Balmy days are on the horizon, and you likely have a sun-filled trip (or two) lined up on your schedule. Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical island or heading to a bustling city, you’ll want to rely on a summer travel capsule wardrobe to make the most of your vacation days. After all, you should be spending your time lounging or exploring—not rummaging through your overstuffed suitcase while trying to figure out what to wear.
A summer travel capsule wardrobe should include easy-to-style practical staples with versatile neutral hues and simple silhouettes that you can effortlessly cycle through on rotation. As you pack for your next summer getaway, consider pieces like airy linen pants to help you beat the sweltering heat, white button-down shirts that can be used as both beach cover-ups and casual tops, and comfortable shoes that can be worn during an entire day of sightseeing.
Now that you've completed the basics let's get into the outfits. If you’re a fashion enthusiast like myself, you’ll find that mixing and matching these pieces is where the fun really begins. I’ve curated a list of looks that will round out any summer travel capsule wardrobe—from a crisp linen set you can wear during the day to the perfect minimalist maxi dress for a night out. Follow this outfit formula and all that’s left for you to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation.
A Classic White Button-Down With Flowy Linen Pants
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A timeless white linen set can (and should) be worn on repeat during any summer vacation.
A multipurpose white button-down is essential, no matter the design. Wear it as a cover-up on the beach, or style it with matching linen pants for a casual day out (as seen above). You could even style this monochromatic uniform as an elevated alternative to a sweat set for your next airport outfit. To compliment this look, throw a few neutral accessories into the mix.
A Laid-Back Top With Airy Linen Shorts
Prioritize comfort with a casual outfit that's easy to move around in.
A few summers ago, I traveled to Madrid and wore a casual top paired with loose-fitting linen shorts practically every other day—for leisurely city walks, local food market trips, and even museum visits. This practical look has remained one of my go-to travel capsule wardrobe outfits. If your trip itinerary involves countless city excursions, I recommend wearing this outfit styled with a pair of cushioned sneakers and a hands-free crossbody bag.
A Sophisticated Maxi Dress With Elevated Accessories
Alongside casual basics, your summer travel capsule wardrobe should include a few elevated pieces for formal occasions.
If you’re planning a girl's trip or a romantic getaway with your special someone, I’m guessing you’ve got plenty of evening dinners on the itinerary. The foolproof option for a night out is a sleek black maxi dress embellished with subtle pieces of silver jewelry. This look will not only serve you during your next summer vacation but also for many warm-weather trips to come. because a black maxi dress and sleek accessories will never go out of style.
A Cozy Cardigan With Lightweight Layers
Summer is filled with sizzling hot days, but that doesn't mean temperatures can't drop. Prepare for chilly moments by the shore with a snug cardigan.
For your next seaside vacation, you’ll want to pack a cardigan to throw over your shoulders when coastal temperatures fall. Any lightweight layer will fit the bill, but consider a striped sweater to give your travel capsule wardrobe a nautical-inspired boost. Style this piece over a gauzy outfit so you won’t overheat. Carry a beach bag that’s large enough to store your sweater if you decide to shed a layer.
A Breathable Top With a Roomy Skirt
You simply can't go wrong with neutral basics. For style inspiration, look no further than this easy outfit.
Alongside linen shorts and pants, a relaxed skirt is another warm-weather essential for plenty of use during a sun-filled vacation. Choose a neutral shade—white, tan, or beige—that will go well with other colors. For an uncomplicated look, team your roomy skirt with a breathable tank top and take the subdued color palette further with brown slide sandals and a matching leather-trimmed tote. If you’re in the mood for jewelry, heat things up with warm gold accessories.
A Colorful Dress With a Woven Bag and Statement Accessories
Play into summery colors by way of a relaxed dress.
While the foundation of your travel capsule wardrobe should include great mix-and-match basics, you’re allowed to spice things up here and there. Liven up your vacation outfits with a colorful dress—and if you’re stuck on which shade to choose try a trending butter yellow hue— a summery shade that will have a place in your warm-weather wardrobe for years to come. Complete this cheerful outfit with a woven bag and statement accessories to add some texture to your look.
A Pair of Sporty Shorts With a Basic Top
For moments of downtime during your vacation, consider an easygoing outfit.
I love a travel itinerary packed with endless activities, but I always carve out a bit of downtime, too. Whether lounging around my hotel room or reading a book by the pool, I throw on this foolproof outfit formula for lazy vacation days: a pair of sporty shorts, a basic tank top, flip-flops, and a cozy, lightweight sweater.
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