Whether you have European travel on the docket or find yourself planning (or daydreaming about) another type of summer escape, there’s nothing more fun than anticipating warm-weather dressing. There’s something so freeing about the laid-back aesthetic that is inherent to a summer wardrobe—the prerequisite is comfort. Vacation dressing adds another level of inspiration, bringing a relaxed, playful, and breezy wardrobe curation into play.
When it comes to pulling together the best pieces for vacationing, Emme Parsons, designer of the namesake shoe brand, tells Bazaar: “I like wearing silhouettes that aren’t too form-fitting or restrictive.” She adds, “For years I’ve worn a uniform of white jeans and button-down shirts or a short-sleeved polo sweater. This is such a classic combination that you can update with the different cuts and shirting materials. It’s a great travel day outfit that feels pulled-together yet comfortable.”
When selecting looks for packing, Parsons says, “I always take photos of all my outfits in a full-length mirror for every day I’ll be on a trip, so I don’t forget the combinations, and then save them to folder in my photos that I refer back to in case I want to repeat any outfits or feel stuck in terms of what to pack.”
Parsons also recommends throwing in extra pieces to ensure you have the best assortment of options for any detours that may come up. “I always overpack a little bit, so there are options in case the weather changes or your flight gets canceled and you have an extra day somewhere. This can be as simple a packing an extra light sweater, tank top, or dress that don’t take up too much space in your suitcase.”
From effortless matching sets to Riviera-inspired printed dresses to the perfect oversize button-downs, this roundup features everything you need to build out a stylish edit for a sun-kissed vacation.
Related article: 20 Celebrity Homes We Wish We Could Vacation In This Summer
THE SUMMER POLO
Róhe Colorblock Knit Polo
A short-sleeved knit polo is the versatile summer staple that can go from keeping you warm on the plane to thrown over your bathing suit at the beach. With its oversize silhouette and deep V-neckline, this is the stylish polo on our wish lists.
THE PERFECT DAY-TO-NIGHT SANDAL
Emme Parsons Laurie in Black Nappa
Emme Parsons sandals are a master class in elevated minimalism. Thoughtfully handmade in Italy, the functional, modern styles make an effortless addition to your summer wardrobe.
THE WOVEN BAG
Heimat Atlantica Tom Tom Checked Shell-Embellished Reed Tote Bag
The square structure, spaciousness, and luxury leather handles make this the ideal bag for all your summer plans. The brand’s collection encapsulates elegant ease in fun colourways and styles that are handwoven by artisans in Spain and Portugal.
THE NEW IT SUNNIES
Gucci Upside Down Rectangular Sunglasses
Lately, oversize frames have made way for narrow looks reminiscent of ’90s styles. These rectangular sunnies, in an ultramodern slim shape with gold-toned hardware, are an instant update to any summer ensemble and will look equally cool with your layers come fall.
THE PRINTED MAXI DRESS
Alémais Seeker Printed Linen Midi Dress
The mythical-esque print in breezy linen offers high-impact dressing with minimal effort. Equally dazzling with platform sandals or minimalist flats for balmy late-night dinners.
THE VACATION-READY HOOPS
Lizzie Fortunato Piet Hoop Earrings In Sunset
Playful accessories are an uncomplicated way to bring pops of colour and inject some new energy into any outfit. These gold-plated earrings with added stones are an eye-catching addition to all your sun-soaked plans.
THE WHITE WIDE-LEG DENIM
Agolde Baggy Low Slung Organic Jeans
No longer relegated to just the summer months, these white jeans can be worn throughout the year. The relaxed wide-leg cut gives a laid-back, put-together look with enough roominess to keep you cool.
THE CROCHET PIECE
Memorial Day Crochet Bucket Hat
As seen on Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber, the Memorial Day hat hits two of summer’s favourite trends—bucket hats and crochet.
THE SLEEK SWIMSUIT
Tabacaru Stella Swimsuit in Black
A timeless, sleek two-piece with a high-waisted bottom provides a pared-back yet classic style to return to again and again.
THE ELEVATED CROP TOP
Altuzarra Ayana Tie-Dye Top
This piece checks all the boxes for summer vibes. The bold tie-dye print, textural ruching, and beaded waist ties make it the ultimate playful yet sophisticated top.
THE ESSENTIAL BUTTON-DOWN
Alice Pearl Joie Unisex Relaxed Shirt
A breezy white linen button-down in a relaxed cut is the hero of summer dressing. Wear with the sleeves rolled up with shorts during the day, or throw it on over a dress as a balanced layering piece in the evening.
THE HAIR SAVIOR
Machete Midi Heirloom Claw in Cream Dot Checker
Machete is our editors’ go-to brand for the chicest claw clips to keep your hair slicked back and off your skin in the rising temperatures.
THE MATCHING SET
Pinkfilosofy Iku Blouse
Matching sets get the MVP award for versatility, but also make your packing life that much easier. This cropped button-down in airy cotton can be worn with the matching skirt below for a fail-proof warm-weather uniform, or sported unbuttoned over a bikini top and jean shorts.
THE WRAP SKIRT
Pinkfilosofy Iria Skirt
Vacation-inspired dressing doesn’t get much more effortless than a wraparound skirt. If you don’t wear it with the matching top above, then use it as a beach cover-up, or wear it with a structured white tank for a sleek look that will keep you cool through a heat wave.
THE LIGHTWEIGHT CARDIGAN
Cara Cara Tallulah Cardigan
This nautical-striped cropped cardigan is perfect for throwing over your shoulders or tying around your waist. Keep it on hand for breezy outdoor nights and beating the indoor AC chill.
THE HIGH-WAISTED DENIM SHORT
Agolde Long Parker Organic Denim Shorts
A polished short with a longer line and slightly roomier shape, this has the look of perfectly broken-in vintage denim.
THE WARM-WEATHER ANKLET
Joie DiGiovanni Barbie Baroque Pearl Gold Heart Chain Anklet
It’s hard not to think of vacation when you look at Joie DiGiovanni’s playful, wanderlust-inspiring jewelry line. This Barbie-pink pearl anklet is reminiscent of summer-camp jewellery in the most elevated way.
This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.