This summer, I’m embarking on a three-week journey to visit family in England and France with my boys. Our goal? To navigate airports, trains, and buses with ease by sticking to one carry-on each. This challenge has inspired me to curate a collection of 10 trusty pieces that are versatile, stylish, and perfect for any occasion.
Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. With the right pieces, you can mix and match outfits effortlessly. Here’s my carefully selected wardrobe for a memorable European summer.
Versatile Wardrobe Essentials
My packing strategy revolves around versatility and comfort. I’ve chosen items that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. From breathable fabrics to effortlessly chic silhouettes each piece serves a purpose and can be mixed and matched with others.
The Perfect Blouse for Any Occasion
A cheesecloth blouse is a game-changer for evening drinks and dinners. Its breathable fabric and wrinkle-free nature make it ideal for travel. I can wear it with wet hair right out of the pool, making it perfect for those spontaneous beachside gatherings. My friend Victoria swore by hers last summer, and I can see why.
Everyday Tees for Effortless Style
No wardrobe is complete without a stack of everyday tees. I’ve packed white, black, and fun striped options that can be paired with anything from shorts to skirts. These tees are the backbone of my outfits, providing a neutral base for accessorizing.
The Denim Dress: A Travel Essential
A denim dress with patch pockets is a travel essential. It’s perfect for morning walks, shell-collecting, or playground hangs. I’m also bringing a striped dress that doubles as a lovely swimsuit coverup, adding a touch of elegance to my beachwear.
The Cotton Gauze Maxi Skirt
This cotton gauze maxi skirt is a lifesaver. It looks polished straight out of the suitcase and pairs beautifully with a white tee. The red color is a bonus, as it looks great in photos and adds a pop of color to any outfit.
The Cotton Sweater for Cool Evenings
A cotton sweater is a must for cool evenings. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for layering. Whether I’m strolling through the streets of Paris or enjoying a cozy dinner in London this sweater will keep me warm and stylish.
The Chino Shorts with a Nautical Twist
These chino shorts have been a summer staple. The slight kickout leg and nautical drawstring add a touch of charm to any outfit. They’re comfortable, stylish, and perfect for exploring new cities.
The Black Pants of a Lifetime
I’ve found the black pants of a lifetime. With an elastic waistband and a crisp, lightweight cotton poplin fabric, they’re perfect for long flights, city adventures, and dinners out. They’re comfortable, stylish, and versatile, making them a must-have for any travel wardrobe.
The Strappy Sandals for Effortless Style
These strappy sandals have been a favorite for years. They’re comfortable, stylish, and perfect for any occasion. If you’re in the market for something new, this brand offers great value and looks way more expensive than it is.
The Andie Swim Collaboration with Chloe Fineman
Andie Swim has released a cute collaboration with comedian Chloe Fineman. My favorite is the sexy one-piece with teeny polkadots. It’s perfect for reading a thriller by the pool or lounging on the beach. The question is, which one do you like?
The Perfect Carry-On Suitcase
After many years of service, my old suitcase just died. I replaced it with Wirecutter’s luggage pick a roomy carry-on with 360° spinner wheels and a removable laundry bag. It comes in 10 pretty colors and I’m especially into the punchy emerald.
Final Packing List
Plus, of course, my everyday makeup and skincare. That’s it!
What do you pack? I’d love to hear! Plus, I randomly always pack soooooo many pairs of underwear, haha — are you the same?
P.S. The #1 trick for enjoying family travel, and what’s your travel pro tip?
