This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Erika Gay. Find her on Instagram at @erikag0503. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
Summer is so close and if you are like me, you’re planning trips and making lists of what to buy for your next getaway. Shopping and preparation is one of the best parts of vacation because it hypes you up for the departure day. Planning a vacation is exciting with choosing the destination, mapping out the itinerary, and counting down the days until you can escape your routine. But one of the most enjoyable (and sometimes stressful) parts of vacation prep is figuring out what to wear. Whether you’re heading to a tropical beach, a chic European city, or a weekend cabin in the mountains, packing the right outfits is key to looking and feeling your best. So if you’re wondering what to wear on vacation, this guide breaks it down and I will fill you in on the best places to shop for each look.
Beach Getaway Guide
Summer to me means beach waves, sand in your toes and poolside cocktails. For a beach destination you need the right wardrobe so you are comfortable in the warm weather but also looking stylish by the water. Think breathable fabrics, playful colors, and stylish swimwear. You’ll want versatile pieces that can go from beach to bar effortlessly. Some must-have pieces: Swimsuits (bikini, one-piece, or tankini), Lightweight cover-ups, Linen shorts and wide-leg pants, Flowy sundresses, Sandals and espadrilles, Straw hats and oversized sunglasses. Where to Shop:Revolve: Great for trendy swimwear and beach dresses. The Nuina Dress is super chic and flowy, perfect for summer. The Hilsa Maxi Dress is a knitted piece that would make a great cover-up. Aerie: Affordable and inclusive swimwear plus comfy basics. They even have cute high-waisted bikini bottoms which are great for an overseas vacation. Free People: Boho-chic pieces that work well for beach days and sunset dinners. The Catalina Maxi is a great choice for a casual night out with some flats! Another great brand for on-trend summer styles is Bronze Snake.
Adventure or Nature Trips: Functional and Comfortable
If you’re more of an adventure and nature seeker for vacation, it’s important to pack right for those trips. Here, comfort and durability matter most. Look for performance materials that still feel good to wear, with layers that adapt to changing weather.Must-Have Pieces:Athletic leggings or hiking pants, Moisture-wicking tops, Windbreaker or fleece jacket, Trail shoes or hiking boots, Baseball cap or beanie (depending on climate), and a Durable backpack. So here’s where to shop: REI: A go-to for outdoor gear and activewear that performs.Athleta: Stylish activewear that transitions from trail to town. They have cute matching sets that are great for hiking, they have spring Lululemon: Functional yet flattering options for movement-based travel.Backcountry: Offers brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Arc’teryx. Packing stylish and good quality athletic wear will make sure your vacation goes smoothly.
Chic Resort and Cruise Vacations
Here’s a guide of What to Wear on Vacation to a Resort or Cruise:
Think effortless poolside glamour with chic swimwear, flowy kaftans, and oversized sunglasses that make a statement; pair that daytime ease with elegant evening wear like slinky slip dresses, dressy jumpsuits, or lightweight maxi dresses that exude sophistication without taking up too much suitcase space. Complete your wardrobe with versatile matching sets—like silky co-ords, resort-ready loungewear, or tailored separates—that not only look put-together but also pack beautifully, resist wrinkles, and can be mixed and matched for multiple outfit combinations throughout your trip.Must-Have Pieces:Swimsuits with statement details,Matching co-ord sets, Maxi dresses or slip dresses, Lightweight kimono or sarong, Dressy sandals or wedges, Jewelry for a little sparkle. Here’s where to shop: Zimmermann & Cult Gaia: For luxury resortwear with serious wow factor.ASOS: A wide range of price points and vacation-ready pieces.Mango: Understated elegance with Mediterranean vibes. They have stunning sets with vibrant prints like this Linen Zebra piece.Nordstrom: A solid mix of designer and mid-range resort options. Also don’t forget to accessorize with your handbag and jewelry pieces.
Travel Style Tips: Pack Smart!
Even after you’ve figured out exactly what to wear on vacation, the challenge of fitting it all into your luggage without overpacking or underpacking can feel like a pain. Packing smart is about being strategic, stylish, and efficient, so you can enjoy your trip without hauling around an overloaded suitcase or realizing you forgot something essential. These travel style tips will help you look put-together every day of your trip while keeping your suitcase neat and manageable.
Start by choosing a cohesive color scheme for your vacation wardrobe. Sticking to a base of neutral tones like black, white, beige, or navy paired with one or two accent colors (think coral, teal, or mustard) ensures that everything you pack can be easily mixed and matched. This not only simplifies outfit planning but also cuts down on the number of shoes and accessories you’ll need to bring. Also choose f multifunctional pieces that can be styled in multiple ways. A midi dress can serve as a daytime outfit with sneakers or be elevated with strappy heels for a night out. Look for reversible swimsuits, lightweight cardigans, and simple tank tops that can layer with other pieces depending on the weather. Convertible clothing like a wrap dress that can double as a beach cover-up or a scarf that can be worn as a shawl adds flexibility without taking up extra space. Lastly, Don’t Forget Accessories: Accessories are the secret weapon of any travel wardrobe. A single outfit can take on multiple personalities depending on the way it’s styled. A wide-brim hat and straw tote scream beach-chic, while bold earrings and a red lip turn the same outfit into dinner-ready glam. Pack a few statement pieces of jewelry, a silk scarf, a sun hat, and stylish sunglasses to add personality to your outfits without weighing down your luggage.
Deciding what to wear on vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right pieces, you can dress stylishly for every destination without overstuffing your suitcase. The key is to align your outfits with your itinerary and shop from brands that balance fashion and function. From airy beach dresses to sleek staples or warm workout pieces, the shops listed above offer something for every type of traveler.
So go ahead, plan that trip and look amazing while you’re at it. Where are you headed for your next vacation? Share with us below!
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