The first day of spring is just a few weeks away, and to prepare for the new season, I’ve set out to elevate my rotation of vacation essentials. These are all pieces I rely on when I'm jetting off somewhere warm, and as any good shopper knows, it's always best to stock up on your basics when you can find them on sale.
As it turns out, all of my favorite retailers have a selection of must-haves for my travel capsule wardrobe. Mango is hosting its “Final Clearance” event through the end of the week, and Banana Republic is offering up to 40 percent off sale styles and an extra 20 percent off select items until Sunday, March 2. Meanwhile, at Gap, shoppers can receive 30 percent off any purchase with the code “GREAT” between now and Monday, March 3.
My wallet can only handle so much, so I’ve pared down my list to 23 styles I plan to stuff into my carry-on bag—from gauzy white dresses styled alongside barely-there flip-flops to lightweight tank tops paired with Bermuda shorts. Allow this hand-picked list to simplify your packing process.
Spring 2025’s fisherman aesthetic is making quite a splash, and I plan to take a dive into the trend with Gap’s Breton stripe shirt. I’ll style this piece with linen pants and a pair of boat shoes to really exude a coastal vibe.
If you’re searching for a tried-and-true outfit formula to wear on repeat during your next vacation, look no further than a breezy white skirt paired with a black top. It’s a streamlined combination that’s low-effort but has a high impact.
For sweat-inducing temperatures that are too hot to bear, slip into a sleeveless top that’s fairly roomy. This one from Mango is stitched with lightweight cotton, so you’re guaranteed to stay nice and cool.
Banana Republic’s Satin Halter Jumpsuit is beyond versatile. Team this straightforward piece with laid-black flip flops for a casual day at the beach or dress it up with strappy sandals for an upscale al fresco dinner.
The best beach bags are those that seamlessly blend fashion and function, and Gap’s East-West Canvas Tote strikes this balance with perfection. Its sleek leather-trimmed exterior delivers a touch of sophistication while its spacious interior is large enough to fit all your beach-ready belongings.
Enhance your assortment of beach dresses with a vibrant frock that commands attention. With tropical floral prints, a ruched bodice, and a flattering silhouette, this pink-and-orange dress will undoubtedly make heads turn.
Made from sumptuous satin, this button-down shirt offers an elevated feel to poplin alternatives. Style it for moments when you want to give your seaside ensemble a boost of elegance.
Denim shorts have a reputation for being uncomfortable, but allow this pair from Gap to prove otherwise. They’re stitched with a soft cotton-twill blend and crafted with a high-waist construction, so they’ll slide on with ease.
No vacation wardrobe is complete without a trusty white dress—they’re practical and easy to style. This version from Gap offers a boho-chic charm with frilly sleeves and embroidered lace trimming.
Take a peak inside my suitcase, and you’ll find countless white tank tops. Whether layered beneath a collared shirt or styled alone, this simple piece can be worn in several ways. At $20, I’d recommend snagging two of these from Mango.
It’s no surprise that Bermuda shorts have taken the fashion set by storm. With an extended inseam length, these bottoms provide a more comfortable choice to micro mini shorts. Give them a try and you won’t regret it.
These aren’t your ordinary pair of flip-flops. Unlike relaxed rubber options, these sandals are made with lustrous leather. Plus, they feature a square-toe shape for an extra polished edge.
Temperature dips are common by the shore, especially in the evenings. For those brisk moments, cover your shoulders in a plush sweater that provides ample warmth.
At first glance these pants might look like a pair of work trousers, but they can easily cosplay as resort wear if styled properly. Throw them on with a cropped button-up and a pair of chunky sandals, and you’ve got yourself a coastal-friendly look to wear on repeat.
If hitting the town is on your vacation itinerary, make sure to pack a going-out outfit. I’d suggest styling a black tube top with a pair of flowy pants and espadrille wedge sandals.
Shades of pink that play into fashion’s girlhood aesthetic are still reigning supreme. Give this dainty hue a try with Mango’s crochet shirt designed with floral blooms. It’s a bold look that will make you stand apart from the crowd.
While building your collection of vacation essentials, remember to pack a comfortable airport outfit that will make traveling a breeze. Team these sweater pants with a classic T-shirt and an oversized hoodie for a uniform that will keep you warm in style.
In my style playbook, I live by the rule that all of my vacation shoes must be comfortable. Whether I’m sightseeing or roaming around my resort, I don’t want to deal with aches and pains. That’s why I’ve added these mules to my shopping cart—they’re equipped with a sturdy block heel and a cushioned sole.
The white contrast trim on this navy tank top has a nautical-inspired appeal that I absolutely love. I can easily see myself wearing this shirt with white jeans and a pair of fisherman sandals.
If you’re not in the mood to pull on a pair of jeans, try a denim maxi skirt instead. Made with a thigh-grazing slit, these bottoms offer more of an airy feel for balmy days.
Allow this pair of woven trousers to serve as your new swimsuit cover-up. These peekaboo pants boast a gorgeous openwork design that’ll team nicely with practically any bikini or one-piece.
Banana Republic’s asymmetrical shirt puts a whimsical twist on the standard tank top style. Go full-on monochrome by wearing this top with a pair of black trousers and T-strap sandals to match.
For a hands-free bag that you can tote around beyond the beach, try this half-moon shoulder bag. Not to mention, it’s drenched in a delectable shade of butter yellow, which is still one of the top color trends of the season.
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