Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation to Hawaii or a solo trip to Bora Bora, crafting the perfect vacation wardrobe is key. After all, you want to feel ready for your first day on holiday as soon as you step off the plane — and you don’t want poor packing choices to ruin your vacation memories. From trendy swimwear to day-trip outfits, here’s how to stay stylish on your next vacation.
Think of your suitcase as a mini capsule wardrobe.
To pack the best outfits for your vacation, think of your vacation wardrobe as a mini capsule wardrobe. If you’re a chronic over-packer or under-packer, this can help make packing decisions a little bit easier. Plus, when you arrive, you’ll spend significantly less time putting different outfits together.
Packing classic pieces — like bootcut jeans, sundresses and neutral T-shirts — will be your best bet. Chances are, you already know exactly how to craft outfits around these pieces, whether that’s layering a classic gray sweatshirt over a white T-shirt or pairing your jeans with cute ankle boots.
Speaking of footwear, it’s always a good idea to pack your shoes in dust bags. And if you’re packing delicates, garment bags can help you keep everything safe and secure (and you won’t have to dig through your suitcase to find a pair of socks or underwear!).
Consider your trip’s itinerary.
If you’re planning to hit the beach each day or take surfing lessons, you’re going to want to pack a few different swimsuits, sunglasses and lightweight outfits. It’s also a smart move to throw in some beach cover-ups, shorts and sandals. If you have extra room, don’t forget to pack for colder days — you might want to toss in a hoodie, a pair of jeans and some sneakers.
While a bathing suit is usually an essential part of any vacation wardrobe, you can leave the bikini at home if you’re not planning to swim. Instead, use that extra suitcase space to pack accessories. A lightweight hat dresses up any outfit while providing some much-needed protection from UV rays.
On the other hand, if you’re traveling to a big city and planning day trips, you’ll want to think from your feet up. Start by packing some reliable sneakers, such as trainers, so you can stay comfortable all day long. You’ll want to choose sneakers that pair with the rest of your wardrobe, so make sure your footwear looks good with jeans, leggings, shorts and whatever else you’re planning to pack. For the ultimate chic city look, pair some comfy sandals with a sleeved maxi dress.
Keep it seasonal.
Whether you’re traveling in the summer or winter, choosing seasonally appropriate outfits can help you stay on-trend. If you’re planning a summer holiday, dress up your outfits with floral prints, vibrant colors and high-waisted shorts. Pairing a cute bustier-style crop top and a matching body-con skirt is a great way to stand out from the crowd, especially when adding on stylish sunglasses and a statement necklace.
Meanwhile, if you’re traveling in the fall, lightweight sweaters, ankle boots and bell-sleeved dresses will be your best friends. Try pairing your favorite oversized sweater with skinny jeans and combat boots or dressing up a sleeved dress with chunky hoop earrings and strapped sandals. Of course, you’re going to want to pack according to your destination’s weather forecast, but seasonal trends can help guide your packing choices.
You’ve spent hours planning your itinerary, booking travel accommodations and checking the weather. Instead of fretting over your vacation wardrobe, keep it classic and comfortable with your favorite pieces. This way, you’ll be able to relax and de-stress during your holiday instead of regretting your packing decisions.
