How to Create a Simple Capsule Wardrobe for Your Summer Vacation

Most women pack far too much for their annual summer vacation. They end up taking at least ten pairs of shoes, plus about thirty different outfits – and wearing less than half of what they take. It’s sheer madness, because not only do you have to carry a super heavy suitcase around, but you also run the risk of incurring the wrath of the check-in staff when you return home laden with souvenirs and a hefty excess luggage bill.

Packing for a vacation in the sun needn’t be as difficult as it first appears. The key to success is to create a simple capsule wardrobe that works for every possible outing or activity you intend on doing whilst you are away. Obviously if all you plan on doing is working on your tan then you won’t need much more than a swimsuit or bikini, but since most people like to go out to eat and do some sightseeing, a few other changes of clothing will be essential. So what should you pack in a capsule wardrobe for a summer vacation?

Swimwear

Swimwear is pretty important if you have booked a vacation in a beach resort or a hotel with a swimming pool. Anyone with a svelte figure or a lot of body confidence will probably opt for a teeny-tiny bikini, but if you are of an older vintage, or you don’t feel confident about displaying your flesh to the general public, there are plenty of attractive plus size styles at Swimsuits Direct.

If you are comfortable in a bikini, pack a couple of extra bikini tops so you can mix and match with your shorts. Bikinis and swimsuits take up very little room, so it is worth having a few different ones with you.

Shorts

Shorts should be a staple in any vacation capsule wardrobe. Denim shorts are the most popular choice for most women, as they go well with every top imaginable, but if you don’t feel that a pair of denim Daisy Dukes is quite your style, look for a cool pair of white or beige linen shorts instead. These are just as versatile as denim, if not as crease resistant.

Loose Gypsy Top

A loose gypsy style top will hide a multitude of sins, including a mummy tummy. You can wear a gypsy top with shorts or as a loose beach top over a bikini or swimsuit.

Colorful prints are always fashionable, so look for a style that fits your personality. You can’t go wrong with a nautical color scheme, however, particularly on a beach vacation.

Boho Chic

A cotton lace, thigh-skimming boho dress in white is perfect for younger women. This dress can be worn for sightseeing trips during the day, or dressed up with some strappy sandals for a night on the town. Older women might prefer a more demure length of dress, but look for the same style, as it is immensely flattering, especially if you want to show off your suntan. In addition, if you don’t want to display your arms, look for a simple wrap or bolero jacket to take your cute boho dress from day to night.

Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are made for summer vacations. Anyone can wear a maxi dress, as this type of dress suits just about any body shape. The louder and brighter the colors, the better, but if you want to truly get into the spirit of your forthcoming vacation, look for a maxi dress in a hot, tropical color that will enhance your tan perfectly.

Wear a maxi dress in the day if you want to do some souvenir shopping. Team it with a large floppy hat to stay nice and cool. At night, slip on some comfortable sandals and accessorize with a pretty necklace. Your dress will be stylish enough for any restaurant in town.

Sarong

A sarong is essential beachwear. You can wear a sarong in a variety of different ways – look for ‘how to’ videos on YouTube if you need a bit of inspiration.

Footwear

You can’t go on vacation without the right footwear. Ideally take just two pairs of sandals: a flat, comfortable pair for beach days and sightseeing, and a strappy pair with a heel for nights out. White is the best color for summer vacations, for it can be matched with any outfit.

Lastly, don’t forget to pack a few pieces of pretty costume jewelry to jazz up your outfits. A different necklace will instantly refresh an old outfit, so mix and match to your heart’s content.