Every capsule wardrobe I build starts the same way, whether it’s packed for two weeks in Europe or built for one week of work meetings. I start with inspiration, a color story or a single piece I can’t wait to wear.
I just got back from Italy and this trip is proof that you can pack for Europe in a carryon. Two weeks, one bag, under 25 pounds, 184 possible outfits from 11 pieces. No packing cubes. No wrinkles. No boring outfits. I have been helping women pack for Europe for years, and this is the most complete version of my travel capsule formula I have ever put in one place. The checklist. The cheat sheets. The Outfit Multipliers. The shoes. The accessories. The luggage. Save this post. I made it for you as a resource you can come back to, send to your travel bestie, and shop from long after your trip.
Last April, I shared a packing reel that took off — and the #1 question in my DMs was what brand I was making all the outfits with. Quince. The brand that makes it look like you always fly first class — without the price tag that would make you nervous to actually travel in it. This summer it’s in both suitcases. Mine and Jared’s. The edit works for any summer wardrobe — his, hers, Italy-bound or not.
Eleven pieces. 128+ outfits. More than two weeks in Italy. One carry-on.The European Summer Carry-On Capsule starts with the Sudoku Method — 3 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 layers — then grows from there. Add in a few pieces from my Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Multiplier list and the same 11 pieces stretch into anywhere from 128 to 184 outfits — depending on which ones you pick. All in one carry-on. With room left for the extra sandals you’ll buy along the way and the souvenirs you’ll bring home. The five attached cheat sheets show you the math. This is why my capsules don’t look like capsules. Pick a color story, pack the pieces, and look like you brought your whole closet.
My capsule wardrobes don’t look like capsule wardrobes because I use three professional styling tricks I’ve been refining for over 26 years.
Most “minimalistic” capsule wardrobes start the same way—a checklist of “safe” pieces and high hopes. Then you put it on and wonder why it looks like… a capsule wardrobe. Like the same outfit showed up twice and hoped no one would notice—very Emily in Paris walk-of-shame, just less charming. Mine don’t start there. This is where I always start. Inspiration starts with a color story.If you use my trademark tips when you repeat pieces, it will look less like a walk of shame and more like Project Runway.
The best travel capsule wardrobes don’t just save space in your suitcase—they maximize your stylish outfit potential so it looks like you packed your whole closet. It should feel like your favorite closet essentials got the invitation.
Seven pieces. Thirty-six outfits. This casual winter capsule is built around the staples you already love—jeans, leggings, a quarter-zip, elevated sweats, a button-up, a great tee, and a versatile jacket. Pick your style lane, stick to your color story, and get dressed faster while looking more put together than ever.
You’ll be “throwing a fit”—the good kind—when you see how easy it is to get dressed this holiday season. Your calendar may be full, but your closet doesn’t have to be. This eight-piece festive capsule is all you need to sparkle from Walmart-to-Nordstrom without skipping a beat. Think dark-denim dressed up, the viral cami trend you’ll wear on repeat, a fair-isle sweater that says après-ski chic, corduroy pants and boot skirts that flatter every figure, and sheer layering tops that feel like a little fashion frosting. Add a bow-tied blouse for that “bow ho ho” energy and finish with a blazer-coat that makes every outfit feel like a present.
Forget the 25-piece, $5,000 “Pinterest-worthy” fall capsule that takes an economics degree to afford—and an arts degree to style. This semester, I’m teaching Capsule Wardrobe 101, and this is the cheat sheet. All you really need are 8 fresh fall finds that fit your budget, flex with your lifestyle, and remix into more outfits than there are days in the month. Think of it as capsule wardrobe Cliff Notes—with my free 27-page lookbook as your study guide. I’m the kid who carried the group project, so you get to ace the final without breaking a sweat. Want extra credit? Add a striped polo or lace slip skirt. Layer in suede accessories, and congratulations—you’ve officially made the fall fashion honor roll.
Join my FREE VIP shopper club, and I will help you find your style and ageless closet essentials that make creative capsule wardrobes and outfits you love using my signature high low mix of brands.
Your first email will start with full access to my New Wardrobe Checklist and Shopping Links. These are the 14 most versatile pieces you need to make effortlessly pulled-together outfits.
Unsubscribe anytime you want.