My Handmade Travel Capsule Wardrobe for a Mountain Vacation

Packing for a mountain vacation can feel like a challenge—especially when the weather changes by the hour. But building a wardrobe from mostly handmade pieces makes it way more fun (and flexible!). I’m heading to Breckenridge, Colorado, with my family, and I thought I’d share how I planned my travel capsule wardrobe using a modular system. It’s got a mix of casual layers, athletic gear, and a few fun pieces—all built around a tight color palette to make getting dressed super easy. Read on or watch here: 

How I Plan a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

When I pack, I always keep three things in mind:

• The weather – Highs in the 60s, lows in the 40s. I knew layers would be my best friend.
• The activities – Hiking, rafting, biking, and lots of exploring. I need clothes that move with me.
• The luggage – I’m checking a bag (plus a carry-on tote), so I gave myself a little extra room to play.

I stuck with a color palette of navy, white, and a reddish orange, which helps everything mix and match without too much thought. I also followed a super helpful formula from Christie Ressel that breaks things into modules:

• 3 tops
• 2 bottoms
• 1 layering piece
• (plus 1 dress because...why not?)

And once I had my base pieces, I added just a few extras I knew I’d reach for.

What I’m Wearing on the Plane

I like to wear my bulkier items on the plane, especially if they’re comfy:

• Everett Shorts* & Thorndike Top*  – both in linen and perfect for going from Indiana heat to Colorado mountain air
• Stanton Sweatshirt* – always a must-have layer for chilly airports
• Red espadrilles – comfy and cute, and I love how they brighten up the outfit

Tops: A Good Mix of Sporty & Stylish

I packed a few more tops than technically necessary (what can I say, I had space!), but every one of them works with at least two bottoms.

Dressier options:

• Thorndike* Top
• White linen Closet Core Cielo

Sporty or casual:

• Red Cashmerette Concord Tee*
• Love Notions Classic Tee* (in a merino-nylon athletic blend—great for hikes)
• Itch to Stitch Lago Tank*
• Two store-bought athletic tanks I’ve had forever

Bottoms: All About Versatility

Sticking to mostly navy bottoms helped me keep everything interchangeable:

Athletic bottoms:

• Greenstyle Stride Shorts and Leggings
• Greenstyle Rally Skort (great for hiking or just grabbing lunch)

Casual bottoms:

• Red jeans – because evenings in the mountains get chilly
• Jean shorts – might get cut last-minute, but they’re a favorite

Dresses: Just for Fun

Even on active trips, I like having a dress or two:

• Greenstyle Courtside Dress – has built-in shorts, so it’s great for movement
• Tilly and the Buttons Coco (sleeveless) – a brand new make I’m excited to wear!

Layering Pieces: Cozy but Cute

I skipped a jacket and went for soft sweatshirts instead—they layer well and feel more relaxed.

• Stanton Sweatshirt* – already mentioned, but it deserves a second shoutout
• Greenstyle Reef Pullover – this rusty-orange color plays surprisingly well with all my red and navy pieces

Pajamas & Loungewear

For sleeping and lounging around the Airbnb:

• Swim Style Karla Loungewear – cozy, handmade, and cute enough for shared spaces
• I might add a second pair if I’ve got the room

Swimwear for the Water Days

We’ve got some lake and river activities planned, so I wanted swim pieces that stay put:

• Cashmerette Bonair Rash Guard* (a club pattern—so good!)
• Greenstyle Kokomo two-piece swimsuit – I love how this set feels supportive and flattering
• The skort I packed doubles as a great cover-up too!

Shoes & Accessories

I kept it to four pairs of shoes and a bag that works for everything:

• Red espadrilles (on the plane)
• Tennis shoes (daily wear and hiking)
• Water shoes (essential for rafting and kayaking)
• Birkenstocks (may or may not make the cut)
• Cotopaxi hip pack – perfect for carrying the essentials

So that’s the plan! A mix of me-made layers, comfy athletic pieces, and a few dressy touches that make me feel put together even when I’m off the grid. I love the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything I packed works together—and that it fits my style and lifestyle.

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