What to pack for a chic city break
From café hopping and gallery tours, to rooftop cocktails at sunset and boutique shopping, a city adventure has it all. Do it in style with our stylish but practical wardrobe edit
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Oh, a city break. For the times when a beachside holiday or escape to the undisturbed countryside aren’t quite cutting it, and instead, buzzing streets, rich culture, quirky architecture and a high step count call. Whether UK-based or somewhere a little further flung like Paris, Milan, Seville, Marrakech or Copenhagen, there’s something inherently chic about a long weekend dans la ville.
While there is no strict code for what to pack for a city break, there most are certainly some practicalities to consider, non-negotiables to pack, looks to rock and heads to turn. Off to the French capital, aka the City of Love? Think sophisticated and slightly seductive styles, with a Breton striped shirt and beret thrown in for good measure. Visiting an Italian metropolis? Dress like a Roman goddess while roaming the cobbled streets in elegant, neutral ensembles, or if you’re heading somewhere a little chillier in the autumn, lean into classic warmer hues and layers that are both stylish and practical for market strolling and sundowners.
So, flights and hotel booked? Check. Long list of must-see sights and restaurants to experience? Check, check. Now it’s time to pack. And if you’re looking for some inspiration, we’re here to help you create the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe, featuring hard-working pieces that will take you from galleries in the day to smart dinners at night, while maximising suitcase space. We’ve also tapped the expertise from Jessica Rea Long, creative stylist at M&S, for her words of wisdom when jetting off to your city destination – and we suggest bookmarking this page now to use again and again.
Must-pack basics
Let’s start with the basics: jeans. Straight-cut, flared, barrel-legged, or mom style, a good ol’ pair of blue denim jeans will serve you from morning meanders to evening escapades on your city break. Wear with a white T-shirt and accessorise to your heart’s content for an effortlessly chic daytime look, or pair with a glamorous blouse to smarten up when evening cocktails beckon.
Bit too hot for jeans? Swap out for a pair of shorts or linen trousers for a breezy European look (just remember to pack your steamer). Tailored trousers are a sophisticated, sharp choice that look like you’ve made an effort and will ooze urban vibes – we recommend opting for a black shade to mix and match with different tops throughout your trip. We love a multitasker.
Which brings us to tops. A plain T-shirt is great to wear on repeat thanks to its versatility, and can be easily dolled up with a chunky necklace or silk scarf. Long suggests opting for a neutral palette (beige, creams and navies) “to allow each piece to work together seamlessly. This avoids the packing dilemma of mismatched outfits and saves precious suitcase space.” Strappy camis and sleeveless tanks will help you get that sun tan you’ve been dreaming of, while a crisp, tailored shirt or patterned blouse will sort you out for sultry evening sojourns.
A maxi dress is also always a good idea. Whether floaty and whimsical in a floral print, or a more fitted silhouette in neutrals, it’s great to dress up or down, and saves you from outfit overthinking. Wear with flats or trainers during the day for practicality purposes and swap out with heels for evening drinks. Long says: “A dress in an eye-catching colour or print can be a game-changer, choose a lightweight dress that takes minimal space in your suitcase.”
Then there are layers. Easy to forget when jetting off to hotter destinations but handy when the sun sets and there’s a late-night chill in the air. A knitted cardigan will work just as well with jeans and dresses; choose a solid block colour so it will work with most outfits. Long says, “Lightweight pieces that adapt to varying temperatures and activities are a must. I suggest packing a classic trench coat, ideal for layering over anything from wide-leg jeans to a floaty dress.”
Let’s talk about footwear
Whether powering from historic landmarks to cafes and bars or taking a more leisurely approach to your weekend in the city, you’ll be surprised how many steps you can clock up on a city break. Wearing the right footwear, therefore, isn’t just important, it’s a necessity. Of course, we’re not saying wear your running trainers with your polished city looks. We’re talking comfortable and functional, but with no compromise on style.
Start with a pair of classic white trainers. Highly versatile, they’ll go with long floaty dresses, denim and shorts alike while keeping you comfortable on your feet all day, and night, long. Flats such as ballet pumps and loafers are an equally good choice, both practical and preppy, as are a worn-in pair of sandals or a trusty pair of Birkenstocks.
Long says: “The secret lies in balancing style with practicality. I recommend packing classic loafers – these flats are perfect for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings. For a sportier look, classic white trainers are indispensable. They’re perfect for long days of exploring and can easily transition from day to night if paired with some linen trousers or a satin skirt.”
Of course, it wouldn't be a chic city break without a pair of heels. Whether a killer stilettos type of lady or a chunkier block heel fan, throw in a heel to master evening dressing. Play with colours and heights, just make sure not to have to walk too far…
Don’t forget accessories
Never underestimate the power of accessories. Whether a simple scarf, cute clutch or a touch of dazzling jewellery, a subtle addition can completely elevate your outfit – plus, they’re normally pretty lightweight, so they won’t overload your luggage.
Another great thing about accessories is that you can use them on repeat and in multiple different ways. Long says: “You can wear silk scarves as a necktie, in your hair, or tied around your bag for a pop of colour, or even as a belt, experimenting with accessories is a great way to refresh a classic outfit in your wardrobe."
Sunglasses should be top of your list, whether that’s an oversized or cat-eye style, or John Lennon-esque retro round ones. Not only will sunglasses protect your eyes, but they’ll also take your look from ordinary to diva in seconds.
Having the right handbag is also a game-changer, especially when you need to keep all of your belongings safe on busy high streets. Crossbody designs are best for pickpocketing prevention and practicality. Keep your purse, phone and lipstick secure with a zipped-up style and choose between slick black timeless leather iterations or something brightly hued for a pop of colour.
Jewellery-wise, why not experiment with different pieces? Go for classic styles like gold hoops, pearls and a simple chain for an off-duty, low-key look. Then go all out in the evening with some OTT designs. Long says, “A pair of statement earrings and a necklace can completely transform your look and can easily be packed in your handbag when flying."
Other accessories that won’t take up much room in your suitcase but can make all the difference to your outfits are hair pieces, like scrunchies and hairbands (also handy for warmer weather climes when your hair needs scarping away from your face), belts, scarves (as Long said, highly versatile), and hats. Whether that be wide-brimmed and floppy or a baseball cap, you’ll ooze city fashionista.
