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Pack smart for your journeys. Strategically choose timeless staples and versatile layers to create a winter travel capsule wardrobe. Invest in durable, quality pieces that will withstand all your daring adventures.
Strategically filling your closet and suitcase with versatile staples is the ultimate packing hack. Don’t fall prey to the temptation of impulse-buying trendy outfits that will only see the light of day once before every trip. Instead, build a winter travel capsule wardrobe filled with timeless basics and layering pieces – essential armor for any fashion-savvy traveler. Invest in high-quality items that effortlessly complement your existing favorites, ensuring they withstand the test of time and countless adventures.
Do you feel like you have absolutely nothing to wear for your upcoming weekend getaway? Don’t worry, we have you covered with all the essential pieces to create a winter travel capsule wardrobe from the ground up. These include thermal layers, comfortable shoes, and practical dresses that are suitable for any occasion – whether it’s an après-ski trip with friends or exploring a chilly new city. From luxurious cashmere sweaters and cozy matching sets to compact puffer jackets and stylish travel bags, these versatile must-haves will ensure you never run out of outfit options.
Layering is essential when it comes to dressing for cold weather. The key starting point for any winter outfit is a comfortable, basic long-sleeve shirt that can be easily dressed up by adding jackets or vests on top, or worn alone as well. Neutral colors are the most versatile, as they can be paired with any pants and styled with multiple outfits.
Efficient winter travel requires a capsule wardrobe, mixing and matching the perfect clothes.
The key to stress-free and efficient travel lies in creating a travel capsule. Imagine having a perfectly curated wardrobe of clothes that seamlessly mix and match, making packing as simple as tossing them into a bag. For those who are always on-the-go, like me, this is a game changer.
No more agonizing over what to bring, just grab your go-to pieces and away you go. And the benefits don’t stop there – by utilizing a capsule wardrobe for your travels, you can easily fit everything into a carry-on, avoiding those pesky baggage fees that eat away at our travel budget. With the extra money saved, you can indulge in even more adventures or treat yourself to some well-deserved takeout when you return home to an empty fridge (something I know all too well).
Here are a few essential items to create the perfect winter travel wardrobe for women, featuring our favorite brands such as Ibex, Buck Mason, Athleta, Patagonia, Stio, and more. Keep scrolling to view them all or jump to your preferred section.
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Jackson Hole, Wyoming based Stio’s Pinion Down Hooded Jackets are a must-have for any outdoor adventure. Lightweight and warm, they’re perfect for layering and packing on the go. And with responsibly-sourced HyperDRY™ down, you can feel good about staying cozy. Pair it with the Tipton Half Zip and Pinedale Pant for an active and versatile look. Whether biking, hiking, or traveling, this midweight half-zip and hooded jacket combination offers comfort and flexibility in one package.
Layering is essential when it comes to dressing for cold weather. The key starting point for any winter outfit is a comfortable, basic long-sleeve shirt that can be easily dressed up by adding jackets or vests on top, or worn alone as well. Neutral colors are the most versatile, as they can be paired with any pants and styled with multiple outfits.
HOUDINI W's Desoli Thermal Crew
Extra warm, soft and comfy women's base layer crew in 100% merino wool with excellent breathability. Use as a first or second layer for activities like skiing, mountaineering or any wintertime adventure where you need extra insulation.
Ibex's newest base layer boasts Nuyarn® technology, maximizing merino wool's natural performance for unbeatable warmth and durability. With a 35% improvement in thermal efficiency and 85% increase in elasticity, this ultra-lightweight fabric is perfect for any adventure in cool or cold conditions.
The Solution 150 Baselayer Crew is perfect for mountain activities with its NuYarn stretch merino wool that provides warmth, quick drying, and odor resistance. Flatlock stitching, shoulder panel, and thumb-holes add comfort and functionality.
There’s nothing quite like slipping into your beloved cozy sweater and snuggling up by the crackling fire. Made of winter-ready materials like merino wool, cashmere and alpaca, wool sweaters exude a sophisticated charm when paired with a skirt and tights, but are just as versatile when worn with jeans and loafers. These fabrics are renowned for its softness, warmth, and timeless style – making it a staple in your winter wardrobe for years to come.
Patagonia Women's Recycled Cashmere Turtleneck
Patagonia's Recycled Cashmere Turtleneck features yarn that’s made from preconsumer cashmere waste that’s sorted, mechanically broken down and spun into new yarn.
The Rossignol Vintage Turtleneck Sweater, crafted with merino and cashmere, brings a chic touch to your après-ski ensemble. Cozy yet stylish, it's perfect for exploring cobblestone streets or any adventure.
Adventure, work, and exploration. This wool-cashmere blend sweater offers luxurious comfort. Adjustable wrap-around tie for the perfect fit on all your journeys.
Indulge in the soft, cozy luxury of our Wool-Cashmere 2.0 blend. Perfect for commuting, work or travels, this improved yarn is now machine washable and naturally warming. Say goodbye to pilling, hello adventure.
The Fishline Sweater, crafted from pure merino wool, is a timeless and versatile piece for your winter adventures. Breathable and odor-resistant, it's perfect for the planet and your active lifestyle. Made to last.
The Costa, made from alpaca fur blend, is PAKA's warmest sweater for your adventures. City streets, sandy shores, and snowy peaks - you'll be cozy everywhere.
A fleece midlayer jacket is perfect for cold weather activities. It provides warmth and breathability while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. With options like full-zip jackets, hoodies, and vests, there’s a style for everyone. Fleece is also moisture-wicking, keeping you dry during intense activities. Whether skiing or snowboarding, a fleece midlayer is a practical choice to stay warm and comfortable.
Black Diamond Women's Coefficient LT Hybrid Hoody
The Coefficient LT Hybrid Hoody is a flexible, lightweight option for high energy activities. With added Primaloft insulation and Polartec® Power Grid® fleece, it offers warmth and breathability. Includes a zippered chest pocket and slim cut for easy layering.
Karuishi® stretch fleece creates a smooth, resilient surface and warm interior for a half zip that wicks and breathes during high-intensity mountain workouts. Integrated four-way stretch ensures comfort mile after mile.
The Houdini design team aims for timelessness with the Power Houdi, available since 2003 in 14 colors. Made of durable and cozy Polartec® fabric, it's versatile for skiing, climbing, or everyday wear with extended sleeves, thumb loops, and a high collar.
Mammut's light performance fleece keeps you warm without adding bulk. Made with breathable Polartec® Power Grid™ fabric, it's perfect for outdoor activities. Lightweight, soft, and easy to layer for year-round comfort.
Rossignol's Aerial Full-Zip Fleece provides midweight warmth for layering under a jacket or wearing alone during Nordic skiing and hiking. Its soft, stretchy construction allows for natural movement.
Patagonia's R1® Air Zip-Neck is a recycled polyester fleece, perfect for cold, high-exertion activities. Breathable and quick-drying with a comfortable, Fair Trade Certified™ design.
For any traveler, comfortable loungewear is a must, especially for long flights. To achieve a comfortable yet put-together look at the airport, try opting for a matching monochromatic set. A pair of white sneakers, baseball cap, and long coat thrown over either of these sets from Buck Mason will give you an effortless airport style in no time.
Buck Mason Vintage Interloop Oversized Crew
Buck Mason's Venice Wash gives a vintage vibe with garment dyeing and enzyme rinsing. The 290 GSM French terry sweatshirt has a "Dorito" insert for shape, drop shoulders, and ribbing. Pair it with Interloop pants or shorts for an adventure-ready ensemble.
Buck Mason's Venice Wash sweatpants are ready for anything. The garment dyeing and enzyme rinsing create a unique look, while the fit keeps you comfy and stylish from couch to coffee run. Adventure awaits.
Stio's Turpin Fleece Funnel Neck, made with recycled microfleece, adds a cozy yet sophisticated touch to any chilly day. Its loose funnel collar and thumbhole cuffs give it a versatile style perfect for outdoor adventures or weekends at home.
For active mountain dwellers, Stio's Turpin Fleece Pants are essential for downtime. Made with REPREVE® recycled fiber, they offer comfort and style for post-adventure relaxation. Featuring a wide waistband, slim fit, and convenient pocket for on-the-go essentials.
Don’t let a drop in temperature discourage you from wearing dresses this season. In fact, there are plenty of simple dress options that can be paired with tights or tall boots to keep you warm while still looking stylish. Check out some of our favorite styles for the cooler weather, including long-sleeved turtle necks, and cozy sweater dresses. Pack any of these options for your next trip and you’ll be ready for any fancy dinners, parties, or other dressed-up occasions.
Houdini The Square Skirt
Sometimes you have to think new to solve old problems. How do you shelter yourself from unexpected weather when you are out and about? Houdini wanted to make a garment that you can throw on and off without effort, light enough to always bring in your pack and still shelter you like a pair of rain pants. The Square is the answer.
A stylish and streamlined pair of pants, such as these from Toad&Co and Buck Mason, can easily go from work to a night out. Dress them up with a pair of loafers or keep it casual with a simple white sneaker – either way, you’ll be ready for anything.
Toad&Co Chaka Wide Leg Pant
A fan favorite for good reason. With a wide, flowy leg and ruched elastic waistband, they are ready for meetings or meanders around town without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.
Adventure-ready high-waisted pant, 29" inseam. Made from durable 8.2 oz. cotton twill with a military-style Hollywood waistband for a seamless fit. Features quarter top pockets, back welt pockets, and a corozo button fly. Garment-dyed and washed for a lived-in feel.
Take on any journey in these durable, 27"" cotton herringbone pants. An elastic waistband and adjustable drawcord allow for a customizable fit, while flat felled seams ensure long-lasting wear. Features front and back pockets, and adjustable ankle tabs for a tapered look. Ready for adventure with lived-in feel.
When I’m not wearing my comfy loungewear set, you’ll most likely find me in my trusty black leggings. But during this season, I switch them out for a thicker and warmer pair of winter leggings. These are usually made with a cozy material like fleece, providing extra insulation for those freezing, snowy days. Thermal leggings are especially useful for outdoor winter activities like skiing or snowboarding, but they’re also perfect for snuggling up in a cabin – consider them your new best friend for the winter season.
Black Diamond Women's Session Tights
The versatile Session Legging is made with lightweight, stretchy Nylon Interlock Knit for breathability and quick-drying. Features a wide waistband lined with powermesh, inner thigh gusset, and mid-rise fit for comfort during active pursuits.
Conquer the cold with Stio's performance merino baselayer. Moisture-wicking and made with PeakWool™ fabric for ultimate comfort and range of motion during mountain adventures.
Soft and warm midweight base layer tights in 100% merino wool. Designed for alpine skiing, hiking in cold conditions or any wintertime activity where it’s essential to stay warm and dry.
Light and soft women's base layer tights in 100% merino wool that will keep you warm and comfy all year around. Perfect for high pulse activities like running, hiking or ski touring when you need warmth but want to avoid overheating.
Never underestimate the usefulness of a compact puffer jacket. These designs from Stio, Rossignol and Patagonia may appear thin and lightweight, but they offer an impressive amount of warmth. The best feature? They can be easily compressed into a small bag, making them essential for travelers with limited packing space. Whether you’re heading to a warmer climate or need to bring multiple coats, these packable jackets are a must-have.
Black Diamond Women's Approach Down Hoody
The Approach Down Hoody is perfect for layering on multi-pitch rock or alpine missions. Its lightweight, PFC-free DWR shell and 800-fill down insulation provide warmth and weather resistance. Stuffs into chest pocket for easy transport.
Adventure-ready, Patagonia's Down Sweater Hoody packs a punch. Made with Recycled Nylon to fight ocean pollution and filled with 800-fill-power Responsible Down for ethical sourcing. Push boundaries, protect the planet.
Inspired by the mountains, this women's hooded jacket from Rossignol boasts their iconic alpine heritage and bold tricolor accents. With lightweight synthetic insulation, it keeps you cozy without weighing you down. Adventure-ready style for every day.
Stay warm and light with Mammut's Taiss IN Hooded Jacket. The ultralight nylon and 900 cuin fill power down provide exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, while strategic synthetic filling adds reinforcement. A versatile must-have for any mountain adventure.
Adventure-ready packable down hoodie with premium loft and weather-resistant ripstop. Halo-adjust hood warms outdoor escapes. Lightweight, warm, and versatile for any adventure. Stay cozy on cold mornings in camp or mountain town chills.
A sturdy pair of boots is a winter essential, no matter your style. Whether you prefer a sleek option to elevate an outfit, a durable boot for rough terrain, or a cozy shearling-lined choice for extra chilly days, we have something for everyone. While boots may not be the most compact shoe in your wardrobe (try wearing them on the plane if possible), they are always a worthwhile investment!
Forsake Sofia Lace Women's Waterproof Outdoor Boot
Forsake's Sofia Lace boot: rugged for city trails, polished for work. But don't be fooled by its looks – it's waterproof with Memory Foam footbed and Peak-to-Pavement® sole for any adventure.
Forsake Lucie Chelsea Women's Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker Boot
Forsake's Lucie Chelsea combines sleek style with rugged functionality. A waterproof membrane and versatile outsole make it perfect for any adventure, in the city or off the beaten path.
Rossignol's women's Resort Waterproof Shoes are chic, waterproof, and versatile for après-ski. With a breathable membrane, grippy outsole, and easy pull-on design, they're perfect for any weather.
For après-ski and daily outings, the Rossignol Resort Light Shoes showcase your mountain love with a chic light brown upper. The injected EVA midsole and grippy rubber outsole provide comfort and stability.
One item we never forget to pack, no matter where we’re headed: a timeless white sneaker. These comfortable options from Allbirds, Lems and Rossignol will match any outfit you bring along in your carry-on, whether it’s casual jeans or slacks, leggings, or even a dress. With all the walking you’ll do exploring a new city (and likely racking up 20,000 steps or more), a reliable and blister-free sneaker is a must. The Allbirds Wool Runner 2 sneakers have been my go-to for countless trips, from bustling city tours to cozy winter getaways and sunny beach resorts.
Allbirds Women's Wool Runner 2
The new Wool Runner 2 offers a comfortable and stylish design. Made with ZQ Merino Wool, it's soft enough to wear all day and still not want to take off.
Allbird's lightweight sneaker made from eco-friendly eucalyptus fiber is perfect for walking and everyday wear, keeping you comfortable in any weather.
Allbirds's high top is made with water-repellent ZQ Merino wool for cozy, dry feet. Perfect for walking with traction and durable finish to prevent soggy shoes.
Embrace mountain spirit in these Rossignol Heritage white sneakers. Featuring soft suede and a tricolor rooster emblem, they offer comfort for city strolls or village adventures.
The Primal 2 is the OG of the Lems line, with a wide toe box and minimalist design perfect for everyday wear. Lightweight at 6.9oz, it keeps you grounded and comfortable all day long.
Skyblue Featured Video: Stio’s Mountain Perspectives: Keely Kelleher
What happens when women and girls get to learn from mentors like them on the mountain? Grit and perseverance. Taking hard falls—and getting back up again. Which is exactly why Keely Kelleher founded her all-female camp on Mt. Hood—not only to teach girls ski racing, but to create the next generation of mentors.
