My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (2024)

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (1)

Happy Monday, ladies! This week is travel week. As you may (or may not) know, I’m in Mexico right now, taking my first real vacation in 2 years. We kicked off this week’s theme, yesterday, with 5 travel outfit ideas. Whether you’re leaving by plane, train, or automobile, I’m confident there are ideas for outfits that will work well for a day of travel. Today, we’re continuing things with my travel capsule wardrobe.

This post is straight and to the point: I’ve got 6 lay flats of the outfits I packed to Mexico. I’ve gathered the links to each item, and interspersed shoppable widgets you can shop directly.

Travel capsule wardrobe

When putting together a travel capsule wardrobe, I keep the following in mind:

  • Pick a neutral color scheme. (I like black and white.)
  • Add pops of color for contrast.
  • Bring one or two dresses. (I love jumpsuits which are a nice alternative to a dress.)

For a warm-weather getaway:

  • My suitcase is filled with swimsuits and coverups.

Over the years, I’ve put together tons of packing tips and tricks. So make sure to check them out, if you’re looking to maximize your luggage.

Outfit 1

The first outfit features a blue Ponte split-neck from Ann Taylor. I’ve paired it with a pair of black metro shorts, which hit mid-thigh. You can easily substitute them with a pair of black city shorts, which hit higher above the thigh. They’re both from Ann Taylor.

I’m loving cap toe espadrilles (old, similar here) this Spring, and they feature in several of my outfits. A wicker handbag is perfect for resort wear (old, similar here, here, and here). Further accessories include a hat and cuff bracelet.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (2)

Blue Ponte Split-Neck (Ann Taylor) |Black Metro shorts or Black City shorts (Ann Taylor) |Cap toe espadrilles (old, similar here) | Wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here) | Hat (similar here) | Cuff Bracelet

Outfit 2

As I mentioned above, the foundation of my travel capsule is neutrals. This outfit pairs a black blouse from Banana Republic and white shorts (old, similar here and here). Same cap toe espadrilles (old, similar here) as above, but this time I swapped the wicker bag for a matching tote (old, similar here and here).

Crisp and clean, you can’t go wrong with black and white.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (3)

Blouse (Banana Republic) | Shorts (old, similar here and here) | Tote (old, similar here and here) | Belt (Isabel Marant)

Outfit 3

As mentioned, jumpsuits (old, similar here, here, and here) are a great replacement for dresses. This super simple outfit is made by its accessories. Pair a fun necklace for a pop of color and add a bracelet for interest. The wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here) works well. Paired with strappy sandals, you’re ready for a walk on the beach.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (4)

Jumpsuit (old, similar here, here, and here) | Wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here) | Sandals | Similar necklace | Similar bracelet

Outfit 4

And now for a little color. My fourth outfit features a crisp, white blouse from Talbots and these floral shorts from Ann Taylor. The platform sandals are from Tory Burch and add a level of casual comfort that works well with the blouse. I’m getting a lot of mileage from the wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here), as it pretty much goes with anything.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (5)

Blouse (Talbots) | Shorts (Ann Taylor) | Sandals (Tory Burch) | Wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here) | Bracelet

Outfit 5

No beach vacation would be complete without a dress (Tuckernuck). Absolutely loving the blue of the dress, and it works very well with theseespadrilles (old, similar here and here). The handbag (Longchamp), while not overwhelming, adds even more visual interest to an already engaging dress.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (6)

Dress (Tuckernuck) | Espadrilles (old, similar here and here) | Handbag (Longchamp) |Sunglasses | Similar earrings

Outfit 6

My last outfit is another neutral favorite. Reusing the black metro shorts (Ann Taylor) from the first outfit, I’ve paired them with the white blouse (Talbots). Reusability is important in any travel capsule, and if your wardrobe is neutral-based, that’s pretty easy.

This outfit works well with either a pair of cap-toeespadrilles (old, similar here) or these white sandals.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (7)

Black Metro shorts or Black City shorts (Ann Taylor) |White sandals | Wicker handbag (old, similar here, here, and here) | Cap toe espadrilles (old, similar here) | Belt (Isabel Marant) | Cuff Bracelet

Shop the Post (click the below)

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (8)

Real vs deal

The white sandals above white sandals are an opportunity to repost a reader favorite: real vs deal. We’re all familiar with the iconicHermès Sandals. Totally gorgeous. Totally classic. Today, I’ve rounded up four more budget-friendly dupes/copies of those sandals below.

Real

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (9)

Deals

In case you missed it

It’s travel week all week over here on the blog. In case you missed it, we kicked things off yesterday with 5 travel outfit ideas for Spring.

Daily Looks

Make sure to catch up on ourDAILY LOOK. We post a dedicated photo to our daily outfit every Wednesday-Sunday. And you can shop those outfits easily through theshop the widgetbelow the picture.

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 63, 5’8, and size 8.

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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

Background and Expertise

As a seasoned traveler, fashion enthusiast, and lifestyle expert, I have extensive firsthand experience in curating travel capsule wardrobes and packing efficiently for various destinations. I have explored diverse locales, from vibrant cities to serene beaches, and have honed my expertise in creating versatile and stylish ensembles suitable for different climates and activities. My knowledge encompasses the art of assembling capsule wardrobes, incorporating neutral color schemes, adding pops of color, and maximizing the reusability of clothing items. Additionally, my understanding of fashion trends, accessory coordination, and practical packing tips allows me to provide valuable insights for individuals seeking to elevate their travel attire and streamline their packing process.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Concepts

Neutral Color Scheme and Pops of Color

When assembling a travel capsule wardrobe, it's essential to opt for a neutral color scheme as the foundation. This can include versatile hues such as black and white, which serve as the base for the outfits. Incorporating pops of color through accessories, garments, or footwear adds contrast and visual interest to the ensembles, enhancing their overall appeal.

Dresses and Jumpsuits

Including one or two dresses and jumpsuits in the travel capsule wardrobe provides versatile options for different occasions. Jumpsuits can serve as an alternative to dresses, offering a chic and practical ensemble for various settings.

Warm-Weather Getaway Essentials

For warm-weather getaways, packing swimsuits, cover-ups, and resort-appropriate accessories is essential. These items cater to the specific needs of beach vacations and ensure a well-prepared and stylish travel wardrobe.

Maximizing Luggage and Reusability

Utilizing packing tips and tricks to maximize luggage space and optimize the reusability of clothing items is crucial. This can involve strategic outfit pairing, versatile accessories, and thoughtful garment selection to create a cohesive and functional travel wardrobe.

By integrating these concepts into the travel capsule wardrobe, individuals can achieve a balance of style, practicality, and efficiency, ensuring a seamless and fashionable travel experience.

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Mexico (2024)

FAQs

How to pack for 7 days in Mexico? ›

A Mexico packing list for every season
  1. Lightweight clothing, such as T-shirts, shorts and sundresses.
  2. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring.
  3. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat for sun protection.
  4. Swimwear for beach visits or lounging around the hotel pool.
Aug 28, 2023

How do I make a capsule wardrobe for vacation? ›

How To Build Your Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  1. Understand any specific requirements for your destination. ...
  2. Consider what activities you'll be doing. ...
  3. Narrow down your color palette. ...
  4. Stick to your everyday style. ...
  5. Start with a baseline selection of items in a 5-4-3-2-1 ratio. ...
  6. Practice styling outfits. ...
  7. Generate your packing list.
May 18, 2023

How much clothes can I take to Mexico? ›

Throughout the year, you can take up to $300 worth of merchandise in your luggage while crossing the border to get to Mexico.

How do you dress like a local in Mexico? ›

In general, Mexico City fashion is more casual than in the United States or Europe. Amongst chilangos (Mexico City locals), you'll find that most folks dress modestly with jeans and teeshirts. Even in the hottest parts of the year, most locals will wear pants rather than shorts.

What clothes to pack for 2 weeks in Mexico? ›

As Mexico's warmer beach temperatures don't fluctuate too much, sundresses, shorts, tank tops and sandals work pretty much all year-long. In the winter months, you might throw on a cardigan at night, but other than that, it's bathing suits and warm weather wear throughout the year.

How many outfits should I pack for a 7 day trip? ›

Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs.

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing guide? ›

The formula goes as follows:
  1. Five tops.
  2. Four bottoms.
  3. Three dresses or rompers and three pairs of shoes.
  4. Two swimsuits and two bags.
  5. One hat, one watch, and one pair of sunglasses.
Jun 1, 2023

What is the 54321 method of packing? ›

We believe the secret to becoming a light packer is the 54321 method. For a weeklong holiday, that means you'll need: five shirts and/or T-shirts, four pairs of trousers, three accessories (think hats, belts and sunglasses), two pairs of shoes and one pair of swimming trunks.

What can't I bring to Mexico? ›

You are prohibited from bringing the following items into Mexico
  • Narcotic drugs.
  • Electronic cigarettes.
  • Used clothing that is not part of your personal luggage.
  • Some over-the-counter medicines commonly used in the United States, including inhalers and some allergy and sinus medications.

How much cash should I carry to Mexico? ›

It's a good idea to have a mix of cash and cards for flexibility. Generally, having around $50-100 USD per day per person is a reasonable estimate for daily expenses, but this can vary widely. To change your currency into Mexican pesos, you have several options: 1.

How do I prepare for a trip to Mexico? ›

17 things to know before you go to Mexico
  1. Book early and budget extra for the high season. ...
  2. Pack for the climate. ...
  3. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. ...
  4. Use your ATM card. ...
  5. Leave your bling at home. ...
  6. Embrace long distance bus travel. ...
  7. Say hello... even to passersby. ...
  8. Tip (almost) everyone.
Oct 18, 2023

What to wear in Mexico to not stand out? ›

Women who don't want to attract excessive attention from men would be well advised to avoid short skirts and shorts and revealing clothes in general, but especially when traveling alone. Lightweight pants and long skirts are good options, as are blouses and tops that cover your cleavage.

What to wear in Mexico and not look like a tourist? ›

A lightweight linen long sleeve shirt is my favorite thing to protect my skin from the sun. Cool and Loose Items: Think of a cotton dress or a pair of lightweight linen pants. These breathable materials are perfect for hot and humid weather at the beach. You can dress them up or down depending on the situation.

Can I wear leggings in Mexico City? ›

You'll want to bring layers that you can easily put on or take off depending on the temperature. Some good options are: A light jacket or sweater that you can wear over a t-shirt or blouse. Jeans, leggings or skirts that are comfortable and versatile.

How do I pack for a week in Mexico? ›

Mexico packing list: Clothes and accessories
  1. T-shirts and tank tops.
  2. Blouses or dress shirts.
  3. Dresses and skirts.
  4. Shorts and lightweight pants.
  5. Light jacket or sweater.
  6. Rain jacket (if you're travelling between May to October)
  7. Bathing suits.
  8. Beach cover-ups.
Jul 3, 2023

How do I pack for a 7 day international trip? ›

Essential items include:
  1. A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag for security.
  2. Portable phone charger to keep your device powered.
  3. Digital or print map of the city.
  4. Water bottle and snacks.
  5. Comfortable shoes for walking.
  6. Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler indoor temperatures.
  7. Travel umbrella for unexpected showers.
May 8, 2019

How much peso should I bring to Mexico for a week? ›

If you are extremely budget conscious, you might be able to get by on 2,500 to 3,000 pesos (not including lodging expenses). On the other hand, one could easily spend 15,000 or more. It depends on where you eat, what you drink and the activities you enjoy.

How do you pack clothes for 7 days? ›

For a week without laundry I would bring:
  1. 8 pairs of underwear - one for each day plus an extra just in case ...something... ...
  2. 7 t-shirts - one for each day. ...
  3. 7 pairs of socks - don't like re-wearing socks either.
  4. 3 pairs of pants - wear them for a couple days each until they don't pass the smell test.
Dec 16, 2022

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