Carry-On_Couture on LTK

Carry-On_Couture

These are the pieces I’d pack if I could have a “do-over” for my hot humid trip to Australia. Trust me on these lightweight airy pieces for your upcoming summer travels.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

These are the pieces I’d pack if I could have a “do-over” for my hot humid trip to Australia. Trust me on these lightweight airy pieces for your upcoming summer travels. LTKOver40 LTKTravel

Share:

Shop this post

Paid links

Rosa Halter Linen Midi Dress-Burnt Orange | Boden (US)

Poplin Wrapped Midi Shirtdress | Banana Republic Factory

Poplin Gathered-Neck Midi Dress | Banana Republic Factory

Paneled Cotton Button-Up Midi Dress | Nordstrom

Aly 100% European Linen Puff-Sleeve Blouse | Anthropologie (US)

Cotton Gauze Smocked-Waist Peplum Top | Gap (US)

Elastic Scoop-Neck Top | Banana Republic Factory

The Somerset Strapless Blouse | Anthropologie (US)

CruiseLinen™ Lodge Pant | Aritzia

100% European Linen Pants | Quince

The Pull-On Wide-Leg Ankle Pant in Embroidered Poplin | Banana Republic (US)

Colette European Linen Stretch Wide Leg Pants | Anthropologie (US)

Mid-Rise Kick-Flare Linen Ankle Pant | Banana Republic (US)

More from

Carry-On_Couture

How to Pack for Spring Travel (Without Starting from Scratch)

Packing gets easier when you stop starting over.

Start with a small set of spring staples—pieces that mix well, layer easily, and already work for you. That’s your foundation.

From there, you don’t rebuild. You just adjust.

In this post, I used the same base and added a few pieces each time:
• European City
• Coastal Town
• Countryside Retreat

Same staples. Different feel.

A few thoughtful additions can shift your outfits to match the trip—without rethinking everything.

⸻

That’s what makes packing simpler (and honestly, more enjoyable).

Faves

March Travel Favorites: Your Most Clicked Items…

It’s so much fun for me to see the items you loved most each month.

The crossbody purse is making a third appearance on the favorites list…three months in a row!

Thank you for supporting my page and shopping my links. I love creating content for you to help make your travels a little easier.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

This travel capsule wardrobe was curated for Ireland in spring, with cool, damp days, frequent misty rain, and crisp evenings.

Expect daytime highs: mid-40s°F to high-50s°F. Evenings: low-40s°F. Wind and moisture make it feel cooler, so layering is key.

This capsule focuses on warmth, weather resistance, and pieces that still feel put together—not overly outdoorsy.

Here’s your packing list for Ireland in spring:
• Waterproof raincoat
• Packable down jacket
• 3 sweaters
• 1 merino Henley
• 1 button-down (wear alone or layered)
• 2 ponte ankle pants (quick-drying + practical for rain)
• 1 straight leg denim (for warmth)
• 2 scarves
• Hat
• Waterproof sneakers + waterproof boots (worth the investment)
• Crossbody bag

Everything mixes and matches into more than 15 outfits, and the best part—it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

Not headed to Ireland? This capsule also works for Scotland, London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and the Pacific Northwest in spring.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

Not all totes are created equal — and if you've ever lugged an oversized one onto a flight only to discover it doesn't fit under the seat, you know exactly what I mean.

These four actually fit.

The Calpak Luka, the MZ Wallace Jimmy, the MZ Wallace Jimmy Deluxe, and the Think Royln Voyager are all sized to slide under the seat in front of you — which means your carry-on stays in the overhead, and everything you actually need mid-flight is right at your feet.

I see too many "travel totes" that are enormous. Great for the aesthetic, useless for under the seat. These definitely aren't that…and they’re gorgeous!

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

I’m always on the lookout for cool, packable summer dresses…and I snap them up as soon as find them! Cute styles fly out the door every summer season and I don’t want to miss out on the ones I love.

These three dresses are exactly the styles I always look for in a summer travel dress: cute, comfortable, cool, and PACKABLE! (Not bulky and fabric that won’t wrinkle too badly).

Take my advice, start your summer dresses shopping now. You’ll thank me later!

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

This travel capsule wardrobe was curated for Charleston in spring, with mild mornings, warm afternoons, and evenings that feel soft and slightly humid.

Expect daytime highs: low-70s°F to low-80s°F. Evenings: low-60s°F to upper-60s°F. Spring in Charleston brings a touch of humidity and plenty of sunshine, so breathable fabrics are key. You won’t need heavy layers, but you will want light pieces that can adapt as temperatures shift throughout the day.

I chose breathable tops, linen bottoms, and easy dresses that transition from daytime exploring to dinner. A lightweight cardigan works for cooler mornings or air-conditioned spaces, while footwear stays practical but polished—comfortable enough for walking cobblestone streets, but still appropriate for lunch or a nicer evening out.

Here’s your packing list for Charleston in spring:
4 tops
2 bottoms
1 skirt
2 dresses
1 lightweight cardigan
(Clothing from JCREW)

2 shoes (from Donald Pliner)

Accessories

Everything mixes and matches into more than 14 outfits, and the best part—it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

Not headed to Charleston? This capsule also works for Savannah in spring, coastal Florida towns like St. Augustine, California destinations like Santa Barbara or San Diego, or Southern cities like New Orleans—anywhere with warm spring temperatures, light humidity, and a relaxed but polished vibe.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

A good travel sneaker does more work than any other shoe in your bag.

It handles the long days — the miles, the cobblestones, the full itineraries. It goes with your jeans and rousers. Chosen well, it even works with your casual dresses and skirts.

It's the first shoe I choose when I start building a capsule and the last shoe I'm wearing on the flight home.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

This travel capsule wardrobe was curated for the South of France in late spring, with warm afternoons, cooler mornings, and evenings that soften with a light coastal breeze.

Expect daytime highs: low-70s°F to low-80s°F. Evenings: low-60s°F to upper-60s°F. Late spring in the South of France is typically dry to moderately humid, with strong sun during the day but noticeable cooling in the evenings—so breathable fabrics and light layers are key.

Here’s your packing list for the South of France in late spring:
4 tops
2 bottoms
3 dresses
1 lightweight cardigan
(Clothes: Boden)

3 shoes - sneakers + casual sandal + dressy-ish sandal (Shoes: Donald Pliner)

Everything mixes and matches into more than 11 outfits, and the best part—it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

Not headed to the South of France? This capsule also works beautifully for coastal California (Santa Barbara, Carmel, Napa), Portugal (Lisbon or the Algarve), northern Italy (Tuscany or Lake Como), or the Greek islands in shoulder season—anywhere with warm days, mild evenings, and a relaxed but polished feel.

⭐️ My travel capsules are created using research, personal travel experience, and my own style preferences. I do my best to account for weather and real-life travel needs, but every trip is different. Use these as a fun starting point, not rigid rules. Take what works, leave what doesn’t, and make it your own.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

So much interest in my orange pants from last fall!

At the time, they were no longer available, but now you
are in luck!

A very similar color is now available! Don’t wait if you love this color. They will sell fast!

What to Pack for Santa Barbara in Spring

This travel capsule wardrobe was built for Santa Barbara in spring, with cool mornings, comfortably warm afternoons, and evenings that bring signature ocean breezes.

Expect daytime highs: mid-60s°F to mid-70s°F. Evenings: mid-50s°F to low-60s°F. Spring in Santa Barbara is dry and mild, so you won’t need heavy layers, but you will want pieces that can easily adapt from sunny afternoons to breezy evenings.

I chose breathable tops, lightweight bottoms, and easy dresses that transition from daytime to dinner. A light denim jacket is perfect for mornings and evenings, while footwear stays practical but polished—comfortable enough for walking, but still appropriate for lunch or a nicer dinner.

Here’s your packing list for Santa Barbara in spring:
4 tops
2 bottoms
2 dresses
1 lightweight denim jacket
1 cardigan
(…all items from J.McLaughlin)

2 shoes (from Donald Pliner)

Everything mixes and matches into more than 8 outfits, and the best part—it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

Not headed to Santa Barbara? This capsule also works for Napa in spring, coastal California towns like Carmel or Laguna Beach, or resort destinations like Scottsdale or Palm Springs—anywhere with mild temperatures, low humidity, and a relaxed but polished vibe.

What I packed for Australia — in a carry-on.

My packing strategy is simple:

Start with shoes.
Plan outfit categories.
Choose pieces that mix easily.

For this trip my categories were:
• active
• sightseeing
• casual dinners

That structure keeps the capsule flexible without overpacking.

Save this if you want a simple way to plan your next travel wardrobe.

Do you plan outfits for a trip — or pack by category like this?

⚠️ The travel day pants are a true gem and one of my favorite pairs for versatility - they look good casual or dressed up, BUT…they are on the thicker side and are not the best pants for hot destinations.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

This is my 5-4-3-2-1 travel capsule formula for spring:

5 tops
4 bottoms
3 scarves
2 shoes
1 coat

Here’s why it works:

When every top pairs with every bottom, you remove decision fatigue before you even leave home.

Choosing just two shoes forces the rest of the capsule to stay cohesive.

Scarves create visual change without adding bulk.

And one neutral coat ties everything together.

The result?
20 outfit combinations that feel intentional — not repetitive.

This capsule is ideal for 55–75°F: cool mornings, warm afternoons, and evenings that call for a light layer.

It’s not about bringing less.
It’s about bringing pieces that work together.

When everything mixes and matches, getting dressed on your trip becomes the easiest part of the day.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

Let’s pack dresses.

If you have warm-weather travel coming up, it’s worth looking early.

The best summer dresses — the flattering silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and colors that feel right — tend to sell through quickly. By the time temperatures rise, sizing and length options are often limited.

I prefer to choose with time on my side. It gives me space to try things on, see how they layer, and decide what actually works for the trip.

A good travel dress should:
• Handle heat comfortably
• Work for walking and dinners
• Pack easily
• Be wearable more than once

If you have a spring or summer trip planned, now is a practical time to start looking.

February Travel Favorites: Your Most Clicked Items…

It’s so much fun for me to see the items you loved most each month.

The crossbody purse is making a third appearance on the favorites list…three months in a row!

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

What I Packed for Paris and Rome | Early February | 11 Days

Two travel days (same travel outfit there and back) with 9 days on the ground (arrival day counts as a travel day - I powered it out day one in my travel outift).

Expected weather, February 11-21
Daytime temperatures in the low to mid-50s°F, evenings dipping into the low-40s°F, with rain showers daily.

I packed with intention: repeatable pieces, natural fibers, and silhouettes that feel polished without sacrificing comfort.

The core wardrobe
4 Cashmere Sweaters
Naturally temperature-regulating and resistant to odor, ideal for rewearing.

2 Merino Long-Sleeve Tees:
Worn on their own or layered under sweaters as lightweight insulation

2 Pairs of Pants:
Dark wash denim for a clean, dressier look
A ponte knit pant that transitions easily from day to evening
Alternating between two pants was absolutely fine - the dark colors hid dirt. The fabrics were sturdy and held up through multiple wears. No one noticed (or cared) that I rewore the same pants.

Comfortable walking shoes only:
One Sneaker
One Waterproof Bootie

1 Insulated Waterproof Coat (paired with an umbrella) - I really wanted to bring my beautiful wool coat, but decided with the weather forecast for rain the entire trip, I’d regret not bringing my waterproof option. The insulatd liner is removeable which comes in handy for temperature shifts. (The raspberry color is no longer available, but it does come in 4 colors).

Pajamas, Underwear, Socks

Travel day, both directions:
Merino Sweater
Trouser Sweats - look elevated, but comfortable for long haul flight

Finishing pieces:
Gloves
Umbrella
Scarves to keep cozy and to camouflage rewears

⭐️ Comment “TRIP” and I’ll DM you the links! ⚠️ If you don’t receive them, please DM me, and I’ll resend (tech has been glitchy lately).
__________________

Hi! I’m Haley. I created Carry-On Couture to help you curate functional AND beautiful travel capsule wardrobes specifically designed for carry-on travel. Thank you for being here!

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

Let It Rain!

If you’ve been looking for a truly waterproof raincoat for spring and summer travel, these two are worth a look.

I’ve been rotating between:

Athleta Rainout Ridge Trench (mid-length)
• More coverage for cooler or wetter days
• Structured but still travel-friendly
• Truly waterproof
• Comes in 3 colors + regular, tall, and petite

LL Bean Cresta Stretch Rain Jacket (hip-length)
• Lightweight and easy to pack
• Truly waterproof (not just “water-resistant”)
• Comfortable stretch
• Comes in 5 colors + petite sizing

The creamy shades I’m wearing are especially good for spring and summer trips — they look elevated, photograph beautifully, and work with almost everything. (But they do show dirt…so wear carefully!)

If you’ve been thinking about a light-colored raincoat, don’t wait on these. These will sell out.

And one quick note: both are fully waterproof, not just water-resistant. That means sealed seams and real protection in steady rain.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise (February–April)

This travel capsule wardrobe was built for a Caribbean cruise during late winter/early spring, when days are hot, sunny, and spent between ports, pool decks, and excursions—and evenings stay warm but slightly dressier for onboard dining.

Expect daytime highs in the low-80s°F to upper-80s°F, with evenings in the low-70s°F. February through April is part of the dry season for most Caribbean destinations, with low humidity and minimal rain. I focused on lightweight, breathable fabrics, easy layers for air-conditioned spaces, and versatile pieces that work for shore days, sea days, and dinners without overpacking.

You’ll notice airy tanks and blouses, easy shorts and lightweight pants, and dresses that transition from daytime sightseeing to evening dining. A light cardigan is helpful for cool dining rooms and breezy decks. Footwear stays practical: comfortable walking shoes for ports, sandals for warm days, and a dressier pair for evenings.

Not headed on a Caribbean cruise? This capsule also works well for resort stays, coastal Mexico, the Florida Keys, Hawaii, or Mediterranean cruises—any warm-weather trip that mixes sightseeing, relaxation, and casual-to-dressy evenings. Everything mixes and matches into more than 15 outfits, and the best part — it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

Friday Fly-Day, my favorite day of the week, when we celebrate our love for travel and cute outfits!⁣⁣

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

My current bag and a new favorite: the Lo & Sons Rowledge 2.

If you’ve ever wished for a backpack that looks elevated instead of sporty, this is it. It’s polished and put-together, even when it’s fully packed.

What I love most:

It holds its structure, so it never looks sloppy or overstuffed.
It fits beautifully under the seat as a true personal item.
The removable insert is genius — keep it in for organization, take it out when you want more open space.
It has room for the essentials without encouraging overpacking, including a 13” laptop compartment.
And the nylon + leather details make it feel classic and upscale, not utilitarian.

If you like your carry-on setup to be practical and polished, this one is definitely worth a look.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

January Travel Favorites: Your Most Clicked Items…

It’s so much fun for me to see the items you loved most each month.

The crossbody purse is making a second appearance in the favorites list…two months in a row!

Thank you for supporting my page and shopping my links. I love creating content for you to help make your travels a little easier!

⭐️ Comment “Faves” and I’ll DM you the links! ⚠️ If you don’t receive them, please DM me and I’ll resend (tech can be glitchy.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

$My 5-4-3-2-1 Travel Capsule Wardrobe Method Adaptation for a 7-Day Trip A real carry-on capsule for a real life kind of trip. Visiting family. Casual days. Comfortable clothes. This is my 5-4-3-2-1 approach in practice. I packed 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 outer layers, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 more pair of shoes. (You see how I made the numbers work for me? I use This method as a framework and adjust it to the needs of the trip.) All of my tops and bottoms can be worn together creating a seemingly endless number of outfits. The black ponte knit pants are a staple. They don’t wrinkle and hold their shape, plus, they dress up or down making them one of the most versatile pieces in my capsule. The jeans may be on of the best dupes out there…they look like my favotrite designer brand at a fraction of the cost. These wide leg pants are the softest sweats but they sure look cute dressed up with flats and a cute top. Of course I like to add a little color and patterns to my neutral pieces. I chose my favorite softest cozy sweater, a sporty jacket for casual walks and gym runs, and the sweater blazer instantly elevates everything it’s paired with. How many outfits did I make? There are too many to count, but at least 30. And the best part…it all fit in my carry-on suitcase! (And of course I packed toiletries, underwear, pajamas, but I’ll spare you those details!) Just a few small strategies can make a big difference when you’re trying to pack lighter. #LTKOver40 #LTKTravel$

Friday Fly-Day, my favorite day of the week, when we celebrate our love for travel and cute outfits!⁣⁣

⭐️ Comment “Friday” and I’ll DM you the links! ⚠️ If you do not receive the links, please DM me and I will resend. Technology has been glitchy!
_______________

Hi, I’m Haley. I created Carry-On Couture to help you curate functional AND beautiful travel capsule wardrobes specifically designed for carry-on travel. Thank you for being here!

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

My most recent travel day outfit!

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

What to Pack for Costa Rica (February–April)

This 18+ outfit travel capsule wardrobe was built for Costa Rica’s dry season, when days are hot, sunny, and active—and evenings stay warm but casual.

Expect daytime highs in the mid-80s°F to low-90s°F, with nights in the low-70s°F. Rain is minimal in February and March, with a slightly higher chance of short showers in April. I focused on breathable, quick-dry fabrics, sun coverage, and pieces that work for beach days, light hiking, towns, and casual dinners without overpacking.

You’ll notice lightweight tanks and tees, easy shorts and cropped pants, and airy dresses that can handle heat without feeling fussy. A light rain shell is a smart choice for surprise showers or breezy boat days, and long-sleeve layers helps with sun protection and cooler mornings in higher elevations. Footwear stays practical: supportive sneakers or hikers, walkable water-friendly sandals for excursions.

Not headed to Costa Rica? This capsule also works well for Belize, Panama, southern Mexico, Hawaii, the Florida Keys, or the Caribbean—any warm destination where heat, humidity, and active days call for functional clothing that still looks pulled together. Here’s your packing list for Costa Rica:
➡️ 6 Tops: breathable tanks and tees + two lightweight long-sleeve
➡️ 4 Bottoms: quick-dry skorts + shorts + lightweight cropped pants
➡️ 2 Dresses: easy, heat-friendly styles
➡️ 2 Swim Sets appropriate for active days in the water
➡️ 1 Outer Layer: packable rain jacket
➡️ 2 Shoes: supportive sneakers/hikers, walkable water friendly sandals
➡️ Accessories: sun hat, sunglasses, lightweight tote, crossbody and backpack

Everything mixes and matches into more than 18 outfits, and the best part — it all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

⭐️ My travel capsules are created using research, personal travel experience, and my own style preferences. I do my best to account for weather and real-life travel needs, but every trip is different. Use these as a fun starting point, not rigid rules. Take what works, leave what doesn’t, and make it your own.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

It’s not too early to start shopping for your spring raincoat. (And you may even find some great sales on last year’s styles.)

I’ve learned over time not to wait on true seasonal staples. I tend to shop ahead, and it’s saved me from missing out more than once on the coat I want or a good sale!

This is my latest find, which I actually purchased back in November. I was looking for a raincoat that is truly waterproof, not just water-resistant.

➡️ What sold me on this style was the cinched waist. I like having some shape when possible, even in practical outerwear.

➡️ It also covers the bum, which is always a win.

➡️ This coat is a shell, so it’s best suited for warmer or mild climates. It’s intentionally slightly oversized, which makes it ideal for layering over sweaters or even a packable down jacket when temperatures dip.

➡️ It’s lightweight, breathable, wind-resistant, and easy to travel with. Exactly what I look for in a carry-on-friendly rain layer.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

What to Pack for a Warm-Weather Winter Getaway

I’ve had a lot of requests lately for warm-weather destinations this winter, so I put together this 12+ outfit travel capsule wardrobe with exactly that in mind. It’s designed for trips where the days are warm, the pace is relaxed, and you want outfits that feel comfortable, put-together, and easy to rewear without overpacking.

Think daytime highs in the mid-70s°F to low-80s°F, with evenings cooling slightly into the mid-60s°F to low-70s°F. I focused on breathable fabrics, mix-and-match tops and bottoms, comfortable walking shoes, and a few elevated pieces that transition easily from day to night. Lightweight layers, versatile shoes, and accessories do the heavy lifting here—so you can pack light without feeling limited.

This capsule works beautifully for Palm Springs, Scottsdale, Miami, Key West, Puerto Rico, Cabo, St. Lucia, Hawaii, or the Caribbean, as well as warm-weather international destinations like Mexico City, Cartagena, or the Greek Islands in winter. Anywhere with sunshine, great food, and a relaxed but put-together vibe. Here’s your packing list for a warm-weather winter escape:
➡️ 4 Tops: a lightweight blouse, a printed statement top, a fitted tee, and a breathable tank
➡️ 3 Bottoms: a linen pant, an easy skirt, and tailored shorts
➡️ 1 Dress: a versatile piece that works day or night
➡️ 1 Pantsuit
➡️ 1 Layer: a lightweight cardigan for evenings or travel days
➡️ 3 Shoes: a comfortable sneaker, an elevated sandal, and a dressier flat
➡️ Accessories: straw tote, crossbody bag, scarf, hat, and simple jewelry
➡️ 1 Swimsuit

Every piece mixes and matches into 12+ outfits — and the best part? It all fits in your carry-on suitcase.

⭐️ My travel capsules are created using research, personal travel experience, and my own style preferences. I do my best to account for weather and real-life travel needs, but every trip is different. Use these as a fun starting point, not rigid rules. Take what works, leave what doesn’t, and make it your own

It’s only January, but wool coats are selling out fast! Don’t miss your chance to get a great deal on these beautifully crafted wool and wool blend coats. (Other colors available!)

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40

Follow us
Podcast: More to Say
@shop.LTK
@LTK.home
@LTK.family
@LTK.europe
@LTK.brasil
@LTK.australia
@LTK.asia

Learn more
LTK
Become a Creator
Brand Platform
Newsroom
Company
Careers

Legal
Terms of Service
Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
Imprint
Do Not Sell
Patents

Support
Help Center
Site Map
Contact Us

© 2026 rewardStyle Inc.