How to create the perfect women’s holiday capsule wardrobe: 12 pieces worth packing

Too many outfits and not enough suitcase space? Whether it’s sightseeing or sundowners, our fashion writer shares her secrets for packing smarter

When you hear the words capsule wardrobe, you probably picture beige knits and minimalist tailoring. A capsule isn’t just about dressing neutrally, though: it’s about choosing a handful of pieces that work together in countless combinations.

There is no time that skill is more important than when you’re packing for a holiday. I have streamlined my approach by sticking to a simple rule of thumb: instead of packing for every possible scenario, I focus on versatile staples that can be dressed up or down and worn more than once.

Every holiday capsule should include three essentials: a dependable basic, one statement piece, and shoes that can take you from sightseeing to dinner. Build everything else around those foundations and you’ll find yourself wearing every item you pack.

***

The ultimate white tee

Airism T-shirt

£14.90 at Uniqlo

The cornerstone of any wardrobe. I love this T-shirt because of its boxy silhouette and subtle side slits that create a slightly flared shape. Plus, the Airism cotton fabric is sweat-wicking and feels cool against the skin. I wear mine with pretty much everything from denim shorts during the day to a statement skirt for dinner.

***

A pair of statement earrings

Minerva bow-drop beaded earrings

£50 at Selfridges

You only really need a few pieces of jewellery: something understated and everyday, and something to transform an outfit in seconds. These sculptural earrings will lift even the most minimal outfit.

***

Shoes that do it all

Teva mid-form sandals

£44.99 at Schuh

I often travel with one pair of shoes, so need a pair that does it all. These strappy sandals are comfortable enough for long days exploring, but smart enough to wear for dinner thanks to their minimal design.

***

A skirt that becomes a dress

Multi-way skirt

£59 at Omnes £59.99 at John Lewis

Multifunctional clothing is the holy grail of holiday packing. A smocked waist maxi skirt can also be worn as a bandeau midi dress thanks to its stretchy waistband. It’s two outfits in one, saving valuable suitcase space. This pillar-box red one is made from 100% cotton and has an adorable frill detail highlighting the flattering drop waist.

***

A multi-use makeup stick

Ilia multi-stick

£36 at Ilia £36 at Space NK

The same logic applies to your beauty bag. Ilia’s multi-stick adds buildable colour to cheeks and lips without feeling heavy in warm weather. Its compact packaging is ideal for travelling and its stick shape makes it easy to apply on the go.

***

A necklace that won’t mind a dip

Palma Solesi waterproof necklace

£54.99 at Katie Loxton

Holiday jewellery should be effortless, joyful – and waterproof, especially if you’re dipping in and out of a pool or the sea. This gold and pastel green beaded necklace is water- and sweat-proof, and will lift an evening outfit, too.

***

Three-in-one co-ord

Sightseer linen striped pant set

£88 at Free People

A good co-ord is three outfits in one: worn together, or each piece styled separately. This ocean-blue striped linen set feels relaxed, but pair it with a sleek sandal and it could easily feel at home at dinner. With an elasticated waist and adjustable straps, it’s comfortable too.

***

Elegant summer shorts

Lyrebird lace trim silky shorts

£41 at Anthropologie

My summer evening staple has been this pair of lace trim shorts from Reformation. Paired with a white T-shirt they look subtle but dressy, thanks to the sheen of the fabric. I also love this more affordable powder-blue pair from Anthropologie. With a flattering high waist and elasticated fit, they’re comfortable without compromising on style.

***

A beach-to-bar bag

Large mesh beach bag

£30 at M&S

Accessories are the easiest place to introduce personality, and a colourful bag will instantly brighten a simple outfit. I love this cobalt blue Dragon Diffusion bag, but I wouldn’t necessarily want to take something so precious to the beach. Alternatively, this affordable bright blue mesh bag from Marks & Spencer is large enough for your daily essentials while adding a welcome pop of colour.

***

Classic sunnies

Oversized sunglasses

£42 at &Other Stories

Channel Jane Birkin and go for maximum coverage with a pair of oversized sunglasses. This softly squared style from & Other Stories feels timeless enough to wear year after year, so look after them on holiday.

***

A two-in-one hat

Cotton reversible bucket hat

£14 at M&S

A sun hat is one of the most important holiday accessories, which is why it has to be the most versatile. This reversible style from M&S gives you two looks in one, and its neutral colour palette will complement almost anything in your suitcase. In an easy canvas fabric, it will pack down to almost nothing too.

***

A versatile silk scarf

Abstract spot-print square silk scarf

£65 at John Lewis

Tied around your hair, looped through a bag, worn as a belt or even styled as a top, a silk scarf is one of the most versatile accessories there is. Best of all, it takes up little to no room in your luggage. I love this blue polka-dot print one: it’s larger than the average bandana style, making it much easier to style multiple ways. Charity shops are also brilliant hunting grounds.