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I need a travel capsule

Maneera

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Veteran

Sometime back, I posted in an off-topic thread that I may be going to Thailand for a vacation this year.

When I spoke to my husband about it in detail, he seemed to be less than enthusiastic. He suggested we go to England instead. He already has a visa (he goes to London often for work) and I could get one...and we have very close friends in Manchester that we would love to visit. Plus, for me, the BIGGEST selling point was that I would get to meet Diane G in real life In the past year, Diane has become a very close friend and I love the idea of meeting her. Plus --- it's the UK!!!! It's always been HIGH on my to-travel-to list.

Our original plan was to go in September but it seems like we will most probably be going in July. (I say most-probably because I still don't have my visa in-hand). Dates would be 9th to 15th July.

We will fly directly to Manchester. We will be going to London for a day. And I will be visiting Diane for a day (super excited about that part!)

Now the hard part --- the travel capsule. I wasn't going to say anything on the forum until I had my visa, but Suz & Angie's comments on CocoC's travel capsule post have me worried. In my head, I am going from Summer to Summer, so shouldn't be a problem, right?

But Suz mentioned she went to England in summer when she was younger & froze. <gasp> And for me, summer is actually very hot. Our winter are usually 23-25 deg C day temperatures mostly and they do go down to single digits too.

What is July like in the UK? I'm afraid it may be like my winter, which means I may not be able to take just jeans & tshirts on this trip?! In that case, I'll actually have to pull out winter wear from storage. And get it all dry-cleaned in time. And then worry about how to pack it, because winter jackets & boots need space!

So, what should I pack?

Dressing

54 replies

Latest reply was from Column

Suz

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Veteran

Oh, so excited for you!! This sounds like the vacation you genuinely wanted! There was a reason you were not into planning the other one -- I just knew it.

I think you should be wearing your "winter" clothes for July in the UK. You should also bring some hot weather items but it will likely be in the 20s with only rare days in the 30s, and some years it might even be in the teens.

But as I said on Coco's thread, you'll want summery colours if you enjoy wearing those. Because it might feel wintery cold to you but this is summer for the UK!

You will also need a really good rain coat just in case. Manchester is colder than London...

Anyway, Diane will weigh in and she is undoubtedly the expert but I think you can judge based on what she wears during the summer months. She rarely gets to wear "true summer" clothes except on her holidays to Greece.

I should specify that my teenage trip to to England occurred during a very cool June and I had clothes that really were more suited to high summer in Southern Ontario -- Indian cottons, in fact! I only packed a little bit because I was travelling by bicycle and had only the panniers. I did have a wool sweater. But that was it, for warmth.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

ETA, just to addd -- yes, I live in Canada, but my climate is an extreme range. UK is much more temperate -- the weather is more similar all year, whereas I can go from -30C to +30C in a year (and then some).

So...I feel a "cold" summer (in the low 20s) esp. if it is grey and damp. I am used to (mostly) sunny days in summer with heat and some humidity.

danskogirl

What I do is pack in layers (e.g. camisole/tank top, t-shirt, long-sleeved shirt, cardigan, rain jacket). That way, I can easily adjust to different temperatures without packing thick bulky winterwear.

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Suz, that was most helpful. I just spoke to Di and she confirmed I'll need winter clothes....medium weight ones. Lightweight sweaters and scarves and a couple jackets. I don't have a rain jacket....never needed one here.

Di also suggested light colored winter wear, like you. I'm not sure I even have that! I tend to wear dark colors in winters.....so perhaps printed scarves over my usual navy, black & grey will just have to do. My winter wear is all packed away and we anyways had a joke of a Winter in 2015-16, so I don't remember anything but 3 sweaters. I'll have to pull it out & see what's suitable.

Danskogirl, I like the *idea* of layering. But in reality, I am happiest when wearing thick, cozy clothes should it be cold....and I think layers add bulk to my already bulky top body. For example, I'd be happier in a long sleeved tee and sweatshirt as compared to cami+tee+shirt....even if it turns out to be equally warm in the end

ETA: I am SUPER excited about this trip, Suz. You were right You probably ARE psychic!

Sara L.

Veteran

Ooh, I'm super excited for you! What a fun trip. I've been to London but it was late fall so no advice on the temps. I like the advice to bring layers although I find that easier said than done. I really don't like dressing in layers.

BTW, I cannot think in Celsius and have to convert all the celsius temps to Fahrenheit to figure out the temps. Of course, you probably have to do the same thing in reverse whenever I talk about the weather.

MrsK

How exciting!

The U.K. Can be soooo variable. I'm visiting Wales at the moment for 2 weeks and packed:

2 t-shirts (1 ruffled black and 1 light turquoise)
1 black flowy tank
1 white cold shouldered top
2 pairs distressed jeans (light colored)
1 long warm cardi
1 blue waterfall hoody
1 medium colored jean jacket
2 long sleeve shirts
2 sweaters
3 light, summery scarves
1 pair pointy toed flats
1 pair Converse

And it's warm: 25-26 C, but in the sun it feels really warm. I wish I'd packed some shorts, sandals and tanks. I haven't worn ANY of the warm items except for the hoody one morning. I keep washing the same 3 tops and 2 jeans and I'm so bored of them.

I've been rolling up my jeans and borrowed a pair of flip flops.

But I am happy that I at least brought light colors because it feels summery.

But it could easily have been cold and rainy. So I'd prepare for anything!

rachylou

Veteran

I used to spend summer in Sussex (southern England) as a girl. It was just like the SF Bay Area. Basically in my mind always in the 60s. I wandered around with always a sweater, a jacket, short sleeves underneath - layers. It also would rain every afternoon. But the weather everywhere has changed...

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Mrs.K ---- very helpful. Your capsule sounds so well-planned. I am just not 'designed' to think in capsules, so this just seems especially difficult for me! I mean, I can choose 3 tops for a pair of jeans, but also a jacket & sweater and these tops should be able to layer under??? Not so much!!!

I actually pack away my ENTIRE summer wardrobe in winter with the exception of jeans. So I might have to learn something new here!

Gaylene

Veteran

Maneera, something that works for me is to actually put on my jeans and the tops, then add my third layer (jacket or sweater) to see how well the pieces work in reality. Sometimes pieces I think might work don't because I feel too confined or overstuffed.

Generally layering works best with lighter-weight fabrics like silks and cashmere, but, if you like a thicker, cosier sweater, I'd take one favourite sweater that you won't mind wearing constantly, because that is exactly what you'll be doing!

Ledonna N.

Veteran

I have nothing add about the capsule but How exciting for you. You and Dian get to meet up for a whole day. Oh enjoy your self and take plenty of pictures. Well dress in layers.

Jenn

(website)

Veteran

I think you should play with combining some of your summer/winter clothes. That'll make your vacation capsule feel special and different, but it'll also be more practical for varying weather conditions.

You also may not want to gauge your wardrobe by what the Brits are wearing at the same temperature, as you're acclimated to a different climate. It's pretty funny... I just looked at our temps today and I think our DAILY range is almost equivalent to the summer v. winter temps in more temperate places. The low today was 14º C and the high will be 32º.

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

I think you're right, Jenn. I think I'll do just that. I'll have a play around with my summer & winter wardrobes and pick things that can combine easily. I'll try it on, as Gaylene points out.....somethings only work well together in our heads!

Your temperature sounds so varied! I think I now know why you guys keep jackets handy year round! Our low today was 29 and the high was 43.....so yes, I'm acclimated to totally different temps and I don't handle cold well at all.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Suggestion:

Start with activities. What will you be doing each day? You will need outfits for each type of activity. For instance, there is the gorgeous YLF-worthy outfit you want for the camera on the day you meet with Diane!

There is shopping/ city. You might go out to dinner. There is (maybe) hiking?? Gallery going? Just figure out the things you'll do and think about what you'll need to wear.

Next, the footwear. Pick out 2 to 3 pair of shoes. If you will be doing a lot of walking, make sure they will be comfortable. Find out the weight regulations for your airline. Unlike most people, I believe in taking as many shoes as possible. I walk a LOT on holidays and I find that changing out my shoes is the surest way to make sure that my feet stay happy. Bonus: It also gives me more fashion options!!

I'd go with at least one pair of your sneakers, a pair of sandals that you can dress up or down, and another crossover type shoe (a flat or low wedge that can skew casual or dressy should the need require). If you are going to be doing serious hiking in the north, you'll want more than just slip on sneakers.

Truthfully, I would take more shoe options if i could. I have been known to take 5 different shoes for as many days!

Moving on up:

Pick a colour theme if you can. I usually go with my key neutrals of blue and white in summer, with additions of berry or plum or black or red. Navy and grey might work for you if that's what you have; lighten it up with scarves and tops.

Raincoat and/ or umbrella. If you don't have, think about some kind of rain poncho or something. It can be wet!! You can buy umbrellas cheaply there, but you might be cold if you get damp. And the wind can destroy an umbrella.

Light, summery scarves: I'd bring 4 or so for variety. If your tops are mostly plain, these can be your hits of pattern and colour.

Lightweight blazer or moto or denim jacket (whatever kind of topper works best, basically). A bright jacket can be surprisingly uplifting and versatile on a trip. See Angie's post from Holland last year for evidence!

Some sort of sweater, preferably wool, but a really good cotton (like the J. Crew one I showed yesterday) would also be good. You might want two, if you have room -- one plain and one striped, for example.

Bottoms:

One pair of white or light coloured denim. (Crops might work if you have -- can't remember).
One pair of darker trousers that can skew dressy or casual -- maybe ankle trousers? Could be dark wash denim or navy or black -- doesn't really matter.
One or two skirts. I say this because you love skirts/ dresses and look great in them. But keep in mind you might feel cool, so instead you might want one skirt and another denim bottom.
(Maybe) a pair of shorts (depending on your activities).

If you have room, you can also bring a dress or two.

Tops:
I would bring at least one per day. But probably more. Tops will not take up a lot of space. Some long sleeves, some sleeveless that you can layer a jacket over. I'd bring a couple of light solids, a couple of darker solids, and a couple of patterned tops.

Layers:
A couple of tanks or camis for warmth if needed. A few pair of socks just in case.

I don't think you should need a winter coat or boots. No way. Nor should you need a bulky sweater. Layering is not so bad if the elements are not bulky. A cami under a cotton shirt can stick and feel icky but under a lightweight knit top or a silk (or silk-like poly) it should be okay.

Good luck!!!

Anonymous

Isn't it great news? I'm not sure who's more excited, you or me

You've had some great advice already and of course we've chatted too. I actually rather like the idea that Jenn just mentioned about trying a few Summer pieces with your Wintery stuff. Worth a try. Little touches of lighter colours will add to a more Summery feel, because there will be a lot of people in lighter shades here...think lighter sneakers bookending light coloured scarves.

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Suz, Thankyou for this detailed write up. You're very very thoughtful Every single thing you've written makes sense...plus I love the examples because they DO make my life easier.

I'm going to think carefully and then decide what to take. Like you, I like to have a lot of shoe options because my feet start to hurt very easily in anything other than sneakers. Unlike many of you here on YLF, I can't walk a lot even in flat, comfy sandals...I need sneakers. And even then, i need to switch out my sneakers.

I'll start with activities, like you suggest, and take it from there.

Thank You!

Suz

(website)

Veteran

And Gaylene linked to some great capsule building ideas in Coco's thread!

MrsK

Yes, I spent about an hour or so trying on all my clothesline shoes to see what layered well together. I knew we'd be walking, sightseeing in cities and along the coast (cliffs and beaches),going to perks, shopping, so I kept that in mind and packed mostly casual stuff. Since I knew I wouldn't need many dressy outfits that really simplified things - the cold shouldered top and flats were my only outfit.

I don't wear jeans or sweaters past April when I'm home - until about November - because of the heat, so I had to pull those out for the trip. But I do keep short sleeved tops in my closet all year round in all colors - so I played around with those and my long cardigans. My jean jacket does not fit over those - and I just remembered I packed 2 camis for extra warmth in case I needed them.

Sal

Veteran

How exciting!! I am delighted Manny- how wonderful.

I have experienced three English summers and they are super unpredictable!! But you will have a great time whatever the weather.

JAileen

Veteran

We were in England in the summer years ago and the weather was so weird - the rain was warm!

I don't have any particular suggestions for your capsule, sorry. I think one day in London isn't enough, though.

Aida

Veteran

Excellent advice already so I'm just going to add a big WOOHOO! How fun Diane is a doll ^^

Oh also that Gaylene is spot on about trying outfits ahead of time, and that I 100% agree with Jenn to try adding some of your summer pieces into the mix so you don't feel too wintery. At the very least rolling up your pants and baring a little ankle will be a huge help, as would be bringing gauzy lightweight scarves in cheerful colors/prints.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

HOW FUN. I'm happy for you, Manny.

We went to the Netherlands and the UK for the whole of June last year - you saw the travel capsule on YLF. Do you remember it?

http://youlookfab.com/2015/07/.....in-action/

Temperatures ranged from daytime highs of 15 to 32 degrees. You need to pack for weather options. AND MAKE SURE YOUR FEET ARE HAPPY.

rose

I'm loving all these travel capsule posts as I too am heading towards the Northern hemisphere- a little later than you- September. We will be in England, then Ireland, then Spain. I'm so excited and the clothing planning adds to this!
I'm by no means a seasoned traveller, but on a previous trip to the U.K over summer I was very glad to have a lightweight raincoat. It was good for that light rain as well as a bit of a layer against wind and evening cooling-off.
Having said that , I saw this online the other day:
http://www.express.co.uk/news/.....-summer-su
You might not need so many layers after all!
Have a fun trip!

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Thanks a lot for all those tips, ladies.

Angie- Ofcourse I remember your travel capsule from last year. I went through it again last night and have a few ideas I want to try out.

Aida - I'm going to have a big Try-On session this weekend. Yes, I'm going to have to learn what jackets/sweaters I can layer over my summer tops for just a tad more warmth. I'll check weather report again just before I leave so I have all my bases covered.

Jaileen - I know 1 day isn't enough for London. I think 1 week isn't enough for the UK, but that's the MOST I can do. I've never been away from my dogs for this long, so even this feels too much to me.

It seems like we will be doing a fair bit of traveling within the UK in these days. It'll all be about exploring and walking around the city so I'm going to pack only casuals. I will be visiting Manchester, London, Edinburg and West Midland. I think temperatures will vary between these also, so I'll pack for roughly 15-25 deg C temperatures.

I'll keep my travel capsule in darker colors. I will add a couple white/light tops that will be layers and some fun printed scarves. In theory, this capsule should work (added below). I'll try it all on and report back.

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Tanya

Veteran

Oh, I am so excited for you! You are going to have a blast on your trip and yo get to meet Diane, how fun!
You have already received some awesome travel packing advice and there isn't much I can add. I would make sure to bring a pair of sunglasses, if you have sensitive eyes. Your list looks good.

Anonymous

I am excited for you! Remember that England is known for damp, cloudy days. The temperatures will be affected by cloudy skies and drizzle or fog. Some places like Stonehenge are also quite windy.

Cococat

Veteran

Maneera, how exciting for you! You're going to have a ball with Diane and I'm so looking forward to seeing the pics.

I'm going to be following this thread too. There are such great ideas. I don't remember Angie's travel capsule thread but I'm so glad I've had a chance to read it now.

I was in the UK for 6 weeks during November and I have never ever felt the cold like that. It shows how we can get used to our warmer climates. It's 23 degrees here and I'm in black hose, boots, jacket over dress over camisole.

Maneera

(website)

Veteran

Hah! I know what you mean, Coco. I think we have similar winters.....only our summers are even hotter than yours. Going from 42 deg C to even 22 deg C will be a HUGE change for me.

To err on the side of caution, I'm going to pack like I would for my winter....only without heavy coats/sweaters/boots.

I'm going to experiment wearing my summer tops with jackets & sweaters now. Hopefully, I'll have a capsule half as cohesive as yours...

Eliza

Veteran

Maneera- what a wonderful trip you have planned. It's awesome that you and Diane can get together. Love the YLF connections!

Great advice here. All I can add is that there are great packable raincoats that are lightweight, often hooded, and come with a small case for easy carrying. I get a size that allows for layering underneath, just to accommodate temperature variation.

You are in for a lot of fun!

Astrid

Veteran

As others said, think in layers! The weather can be warm, sunny, cold, rainy...

My very minimal travel set up for North and Middle Europe in spring/summer/fall looks like this right now:

Long jeans with wool cami, tee, wool cardigan or pullover, sneakers and rain jacket. In summer I take shorts and sandals in addition to that. When I plan walking in nature trekking shoes (I don't take these on city trips) and in few cases trekking pants. In fall I pack wool leggings to wear under the jeans in a pinch (otherwise worn as pyjamas).

This is the most minimal setup, I might pack more (dress or skirt plus different shoes, another jacket etc). But this capsule is technically enough, if rather casual and sporty.

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