Escape in Style: What to Wear for a City Break

Packing light for a city break can seem daunting, but with a capsule wardrobe and clever combinations, you can fit everything you need in your carry-on and still look stylish.

Content editor

Else Hutt

Woman wearing a brown and white geometric-print maxi dress with sunglasses and sandals

Woman wearing a white T-shirt, striped shirt, brown linen trousers with a striped jumper over her shoulders

The art of smart layering

The foundation of city-break style lies in versatile pieces that work overtime. Think lightweight pieces that can adapt to changing temperatures and activities throughout the day.

A throw-on knit is a city break essential. It's the perfect piece to layer over everything from wide leg trousers to a flowy dress. Choosing a neutral palette for your weekend wardrobe – beige, cream and brown – ensures every piece works together, while statement sunglasses add polish to even the most casual outfit. Look for pieces in fluid fabrics that don't crease too much in your luggage.

And while it may seem obvious, it's also important to dress for the weather you'll be experiencing. If you're visiting warmer climates, pack light and airy clothes, such as linen trousers. If you're visiting when it’s cold and rainy, think about jumpers and waterproof jackets.

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Woman wearing a yellow striped shirt with a matching skirt and brown ballet pumps

Making a statement

While practical pieces form the foundation, pack one show-stopping outfit that can transform your evening look. A two-piece set in an eye-catching colour takes up minimal suitcase space but delivers maximum impact. We love this pastel-hued shirt and skirt for spring dressing. The key is to pick versatile styles that can be mixed and matched with other key pieces, then dress them up or down with accessories.

Alternatively, a dress is a failsafe option for simple packing. To maximise ease, choose a neutral colour like black or white that will feel classic with every wear.

A cross-body bag with a removable strap transforms from a practical daytime companion to an elegant evening bag. Add a pair of statement earrings and a necklace, and you've got accessories covered for any occasion. Another versatile accessory to pack for your weekend is a silk scarf – use it as a necktie, in your hair or tie it around your bag.

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Woman wearing a brown and white geometric-print dress with brown sandals and a woven bag

Walk this way

Nothing ruins a city adventure faster than uncomfortable shoes. The secret is packing footwear that balances style with practicality. The golden rule? Every shoe should be pre-tested with a substantial walk before making it into your suitcase.

If you're heading somewhere warm, classic sandals are a great hybrid between comfort and style. These versatile flats work for both daytime exploration and evening dining. They look equally chic with jeans or dresses, while still being comfortable enough for all-day wear.

For a sportier feel, pack easy-to-style white trainers. They're ideal for long days of sightseeing and easily transition from casual to slightly dressier. If space allows, sleek ankle boots or kitten heels can elevate your evening outfits. And if heels aren't your style, ballet pumps are a great alternative.

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