"I’ll just say it: I am absolutely horrible at packing. I’m a chronic over-packer, and I usually end up wearing only about 50-60 percent of the things that I bring on a trip. When it comes to a beach vacation, I’m especially bad because I convince myself that I need at least eight swimsuit options for a long weekend.
But, packing more lightly means it’s easier to choose an outfit, and thus gives you more time to actually enjoy your trip. And on a beach vacation, you’re in a swimsuit a majority of the time, so you really don’t need much at all.
We’ve put together this beach vacation capsule wardrobe with everything you might need for days spent by the water, exploring with the family, going out to eat, and all of the activities in between. All of these pieces are comfortable enough for your everyday mom duties but also cute and stylish—so you can feel like your best self.
How to pack a capsule wardrobe for a beach vacation
One of the only strategies that has helped me when it comes to packing for a trip is to treat the items in my suitcase like a capsule wardrobe. I think about what items I can mix and match to wear multiple times, decipher what I actually need, and try to remind myself that less is more. I really don’t need outfits for “every mood I might be in.”
A capsule wardrobe should start with neutral, comfortable basics. Then, you can add in a few fun pops of color and pattern—especially for a vacation—so that no matter what you pull out of your suitcase, you can easily put together a great outfit. A beach vacation is also a great opportunity to lean into fun accessories to add a touch of uniqueness to your more neutral clothing.
The key to packing a travel capsule wardrobe is identifying the needs of your trip. Will you be going on outings or doing activities? Are you spending the majority of your time lying by the pool and on the beach? Will you need to get dressed up? Once you know your answers, you can better plan the clothing items that make up your capsule. With that in mind, we’ve put together what we believe to be an ideal capsule wardrobe for any beach vacation. Use this as your starting point, and swap in whatever else you may need to fit your specific trip.
Shop The Everymom’s 2024 Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe
How to style the beach vacation capsule wardrobe
No matter what’s on your beach vacation itinerary, these styling ideas will help you look your best. This capsule wardrobe was curated to add some vivid colors and beachy details to the summer wardrobe you probably already own. Neutrals paired with tones of orange, blue, and yellow ensure that you’ll be living your Italian girl summer dreams, regardless of the beach you’re heading to.
While these six outfits will certainly get you started, keep in mind that 21 pieces mean endless combinations when it comes to how to style this capsule wardrobe. Swap out a dressier top for a casual tank, a pair of shorts for linen pants, or casual sandals for platforms to make this curated collection your own.
For family photos
vest | pants | sandals | bag | earrings
For parents’ night out
dress | similar midi dress option | sandals | bag | necklace set
For shopping in town
tank | shorts | sandals | tote | sunglasses
Jessica Welsh, Commerce Editor
As Commerce Editor, Jessica oversees and edits all shopping content on The Everymom—including everything from mom fashion to product reviews. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, gift guides, and more. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, and Kohl’s, and was previously a regular contributor to The Everygirl. Jessica believes that fashion should be accessible to everyone, so she is very determined to scour the internet for the best looks for less and affordable finds.