Summer Vacation Capsule Wardrobe: 1 Suitcase, 30+ Chic Looks

I just got back from a family summer vacation up to New England, stopping in a few places. We visited hometowns, tourist locations, and stayed at a lake house. We visited Niagara Falls, did a lot of walking, some kayaking, and other activities. The days were warm, the evenings a bit of a chill, and only one time did we truly feel the need to have a dressier outfit. Inspired by this vacation and what I packed, I created this summer vacation capsule wardrobe.

As you know, I am a fan of capsule wardrobes and I love creating capsule wardrobes to show how one can achieve big style with a small closet. This summer vacation capsule wardrobe will fit in one suitcase and give you over a month of versatile style for grown women.

Summer Vacation Capsule Wardrobe

Whether you are looking to fit in a ton of activity into one carry-on bag, desiring assistance in what to pack for a similar summer vacation, or just want to have a smaller yet more versatile wardrobe this season, I hope this summer vacation capsule wardrobe inspires you and helps you see that you may have more style already existing in your closet!

Shop the Capsule Wardrobe:

cardigan sweater (2-26W & petite/tall) | fleece pullover (XS-3X & petite/tall) | linen dress (00-40) | belt bag/crossbody (ALISON20 for 20% off) | clutch/crossbody | necklace | hoops | blue shirt (XXS-XXL) | white shirt (2-26W & petite) | striped tee (2-26W & tall) | graphic tee (XX-4X) | black & white scarf | white pants (00-24 & petite/tall) | denim shorts (24-34) | pink shorts (XXS-3X) | black twill shorts (XS-3X) | black athletic shorts (XXS-XL) | sunglasses | bandana | hat | sneakers | sandals | rashguard (2-26W & long torso) | swimsuit (2-18) | tankini top (2-18) | swim bottom (2-18) | black tank (0-20/22) | pink tank (XXS-3X)

I believe you don't need to stick to neutrals to achieve versatility or a timeless wardrobe. This summer vacation capsule wardrobe is chock-full of color but the ability to create an entire month worth of fashion for most any occasion. Beyond a getaway, adding a few simple items will have you stylishly dressed from Memorial Day to Labor Day and beyond.

Most of these items are simple enough in design that if the items I linked aren't your style, size, or pricepoint, you can find something similar. In fact, you may find similar items are already residing in your closet!

30 Sample Outfits for the Summer Vacation Capsule Wardrobe:

Below, I share 30 sample outfits from this summer vacation capsule wardrobe. To see the outfits larger, click on any of the thumbnails. Use the arrows, the arrow buttons on your keyboard, or swipe on your screen to advance through the images. Once finished, click outside the image to return to this screen.

Why I Included What I Did in this Summer Vacation Capsule Wardrobe:

A few of my thoughts as to why I included what I did in this summer vacation capsule wardrobe, and why I didn't include other things. These thoughts may help you determine how to modify this capsule wardrobe to better suit your needs:

• Vacationing up north, I found everyone dressed more casually than in the metro area where I live. I found even for a nice dinner, I didn't need any shoes fancier than a pair of water-friendly sandals or refined sneakers.
• I brought along athletic sneakers, but found my Birkenstock Bend sneakers were perfect for sightseeing. I never went to a gym, and the only outdoor activities I did were on the water (no shoes or the sandals) or walking the dogs (the Birkenstock sneakers were just fine).
• I run warm, so I found that even on a breezy New England summer night, all I needed was a fleece or cardigan to, be comfortable. If you get cold more easily, you may wish to pack another pair of long pants or casual sweatpants for hanging out at the fire pit.
• We had a chance halfway through the trip to do laundry. This made it easier to pack less and rewear items even if the first time it was a sweaty situation. I also carry laundry sheets to do sink laundry to extend the life of a capsule wardrobe when on travel.
• Speaking of which, focus on easy-care fabrics. Clothes that don't require ironing to look decent, pieces that can be spot cleaned, washed on regular, and tumble dry low in the dryer.
• Scarves and bandanas take up no space and can add much to an outfit. Tie around the neck to protect from the sun and mop up sweat, use in place of a belt, tie around a bag or your ponytail, wear over hair for sun and wind protection, and depending on your body and the size of the scarf, it can be turned into a tube or halter top or a pareo over your swimsuit.
• Don't spend a lot on sunglasses, but do get polarized. These days, you can get low-priced stylish sunglasses that are high on features. Before having to get prescription lenses, Quince was a favorite place for sunglasses that looked good, performed well, but didn't make me sad if they broke or got left behind.
• Hands-free always. Crossbody bags, layering pieces that can be tied around the neck, no skirts long enough to need to be held when walking down stairs. You may be holding a drink, or the hand of a young child, may even be holding a baby, or a small dog, a bag full of souvenirs. I use a belt bag as a crossbody or around the waist 99% of the time on trips, and when I dress up, I have this exact pouch on a string that is sturdy but takes up little space or weight in luggage.