There’s something about packing for Europe that always sounds romantic and effortless… until you actually start pulling pieces out and trying to fit your life into a suitcase.
After spending 18+ days in Europe each summer over the last several years, I’ve realized I almost always come back to the same types of pieces. Not necessarily the exact same items every time, but the same overall formula. And honestly, I think that’s because I’ve finally figured out what actually works for the way I travel.
I used to think I needed more “vacation outfits.” More options. More statement pieces. But over time, I’ve learned that the best travel wardrobe is usually the one that feels the most like your everyday style — just slightly refined for the setting.
For me, that means packing pieces that are:
- comfortable enough to walk in all day
- lightweight and easy to layer
- polished without feeling overly styled
- versatile enough to repeat multiple ways
- and simple enough that everything works together
Because the reality is, when you’re traveling through Europe, you’re not changing three times a day. You want outfits that can take you from morning coffee walks, to sightseeing, to lunch, to late dinners without overthinking it.
One thing I’ve also noticed over the years is that Europeans tend to dress a little more understated overall. Less “vacation dressing” and more effortless everyday style, just elevated. So when I pack now, I try to lean into pieces that feel elevated and relaxed rather than overly trendy.
I always start with a neutral foundation:
- linen shorts or relaxed trouser style pants
- easy dresses
- simple tanks and tees
- comfortable sneakers
- versatile sandals
- effortless skirts
- layers for cooler mornings and evenings
And then I build around that instead of trying to create a completely different wardrobe for the trip.
At this point, I’d much rather repeat outfits and feel comfortable than overpack pieces I never end up wearing. And honestly? The older I get, the more I appreciate traveling lighter and keeping things simple.
So if you’re heading to Europe this summer, hopefully this gives you a good starting point. Not necessarily a list of “must haves,” but more of a realistic approach to building a wardrobe that feels effortless, practical, and true to your personal style.
With that, I hope everyone has a wonderful, long, weekend ahead. Cheeers!
(Pants (I wear the short inseam, perfect if you’re shorter like me)… I also have this style if you prefer a thicker waistband with a higher waist fit)
(Black Dress (another option), White Dress)
(Black Tank, White Strapless Top, Similar Striped Tank… also these tanks)
(Black + White Skirt (not this exact one, since it’s sold out, but I own this one and it’s the perfect alternative), Striped Strapless Top)
(Linen Vest (also love this one), Linen Shorts, White Linen Shorts, Crochet Shorts + Top (these are old sezane, linking a similar option))
(Both of these are sold out, the one on the left is sezane and right is madewell, but I love this dress, this dress and this dress as an alternative)
(Dress)
(Skirt, Silk Top, White Flowy Top, Crochet Top)
(Silver Sneakers, Red Sneakers)
(Sandals)
(Black Hat, Tan Hat (truly packable with an adjustable brim), Cap)
(Sparkly Dress, Floral Dress Is Trovata Birds of Paradise and sold out in this color)
