How to create a travel capsule wardrobe, according to a stylist

Whether cruising, touring or doing business abroad, curate the perfect travel capsule wardrobe with these expert tips. By Laura Barry 

Curating a classic wardrobe with touches of contemporary trends requires an eye for design and an appreciation for fashion’s most enduring styles. While any style maven has the skill to fill a closet with cashmere, silk and leather, few have mastered the art of the travel capsule wardrobe. This small yet considered assemblage of versatile garments is the key to travelling in style, but where is one to start?

The benefits of a personal stylist

Outsource your style woes to the professionals by booking a private personalised styling session. Premium maisons offer private appointments with Champagne at their flagships, but you’ll find a wider selection of designers at David Jones Sydney. While the service can be utilised for seasonal updates or special events, it’s especially useful for those soon to be living out of a suitcase. Simply brief your stylist on your destination, the purpose of travel, and your favourite colours and styles, and allow them to work their magic on your bespoke travel capsule wardrobe.

“This service takes the effort out of having to think about what to pack for a trip or what to buy,” says Jared Pottier, clientele manager at David Jones. “We can take you through new styles, trends and colours, and how to mix and match your bottoms and tops.

“Event dressing is one of the many occasions a David Jones stylist can assist you with,” adds Pottier. “For any Australian travelling overseas, it’s great to showcase our homegrown talent.”

What to expect from a personal styling session

Expect to be greeted with champagne and nibbles at a David Jones styling session. The stylist will have some pieces prepared for your review, and your likes, dislikes, preferred shapes and sleeve lengths will guide the stylist as they pull more pieces for you throughout the appointment. As the edit gets tighter, guests can try items on and make final selections in the privacy of an exclusive dressing room. Whether you’re shopping for an event, change of season or a travel capsule wardrobe, your stylist can curate an edit to your specifications.

“It’s quite an intimate experience; clients tell you their deepest fears with clothing and it’s quite a raw and emotional thing for many people,” says Pottier. “We joke that we’re like therapists because we learn a lot about somebody in a short amount of time – but we’re the experts and we’ll ensure you feel like you’re making good choices.”

Where to book a VIP personal styling session

David Jones: Two-hour appointments are free, can be booked online for 10am or 2pm five days per week, and include refreshments and nibbles on the day in the Sydney flagship.
Dior: Personal consultations with a sales consultant at the Sydney, Melbourne and Perth boutiques.
Chanel: Personal appointments include collection viewings, exclusive experiences and care services in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth boutiques.
Louis Vuitton: Private shopping appointments in the Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane stores.
Camilla: Complimentary personal styling sessions in the Bondi Junction, NSW; Armadale, VIC; Burnside Village, SA; Indooroopilly, QLD; and Claremont, WA boutiques.
Burberry: Personalised styling sessions in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane outposts.

How to build a travel capsule wardrobe

Pottier’s expert advice for any travelling sartorialist is to always overpack (just a little bit!) and never underestimate the power of fantastic shoes, outerwear and accessories. “We always suggest including transition pieces that go from day to night, such as light outerwear pieces in wool, cotton or cashmere for insulation. My non-negotiables for any travel capsule wardrobe are jeans for the versatility (they can be dressed up or down) and a coat, such as a lightweight trench, can dress up casual outfits,” he advises. “Always pack both a casual and a dressy bag, and the same goes for shoes. For women, I suggest a strappy and an open-toed shoe, and sneakers.” When it comes to accessories, Pottier suggests Helen Kaminski for headwear and Tom Ford or Bottega Veneta for eyewear. “No one will ever laugh if you overdress because you’ll look amazing, but you might get some looks if you’re underdressed.”

How many pieces should be in a travel capsule wardrobe?

A typical travel capsule wardrobe is comprised of 10 to 15 items of clothing (excluding undergarments) for a four to seven-day trip, but can be slightly more depending on the length of your journey and the destination you’re visiting. Those heading into cold conditions may require additional clothing such as a heavyweight coat, hat, scarf, gloves, thermals and weather-appropriate footwear. If your trip is longer than seven day, consider staying at a hotel or residence that either has laundry facilities or provides laundry services.

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 travel wardrobe?

The 5-4-3-2-1 travel capsule wardrobe method is a minimalist packing approach that dictates every suitcase should have: five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two outer garments and one accessory, such as a hat or scarf.

What to pack in a travel capsule wardrobe

As a guide, those travelling into pleasant weather conditions should pack the following items in a selection of neutral hues for easy mixing and matching while on the go. 

Women

1. Comfortable and tailored trousers that can be dressed up or down for day or night
2. Dark wash jeans that pair with all colours and shoes
3. A silk midi skirt that is elegant and lightweight 
4. A crisp white button-up shirt or blouse in cotton, silk or linen
5. A lightweight knit jumper or cardigan in wool or cashmere
6. A versatile crew neck t-shirt
7. A silk camisole for dressing up bottoms or layering beneath other items
8. A lightweight trench coat with some water resistance 
9. Sneakers
10. A comfortable strappy sandal suitable for both daytime wear and evening engagements 
11. A versatile dress that can be elevated with accessories for a one-and-done outfit 
12. A pashmina for warding off the evening chill or arctic in-flight air conditioning 
13. A hat
14. Sunglasses
15. A simple and structured crossbody bag for carrying sightseeing essentials 

Men

1. Tailored chinos 
2. Dark wash jeans 
3. Lightweight trousers suitable for formal outings 
4. A classic oxford shirt 
5. A polo shirt 
6. A crew neck t-shirt 
7. A wool or cashmere jumper 
8. A casual lightweight jacket or coat
9. A quilted or down-filled vest 
10. A blazer to dress up other garments for evening occasions
11. Sneakers
12. Comfortable loafers or chelsea boots that can be dressed up or down 
13. Hat
14. Sunglasses
15. Lightweight scarf 

What is the best outfit to wear when travelling?

If your itinerary includes long sightseeing days, hands-on tours, walking, hiking, cruising and other experiences, then each and every outfit needs to be comfortable and practical with a smart-casual aesthetic. A travel capsule wardrobe should include clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool, silk and cashmere for breathability and comfort. Prioritise practical garments with a relaxed fit to allow ease of movement. Opt for wrinkle-resistant materials or those that don’t require ironing to ensure low-maintenance care. 

How can I look stylish while travelling?

The key to looking stylish while travelling is curating a travel capsule wardrobe that balances comfort, practicality and style in equal measure. 

• Pack versatile basics in neutral hues that can be mixed and matched effortlessly
• Choose lightweight garments that can be layered for changing climates 
• Invest in stylish yet comfortable footwear such as elevated sneakers or supportive loafers 
• Choose garments made from natural materials or wrinkle-resistant fabrics to maintain a polished appearance 
• Accessorise thoughtfully with hats, sunglasses, scarves, bags and minimal jewellery or watches 

How to dress for a special event while travelling

Whether a night at the Monte Carlo Casino or attending the Royal Ascot is on your itinerary, we have your event-specific travel capsule wardrobe sorted. David Jones stylist Jared Pottier shares his expert advice. 

Night at the opera

An evening rubbing shoulders with artists, politicians and businesspeople at the Vienna Opera Ball in Austria requires a sculptural, floor-length gown for women, such as those by Maticevski, says Pottier. “Maticevski adds a little bit of art into his pieces. For men, black tie will suffice provided you wear a tuxedo – preferably with a pleated dinner shirt and white bow tie – but black is acceptable, too.” Pottier recommends that men accessorise with a patent or high-shine shoe. Opt for an Anthony Squires ‘peak lapel’ dinner suit or the Italian craftsmanship of Canali. Attending Gala Evenings at Opera de Palais in Paris or the Opera at La Scala Teatro in Milan requires the same approach, says Pottier.

Casino Royale

A flutter on the tables at Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco is a more adaptable affair, says Pottier, who suggests leaning towards the sleeker end of ‘smart casual’. “A dress that works from day to night is the way to go, with a sneaker for daytime or a heel for evening. Suit pants with a casual silk-linen blend blazer and monk-strap shoes are acceptable for men.”

At the races

“There are very few world events whose dress code deserves as much respect as the event itself, but the Royal Ascot is one of them,” says Pottier. Women in the Royal Enclosure require a knee-length or longer dress or skirt, shoulder straps no smaller than one inch in width, and hats or a headpiece with a minimum base diameter of 10cm is essential. Men, opt for a black, grey or navy morning suit with a waistcoat, necktie, top hat and black dress shoes. Pottier suggests labels such as Zimmermann, Perri Cutten and Acler for elegant dresses, Roger Vivier for a refined heel and suits by Anthony Squires for men. “Dior and Canali also offer made-to-measure services which can be facilitated in-store at David Jones.” Attending the Cartier Queen’s Cup with a seat booked in the Royal Box? Apply the same formula.

Grandstand

The world’s most renowned sporting events are an elevated casual affair, underscored by the theme of the day. Pottier recommends those attending Wimbledon lean into the smarter side of casual. “Gents can suit up or opt for a smart sports jacket or blazer with non-matching pants. Leather shoes are preferred, but if you’re going to be in them for a five-set decider, I would go for a moccasin or penny loafer,” says the stylist. “For women, a printed dress by Alemais or Leo Lin is appropriate, or a slightly oversized suit from Camilla and Marc with an open-toe shoe is a chic alternative to a dress or skirt.” Heading to The Masters in the USA or the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix? Look towards business-casual for easy adaptability between corporate zones and crowds.