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Items that serve multiple purposes are great for travel. Any one thing that saves you from packing two things means more room in your bag. You’ll have less weight to carry around, and fewer things to worry about losing. Plus, you might even be able to pack a smaller backpack or suitcase.
This is especially true for clothing since that’s generally what makes up the bulk of your packing list. Convertible travel clothing can be worn in several different ways, which means you can pack one piece instead of two or three… or twenty!
Below are some of the best convertible travel clothing items for women we’ve been able to find- some of which we’ve had the pleasure of reviewing (others we are still working on acquiring).
Is Convertible Travel Clothing WORTH IT?
You be the judge. Watch this video to see how one convertible clothing item can instantly multiply your outfit options.
Convertible Travel Clothing – Wraps, Tops & Dresses
Sometimes advertised as cardigans, dresses, or tops, these clothing items are so much more than that – they’re essentially magical items that can be worn in many different ways: dresses, skirts, shirts, cardigans, and scarves.
That way you can pack one piece of clothing that you can wear for many different occasions from casual to formal.
Although they come with somewhat high price tags, when you consider how many different outfits you’re getting from just one item, I think you’ll agree that it’s well worth a few extra bucks.
1. The Encircled Chrysalis Cardi
The Chrysalis Cardi by Encircled is essentially a circle scarf, but some strategically placed snaps transform the item into a cardigan, a dress, a skirt, a wrap, and more. The different styles allow you to wear the Cardi in both casual and dressy situations. There are so many uses for this one item.
Caroline has worn hers to weddings, on airplanes, and everything in between. She’s even come up with a few of her own styles.
The Chrysalis Cardi comes in various sizes, including petite and the new maxi (plus-size) version. I own the petite version, and I’m glad that I decided to go this route because it hits me at my knees while the normal size would be super long and make my short legs look even shorter (FYI I’m about 5’3″).
Personally, I often wear it as a scarf because, besides looking good, it is easily transformed into a smart-looking cardi or wrap should the chill pick up. I loved traveling with it because I never had to worry about not having something smart to wear for nicer events.
The fabric (they are predominantly made of modal) drapes beautifully, but it’s not the fastest drying or the lightest. This item is best used for travel when it will be worn often, not packed on travel days, and not when spending lots of time in the great outdoors.
2. The Evolve Top
Another great item from Encircled, the Evolve Top can be worn in multiple ways to take you from one situation to the next.
By using hidden snaps it can be worn as a tank top on warm days. For a little more coverage, the sleeves come down to a few different lengths. The top is also reversible so you can have a draping neckline in either the front or the back depending on which way you wear it.
I have this top and have worn it quite regularly to both casual and dressy events. Worn with the drape in the back, some great slacks, and heels, it’s something worthy of a cocktail event. Paired with leggings, it’s ready for yoga.
My one regret is not getting it in a different color as black is not something I enjoy wearing every day. Also, made of the modal that Encircled loves, it takes a bit longer to dry than I would prefer for travel clothing.
Encircled also created the Revolve Dress which is worth checking out since it offers a dress, tunic, or top in one garment.
3. Helene Clarkson Nadi Wrap
The Nadi Wrap is a rectangular piece of fabric with rows of buttons along the sides. It can be worn as a scarf, poncho, skirt, top, and more. The material is great for travel because it resists wrinkles and dries fast.
It is a simple garment but can look quite dressy and takes up very little space to pack. Helene Clarkson also makes a variety of other high-quality, versatile items for the urban traveler, including many that are reversible.
- Read how to use these first 3 items plus a pair of Helene Clarkson reversible pants to make 8 unique travel outfits.
4. Elesk Apparel Evolution Cardigan
The Elesk Apparel Evolution Cardigan is a modern twist on a wardrobe staple. Why bring a regular cardigan with you on your travels that only serves one purpose, when you can bring the Evolution Cardigan which can be worn in over 30 ways? This includes multiple scarves, shirts, and cover-ups with the help of two discreet snaps! This would also make a great layering piece to add some variety to your outfits without packing more clothes.
This cardigan is made from a bamboo rayon spandex blend. While this material is not the most quick-drying, it is antibacterial, breathable, and moisture-wicking which means you hopefully won’t need to wash it often (or at all) during your trip.
5. Birch & Grace Short Top
Coming in at a lower price point, the Birch & Grace Short Top can be worn in at least 18 ways including as a jacket, shrug, cape, vest, and multiple tops. This design is a bit on the simpler side compared to an item like the Chrysalis Cardi, but we like that it seamlessly transforms between styles without any drama.
Keep in mind that it is lightweight, so it won’t provide much warmth. Each one is handmade by women in Indonesia following the principles of Fair Trade. One size fits XS to 3XL.
6. Infinity Wrap Dress
You can’t go wrong with an infinity wrap skirt or dress! This item of convertible travel clothing will be a travel staple for years to come because it is just so easy to travel with and style. In fact, it was one of the very first articles I ever put on Her Packing List. This versatile piece can be worn as a dress, a skirt, or a top in so many different ways! Your imagination really is the limit with this one!
You can often buy these along your travels and they come in many different colors and patterns to suit any style.
7. Diane Kroe Origami Travel Dress
An asymmetrically cut dress with batwing sleeves and a hidden snap detail that can be styled into various dresses, skirts, and tops. Yes, please! There are multiple colors and fabrics to choose from, including a travel jersey that is environmentally friendly, fast-drying, and breathable.
If this style doesn’t work for you, Diane Kroe has many other versatile and travel-ready tops, pants, and dresses to choose from. All of their products are available in sizes up to 20.
8. Maxi Dress / Skirt
If you’re not looking for anything fancy, your standard run-of-the-mill maxi dress or skirt will be a nice multipurpose addition to your travel wardrobe. Shoot for one with a stretchy top so that it will work around the waist and all areas of the torso.
9. Aday That’s a Wrap Top
The Aday That’s a Wrap Top is five shirts in one thanks to secret snaps that can be tied, draped, and snapped in multiple ways.
The Technical Silk fabric is high-stretch, drapes like silk, and is soft to the touch. Plus, it’s quick-drying, breathable, wrinkle-free and UPF 50+.
Convertible Travel Pants
1. Zip-off Pants
Well-known throughout the travel world, those pants that zip off into shorts aren’t always the most attractive article of clothing you’ll come across. But if you find the right pair, ones that fit you like normal pants, they can be a helpful addition to your travel wardrobe especially when adventuring outdoors and to more rugged destinations.
By packing these pants, you’ll have one piece of clothing that can serve as both pants and shorts. Some convertible travel pants have zips or buttons that let you turn the pants into capris, so you’d have three different uses for these pants depending on the weather.
Others only change into capris, but the usefulness is still there.The trick is to make sure the pants are comfortable on you. If they have an awkward fit, you may not end up wearing them at all, and they’ll end up taking up precious space in your bag. Our best advice would be to try before you buy and then to wear them around before you leave. If you can do that, then the pants will make sense packing.
2. Diane Kroe Pocket Pants
The Diane Kroe Pocket Pants transform from wide-leg pants to dressy joggers all with the help of a hidden snap. The deep pockets and comfy high waistband are just the start of the reasons you will love these convertible travel pants.
They are a great addition to your travel wardrobe for multiple weather conditions and easily transform from casual to dressy, making them super versatile. The polyester spandex fabric blend is easy to care for, doesn’t wrinkle, and drapes beautifully.
Reversible Travel Clothing
Reversible clothing is a new addition to Her Packing List after discovering the Splice Clothing brand and all their amazing reversible items. We’re including reversible clothing in our convertible travel clothing list because it is technically multi-way clothing that converts looks (but the looks are colors).
Learn more about my experience with Splice Clothing here.
1. Splice Clothing’s Jaisalmer Reversible 4-Way Tunic
The Jaisalmer Reversible 4-Way Tunic from Splice Clothing is one of my favorites that I wear both when traveling and regularly in my normal life. Such a win!
Not only does this tunic offer a blue and green version, but you can also switch it back to front for either a v-neck or boat-neck look. It’s a super versatile tunic that I have layered in cool weather and worn alone on warmer days.
2. Splice Clothing’s Dubai Reversible Snap-up Top
Made completely of cooling lyocell, the Dubai Reversible Snap-up Top is a long-sleeve, button-up shirt that goes from gray to black. It’s a lightweight top that feels amazing and works perfectly as a layer in warmer weather!
Here are some other reversible travel clothing options:
3. Helene Clarkson Aro Reversible Bootcut Pant
Not only are there tops that are reversible, but there are actually travel pants that are reversible as well. Most travelers don’t want to waste space in their backpacks packing multiple pairs of bulky pants. Luckily, with the Helene Clarkson Aro Reversible Bootcut Pants, you will have two pants options in one!
Choose between a solid black or a burgundy print for two completely different looks. To make things even better, the comfortable elastic waistband is easy to wear and ideal for all-day comfort plus the design is super flattering and resists sagging. They are made from a combination of cotton, polyester, and spandex.
4. Helene Clarkson Billy 4 Way Reversible Top
Not only is the Helene Clarkson Billy Top reversible in color, but the neckline is also reversible which gives you four outfit options from one shirt. You can wear the neckline in either a classic V or crewneck and choose between a solid black color or a black and gold print.
It is made from a combination of polyester and spandex.
If these two Helene Clarkson pieces aren’t your cup of tea, there are many more reversible travel clothing pieces on their website.
5. Wayre Roma Reversible Wrap Dress
Not only is a wrap dress a great option for traveling because it is so comfortable and versatile, but the Wayre Roma Reversible Wrap Dress can worn with either a v-neck or straight neck depending on which way you wear it. Plus it comes in lots of fun colors and prints and has a size range from XXS to XXXL.
While this dress is on the pricier side, it is stink, wrinkle, and spill-proof and it is ethically made from eco-friendly post-consumer recycled plastic. You might think this makes the material scratchy but it actually has a silk-like feel.
And it has two zippered side pockets and a hidden pocket perfect for storing your valuables. We LOVE pockets, especially if you’re traveling handbag-free.
Versatile Clothing That Doesn’t Convert
Some clothing doesn’t physically change like the zip-off pants or the Encircled Cardi, but they can be worn in dressy or casual settings depending on what else you wear. By packing clothes like this, you can use the same item for multiple situations.
Look for simple items that are comfortable and don’t automatically scream “gym wear.”
With the right cut and style, a pair of comfy black pants (like Encircled’s Dressy Sweatpants) can be worn both on a long bus ride and out to dinner dressed up with a cute top and shoes to make the look a little fancier.
A solid-colored top can be worn with jeans to go sightseeing or with a skirt and a fun necklace for a night on the town.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Convertible Travel Clothing
While there are so many benefits to convertible travel clothing, it’s important to evaluate other factors as well before deciding to invest in an item before your trip. Things like the fabric and your trip style come into play, as fancy, slow-drying pieces won’t be good for your outdoor hiking adventure.
Don’t be swayed into buying a convertible item just because it’s convertible, especially if it has a high price tag. Check out these other factors to consider first.
Fabric Quality and Durability
Fabric is so important when it comes to travel clothing. Ideally, you want something durable, quick-drying, temperature-regulating, and easy to care for. Certain fabrics are better than others for travel.
For example, while cotton is comfortable and breathable it doesn’t wick moisture well, takes long to dry, and wrinkles easily. All fabrics have their pros and cons but you would be better off choosing something made of merino wool, bamboo, or tencel.
Comfort and Fit
While an item of convertible travel clothing may technically check all the boxes, if it’s not comfortable and doesn’t fit you well, you’re not going to feel confident enough to wear it and it is just going to take up valuable space in your bag.
And if you do end up wearing it, you may be uncomfortable all day. Rather leave that convertible item behind and bring something versatile that you love with you instead.
Versatility
Make sure the convertible clothing item you buy is versatile. While you may think that because something can be worn in 30+ ways it instantly makes it versatile, that may not be the case.
Before you invest make sure the item can be worn and adapted to different climates and activities.
Style Preferences
There’s no point buying a dress that can be worn 10 ways if you absolutely never wear dresses. Rather look for some reversible pants instead. Remember, if you don’t wear something in your normal everyday life, you’re probably not going to wear it traveling either.
What’s your favorite item of convertible travel clothing? Do you have clothes that can be worn in multiple ways? Share them in the comments below so we can add them to our list!
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