What to wear on a city break
Struggling to pack for your city break? We’ve got fail-safe outfit formulas for everything from sightseeing to nights out!
The flights are booked, the itinerary is meticulously designed, but the bags aren’t quite packed… Curating fashionable and practical city break outfits that you’ll actually want to wear when you reach your destination is no mean feat. Especially when you’re also factoring in suitcase size and baggage allowance!
Shop everything from clothing, shoes and accessories to beauty travel minis, packing cubes and suitcases in store now.
City break capsule wardrobe pieces
Packing for a weekend away goes hand-in-hand with a capsule wardrobe mindset, no matter the time of year — but what is a capsule wardrobe? Simply put, it’s a small number of key pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.
Summer city break outfits
Summer city break outfits are often the easiest to pack as we gravitate towards lighter fabrics and minimal layers. Cotton and linen trousers paired with bikinis and swimsuits are a given, but don’t forget the versatility of a matching set, either. Not sure how to get multiple looks from one co-ord? Our 7 days, 7 ways guide is here to help! For the evening, we’d opt for a failsafe LBD and chic summer footwear, like a pair of square-toe flip-flops or mules, to give your outfit a luxe feel.
Winter city break outfits
Starting with layering pieces like our knitted vest, it can be worn on its own, with basics, or styled underneath a jacket. Simply team with a pair of casual tailored trousers or a mini skirt, choose a pair of shoes and a bag to fit your plans, and you’re good to go! Neutral colours like black, white and grey are guaranteed to work with most of your wardrobe, so stick to these and add fun colour pops as needed.
Casual city break outfits for sightseeing
Visiting a new city means seeing the sights, right? This is where the practical part of outfit planning is crucial. It’s likely that you’ll be covering a fair distance, so make sure you’re wearing footwear that can keep up! Trainers or flats are our go-to styles, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring! Buckle straps? Vibrant colours? Or perhaps a pointed toe? Whatever you choose, remember that they can double up as part of your night out outfits too!
Night out city break looks
Whatever your night out aesthetic, we’ve got city break evening outfit inspiration in abundance. Remember that pair of tailored trousers you’ve been wearing with all of your basics? It’s part of a co-ord that looks oh-so chic when worn together! Or perhaps your friend has managed to secure a last-minute reservation at one of the hottest places in town? Embrace day to night dressing by swapping flats for heels, shopper totes for sparkle of the shoulder bag and jewellery variety, and you’ll be ready in seconds. Don’t forget a spritz of perfume!
The other sightseeing staple? A practical bag. If you’re the designated mum of the group, our oversized shopper style comes in a chic faux-croc print and has wide shoulder straps for added comfort. For those seeking smaller city break bags, our crossbody and clasp-front styles are a great way to ensure your belongings are always secure and close by.
City break packing list
City break checklist
For autumn/winter city break outfits:
Outerwear – One thick jacket or coat (wear to the airport!) and one lightweight option like a blazer or denim jacket.
Knitwear / Leisurewear - Knitted jumper, vest or cardigan and then a sweatshirt or hoodie.
Footwear – One pair of trainers, one pair of flats or boots and one pair of heels.
Tops – Basics like T-shirts and vests to layer,
Nightwear – Boyfriend pyjamas? Short set? Oversized night shirt?
Accessories – Hats/scarf/gloves/jewellery (and an umbrella!)
Bags – One tote bag or backpack and one shoulder bag or crossbody bag
Underwear – essential!
Trousers/ Jeans - One pair of tailored trousers, one pair of jeans.
Night out outfits – One co-ord, one dress, one nice top/bodysuit
FAQs:
What are the essential items to pack for a city break?
- Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a compact umbrella, a phone charger, travel-sized toiletries, and a reusable water bottle are essentials.
How many outfits should I bring for a 3-day city break?
- Bring 2-3 versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched, including day-to-night pieces and layers for changing weather.
What kind of bag is best for a city break?
- A small to medium-sized backpack or crossbody bag is ideal for keeping essentials close by while exploring the city.
How can I pack light for a city break?
- Choose versatile clothing, pack travel-sized toiletries, and use packing cubes to organise efficiently.
What is the best way to plan outfits for a city break?
- Check the weather forecast, plan outfits around key versatile pieces, and consider packing layers for unpredictable conditions.