In less than a week, I will be back on German soil in my beloved Berlin. Yes, I’m going back again. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt during my travels this year, it’s pack lightly, pack wisely. That’s why I’m so pleased to have rediscovered Matalan, their aptly named range ‘The Statements‘ are perfect for a Berlin capsule wardrobe.
In Berlin, whatever I’m wearing in the morning, is usually what I’ll be wearing on the night. There’s so much to see that, for me, travelling back to get changed for the evening isn’t always possible nor necessary. Berlin isn’t like the UK, casual style prevails. However, those hipsters get it right every time.
Things to note: I’m planning my capsule wardrobe based on hand-luggage allowance for a four night break and wet weather.
Things to note: I’m planning my capsule wardrobe based on hand-luggage allowance for a four night break and wet weather.
Firstly, just like mama said, I can’t stress enough the importance of a light, warm and waterproof coat. Every time I’ve been to Berlin, it’s either rained or snowed. I always aim to take just one coat. Coats are bulky to pack, whatever I take I wear it to travel in. This parka comes in khaki or navy and is perfect for wearing with dresses, skirts or jeans. At £35, it doesn’t break the bank.
Secondly, layering is my secret to packing light but remaining content in the knowledge I’m not going to freeze. I love basics, with a twist. This denim shirt is so pretty and so versatile. Teamed with this red jumper, the denim bow will add the perfect amount of cuteness.
Secondly, layering is my secret to packing light but remaining content in the knowledge I’m not going to freeze. I love basics, with a twist. This denim shirt is so pretty and so versatile. Teamed with this red jumper, the denim bow will add the perfect amount of cuteness.
When you think of a Breton stripe, you could be forgiven for thinking of trench coats and rainy Parisian streets. However, this old stereotype needs to be rewritten. It seems Berlin has set a mini trend. Usually teamed with a leather jacket, skinny jeans and trainers, stripes offer a casual yet alternative feel. This striped tee shirt is a mere £4. Team it with a statement necklace, it can be worn on a night. For warmth, I’d team it with a denim shirt, black skinny jeans and chunky boots.
Thirdly, it’s obvious that comfortable footwear is an essential. However, if you’re anything like me, you could walk up to 10 kilometers a day. I’ve found very little is comfortable for that amount of walking. My tip? Take two pairs of day shoes and plenty of plasters. This time, I’m taking my chunky style boots and leather trainers with a cushioned insole. That way, if one pair rubs then I have a back up plan. Don’t forget the thick socks!
By now, you’re probably beginning to see that I like to be warm. Usually, I’ll pack three jumpers, two plain and one cardigan. Two shirts, one denim, one khaki or tartan. Two tee shirts. Two pairs of jeans, one black, one blue (making sure I travel in one pair) and how could I forget? Dresses!
Thirdly, it’s obvious that comfortable footwear is an essential. However, if you’re anything like me, you could walk up to 10 kilometers a day. I’ve found very little is comfortable for that amount of walking. My tip? Take two pairs of day shoes and plenty of plasters. This time, I’m taking my chunky style boots and leather trainers with a cushioned insole. That way, if one pair rubs then I have a back up plan. Don’t forget the thick socks!
By now, you’re probably beginning to see that I like to be warm. Usually, I’ll pack three jumpers, two plain and one cardigan. Two shirts, one denim, one khaki or tartan. Two tee shirts. Two pairs of jeans, one black, one blue (making sure I travel in one pair) and how could I forget? Dresses!
I absolutely adore this heart print dress and it’s on sale! It’s the perfect dress to see you from day to night. Not sure what I mean? In the day, layer it with a denim shirt, grey jumper and boots. On the night, if feeling fancy, team it with a statement necklace (yes, the very same one) and these monochrome loafers. Same theory for this grey jersey dress. Just don’t forget your tights!
When it comes to accessories, I take very little. They’re heavy and bulky to pack, so I wear them to travel in. The only thing I can’t wear to travel in is a day bag, so it has to flatten inside my small case. Being able to only take one bag means that it has to match everything. (You’re seeing a recurring theme here.) It also has to be spacious enough to fit my camera (and souvenirs) inside. I adore this tote bag. The longer length strap means I can wear it over my shoulder in the day, and detach the strap for an evening look.
I’ve never yet packed for a city break and got it just right. This will be my fourth time in Berlin, making it my fourteenth city break. In my experience, the main things to remember when packing are:
1. Take clothes you are comfortable in.
2. Make sure items that you can take just one of match everything.
3. Try to make your basics match most things so that they can be layered.
How do you pack a capsule wardrobe?
Which clothes are your essentials?
How do you manage to travel light?
As always, much love,
Donna x