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A pro stylist shares her tips for curating a functional, picture-perfect travel wardrobe.

Vuori Pose Fitted Tee

Credit: Vuori

Travel + Leisure

Packing for a trip is both a science and an art.

Packing in the framework of a capsule wardrobe is a helpful way to tackle trip preparation.

Her crucial first step: Have a plan.

Aritzia The Effortless Pant

Credit: Aritzia

Bring all the outfits and items together to see them as one group before you jump in packing.

Start by laying out everyday basics (think: T-shirts, jeans, skirts, etc.)

in mixable-and-matchable hues, explains Russo, as these will be the core of your capsule wardrobe.

Levi’s Straight Jeans

Credit: Levi’s

Start with the basics

Pick tried-and-true items, especially ones that you already love.

You dont want to learn that your new jeans are uncomfortable to sit in once youre already en route.

By choosing timeless basics, youll likely save money and time in the long run, too.

lululemon Love Tank Top

Credit: lululemon

While you certainly can (and should!)

add pops of color into the wardrobe, youll want to keep the foundation mostly neutral.

Packing Checklist for a Capsule Wardrobe

Consider the destinations climate and your itinerary, Russo advises.

Maeve The Bennet Button-Down

Credit: Anthropologie

Comfortable basics such as jeans, sneakers, and a T-shirt will come in handy on nearly any trip.

The hip-high hemline makes it easy to pair with a variety of pants, shorts, and skirts.

We like this linen version because its lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.

Everlane The Cocoon Crew in Everyday Cotton

Credit: Everlane

This single-breasted version from Madewell has a relaxed fit thats convenient for layering over a blouse or dress.

Elegant details like structural padded shoulders, a notched lapel, and a single-button closure further elevate the look.

The 100 percent cotton, water-repellent design comes in several neutral hues, including the classic khaki.

Madewell The Kline Blazer

Credit: Madewell

Its closure options include buttons and a removable belt that can be buckled or tied.

My favorite detail is a detachable hood, which is a great option to have especially for precipitation-prone destinations.

Shoes

Picking the right shoes is arguably the most important part of creating your travel capsule wardrobe.

Quince Italian Suede Everyday Sneaker

Credit: Quince

You may want to add or sub inwaterproof bootsorcomfortable wedges, depending on your destination and agenda.

This suede pick from Quince has an Ortholite insole for all-day arch support.

We love an eco-conscious product and the fashion-forward square uppers are knit from recycled plastic bottles.

Rothy’s The Max Square Mary Jane

Credit: Rothy’s

The flexible strap holds the shoe in place without causing discomfort.

I found they run a touch small, so size up if youre in between sizes.

The lightweight, slim design makes them easy to pack, even inyour carry-on.

Tory Burch Miller Soft Sandal

Credit: Tory Burch

The round-toe design leaves enough space for toe movement while the padded block heel adds stability.

Instead, opt for a thoughtful, pared-down selection of functional and stylish accessories.

Still, the lightweight, leather bag has all the functional prowess youd expect from a travel purse.

Vivaia Round-Toe Chunky Heels (Julie Pro)

Credit: Vivaia

A thick, adjustable strap makes it ultra comfortable for wearing for hours on end.

Ive even hiked with it.

However, if you prefer to pack it, the lightweight, soft-sided material makes that super easy.

Blondo Women’s Danika Waterproof Boot Ankle

Credit: Amazon

Plus, I appreciate that, unlike many tote bags, the whole thing zips shut for added security.

This high-quality pair has a trendy cat-eye frame thatll pop in your vacation photos.

Plus, the affordable price tag is unbeatable for the high-quality materials.

Lo and Sons Aoyama Crossbody

Credit: Lo and Sons

The 3.14-inch brim is outfitted with a thick contrast ribbon for added style.

Although, it can be scaled up or down to match the length of your travels.

If you have active pursuits scheduled,LululemonandAthetamake versatile, durable pieces for sport and travel.

MZ Wallace Metro Quatro Tote

Credit: MZ Wallace

Using the packing rule above, generally, 10 to 15 pieces are considered a capsule collection.

An avid traveler and committed carry-on-only flier, Talia is dedicated to the art of thoughtful and meaningful packing.

Diff Margot Sunglasses

Credit: Diff Eyewear

Quince Featherweight Cashmere Silk Frayed Edge Scarf

Credit: Quince

Cuyuna Packable Ecuador Hat

Credit: Cuyuna