbourne, Australia), so I’m not packing any short sleeves (I’ll buy t-shirts if I need them, but I bet that I won’t).

My strategy for this trip is the standard layering, dressing up with scarves. Your post reassures me that I’m probably not over-packing. I’ve included a lightweight black skirt – can use with leggings, long boots and winter tops if cold, or 3/4 leggings and a lighter top if it gets warm. I am packing my favourite Mavi jeans, which will be fine with a lightweight top if it’s mild. I have leggings (both heavier and lightweight), a couple of tank tops and scarves, which can go under/over tops to add warmth, but I can remove a layer if I need to. I followed your lead and bought a lightweight down coat which I think that I’ll need in Annecy.

So at the moment, my packing list consists of 3 tops (lightweight blouse, mid-weight fitted shirt, plain l/s top); 3 lightweight wool sweaters which can be layered with scarves, tank top if I need warmth; 2 pairs of pants (jeans + smarter ponti pants but still comfortable); 1 dress (l/s, not that warm but is fine for winter with leggings etc so very versatile); 1 knit skirt; leather short jacket and longer puffer jacket. And 3 scarves, 2 quite warm, 1 lightweight.

Oh and gloves, I recommend them – if it does get cooler than expected, they are a compact way of adding some warmth. And I will take my umbrella everywhere.

I love dresses and am debating whether to add a second wool one, will see what the weather forecast looks like. I will be wearing my dress on the plane, it’s comfortable with leggings but looks nice (I arrive at 6am in Paris so I want to be able to leap into doing some sightseeing…I am lucky in that I can sleep like a log on planes and don’t get jetlag).

I do take checked luggage, I don’t want to cram it all into a carry-one and the suitcase gives me space for shopping to bring home. But I will put some of my clothes into my carry-one plus toiletries, travel hair dryer…things that I couldn’t live without and to make sure that I’ve got change of clothes etc. if the bag does go missing.

Hello Susan, I am in Italy now and the weather is amazing. Perfect spring temperatures. I’ve noticed the local style aficionados are wearing wide leg ankle grazing pants. Definitely not for me but they look lovely on the right shape. Italy is amazing. Hopefully you enjoy as much as I am. PS, so glad I took your advice and removed 1/3 of what I originally packed.

Stay in touch…

Sign up to be notified of updates from

une femme d’un certain âge

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 7 Best Travel Dresses for Europe

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

There’s something about Europe that makes you want to step up your travel wardrobe game. A dress is the easiest way to do so—a good one can instantly create a one-piece outfit, it doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase, and it’s easy to transition from day to night.

Since no one wants to spend their European vacation stuck in their room steaming clothing, look for fabrics that resist wrinkles (and odors, so that you can get multiple wears out of one dress).

These are the best travel-friendly dresses to pack for Europe.

Carve Designs Lexi Dress

A mid-weight dress with long sleeves, like the Lexi Dress by Carve Designs , is perfect for sun protection or cooler nights. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, the Lexi Dress is breathable and comfortable no matter if you’re walking all day or sitting on a plane.

Details like a slight boat neck and small side slits add extra style to the dress, and the style comes in a variety of eye-catching colors that help set this dress apart. 

Toad & Co Cue Wrap Short Sleeve Dress

Wrap dresses are fashionable but a terrible idea on a windy day. Get all the style of a wrap dress (with the comfort of a low-maintenance t-shirt dress) with Toad & Co’s Cue Wrap Dress . 

The dress features a faux wrap design and a self-tie belt that gives you the option for a custom fit. Made from an organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell blend fabric, the Cue dress offers the perfect amount of stretch and structure. 

Europe Travel Scams Every Tourist Needs to Know

Coolibar Tierra Tank Dress

Summers in Europe can be extremely hot, so if you’re spending the day outside, make sure you’re protecting yourself from the sun. There’s no more stylish way to get your UPF protection than with Coolibar’s Tierra Tank Dress .

Made from a special soft and stretchy knit fabric, this dress blocks up to 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. 

Columbia Plus Size Freezer III Dress

Air conditioning may be hard to find in Europe, but you can still stay cool in Columbia’s Freezer III Dress . The dress utilizes Columbia’s trademarked Omni-Freeze technology, which helps lower skin surface temperature when it gets wet, keeping you from overheating when you start sweating.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes up to 3X, so all travelers can wear this dress.  

Carve Designs Lyla Dress

Pack a versatile dress that will work on the beach or a bike ride, like Carve Design’s Lyla Dress . Made from recycled plastic bottles, this dress is quick-drying and resists wrinkles. A built-in shelf bra means there’s one less thing for you to have to pack.

The lightweight material is super stretchy and quick-drying, so this dress will still look good even after a day of exploration.

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

Toad & Co’s Eco Kohilo fabric is simply magical. Made from mostly recycled polyester, it’s easy on the environment—and easy to pack since it folds down small and is wrinkle-proof (no matter how tightly you rolled it up). Find it in the Sunkissed Maxi Dress , which is ultra-lightweight, yet offers plenty of coverage (plus UPF 40 sun protection).

Two on-seam hand pockets make this dress perfect for travel, giving you a discreet place to stash things like your phone or keys. 

The Best Sun-Protective Clothing for Travel

Zella Departure Travel Dress

Keep things simple with a classic little black dress that will look at home wherever you go. Zella’s version, the Departure Travel Dress , is designed for travel thanks to a fabric that resists wrinkles and keeps you looking polished.

This dress can be paired with sneakers during the day for a more casual look or with sandals for a fancy night out.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Australia: Upscale, 8-Night Cairns, the Gold...

Down Under Answers

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

europe travel tips | europe wardrobe capsule

Style at a certain age.

yesterday, i shared my five must-have travel wardrobe staples and my goal to pack light for our trip to europe. read it here  if you missed that post. today, it’s all about my black and white capsule wardrobe. but first, here are a few items that make it into my carry-on. don’t ever pack anything other than clothes and toiletries in your checked luggage; anything of value is kept close. for this trip, i splurged and purchased a new marc jacobs floral print sport tote. it’s polyurethane and easily wiped down. it has two sets of handles – long and short – and a zipper. since my wardrobe color palette is black and white, i went for a pop of color and pattern with my handbag. an elegant  michael kors wallet with a flip lock flap closure keeps me organized. but this is what typically finds its way inside my travel tote.

• portable charger
• lint roller
• mints 

a survival kit for the long airplane ride is a must. this is what i carry at all times, wherever I go. 

• hand sanitizer
• lip balm 
• zzzQuil melatonin gummies,
• tide bleach pen
• hand and face wipes 
• not shown is a travel first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze pads.

gingham raincoat ( similar here ) |  black blazer  |  denim jacket

three jackets made the grade. with rain, in the forecast, a raincoat was a no-brainer. this gingham coat was lighter than a traditional trench, and it’s black and white. a blazer and denim jacket should get me by with temps in the seventies. plus, a blazer is perfect to wear to dinner in the evening.

henley dress  | denim shirtdress ( similar here )

two dresses were packed. the henley tee shirt dress is a dream to wear and looks cute with sneakers. it will be perfect when the temperatures reach the eighties. the denim shirtdress flies solo with black booties but pulls double-duty as a duster over jeans.

  chinos  |  toothpick jeans  |  white denim

pants get the most wear and tear on trips as they’re worn multiple times. dark rinse denim hides a multitude of travel sins. but i have a tide bleach pen in case the white denim falls on hard times. chinos are comfortable. and black pants? what more can we say about pants that go with everything?

  black pants

floral maxi skirt |  white corset skirt

many of us would forego skirts. but i love to wear them especially when the temps climb into the seventies and eighties. this floral maxi skirt is lightweight, looks adorable, and will be perfect for evening. the white corset skirt looks fantastic with espadrilles or sneakers. i think it will be on style repeat all vacation long.

black tee sold out ( similar here ) |  gray tee  |  white tee

  stripe tunic  |  polka dot ruffle  |  gingham camp shirt |  chambray shirt | sleeveless white blouse

the rule of thumb is two tops to one bottom. counting my tees i have ten. but one more shirt can potentially make it into my suitcase. what do you think?  i just might be fine with the chosen blouses.

  silk white ruffle  |  striped mock neck tee

navy v-neck sweater  |  black cardigan

sneakers  | espadrilles  |  backless loafers  |  black booties  |  metallic sandals

there may be one too many pairs of shoes for this trip. but the sneakers are worn on the plane. and mr. style might bail me out and pack one pair in his suitcase… all-in-all i think i’m ready to jet off to paris tomorrow night. what do you think?

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

See author's posts

Share this with friends

On facebook, on pinterest, email to a friend.

Looks like a smashing lineup! No scarves?

Beth- lovely! First off, safe travels to you and Mr. Style. I’m betting you’ve packed a scarf or two and a few pieces of jewelry so am looking forward to seeing how you’ll switch things up day to day and add pops by way of your fabulous accessories. I’d like to know what you plan to carry as a day bag while out seeing the sights. I always struggle with finding the right mix of functionality in a cross body bag that can hold maps, water bottle etc with some modicum of style. I’m assuming the Marc Jacobs bag is for onboard travel. Thanks and bon voyage.

If it was me, I would probably cut down on the number of tops – for a 14 day trip you have some items you may only wear once or twice. Tops are also an opportunity to add some colour – say replace the white/black/grey tees with a bright red tee. My rule of thumb is make sure the tops work with most or all of the bottoms: that way the total number of potential outfits is at least (number of tops) x (number of bottoms). It’s always good to leave room for vacation purchases!

I would love for you to show a picture of your packed bag so I can see how you get all of that in there! Have a wonderful trip.

Beth, You will have a fqbulous time in Paris while looking Tres chic!

I’d skip heels, mules, skirts and anything white. Those are things I wouldn’t wear on a two-week trip. I need shoes with good support due to a ridiculous amount of walking. And I know myself — it takes concentration and technique to walk the cobbles without twisting an ankle. White wouldn’t last a day without getting dirty.

After I get home, I don’t like wearing my travel clothes for a good long time. Sooo tired of them! Maybe this is why I like to travel when the seasons are changing, so I can tuck those things away for a few months afterwards.

This is the color scheme I have chosen for a 7 day cruise from Boston to Montreal

. I am not taking any dresses or skirts as I just don’t often wear them. My face creams . make-up, and toiletries take up so much room. How do you pack yours? I love the packing bags we got a few years ago as it keeps everything more organized! Enjoy your trip. Looking forward to seeing how you put your clothes together! I love your style!

Thanks for this great post – I am leaving this week for a trip to Croatia and Slovenia and also chose black/white/navy for my travel wardrobe. I swear by packing cubes and can fit everything for a 12 day vacation into a 25” suitcase and a small carry on – I always pack a change of clothing and pjs in my carry on in case my luggage is lost or late. Have a great trip!

Good morning, Miss Beth! You’re going to look smashing on your European vacay with Mr. Style. So excited for you! Can’t wait to see your photos!

May I ask the brand of your slip-on mules with the tassels? Thank you!

Bon Voyage!

Great post re packing light. My husband would love to see what mr. style is packing and what size bag.

Great post, Beth! I love seeing your choices for the trip! I may have missed it, but how many days is the trip and do you have a separate outfit for travel, aside from the items shown? How about accessories, like bags, scarves, and jewelry? I appreciate seeing the different things for the carry-on bag. It’s easy to see how well all of these items would create a mix and match wardrobe for the duration. Do you ever find need to do laundry on your trip? Do you have items that particularly wash well by hand, if needed to do your own wash? Sounds like a great vacation!! Have fun!

I am on the tail end of a 2 week Adriatic vacation and am in Paris. We are same age and southern Atlantic coasters. Temps are rapidly climbing. I strongly recommend you leave behind the black booties and mules. Stan Smith Style sneakers rule the streets! The light tees/light tops with sleeves will get the most use. Consider switching heavy blazer for lighter cardigan linen topper. Not seeing any white bottoms yet in major european cities but light blue denim is popular. Have a fabulous time! Remember you can always shop to fill in gaps! Love your blog!

I am going to Paris too at the end of May for 10 days!!!! I was thinking about taking the ZZZquil pills – do they work? I’m dreading the flight over.

I’m starting to think about what I am taking and I noticed my color palate is the same, black, white and denim. We are twins!!!!! I hope you have a wonderful trip. We need to trade stories when we get back!!!

Looks great! Have a blast. Only thing I’d add is an outlet adapter for overseas. And don’t forget to call credit card companies to let them know you’re heading off. I always remember that as I did forget once and freaked! hahahaaaa. Oh–and when I last traveled, to Greece and Turkey, I did bring along a water bottle. Carried it with me on the plane too

Fabulous post! Have fun!

make a comment

• Weekly Newsletter

want to get style delivered to your inbox?

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

Women Over 50: Your Best Guide to a Capsule Travel Wardrobe

Social media is filled with travel photos of gorgeous young women in flowing gowns that coordinate with the scenery. We long to look like these women, but the reality of travel, for us more mature women, is not as glamorous as these images portray. Travel involves a lot of walking… and dust… and sun. And how do these influencers climb a mountain in a full-length gown? Let alone pack light with sundresses in every color? Sleeveless dresses and high heels just aren’t practical, especially as travel clothing for women over 50. But no worries! You can create a travel capsule wardrobe with stylish and functional clothes that allow you to pack light, feel comfortable, and look great!

My travels have taken me to over 60 countries, from luxury African safaris and European cruises to rafting and camping through the Grand Canyon. Through trial and error (and maybe a few overstuffed suitcases!), I’ve honed my packing skills and space-saving strategies. Now, I’m here to help you create a capsule wardrobe that lets you travel light and explore in style .

This post includes affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no additional expense to you if you purchase something or take an action on one of these links. This is how I am able to run this website. I only suggest items we have enjoyed and hope you will too. DISCLOSURE

Table of Contents

What is a capsule wardrobe and why use one for travel?

A capsule wardrobe is defined as a collection of basic items that mix and match, and don’t go out of style. The items harmonize in color and put together can create many, many looks. It’ll take you from a morning walk to afternoon tea . This system is ideal for traveling light. By curating your travel clothes, you can travel carry-on only, limit decision fatigue, and still look lovely. Perfect for the older woman adventurer!

As a frequent traveler, I have created two basic capsule travel wardrobes, one for cold weather and one for warm. As I plan my trip, I adjust these capsules. I’ve tried to stick to a 10-piece wardrobe for my trips, but may add or subtract as the circumstances dictate. [On recent trips I’ve included a statement piece for more versatility and fun, creating an 11-piece capsule. ] To make things simpler I use a phone app for my packing lists with the capsule wardrobe items as basics for every trip. But you don’t need an app or anything special to create your capsule wardrobe – just make a list of the clothes you will use in your capsule or keep the list in a notebook or a spreadsheet. Whatever works for you!

A capsule wardrobe is defined as a collection of basic items that mix and match and don’t go out of style.  In theory the capsule wardrobe is all you need for a 2-week holiday wardrobe for over 50s. In practice the capsule wardrobe is often the base wardrobe for the trip, with extra pieces added as space allows.

Consider your itinerary

If you’re off on a work trip or visiting a city you know well, you likely know what types of clothing you’ll be needing and will only have to account for the weather. But if you’re planning an adventure it’s helpful to make a list of the activities you’ll be doing to understand what clothing you’ll need.

Creating a calendar, or printing out your itinerary, can be helpful. Planning ahead for hiking in the morning and a nice dinner in the evening will make your life easier. And can save decision time if you bring your notes with you!

I’ve found that after days of travel, I might forget some of the options my capsule allows. It’s great to have a reminder of what I’d planned! (Left: I almost forgot to wear my Zuri duster as a skirt until I noted it on my planning app!)

Choose the basics for your capsule travel wardrobe

Begin with what you have . There is no need to go out and buy items if you have the makings of a good travel wardrobe already. Let’s set an example of sustainable living by using what we have, before buying something new! Look for clothing that travels well – lightweight, easy-care clothing you enjoy and would happily reach for at home. (I’d add wrinkle free clothing, or wrinkle resistant, if that’s not already your closet standard. It is mine! Who has time for ironing?!)

Simple is best – make your clothing the least interesting thing about you.

Choose a neutral color for your base : Black works for most cities, whites for the tropics. But choose navy or beige if it’s more flattering on you. Still neutral! I began with a black base but have changed to navy as it’s softer against my skin and hair.

Pick 2 tops and 1 bottom (pants, shorts, skirt) in this neutral color. Make sure these items are comfortable, classic, and easy to care for. A Breton striped shirt is a great item to add here.

Add one solid white (or black) shirt: Bring one additional solid top, a tee if the trip is casual, or a button down for dressing up. These are the travel wardrobe essentials. The classic button down goes well with everything and can even be worn open as a jacket. I pack either a black merino tee or an Eddie Bauer wrinkle-resistant button down shirt . Just splurged on a quality merino wool top from Wool&, the Stevie 3/4 sleeve top. I’m thrilled with it – flattering and super comfortable. I know it’ll make it in my every packing list!

Add a solid black (or neutral) bottom: I always pack one pair of black pants or capris. These go with everything and don’t show dirt. (Helpful hint: wear dark colors on a flight. Nothing like turbulence to cause a spill!) Some people always pack jeans. These are heavy, and slow to dry when laundered, so don’t usually make it into my luggage, but there are trips when jeans are mandatory! You do you!

Add a topper – a lightweight sweater or jacket in the neutral or a coordinating neutral. Having some sort of topper is critical if you’re visiting sacred sites, or traveling in areas where women dress conservatively. A pashmina will do the trick if you’re averse to sweaters. (If you’re cold weather traveling, you’ll probably need 2 toppers.)

[Optional] Add a dress , or two, depending on your destination and style of travel. I have a couple of print shift dresses I may pack, but generally choose to bring a dress in my neutral color. Extra points if this dress is able to be styled up and down. I’ve been won over to Wool& merino wool dresses lately which can be styled as a dress, a top, or a tunic.

Add 2 tops/blouses in complementary color: Choose silky sleeveless tops and you can pack three!

I took a camel DKNY cashmere cozy as my topper on our South African trip. It was perfect on the long flight, serving as sweater and blanket in one. I reached for it again in the cool evenings on safari and in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town wore it to dress up for dinners out. 

Pay attention to the lengths that work for your body. Unless blessed by genetics, most women in their fifties and sixties will want a bit more coverage in their over 50 capsule wardrobe. Tights, and short skirts may not flatter as they once did but pair those tights with a long tunic and you’re good to go! I find capris or cropped pants flatter my legs and I choose tops with sleeves to protect from the sun.

Example of a Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Example of the Minimalist Capsule expanded to 11-pieces

Accessorize your capsule travel wardrobe by adding color and style

Have fun – choose a few colorful pieces to jazz up your outfits. This is where we can learn from the renowned style of the French woman. She might wear a simple neutral outfit every day (often black) but will liven it up with accessories! A silky blouse, a colorful scarf, or a bright skirt – lightweight pieces that add some spice to your outfits. Some women will design their whole capsule wardrobe around the colors of their favorite scarf.

Jewelry – those neutral outfits are asking for some fun jewelry. Leave your valuable pieces at home but bring a chunky necklace or sparkly earrings. Small things can bump your day outfit to evening wear! I love to pick up jewelry as I travel. Great to wear on the trip and a wonderful (lightweight!) souvenir when we’re home.

Review and visualize your capsule wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe template will help you to choose items that mix and match well. We’ve shared our favorites on Easy Elegance: 3 Templates for Capsule Wardrobe Planning .

Use an app like Outfit Planner, Stylebook or Cladwell to visualize how your wardrobe picks work together. Don’t pack anything that doesn’t go with two or more pieces. Remember, your goal is to create mix and match outfits for travel. (see Pack Lighter with Stylebook)

Test pack I lay out all my planned clothing at least a week before the trip. This is a great time to make sure the pieces work together as well as to check for stains, and necessary repairs. This is also when you might notice you have a bit of extra room to add another favorite scarf or t shirt! But be careful, it’s easy to throw in a couple of “just in case” items that’ll negate all the work you’ve done to create a minimalistic travel capsule!

[scarf: Gold & Blue William Morris from the Met Opera Shop – a favorite, shown also in capsule collage above!]

Shoes for travel

Probably the biggest challenge for packing light is shoes. It’s difficult to pare down our options when it comes to footwear. Most experts recommend limiting ourselves to two pairs of shoes, with the heaviest being worn on the flight. I must admit I often take three – sneakers or hiking shoes on the flight, a pair of flats, and sandals. Wear heels if you are absolutely comfortable in them, but for my travel wardrobe over 60, I stick to stylish flats.

But I’m still hopeful that I’ll come across that unicorn – a casual flat/sandal option that’ll take me to dinner or the pool… Recommendations gladly accepted!

Adding new items to your travel wardrobe capsule 

Shop your closet first! Set an example of sustainable travel by using what you have before buying something new . The fashion industry is one of the leading contributors to global carbon emissions. Commit to reducing your ‘fast fashion’ consumption. Wear what you have and, when new is necessary, invest in well made, timeless designs.

If you don’t already have items in your closet that will work for your trip, there are many options for women’s clothes for travel. In addition to the tried-and-true big travel clothing companies – Travelsmith, Magellans, etc. – many clothing lines cater to women in their 50s, 60s, and above. They usually offer flattering clothes that travel well.

Quality first! It’s past time for fast fashion- those trendy, inexpensive items that’ll be worn one season before ending up in the donation pile. If you’re going to buy women’s clothes for travel, invest in good quality pieces. You will pay more initially for that merino wool top, but it’ll serve you for many years. (Merino wool is the ultimate travel fabric – wrinkle resistant, odor resistant, and quick drying! Bonus points for it’s being a sustainable fabric!)

Find a brand that fits you well and is designed with travel in mind, i.e. wrinkle resistant. Look into convertible clothing which can give you a lot of options. The following brands carry stylish pieces for a holiday wardrobe for over 50s:

Brands offering quality travel clothing for women over 50

Athleta carries affordable pants that work for travel days, and evenings out. Well tailored, the black Venice pintuck pants, are always on my list.

Encircled in Canada has a line of ‘dressy casuals’ which are ideal for travel . I love the dressy sweatpants. They’re slouchy and soft, great for travel days, but look refined enough for an evening out with a jacket or pretty scarf. Encircled has committed to sustainability and is making many of its classic pieces in bamboo and merino wool.

Coolibar specializes in sun-protective clothing. This is so important as travelers are out in the sun so much and often forget to reapply sunscreen! I’ve added several of these pieces to my travel wardrobe. My favorite is the Amara button-down shirt which resists wrinkles and lets me channel my inner “coastal grandmother.” Ha!

Chico’s Travelers Collection has wrinkle free options that look great coming straight out of the suitcase. Many dressy options, too! I always include a few items from Chico’s in my capsule wardrobe.

Wool& clothing isn’t designed specifically for travel, but the simple merino dresses are a natural to work as your base. They also offer merino wool leggings which are wonderful for layering on chilly mornings. Other responsible wool brands to check: Ridge Merino (love my Hyde dress/topper ), Unbound Merino , and (U.S. Made) Wuru .

Toad & Co . has many natural fiber pieces that are great as accent pieces to your capsule wardrobe.

Eileen Fisher ‘s styles are timeless. The silk tops and the luxe merino stretch line would seem to be perfect travel solutions. (I haven’t had the opportunity to try this line, but have had great success with lightweight, odor resistant merino wool.)

Diane Kroe specializes in travel-friendly clothing and has some of the best travel clothes for women. Most are multi-functional – converting from scarves to cardigans, skirted tights to bodysuits. Diane Kroe’s line includes stylish clothing for plus size women as well. I always have a Diane Kroe piece on my packing list!

Visit REI to see lots of options for active travel – Patagonia, Prana, Exofficio, Smartwool, Icebreaker – all are great options if you’ll be hiking or cycling on your trip.

Perfect travel clothing for women over 50 is comfortable and makes you feel good

It’s most important that you pack only things that are comfortable to wear and make you happy. Don’t include a ‘travel friendly’ option that you’d never reach for at home.

I can’t emphasize this enough. DO NOT pack anything you wouldn’t be comfortable wearing at home. Traveling in our older years is a gift. We no longer need dress to impress but can dress to de-stress. We can find comfortable clothing for older women that will make us feel good. And as we have come to learn – if we feel good, we look good!

This basic over 50 capsule travel wardrobe will serve you well from Paris to the Grand Canyon. But if there’s room in your luggage, allow yourself a favorite item or two. A brightly colored dress, graphic tee, or signature piece will be a nice change from the basic wardrobe.

And as always -make sure to pack a hat for skin protection!

Are there clothing essentials you reach for when packing? Please share your travel tips in the comments!

For more suggestions read Traveling Clothing for Women, Easy to Pack Favorites

This article may contain referral links. Read our  DISCLOSURE .

Travelingtulls is a participant in the amazon services llc associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. we are not provided with any products by amazon but receive a small fee if you purchase an item through our link at no additional cost to you., like this post pin it for later.

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

Share this:

59 thoughts on “ Women Over 50: Your Best Guide to a Capsule Travel Wardrobe ”

There is virtually nowhere you can’t go in a white blouse and black pants. Dressed up or down, having these two items that fit well are indispensable.

Yes! But I make sure to pack two white blouses as I’ll inevitably spill something the first day! 🙂

I own the Edie Bauer wrinkle free shirt, I’ll leave it home and pack my llbean pinpoint wrinkle free shirt instead , because it is really really wrinkle free.

Thanks for the tip! I haven’t tried the LL Bean pinpoint wrinkle free, but will now!

This is an EXCELLENT article! As a full-time International Petsitter, you would think I would have the packing thing down to a science, but I SO do not. This will help me immensely! Thank you!

Most of my wardrobe for years has come from Eileen Fisher. Her tunic tops and crepe or ponte pants (black) are perfect for travel. And they come in all sizes now.

I’ve heard great things about that line, but haven’t tried it. Thanks for the suggestion!

Lovely informative article!

Loved your information. I find it so hard to pack for long trips. The younger gals make it all look so easy.

Thanks, Dana! I can’t imagine how many clothes the younger girls bring to create such instagramable images!

Over the years I have managed to create a coordinated set of clothes that come with me when I travel. But I must admit because I wear many of these just when travelling they don’t wear out. So I feel like I am always looking the same in my travel photos! Good idea to think about one for hot and cold temps. My biggest challenge too is shoes.

Ha! But I bet you’re likely the only one who notices the repeated outfits!

Lindsay phillips shoes……her tag line is change your style not your sole, I have several pairs, Switch flops with changable straps for the day, heels with changable button decorations for meals and evenings, 2 pairs……endless possibilities, a travellers dream

Due to ongoing foot problems,I have chosen vionic flip flops. Choose plain ones for everyday and sparkly ones for dinner.

Thanks. What capsule app do you use?

I use Stylebook mostly. I used to use Cladwell. Do you have an app you recommend?

I love the short sleeved blouse you picture below your heading, “What is a capsule wardrobe and why recommend using one for travel?” Where can I find that or something similar? Been struggling to find blouses that serve many purposes like that one would, that are not cheaply made and that travel well. Help!

One of the fashion tips my husband and I brought home from Europe is their use of scarves in the winter. They are beautiful, warm and functional. Great ideas for travel clothes.

Shoes I have found that are comfortable and I can wear to dinner, Naot- Kayla or Hero

Thanks Leslie, I haven’t tried Naot shoes. Will have to look for them.

I LOVE Naot shoes! Almost every pair of shoes I own is from Naot. They are so comfortable, even for long walking days. I’ve worn them all over Europe, in many Disney parks, and to Sydney and Cape Town. I never even have to break them in!

I have a pair of sparkly Fit Flop sandals that are extremely comfortable and take me easily to dress up at night. I’m about to embark on a long multi seasonal trip and hope to be able to pack in a smaller suitcase for ease getting on and off trains. Being plus size is a challenge because it takes up more space. Thanks for your ideas.

I’m only 33 but I’m also baffled by how these ladies pack all these long flowy dresses to hikes (some even rent them!). I love clothes and fashion, but I too prefer being practical. There’s a middle ground. Thanks for sharing these tips!

Starting to build my wardrobe now for a 2-week trip to Europe in early spring. My biggest challenges are being prepared for rain/cooler weather and being able to stick with carry-on luggage only. I have some wrinkle-free basics (tops and bottoms) which supposedly will wash easily (we’ll be in AirBnBs with washers but no dryers). I am sensitive to fabrics so Merino wool is not an option for me. I have a lightweight packable down jacket and recently invested in some waterproof trainers, plus I am planning to bring a pair of flat boots. Thank you for your tips, the scarf-for-a-pop-of-color idea is a game-changer!

Sounds great Neysa! Consider a technical fabric base layer to help with the cooler weather. Packs light but will keep you cozy.

I LOVE bamboo fabrics. Similarly to merino wool, I find that they are cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cool. They drape well, and are soft to the touch. They’re also naturally antimicrobial, so they don’t stink and need to be laundered less frequently. I own leggings, nightgowns, tanks, and tees!

may I ask where do you purchase the dress at the top of your first picture with the scarf around the neck. I have been looking for one of theses but not having much luck.

Love this article as most seem always to skinny models, which i am not!!!!!

Hi Carol, that dress is an old favorite of mine, from Travelsmith. It’s no longer available but you might find similar dresses at Lands End, Chicos, or Wool&.

Thanks for your kind words!

Thank you so much for this post. It is great to see the pieces all work together. Re sandals, I have a pair of rose pink Merrel sandals that are great to walk around in all day, and are lovely worn with a sun dress. These are my day/evening shoes for a hot tropical destination. https://www.merrellaustralia.com.au/products/sandspur-rose-convert-marron

Ooh! I love those. I have similar in black but I love the subtle pink. Thanks for sharing!

We are going on the Viking Grand European cruise this fall. I am trying to put together the Capsule wardrobe & I love your suggestions. I know the white/black stripe long sleeve Tee is popular & I love it. I just can’t seem to find one I love. Any suggestions?

That will be a wonderful cruise!!

The stripe shirt is a classic and perfect for Europe. But as you’ve found, sometimes it’s hard to find one that suits you. I recently purchased one from Yala made of bamboo. Haven’t travel tested it yet but plan on taking it to Peru next month. Let me know if you find one you love!

I always pack one of these! I just got one from Yala in bamboo that I like. Have a great time on your trip. We’re looking at that cruise too.

Such great tips and suggestions! We’re newly empty nesters and have just started to enjoy the cruising life but man, packing and knowing how..for different destinations can be tricky! This will be a big help for our Alaskan cruise coming up in a month.

Great! Our Alaskan cruise was cancelled in 2021. But we’ll get there someday! Have fun!

• Pingback: - Easy Seniors Travel

Excellent article! Thanks so much!

I love the “formula” for putting together a practical travel wardrobe; it looks like a perfect starting point for any trip! I’d never choose black for the neutral. Brown, olive or navy are more friendly travel colors, as they hide dirt better than black.

A couple questions: You didn’t mention PJs … I’d lean towards a casual lounge outfit like joggers + an oversized tee, and I’d bring two lounge outfits so you could wear one while washing the others (of course, I’m assuming the luxury of a washing machine). Also, lounge outfits need to be “decent enough” to be seen by others.

That’s a great addition. Thanks, Resa! I usually bring a light nightgown, but have definitely packed loungewear when I’m traveling with friends.

Absolutely spot on with the image versus reality scenario. I’m 64 travelling to several cities in Italy and then going on a cruise. Also I do t want to lug a suitcase so everything must fit in my backpack carryon. The reality is I perspire, get sore feet, and occasionally need to have a nap. Love all the suggestions you’ve made.

Wow! So helpful, I tend to overpack!! We are going to Italy for 3 weeks in November, so I’m already fretting about what to pack.😬

Three weeks in Italy! Lucky you!

We were in Italy for 3 weeks last Nov. Plan for wetter and colder than you think, and plan to do laundry. Don’t forget your umbrella, great walking shoes no matter what they look like and a camera.

I’m 60 and putting together a wardrobe for my trip to Europe, but I’m sorry you lost me with the dowdy capris (or ANYTHING Chicos) and the old lady scarves. We all have our own style, and this works for you, but I wouldn’t wear anything so frumpy myself. I DO intend to wear breezy sleeveless dresses and not sure why those are considered “not appropriate.”

Hi Donna, I certainly don’t think breezy sleeveless dresses are inappropriate and am delighted that you’ll be enjoying them! Thanks for the feedback!

Thank you for all your tips. They are great. I always try to avoid buying new clothes before I travel and take what I have in my wardrobe ..that way I can buy that nice new top in Italy or something from the place I am visiting and leave some of my older clothes behind. That way I have room in my case & come home with something I have bought for myself. 😀

Me too! I love having special pieces that remind me of a great trip.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe is truly a game-changer for travel. The idea of mixing and matching essential pieces to create numerous outfits is brilliant. It’s wonderful to see how a well-curated wardrobe can take you from a morning walk to afternoon tea, all while feeling confident and put-together.

Your tips on choosing a neutral base color and adding complementary pieces to jazz up the outfits are spot on. Accessories truly make a difference in transforming a simple outfit. And your emphasis on quality over fast fashion is incredibly important – investing in well-made, versatile pieces not only benefits the traveler but also contributes to sustainable living.

I’m planning a trip to Copenhagen next month and hoping to pack in just a backpack so I’m not stuck finding a place to stash a suitcase between hotels. Thanks for the capsule tips. I’m looking for lightweight, rollable, wrinkle-free clothes so they’ll look as good on Day 4 as the day I pack. Any tips?

I love my merino wool and bamboo clothing. Super lightweight and wrinkle-free. Have a great trip!

my go to shoes are bobs by sketchers. they have on amazon called women’s desert kiss stretch quarter strap sandal flat . the only shoe that has zero sciatic pain due to a low heel .

Thanks Ann, I have a pair of Skechers I wear all the time! I’ll be bringing it to France with me next month.

Chico’s no ion shirts are wonderful and come in many colors. I have their long and 3/4 sleeve white for travel. They work great!!! I get compliments each time I wear them with scarves. I,too, wear sketchers most travel days. The are fantastic and can be washed. Great site and info.

Love it! As a mom I struggle to find practical clothes. Capsule wardrobe is a great option. Next summer I will definitely create my travel capsule wardrobe!

• Pingback: Travel Clothes Over 50: Essential Styling Tips For Mature Jetsetters
• Pingback: Amazon and Caribbean Adventure: Your Ultimate Viking Cruise Packing List - Traveling Tulls

I need to assemble a capsule wardrobe for an Alaska cruse for a plus size women. I don’t ask for much. The weather varies greatly.

Focus on layers, Wendy. I’d suggest a base layer top (and perhaps bottom) and then create the capsule as you usually would. (I’d bring a merino dress that can be accessorized to create several looks, a pair of dark pants and top. Pack your favorite scarves, etc. Adding a lightweight sweater that can be removed as the day warms up works well.)

I love all of your suggestions for minimalist packing. My problem is I seem to have a small head, so hats overwhelm me! If I try the hats in the kids dept., they have cartoon characters on them! Help! Any suggestions on how to pick out or fit a hat? TIA Erin

Hi Erin, I have the opposite problem and have had some luck getting hats on Amazon. If they don’t fit, you can return them.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from traveling tulls.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Trends + Deals We Love

REI, Athleta, Vuori, and More Travel Clothing Brands Are Cleaning House — Shop the 100 Best Deals Up to 70% Off

We shopped every spring sale on the Internet to find the best deals for travelers.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

We’re well on our way into spring, and I’m a firm believer that this season brings a fresh start and new beginnings — and I embrace that philosophy when it comes to my travel wardrobe as well. I’m all about out with the old (or the things I haven’t found myself wearing in the last year) and in with the new (or all the cute trendy things I know I’ve worked really hard to deserve) especially when there are so many great deals on spring travel clothing right now.

And as a travel writer, you can bet that I’m always on a mission to find fun and functional outfits for my upcoming trips. This season, I’m headed to Italy (twice!), Greece, Key West, and the Caribbean, and I’m ready to be cute and comfortable everywhere I go. Personally, I think spring is the easiest season to achieve exactly that since there are tons of flowy, linen-inspired styles in stores and more importantly: they’re on sale. Here are some of the best spring travel clothing deals I found — with prices that start as low as $15 and discounts as high as 70 percent off .

Best Amazon Travel Clothing Deals

Amazon is always one of my go-to spots for easy travel outfits, and right now there are a ton of great spring looks that are heavily discounted. From comfy joggers that are ideal for plane rides to an adorable two-piece waffle knit set that comes in 14 different colors that’s perfect for a day of exploring to a classic pair of Reebok sneakers that are nearly half the original price — there are nearly endless deals to check out at Amazon. 

• Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Time Off Sneaker , $60 (originally $100) 
• Anrabess White Linen Pants , $28 with coupon (originally $38)
• Lillusory 2-Piece Knit Sets For Women Trendy Sweatsuit Sets , $36 (originally $46)
• Anrabess Women’s Jumpsuit , $29 (originally $36)
• Ajisai Women’s Jogger Pants , $30 (originally $42)
• Xieerduo Waffle Knit 2 Piece Summer Short Set , $15 with coupon (originally $28)
• The Drop Women's Anaya Square-Neck Cutout Tiered Maxi Dress , $48 (originally $70)
• Reebok Unisex Club C 85 Sneaker , $37 (originally $70)
• Karl Lagerfeld Paris Women's Pattern Blazer , $58 (originally $169)
• The Drop Women's @caralynmirand Ruffle-Neck Tiered Mini Dress , $40 (originally $50)

Anrabess White Linen Pants

Best rei travel clothing deals.

Spring is a magical time to get outside and hike or explore, which is super fitting since some of REI’s best sales are happening now. Score 70 percent off this easy-to-style Outdoor Voices athletic dress , stock up on Vuori ripstop shorts for half off, and protect yourself from mosquitoes with the ExOfficio BugsAway bucket hat . While you’re at it, score a classic Patagonia wind shield pants for 50 percent off. Then, hit the trails with Salomon hiking boots that are also half-price while sporting these Prana Sky Canyon joggers that are a whopping 66 percent off.

• Vuori Vintage Ripstop Shorts , $34 (originally $68)
• Outdoor Voices Doing Things Dress , $32 (originally $108)
• Cotopaxi Capa Hooded Insulated Jacket , $150 (originally $250)
• Hoka Bondi 8 Road-running Shoes , $133 (originally $165)
• Prana Sky Canyon Jogger Pants , $30 (originally $90)
• Salomon Outpluse Mid Gortex Hiking Boots , $80 (originally $160)
• ExOfficio BugsAway Della Jogger Pants , $75 (originally $100)
• Topo Designs Dirt Coveralls , $132 (originally $189)
• ExOfficio BugsAway Bucket Hat , $37 (originally $55)
• REI Co-op Swiftland MT BlueSky Trail-Running Shoes , $75 (originally $150)
• Patagonia Wind Shield Pants , $83 (originally $169)
• Veja Marlin Sneakers , $147 (originally $210)
• The North Face Circaloft Quarter-Zip Insulated Pullover , $110 (originally $220)

Outdoor Voices Doing Things Dress

Best nordstrom travel clothing deals.

Easy and breezy is the name of the game when it comes to the spring finds on sale at Nordstrom right now. For the traveler who loves a flowy black dress (hi, it’s me!) this is the place to shop. From Nike Air Force 1 sneakers and a shockingly discounted Longchamp crossbody bag to a stunning layered ruffle dress from Free People that’s just begging to be the spotlight of some of your most Insta-worthy moments this spring, these are can’t-miss deals. Hitting the beach? Layer this stylish Becca beach jumpsuit that’s marked down drastically over your bathing suit.

• Chelsea28 Black Sundress , $60 (originally $80)
• Splendid Angie Crop Wide Leg Pants , $118 (originally $158)
• Steve Madden Fortunate Bit Mule , $54 (originally $90)
• Longchamp Small Le Foulonné Leather Crossbody Bag , $274 (originally $365)
• Nike Air Force 1 Sneakers , $88 (originally $115)
• Free People Stop Time Floral Tiered Ruffle Cotton Maxi Dress , $140 (originally $198)
• Skims Body-Con Tank Maxi Dress , $72 (originally $118)
• Dolce Vita Debra Platform Sandal , $78 (originally $130)
• Becca Beach Date Wide Leg Cover-Up Jumpsuit , $58 (originally $88)
• Sam Edelman Bay Cutout Slide Sandal , $49 (originally $120)
• Du Paradis Tiered Denim Maxi Dress , $149 (originally $212)
• Maggie London Floral Maxi Dress , $100 (originally $158)
• Zella Commute Stowaway Hood Rain Jacket , $78 (originally $129)

Dolce Vita Debra Platform Sandal

Best lululemon travel clothing finds.

I’m a big believer in a travel capsule wardrobe that’s comfortable, which is why I tend to lean toward stylish athleisure looks from Lululemon. Travelers looking to put a little spring in their step at the airport will find some solid finds in Lululemon’s “We Made Too Much Section” this month. Shop everything from the Lululemon Scuba Relaxed joggers to the iconic Lululemon Align Tank Top for all your spring adventures. And since we all know tennis skirts are all the rage these days, don’t skip the Pace Rival Mid-Rise Skirt — I’ve got my eye on the Sonic Pink one.

• Lululemon Stretch Woven High-Rise Wide-Leg Pant , $79 (originally $148)
• Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L , $29 (originally $38) 
• Like a Cloud Ribbed Longline Bra , $39 (originally $68)
• Pace Rival Mid-Rise Skirt , $39 (originally $78)
• Lululemon Align Tank Top , $49 (originally $68)
• Groove Super-High-Rise Flared Pant Nulu , $49 (originally $118)
• Everlux Asymmetrical Tennis Tank Top , $49 (originally $68)
• Side-Cinch Ribbed Cardigan , $54 (originally $78)
• Scuba High-Rise Relaxed Jogger , $79 (originally $118)
• Court Rival High-Rise Skirt , $39 (originally $88)
• Tapered-Leg Mid-Rise Pant 7/8 Length , $59 (originally $128)
• Restfeel Women's Slide , $39 (originally $58)

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Best madewell travel clothing deals.

Madewell is always a favorite spot for stocking up on classic, well-made basics that can easily make up an effortless travel wardrobe capsule. From this simple pleated top (that’s more than half off) to the Petite Rosedale High-Rise Straight Pant that’s majorly marked down, there are endless options for those looking to score timeless pieces that can really elevate your vacation outfits. Easy to take from day to dinner, this Button-Front Blouson Mini Shirtdress is about to be the M.V.P. of your next trip.

• The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant , $50 (originally $118)
• Relaxed Tulip-Back Top , $19 (originally $88)
• Lightspun Cover-Up Mini Shirtdress , $50 (originally $65)
• Poplin Flared Midi Skirt in Stripe , $110 (originally $128)
• The Signature Knit Scoopneck Sweater Tank , $20 (originally $60)
• Checkered-Stitch Wedge Sweater Vest , $50 (originally $70)
• Pleated Short-Sleeve Top , $40 (originally $85)
• The Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean in Vintage Canvas Wash: Snap Edition , $70 (originally $128)
• The Petite Rosedale High-Rise Straight Pant in Crepe , $50 (originally $118)
• Button-Front Blouson Mini Shirtdress in Floral Crepe , $72 (originally $128)

The Harlow Wide-leg Pant

Best vuori travel clothing deals.

I can’t stress enough how much I love to travel in athleisure, but I’m always determined to look as put together as possible. The deals you can find at Vuori right now are making it a breeze to do just that. From the Rib Crop Tank with built-in bra support — because no one wants to deal with an actual bra on a long haul flight — to the Vuori Miles Joggers that are buttery soft and super flattering, you can create an effortless travel look in just a few clicks. Oh, and while you’re at it, you might as well add this corduroy hat to your cart since it’s easy to pack and will protect you from the sun.

• Vuori Miles Jogger , $94 (originally $118)
• Vuori Rib Crop Tank , $38 (originally $64)
• Vuori Sherpa Hooded Trench , $172 (originally $288)
• Vuori Cove Funnel Neck Tank | Light Heather Grey , $46 (originally $58)
• Vuori Performance Cord Hat | Navy Corduroy Hat , $19 (originally $32)
• Vuori Studio Half Zip | Women's Light Azure Workout Jacket , $70 (originally $88)
• Vuori AllTheFeels Legging | Ether High-Rise Leggings , $88 (originally $98)
• Vuori Yosemite Bra | Sawyer Strappy Sports Bra , $29 (originally $58)
• Vuori Lux Intentions Jumpsuit , $76 (originally $128)
• Vuori Short Sleeve Halo Crop , $51 (originally $64)

Vuori Lux Intentions Jumpsuit

Best athleta travel clothing deals.

When it comes to athleisure, Athleta never misses. I’m a huge fan of their basics and the power they have to create an easy and comfortable travel outfit. Right now, shoppers will find big markdowns on the Cool Down Top as well as the Essential Top , plus a cool 30 percent off the vibrant Elation High-rise Pants . And don’t forget to check out the aptly named Layover Cardigan , the Santorini Cinch Dress , and Brooklyn utility pant, all travel-inspired and perfect for any adventures you have planned this spring.

• ​​ Athleta Cool Down Top , $17 (originally $65)
• Athleta Layover Cardigan , $55 (originally $149)
• Athleta Keys Sweater Dress , $150 (originally $279)
• Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise Tight , $60 (originally $89) 
• Athleta Makani Swim Short , $35 (originally $59)
• Athleta North Point Rashguard , $44 (originally $79)
• Athleta With Ease Open Back Top , $25 (originally $59)
• Athleta Brooklyn Mid-Rise Ankle Utility Pant , $65 (originally $99)
• Athleta Endless High Rise Cargo Short , $60 (originally $89)
• Athleta Essential Top , $33 (originally $55)

Athleta Brooklyn Mid-Rise Ankle Utility Pant

Best abercrombie travel clothing deals.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Confession: I was a big Abercrombie girl in high school and college and then somewhere along the way I forgot about the brand completely — until it flooded my TikTok feed and I realized how the brand has grown and changed. Now some of my absolute favorite staple pieces and dresses are from Abercrombie again. Looking to grab some spring finds? Well, there are 20 pages of sale items to check out (and that’s just in the women’s clearance section!), but don’t worry, I clicked through them all to find some of the best offers. Personally, I’m in love with these linen-blend shorts that work super well with this 3-pack of “Going-out” tanks that’s also a serious score at $30 making each top just $10. The Trapeze Maxi Dress is also a favorite, and at 60 percent off, it’s a steal.

• Lace-Trim High-Neck Midi Dress , $45 (originally $120)
• Women's Linen-Blend Tiered Maxi Skirt , $60 (originally $80)
• Women's Linen-Blend Embroidered Pull-On Short , $35 (originally $60)
• 3-Pack Seamless Fabric Going-Out Tanks , $30 (originally $80)
• Trapeze Maxi Dress , $50 (originally $120)
• Women's Essential Sunday Sweatpant , $40 (originally $70)
• Women's Long-Sleeve Plunge Cutout Maxi Dress , $60 (originally $120)
• Mid Rise Tailored Shorts , $55 (originally $70)
• YPB neoWARM Hooded Full-Zip , $60 (originally $140)
• Long-Sleeve Easy Waist Romper , $45 (originally $80)
• Cozy Cloud Knit Wide Leg Pant , $35 (originally $50)

Abercrombie Linen-Blend Embroidered Pull-on Short

Best everlane travel clothing deals.

Comfortable and cozy is the name of the game at Everlane, and I’m never mad about that. When it comes to spring travel clothing, Everlane is really making it count with some solid markdowns that I know I’m ready to add to my cart. From The Hammered Satin Slip Skirt that’s heavily discounted to The Poplin Slip Dress that’s less than a third of its original price to The Curvy ’90s Cheeky Jean that’s half its normal price, these are truly unbeatable deals.

• The Hammered Satin Slip Skirt , $39 (originally $98)
• The Poplin Slip Dress , $33 (originally $110)
• The Endless Summer Sandal , $50 (originally $125)
• The Curvy ’90s Cheeky Jean , $55 (originally $110)
• The City Stripe Ruched Dress , $45 (originally $178)
• The Alpaca Oversized Cardigan , $89 (originally $178)
• The Satin Pull-On Pant , $35 (originally $128)
• The ReTrack Jogger , $33 (originally $110)
• The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck , $74 (originally $248)
• The Alpaca Crew , $35 (originally $118)

Everlane The Satin Pull-on Pant

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

List of available regions

Main regions.

• Worldwide (English)
• Europe (English)
• América Latina (español)
• Canada (English)
• Canada (français)
• EE.UU. (español)
• USA (English)

ASIA & PACIFIC

• इंडिया (हिंदी)
• Indonesia (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Malaysia (English)
• Malaysia (Bahasa Melayu)
• New Zealand
• Philippines (English)
• Pilipinas (Filipino)
• business security -->
• Avast News -->
• Security News -->
• Tips & Advice -->
• Viewpoints -->
• Privacy -->
• Threat Research -->
• Diversity & Inclusion -->
• Blog Authors
• Visit Avast website

The ultimate cyber spring-cleaning checklist

Spring is not just a time for dusting off shelves and donating old clothes; it's also the perfect season to declutter and organize your digital space.

A cluttered digital space can lead to stress, decreased productivity, and even make you more susceptible to cyber threats. So, let’s dive into the comprehensive guide to mastering your digital wellbeing this spring with our ultimate cyber spring-cleaning series.  

Decluttering your digital home  

Digital clutter, while not visible, can weigh just as heavily on your mind and devices. Start by deleting duplicate files and tidying up your desktop with tools like CCleaner to enhance performance. Trim your inbox by deleting outdated emails and unsubscribing from unneeded newsletters with services like Unroll.me. And don't forget about your bookmarks; curate them as meticulously as you would your wardrobe, keeping only what's necessary and relevant.  

While you’re at it, give your social media a thorough scrub. Unfollow inactive accounts and disconnect from those no longer adding value to your digital life. Installing a robust, bespoke monitoring solution, like Avast One Silver , can help safeguard your social media from suspicious activity, ensuring a cleaner and safer online presence.  

Lastly, don't ignore the physical aspects of your digital life. Old devices lying around? Consider recycling or donating them but remember to securely wipe out all personal data before parting with them. This not only frees up space in your home but also ensures your information remains private.  

Checklist for decluttering your digital home 

• Delete duplicate files : Use tools like CCleaner to remove unnecessary copies.  
• Trim your inbox : Unsubscribe from unwanted newsletters and delete old emails.  
• Curate bookmarks : Keep only relevant and frequently visited websites.  
• Scrub social media : Unfollow inactive accounts and install security monitoring software like Avast One Silver.  
• Dispose of digital trash : Securely erase data from old devices before recycling or donating.  

Maintaining your digital home 

Now that you've decluttered, maintaining this newfound digital zen is crucial. Keep your devices updated to ward off security breaches and ensure they're running smoothly. Regularly review and adjust your social media privacy settings to control what information you share online.  

Wifi security is another cornerstone of a well-maintained digital home. Change your wifi password from the default to something unique and challenging to ensure hackers can't easily access your network. Regularly refresh your passwords to keep your digital doors locked tightly against intruders.  

Lastly, integrate antivirus software across your devices. Avast One Silver not only provides comprehensive antivirus protection but also covers credit and social media monitoring, identity theft resolution, and premium technical support, safeguarding up to 30 devices under one umbrella.  

Checklist for maintaining your digital home 

• Update your devices : Enable automatic software updates .  
• Check privacy settings : Regularly review social media and device privacy settings.  
• Secure your wifi: Change the default password and opt for a strong, unique one.  
• Refresh passwords : Change passwords regularly and ensure they are robust.  
• Use antivirus software : Install and update Avast One Silver across all devices.  

  Organizing your digital home  

An organized digital space can significantly enhance your daily life. Develop a system that helps you manage your files, emails, and online accounts effectively. Sort essential documents into clearly labeled folders and back them up to prevent loss. Email management is also vital; create specific folders for different categories to streamline your inbox.  

Practicing password hygiene is like installing a top-notch security system for your digital home. Regularly update your passwords and ensure they're strong and unique to keep your accounts secure. Sweep your devices for malware and other threats with reliable security software like Avast One Silver, which offers additional services like identity theft protection and dark web monitoring.  

Finally, curate your files and apps regularly. Unneeded files can clog your storage and slow down your devices, much like clutter in a physical home. Conduct a digital audit semi-annually to keep your storage lean and your devices running efficiently.  

Checklist for organizing your digital home 

• Develop a digital organization system : Create and label folders for important files.  
• Organize email accounts : Use separate accounts for personal and work emails and create labeled folders.  
• Practice password hygiene : Regularly update and strengthen passwords .  
• Audit digital storage : Periodically review and delete unnecessary files and apps.  

By following these guidelines, not only will you create a cleaner, more organized digital environment, but you'll also enhance your online security and peace of mind. Spring cleaning isn't just for your physical spaces; make it a point to include your digital realm as well. Here's to a productive, serene, and safe spring season!

Happy spring cleaning!  

Related articles

Subscribe to our newsletter, most popular, video: accept all cookies a recipe for online privacy this holiday season, how to use discord’s ‘family center’ to help protect your child, the hidden pitfalls of travel apps, avast researchers uncover disturbing crowdfunding scheme, your essential cybersecurity checklist for safe summer travel, never miss our news.

1988 - 2024 Copyright © Avast Software s.r.o. | Sitemap   Privacy policy