Weekend away capsule wardrobe for women
Wear to travel in
Quickly add accesories and change shoes for evening
Outfit for first day exploring
Then get changed for dinner
Outfit for second day
Dress up for dinner
Outfit for third day
A shirt (long or short-sleeved) in your favorite color would work well here - smart enough for evenings but suitable for day wear too.
Suggested buy: Chambray Shirt by Joules
A smart cardigan will keep you warm on chilly days, or dress up your outfit for evening - choose a color that goes with your tops and dress.
Suggested buy: Kate Spade 'Somerset' Cardigan by Nordstrom
Even in hot weather a breeze can make it feel cool in the shade, whilst inside the air-con can also be chilly. A fleece is light and cosy, or take a smart sweater if you prefer - choose something that rolls and packs well.
Suggested buy: The North Face Womens Glacier 1/4 Zip by Amazon
These should be practical for days out. Choose fabrics that dry quickly in case of rain. Styles with detachable legs are a good option for varied temperatures. You might opt for shorts instead for hotter climes, but pants are good protection against the sun.
Suggested buy: Royal Robbins Zip N' Go Pant by Amazon
A flattering pair of dark jeans works well, but depending on the climate you may want to swap these for a floaty pair of lightweight pants. Dress them up for evenings with pretty shoes and a nice top.
Suggested buy: NYDJ Straight Leg Denim by Amazon
Choose something versatile that you can wear sightseeing, but also dress up to dine out in by adding accessories. These Karina dresses are very flattering and they pack brilliantly - no ironing ever needed!
Suggested buy: Audrey Dress by Karina Dresses
Some statement jewelry can really set off an outfit and takes up very little room in your case. Costume jewelry works just fine, and it's often better to leave your valuables at home.
Suggested buy: Multi Row Statement Necklace by Nordstrom
A 'must take' item for any vacation as they are just so versatile: cover your shoulders at religious sites; add an instant touch of style to any outfit; put round you if there's a chill (or air-con) and keep cosy on the plane.
Suggested buy: Large Soft 100% Twill Pashmina by Amazon
Whether you're heading for city or countryside, you'll need some comfy and practical shoes for walking around. Wear them to travel in too, and add in just one smart pair for evenings.
Suggested buy: Leanne Shoes by Hotter
Pack one stylish pair for evenings. Opt for heels if you like, but for a relaxed setting or areas where high heels aren't practical (cobbled streets for example) then low wedges or ballet pump styles are a good alternative.
Suggested buy: Vivienne Shoes by Hotter
Essential for sun protection in hot weather, or choose a woollen style to keep out the cold and wet in cooler climes.
Buy from us! Packable Sun Hat by WhatToWearOnHoliday
The sun (or snow!) can be bright even in winter, and if you're out all day it can be a strain on your eyes - especially with lots to see.
Suggested buy: Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer by Amazon
Good sunscreen is essential in hotter climes, and don't get caught out on cloudy days either - you can still get burnt. Remember that water will reflect the sun's rays too. Choose a product with a high SPF (protects from UVB rays) and also look for the star or PA rating which indicates protection from UVA.
Suggested buy: SPF 30 PA+++ Water Resistant Sunscreen by Murad
Pack if you're heading to the beach in summer, or if your hotel has a pool or spa that you plan to use.
Suggested buy: Joyaria One Piece Swimsuit by Amazon
A light packaway raincoat is a good idea to carry with you on days out - it's ideal in case the weather changes quickly or you experience a sudden downpour. You can layer up underneath for warmth if necessary, or opt for a more substantial jacket in cooler climes.
Suggested buy: Charles River New Englander Rain Jacket by Amazon
You'll need a lightweight bag for all your sightseeing essentials. Our packaway day sack folds up into itself and fits easily in your suitcase when not in use. It's surprisingly roomy, showerproof and light to carry - even in hot weather.
Buy from us! Fold Away Day Sack by WhatToWearOnHoliday
Choose a simple clutch bag for evenings - the Baglett is light and easy to carry with just the right amount of room for your essentials. The strap can be detached and worn as a belt, too.
Suggested buy: The Baglett by Amazon
Our Members can download a suggested packing list for a weekend away which covers ladies' and men's clothes for all seasons, plus a checklist for must-take items. Sign up or log in below.
