Packing for Europe, especially during the elusive shoulder season, can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back! Shoulder season, which typically falls between spring (March-April) and fall (September-November), is the sweet spot right before or after peak tourist season. The perks? Fewer crowds, better deals, and more affordable adventures. The tricky part? Unpredictable weather! One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re dodging raindrops.

But guess what? With a smart strategy and a little help from Diane Kroe’s capsule wardrobe approach, you’ll be ready for anything the European skies throw at you. Whether you’re packing for a European adventure or simply looking to travel light, Diane’s multi-wear pieces are your secret weapon for effortless style. Let’s dive into her expert tips and transform that packing stress into a fun adventure!

Be sure to check out Diane’s full packing list at the end of the article for all her shoulder season essentials.

Diane’s secret to conquering her recent trip to France (hello, unpredictable weather!) was her versatile capsule wardrobe. Her trick? Multi-wear pieces that effortlessly combine to create endless outfit combinations. For her 10-day stay, Diane packed five bottoms, five tops, a dress, and a few accent pieces, and with a little mix-and-match magic, she ended up with over 100 outfit combinations!

Her foundation pieces, like the Travel Tights, Retro Jumper, One-for-All Top, and Wear Ever Dress, are designed to be worn in multiple ways—think tops that turn from sleeveless, to halter-top, to long sleeve, and skirts that double as dresses! By sticking to neutral dark colors like black, chocolate brown, navy, and grey, Diane made sure that every piece played nice with the rest of her wardrobe (and hid any mishaps like spilled ice cream!).

Layering is your best friend when it comes to shoulder season packing! Diane recommends accent pieces like scarves, cardigans, or jackets that complement your foundation items. A fun tip: choose prints that share a core color with your foundation pieces to ensure everything matches effortlessly. This not only adds style but also helps you stay cozy when the weather cools down unexpectedly.

Shoulder season’s unpredictable weather means you’ll need to prepare for rain, shine, or even snow. Pack a light raincoat, a sunhat, and water-resistant shoes to cover all your bases. Diane’s go-to for this? A sleek, packable rain jacket that looks chic no matter the forecast. Layer it over a Glacier Fleece Minkey Wrap or hoodie, and you'll have warmth for even the coldest days—the raincoat acts as a perfect insulator when temperatures drop.

Got special plans? Maybe a swim at that boutique hotel or a morning hike in the countryside? Activity pieces are your wardrobe's wildcard—perfect for those one-off adventures. Be sure to pack any items that aren't in your Foundation or Accent groups, like swimsuits or specialized gear. And don’t forget evening wear in case you're attending a destination wedding or other events—it's always good to be prepared!

No outfit is complete without a few stylish accessories! Think versatile shoes, a trusty crossbody bag, and statement jewelry that doesn’t take up too much space. Diane’s tip? Opt for multi-purpose items like sandals you can dress up for the evening or a scarf that doubles as a shawl for chilly nights. Add a Freedom Sleeve to add sleeves to other designs or a Freedom Pocket for hands-free activities—perfect for when you're on the go!

We all have that 'What if?' packing dilemma. What if it’s colder than expected? What if there’s an unexpected fancy dinner? Any 'What If' items that won’t fit in the carry-on, can go in the Packable Headrest, which can hold up to six extra pieces. Diane recommends keeping your 'What If' items to a minimum—just a few versatile pieces that will cover any surprises.

Ready to pack like a pro? Check out Diane’s shoulder season packing list below, complete with the actual colors and prints she chose for each piece, to take the guesswork out of your next European vacation.