Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, and deciding what to pack can be just as challenging. Some people plan their outfits day by day based on planned activities, while others pack versatile essentials they can mix and match. Personally, I take a bit of both approaches. I start by listing all the activities I have planned to ensure I bring everything I need, then select pieces that can be worn together or separately to maximize options and minimize luggage weight. If you know, you know!
Given the typically high summer temperatures, I prioritize airy and breathable fabrics like linen and cotton—absolute must-haves. For city strolls, I pack mini or midi dresses; one-piece outfits are my favorite because they’re so effortless! Additionally, I include shorts, trousers, and a maxi skirt for variety. Tops like shirts, tank tops, and tees are perfect for mixing and matching. A coordinating set, such as matching shorts and a shirt, offers versatility as you can wear them together or separately. For beach days, the aforementioned items are perfect, just add a swimsuit and perhaps a crochet cover-up. Comfort is key for footwear, so I’ll be bringing sandals and sneakers to navigate long days and many steps comfortably. Don’t forget sun protection essentials like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen!
For the perfect summer night outfit, a maxi dress is a must to look fabulous at least once during your trip. A nice set, such as a matching skirt and top, is also a great option. Pack a few stylish tops to pair with basic bottoms, like long, flowy trousers or a maxi skirt. A pair of shorts paired with a blouse can also work beautifully. Complete your look with some gold or pearl accessories, a chic clutch, and elegant sandals or flats, and you’re ready for a stylish evening.
For more inspiration, check out the 16 ultimate staples for European summer outfits!
1. The White Shirt
Let’s start with the white shirt, an absolute must-have for any summer wardrobe. Whether in linen or cotton, this piece is incredibly versatile and essential for your packing list. Wear it on its own, or layer it over a tee, tank top, or swimsuit for a chic, relaxed look. The beauty of a white shirt lies in its ability to pair effortlessly with any bottom, from shorts and trousers to skirts. The breathable fabric ensures you stay cool, while also offering protection from the sun’s rays. Perfect for both city strolls and beach outings, the white shirt is a staple that seamlessly transitions from day to night and casual to elegant, making it an indispensable addition to your summer attire.
2. A Lace Piece
(Image credit: @unchicleenmitacon)
A lace piece is an excellent option to pack for your summer getaway. Its lightweight and breathable nature make it perfect for hot temperatures, allowing air to circulate easily and keeping you cool. Whether you opt for a maxi skirt or a pair of long trousers, lace adds a touch of elegance and texture to your outfit. Pair it with an oversized top, like a relaxed shirt or a tee, for added coverage and a balanced look. The combination of delicate lace and a casual top creates a chic and effortless style that’s ideal for daytime adventures.
3. The Linen Trousers
The next must-pack item is a pair of linen trousers. Lightweight and breathable, linen trousers are perfect for staying cool on hot summer days. You can choose a neutral color like white, black, or baby blue for a classic look, or opt for a fun pop of color with shades like yellow, pink, or green. These trousers are incredibly versatile, pairing well with anything from a simple tank top or shirt for a laid-back daytime look, to a more sophisticated top for an elegant summer night outfit. I especially love how Cass Dimicco elevates a simple outfit by accessorizing with a scarf in the hair, sunglasses, and vintage-inspired earrings, creating a perfect old-money style that is both chic and timeless.
4. The Summer Mini Dress
The mini summer dress is another must-have and an effortlessly stylish addition to your suitcase. Perfect for city strolls, its short length allows your legs to stay cool and catch the summer breeze. To complete the look, just add a few accessories like gold jewelry, a basket bag, and comfortable sandals. This simple yet chic outfit is ideal for exploring new places while keeping you comfortable and fashionable.
5. The Short Set
(Image credit: @sarahtey_)
Speaking of effortless style, a short set is a must-have for your European summer vacation. Its versatility allows you to pair it with a swimsuit for a relaxed beach day or layer it with a tee or tank top for exploring the city. The color options are endless—choose from classic stripes, playful prints, or solid hues to suit your taste. For added flair, consider a crochet set to introduce some texture and a touch of bohemian charm to your outfit. This combination of comfort and style makes the short set an ideal choice for both laid-back and adventurous summer days.
6. The Oversized Printed Tee
(Image credit: @ferraroalice)
The oversized printed tee is a fantastic addition to your vacation wardrobe. Its relaxed fit ensures comfort and breathability, while vibrant colors and playful prints inject a fun, carefree vibe that’s perfect for summer. You can style it with a fitted satin, lace, or crochet skirt for a chic yet casual look, effortlessly balancing sophistication and ease. For a more laid-back approach, pair it with a bohemian skirt or shorts for an effortlessly comfortable and breezy outfit. This versatile piece adds a touch of personality to your summer ensembles, making it a go-to choice for both stylish and relaxed days.
7. The Satin Skirt
(Image credit: @thacianamesquita)
The satin skirt is an ideal addition to your summer vacation wardrobe due to its versatility and lightweight nature. Its delicate fabric is not only easy on your luggage but also ensures you stay cool, thanks to its flowy design that allows air to circulate effortlessly. Pair it with a simple tank or tee for a relaxed, casual look perfect for city adventures. For a more sophisticated touch, dress it up with an elegant off-the-shoulder top or a chic tube top for a stylish dinner out. With its ability to transition seamlessly from day to night, the satin skirt is a must-have piece that combines both practicality and elegance for your summer travels.
8. The Short
Shorts are another essential addition to your summer vacation wardrobe. Practical and comfortable, they are perfect for a range of daily activities, whether you’re exploring the city or relaxing at the beach. Their versatility allows them to be paired effortlessly with a swimsuit for a laid-back beach look or with a casual tee or tank top for daytime adventures. If you want to wear it for an evening outing, opt for a pair of shorts in a monochrome or printed linen or cotton fabric, as they are easy to style from day to night. Avoid stripes for a more elegant transition. Additionally, consider bringing a pair in a silky fabric to add a touch of sophistication. Pair these with a chic blouse and some heels for a polished and stylish evening ensemble.
9. The Maxi Skirt
The maxi skirt is a must-have addition to your summer vacation wardrobe, offering endless styling possibilities from day to night. Its versatility even allows you to create the illusion of a maxi dress by pairing it with the right top. A monochrome skirt is particularly flexible, providing a neutral base that can be easily mixed and matched. For a relaxed daytime look, pair it with any casual top, and add a scarf in your hair for a touch of old-money elegance. For a sophisticated evening outing, opt for a more fitted top, such as an off-the-shoulder or tube top, or even a front-tie blouse. This combination elevates the maxi skirt into a chic and polished ensemble, perfect for any summer outing.
10. The Printed Trousers
(Image credit: @cassandreould)
Printed trousers are a playful and stylish option for your vacation outfits, adding a splash of color and vibrancy to your wardrobe. These versatile pieces can effortlessly transition from day to night, especially when you choose linen or silky fabrics. For a casual yet chic daytime look, pair your printed trousers with a simple shirt and some sandals. To avoid print overload, consider styling them with a plain monochrome tee or tank top, which allows the trousers to stand out while keeping the overall look balanced. For a sophisticated summer night ensemble, pair the printed trousers with a silky monochrome top and some elegant heels, creating a perfect blend of fun and refinement.
11. The Summer Midi Dress
The summer midi dress is the ideal compromise between mini and maxi lengths, offering the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. It’s a versatile piece that can effortlessly transition from a casual city stroll to a chic dinner outing. During the day, pair it with sandals for a relaxed and stylish look. For evening events, elevate the ensemble with a pair of heels, transforming the midi dress into a sophisticated outfit suitable for any upscale setting. Its adaptable nature makes the midi dress a must-have staple for any summer wardrobe, ensuring you’re prepared for any occasion.
12. The Striped Trousers
Striped trousers are a fun and stylish option to pack for your vacation. They’re a great choice if you’re looking for leg coverage while adding a bit of variety beyond classic white trousers. Made from comfortable and lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, they are perfect for staying cool in warm weather. For a laid-back city exploration look, style them with a simple white tank top or a printed tee. Alternatively, you can throw them over your swimsuit for a chic beach-ready outfit. Versatile and fashionable, striped trousers are a fantastic addition to your vacation wardrobe, effortlessly transitioning from casual daywear to beach attire.
13. The Mini Skirt
(Image credit: @emilyrosemoloney)
The mini skirt is a great choice to add to your suitcase due to its versatility and style. It’s perfect for staying cool while exploring picturesque cities and scenic landscapes. It’s easy to dress up or down, making it suitable for a variety of activities, from sightseeing during the day to dining out in the evening. Pair it with a casual top and comfortable sneakers for daytime adventures, or elevate the look with a chic blouse and stylish sandals for a night out. Additionally, a mini skirt takes up minimal space in your luggage, allowing you to pack light and efficiently. Its blend of comfort, fashion, and practicality makes it an essential item for your travel wardrobe.
14. The Summer Maxi Dress
The maxi dress is the ultimate staple for your vacation wardrobe. It effortlessly combines ease with elegance, making it a must-have in my opinion. Just add some jewelry and a clutch to accessorize for a chic and sophisticated look. When it comes to shoes, you have the flexibility to choose sandals, with or without heels. The beauty of a maxi dress is that it conceals your feet, allowing you to wear comfortable shoes without compromising on style. In my opinion, nothing screams vacation more than a maxi dress.
15. The Striped Shirt
(Image credit: @imhannahwhiting)
Second to last is a striped shirt, an excellent alternative to the plain white or baby blue shirt. There’s nothing as versatile as this wardrobe essential. Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring the city, or dining out casually chic, the striped shirt can seamlessly transition from day to night. Its timeless pattern adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, making it perfect for layering over swimwear, pairing with trousers or shorts for sightseeing, or dressing up with a skirt and accessories for an evening out. This multifunctional piece ensures you stay stylish and comfortable no matter the occasion.
16. A Crochet Piece
Last but not least, a crochet piece is a must-have for vacation due to its versatility, breathability, and timeless style. Its lightweight, open-weave design is perfect for warm weather, keeping you cool and comfortable whether you’re lounging on the beach or exploring the city. Additionally, crochet pieces add a touch of bohemian elegance to any outfit. Whether you opt for a dress, skirt, trousers, or even a short shirt ensemble, any form will do. For skirts or trousers, pair them with an oversized tee (printed or plain) for extra coverage if needed. If the piece is not see-through, you can wear a more fitted top like a tank top or a fitted tee.
