Sewing a Travel Capsule Wardrobe for a Florida Getaway

There are moments when sewing becomes about more than clothes—and this season, that’s exactly where I’m at. Instead of focusing on a rigid definition of a “capsule wardrobe,” I’m thinking about sewing a collection of projects that naturally work together—pieces that mix, match, and travel well. With winter hitting hard and the gray days lingering, I found myself craving sunshine, color, and creative momentum. So instead of traditional winter capsule wardrobe plans, I’m diving into something that feels far more life‑giving: a capsule wardrobe built around a two‑week Florida getaway, with plenty of pieces that will flow right into spring and summer.

This capsule isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about sewing what brings joy, slowing down, and letting color do some heavy emotional lifting. Consider this my official permission slip to embrace dopamine sewing—and maybe yours too.  Read on or watch here:  

Why I’m Sewing a Florida Capsule Wardrobe

I’m skipping a traditional winter capsule this year because my fall and winter wardrobes already work well together, but a two-week trip to southern Florida calls for something different. Warm weather, beach days, and travel-friendly outfits make this the perfect opportunity to plan a Florida capsule wardrobe built through sewing.

One of my main goals for 2026 is intentional sewing—slowing down, being more thoughtful with construction, and sewing from my stash. This capsule focuses on sewing projects that mix and match, using fabrics I already love and patterns from companies that fit me well, including Cashmerette, Seamwork, Love Notions, and Closet Core. (Always check the Resources page for discount codes for these pattern companies)

Color Palette for a Mix-and-Match Sewing Capsule 🎨

Let’s talk color—because this capsule is not subtle.

I’m building this sew capsule wardrobe from what I lovingly call the Crayola crayon box:

• Navy and white as grounding neutrals

• Pops of yellow, orange, red, and green

Am I going to look like a walking box of crayons? Absolutely—and I’m thrilled about it. According to Color Guru, my personal season is Copper Spring, which explains why these warm, joyful hues feel so energizing on me. If you’re exploring your own color palette, you can get 10% off a Color Guru consultation with code TOMKATCOLOR*.

Sewing Projects That Build This Florida Capsule Wardrobe

A Joy‑Filled Handmade Swimsuit

A Florida capsule starts with swimwear. I’m sewing a new swimsuit using a wildly joyful swimsuit knit from Core Fabrics—covered in eclectic motifs and perfectly aligned with my color palette. The pattern is a vintage, out‑of‑print favorite with flattering ruching and a crossover front.

Pro tip: I’ll be sewing an old bra directly into the swimsuit for extra support—a trick that works with almost any suit and makes a huge difference in comfort.

Cream Knit Love Notions Barrington Tee

Not everything in a sew capsule wardrobe needs to be exciting. This cream knit* Love Notions Barrington* tee will act as the glue—a modern, boxy, high‑hip silhouette that pairs effortlessly with skirts, shorts, and pants.

It’s also replacing a well‑loved (and very worn) Cashmerette Concord tee that’s earned its retirement.

Cashmerette Osgood Skirt in Avocado Linen

This heavyweight linen from The Fabric Store (NZ) has been waiting for its moment—and it’s finally here. I’m sewing it into a Cashmerette Osgood Skirt*, with a twist:

• Exposed button placket
• Oversized wooden buttons
• Midi length

This skirt will be a true workhorse through Florida, spring, and summer.

Closet Core Mica Dress in Bold Orange Linen

The Closet Core Mica Dress is one of those patterns that quietly slipped by when it was released—and I’m correcting that now. Sewn in vibrant orange linen, this dress will flex beautifully between casual and dressed‑up styling.

With a few bra‑strap hacks, it’s comfortable, versatile, and perfectly suited for warm weather capsule living.

Seamwork Reed Dress in Statement Double Gauze

This cotton double gauze has been calling to me since last summer. The Seamwork Reed Dress* keeps the silhouette simple so the fabric can shine—ideal for throw‑on‑and‑go days in Florida and beyond.

Tanks & Basics That Mix Seamlessly

This capsule also includes a few supporting players:

• A Love Notions Summer Basics* tank from leftover knit*
• A possible Cashmerette Thorndike or Avola* top in a linen‑rayon remnant

These pieces layer effortlessly and stretch the wearability of every bottom in the capsule.

Two‑Piece Set: Closet Core Zelda Skirt + Seamwork Willis Shirt

One of my favorite strategies for a sew capsule wardrobe is two‑piece sets. I’m using a Fableism fabric to create:

• Closet Core Zelda Skirt* with decorative buttons at the yoke
• Seamwork Willis Shirt* (sleeveless and endlessly versatile)

Together or apart, these pieces offer maximum outfit flexibility.

The Josephine Set in Rainbow Linen 🌈

This one is pure joy. Inspired by Core Fabrics’ sample, I’m sewing the Closet Core Josephine Set—pants and top—in rainbow linen. Expect:

• Linen texture
• All my favorite colors
• Serious wearability

If I love the top (spoiler: I probably will), it may appear again in other fabrics.

Sewing for Mental Wellness (and a Little Dopamine)

This Florida capsule wardrobe isn’t just about travel—it’s about care. Winter hit early and hard this year, and like many of you, I felt it deeply. Sewing has always been my mental wellness practice—a way to slow down, refocus, and reconnect with myself.

If you’re feeling the winter blues too, I hope this inspires you to sew with color, sew with intention, and sew what makes you feel good.  Because that’s why we do this, right?

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