Packing the right outfits for your vacation can be difficult — it’s based on a variety of factors, like weather, what activities you’ll be doing there and if you’ll be needing to pack lightly based on what luggage you’re bringing. Luckily, you don’t have to overpack to get the ultimate vacation outfits that are comfy and chic. Here are our top picks.
1. Peasant/Maxi dress
A dress like this is perfect for all kinds of destinations, be it a tropical location or a trip to Europe. It’s not constricting and allows movement for a range of activities. In chillier destinations, you can go for a long-sleeved version, layer cozy leggings underneath or pair with a leather jacket. Dresses like these look great with fancier shoes and sneakers, making this easy breezy essential a suitable day or night look.
2. Leggings and a tunic
No matter where you’re going on vacation, this is a versatile, comfy look that can be mixed and matched for a range of climates or social scenarios. In the fall and winter in cooler destinations, you can layer this with a jacket or chunky, oversized sweater and pair it with ankle boots. When it’s warmer out, just wear the tunic with a pair of sandals or sneakers. A more full-coverage option for places where women are required to dress more modestly.
3. White tee, jeans and wide-brimmed hat
You can’t go wrong with these capsule wardrobe items. A white tee made from cotton will be breathable and match any other garment. In hot weather, it’ll help deflect heat rather than absorb it. Jeans might be a little uncomfortable during a heat wave but are perfect for cool evenings and climates that fluctuate in temperature. Finally, finish it all off with a wide-brimmed hat. Opt for woven in the summer and felt or velvet when it’s chillier outside.
4. Black dress and Birkenstocks
The LBD gets a travel update with this outfit, which is sophisticated enough to wear to a museum or dinner at a classy restaurant. The dress should be flattering but not club attire — a knit material or something with ruched detail that hits around the knee is perfect. You can pair this with the ultimate travel shoe — the Birkenstock. There are many different styles of leather and straps so you can find the perfect style for you.
5. Kaftan
For warm weather places like beaches or deserts, avoid tight clothing and instead go with easy, loose silhouettes in non-synthetic materials like silk and cotton. These will be quick-drying and will also wick moisture away from your body. Kaftans are versatile garments that can be worn in bright colors or fun prints. Pair with a headscarf and aviator sunglasses.
6. One-piece bathing suit and wide-legged trousers
A surprising combination, a one-piece bathing suit can actually double as a bodysuit or leotard. Often available in attractive colors and patterns, these form-fitting unitards are best paired with a long skirt or our favorite, wide-legged trousers. The result is a Bohemian, globally stylish look that’s appropriate for different seasons and flattering on a range of body types. Pair with your favorite leather satchel to store all your travel essentials.
7. Oversized linen button-down and jean shorts
An oversized button-down is a must-have, this temperature-regulating material is breathable for any sort of climate and has a relaxed, European-inspired look. It can be worn on its own with thigh-highs for a party look, layered over a bathing suit, unbuttoned over a dress, or paired with jean shorts. The possibilities are endless — and all of them will earn you compliments.
8. A mini skirt that doubles as a tube top
A clever hack that will save you space in your suitcase, this look is a two-in-one that you won’t forget. A miniskirt is great for layering with leggings or wearing out as an evening look, but it can also be worn as a tube top to show off the shoulders or pair with a more casual look like jeans and a cardigan. The same goes for wrap skirts that can be styled as halter tops.
9. Cotton shorts and a light sweater
These are staples that can be combined with other outfits, but also work great on their own — cotton shorts are more flexible and comfortable than denim shorts, while the light sweater (patterned or solid) can help keep you warm and cozy. They also look very boho-chic together and can be paired with a shawl, which protects from bug bites or can help you cover yourself if visiting a holy site.
10. A chic tracksuit
Athleisure was the universe’s gift to us — a socially acceptable form of clothing that’s just as comfy as loungewear. A pair of slim joggers and a matching jacket with a flattering cut is one of the most comfortable vacation outfits. You can choose the thickness of the material based on your destination — think thinner Adidas ones for hotter places or a thicker one like Champion for colder locales.
