Winter Travel Outfits to Pack for Your Next Getaway
Picture this: a snowy mountain retreat, the scent of pine trees in the crisp air, warm hot cocoa as snowflakes gently fall around you. The only thing missing? The perfect winter outfits for travel.
Whether you’re planning a cabin getaway or a city adventure, ensuring your outfit is both stylish and comfortable is crucial. A versatile winter wardrobe comes in handy when battling cold and rainy weather. With a few versatile closet staples and thoughtful planning, you can easily breeze through your winter travels.
This guide will walk you through how to create the ultimate winter travel wardrobe. We’ll explore the essential clothing items you need to strike a balance between function and fashion. From ski evenings to sightseeing in the city, let’s dive into a few must-haves to make your next getaway amazing.
How to Build a Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe
Creating a winter wardrobe is key to packing smart and looking your best in any setting. A capsule wardrobe prioritizes versatile, mix-and-match pieces you can combine to create multiple outfits. This is especially important when traveling to cold-weather destinations, where outfits for winter travel require functionality and warmth. By carefully selecting a few core items, you can ensure your suitcase is light while staying fashionable.
Here are a few essentials for a winter travel capsule wardrobe:
Winter tops
Basic tees: You can’t create a capsule wardrobe without basic tees. Opt for high-quality, neutral-colored tees you can wear under sweaters or layered with outerwear for added warmth.
Turtleneck sweaters: Turtleneck sweaters are a winter staple that offers warmth and style. Fitted styles in neutral or jewel tones are great for layering under coats or pairing with skirts and tailored pants. Keep up with sweater trends by choosing a mock neck alternative.
Long-sleeve tops: Throw on something soft and warm to brace yourself for the cold weather. Choose moisture-wicking long-sleeve tops to stay comfortable during outdoor activities. Or, go for ribbed knits for a trendy yet cozy look.
Cashmere sweaters: Cashmere sweaters are essential for nailing the quiet luxury look. Lightweight yet incredibly warm, they're perfect for dressing up or down and take up minimal space in your suitcase.
Winter bottoms
Leggings: Your winter travel capsule wardrobe should include at least one pair of thermal or fleece-lined leggings. Wear them for outdoor activities, travel days, or layered under dresses and skirts—the styling options are endless.
Denim jeans: You can’t go wrong with classic denim. In winter, darker washes are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Choose a straight or slim fit to pair with boots.
Tailored pants: When you need to dress up, a pair of tailored pants in wool or other warm fabrics creates a polished look. You can pair tailored trousers in black, gray, or camel with a wide range of tops. Plus, they work well for city outings or dressier events.
Winter skirts: From mini to maxi, skirts in thicker fabrics like wool or corduroy can add texture and depth to your outfits while keeping you warm. Pair with tights and boots for a stylish ensemble.
Winter dresses
Sweater dresses: Sweater dresses are cozy yet elegant, making them a great option for winter travel.
Midi dresses: Midi dresses provide enough coverage to keep you warm, and the hem is high enough to help you stay dry and clean.
Transitional dresses: Look for transitional dresses for cold weather, such as wrap dresses or knit dresses that can be layered with leggings and scarves.
Party dresses: Get ready for holiday parties and hit the town with women’s party dresses. Choose luxe fabrics like velvet or satin for evening wear. Long-sleeved styles and high necklines offer warmth without sacrificing elegance.
Winter outerwear
Puffer jackets: Lightweight yet insulated, puffer jackets are a travel-friendly option that packs down small without compromising warmth, making them particularly useful for colder climates.
Quilted jackets: Quilted jackets offer a more tailored silhouette while providing comfort in cold weather.
Sherpa and shearling jackets: Lean into the cozy season by choosing a warm sherpa jacket. Perfect for casual outings or layering over chunky sweaters.
Classic coats: Long wool coats in neutral shades exude timeless appeal and can be worn with any outfit.
Winter footwear
Chelsea boots: Chelsea boots are a modern winter wardrobe staple. Chelsea boots are a versatile and sleek option for city and countryside settings.
Everyday sneakers: Not all outfits for winter travel require boots. Comfortable sneakers with insulated linings or waterproof materials are great for sightseeing on chilly days.
Riding boots: Riding boots provide extra coverage and warmth while offering a sophisticated touch to skirts and dresses.
Winter accessories
Scarves: A wool or cashmere scarf adds warmth and style to any outfit.
Beanies: Keep your noggin and ears warm with a classic beanie. Chunky knit beanies offer a practical yet stylish way to keep warm.
Gloves: Leather or knit gloves protect your hands while tying your outfit together.
Jewelry: Add a touch of charm to your winter vacation outfits with thoughtfully selected jewelry. Minimalist gold or silver pieces add a hint of elegance without overpowering your winter layers.
Stylish Winter Vacation Outfit Ideas
Still don’t know what to pack? Here are a few outfit ideas for your winter vacation:
Cozy cabin retreat
Embrace the rustic charm of a winter cabin getaway with a curated winter travel capsule wardrobe. Start with a chunky knit sweater paired with fleece-lined leggings, a wool scarf, and a quilted coat.
City chic
Winter travel fashion for exploring the city includes a sleek turtleneck top paired with dark-wash jeans, a tailored wool coat, and ankle boots.
New Year’s Eve glam
Let your New Year’s Eve style shine through with a velvet midi dress in a jewel tone like emerald or burgundy. Pair it with heeled ankle boots and understated jewelry to complete the ensemble.
Ski lodge look
After a long day on the slopes, slip into a warm, relaxed outfit that includes a cashmere sweater, comfortable leggings, and a puffer vest.
Romantic winter dinner
Keep the romance alive while traveling during winter with the right pieces. Pack a cute sweater dress, tights, knee-high boots, and a tailored coat for a polished yet warm outfit.
Fashion Tips for Winter Travel
Winter outfits for travel call for practicality and style, making it essential to pack thoughtfully while embracing seasonal trends. Here’s our favorite tips for curating fashionable winter looks:
Embrace winter color schemes, including jewel tones and neutral palettes
Play with trendy textures like suede, corduroy, or velvet
Incorporate seasonal patterns, such as plaid and herringbone
Prioritize layering
Focus on versatile clothing
Invest in high-quality footwear
Pack gloves, hats, and other functional accessories
Get Ready for Your Winter Vacation
Packing winter vacation outfits doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on versatile pieces, seasonal trends, timeless classics, and smart layering techniques. Whether you’re embracing cozy cabin vibes, going sightseeing, or attending glamorous New Year’s celebrations, your wardrobe should strike the perfect balance between warmth, functionality, and style.
White House Black Market offers a curated selection of winter wardrobe essentials. From cashmere sweaters and accessories to dresses, our high-quality, elegant pieces make it easy to create a winter capsule wardrobe that matches your personal style. Prepare for your next winter vacation with WHBM and step into the season confidently and effortlessly.