The 9 Capsule Items That Keep Your Suitcase Light and Your Outfits Sharp

You see a button-down shirt; I see a standalone top, a layer, and a lightweight shoulder covering all rolled into one breezy essential.

I never travel without a swimsuit; you never know when your hotel might have a hot tub or pool. You can’t go wrong with a classic black two-piece.

Denim: the workhorse of every woman’s wardrobe. Levi’s 501s are tried-and-true for good reason.

Sneakers are a given when it comes to traveling, especially if you plan on sight-seeing or touring a city on foot.

What do I mean by utilitarian? For travel, that means having a zip-top closure and a crossbody strap. Consider these your two safety essentials for travel bags.

It’s hard to find a pair of pants that look nice, feel good, and pack well. I love this pair from Vuori, which are wrinkle-resistant and comfortable enough to wear all day.

Sunglasses are a travel no-brainer. Don’t pack your most expensive or treasured pair in case they get lost or broken. Instead, go for a more affordable style, like these.

I recently tested this dress for a story and couldn’t believe its versatility (and comfort). It looks darling with sneakers during the day, but you can easily dress is up for a fancy dinner or event.

I really debated what shoes to include in this capsule, and ballet flats won out. You’ll reach for them more than you would a heel, plus they take up less space. And these are machine washable!