Every year, as the cold of winter sets in, we experience what can only be described as a great migration of people as they head off on vacation to Europe in search of summer sun.
Despite the cool, dry temperatures here, our Instagram feeds are suddenly filled with photos of people spritz-ing their way through beautiful seaside sunsets, bathing the rustic cobbled streets in a warm, golden glow.
If you’re one of the lucky few (hundreds) who are escaping the cold to spend the European summer, you’ll likely be faced with the classic dilemma of what to pack for your upcoming vacation.
In the heat of European summers, opting for fabrics and silhouettes suited to warmer weather, like flowy maxi dresses and relaxed trousers made from lightweight cottons and linens, is a logical choice.
Unfortunately, logic alone can’t always sate our fashion desires – personal style and putting together a statement look should also have a place in limited suitcase space. So how do you strike that balance when packing for a European summer?
Mentally, we are already here. (Credit: Instagram @AstaResort) (Credit: Instagram @AstaResort)
What to pack for a European summer vacation, according to experts
Be prepared: It’s easy to want to pack the perfect Instagram-worthy outfit for every day of your trip, but when you’re walking dozens of miles a day, comfort always comes first. Think sneakers and a sundress, or shorts and a t-shirt.
“Pack things that make you feel good, are comfortable, and that you’ll want to wear multiple times throughout your trip,” Leslie Germanus, co-founder and creative director of ALÉMAIS, tells Marie Claire Australia.
Sticking to just the essentials gives you more room to shop and spend money on special items.
“I love mixing and matching and curating the perfect wardrobe of basics,” says Ana Escobar of LMND.
“Whenever I travel, I’m always on the lookout for special items to bring home, like sarongs or unique accessories, so traveling with basics makes it easier to style my new treasures.”
If you’re looking to fill up some space in your suitcase ahead of your European summer getaway, keep scrolling to find out the best brands to shop.
Euro Summer 2024 Trends
If you’re looking to splurge before your holiday, the latest styles are a must – so what are the Euro Summer trends for 2024?
“We’ve noticed more and more people wearing see-through layers over their swimsuits,” says Bydee founder Dessy Harris. “From the beach to the bar, swimsuits are trending everywhere.
“Another trend is a less-is-more vibe, with classic crisp white pieces becoming Euro summer must-haves.”
Best brands to buy clothes for your European summer vacation
Joanna Ortiz
Beautiful fabrics are a cornerstone of Colombian designer Joanna Ortiz’s collections. Alluring patterns and vibrant colors are woven into flowy silhouettes that are perfect for poolside or a sunset dinner in Santorini. Many of Joanna Ortiz’s pieces can be found in Net-A-Porter’s NET SUSTAIN collection of consciously crafted fashion and accessories.
Asta Resort
Asta Resort
Following their AAFW debut last year, Asta Resort continues to create buzz among fashion’s It girls, garnering endorsements from countless celebrities, including Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, and Shay Mitchell. Their romantic resort wear and swimwear are made to be worn at Amalfi’s famous beach clubs, and their latest collection is full of translucent fabrics and sequined sparkle.
Sam Los Angeles
Sam Los Angeles
The swimsuit you’re taking on vacation, especially to Europe, should make just as much of a statement and be just as regal as the other clothes in your suitcase. SAME, the Los Angeles label founded by stylist and influencer Shea Marie, makes eye-catching swimwear (and resort wear) that’s so flattering you’ll want to make it part of your wardrobe. And you probably will, too.
Aremais
Aremais
Alemais’ diverse range of prints and attention to craftsmanship are inspired by a spirit of adventure. Perfect, right? From flowy maxi dresses to relaxed sets, her designs are not only beautiful, but also easy to wear while touring the sights of Europe.
“Our classic shirtdress is a packing essential because it’s easy to pack and can be washed while on the go.”
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By Dee
Take a look at Alix Earle’s travelogue. Bydee is the perfect companion for your European summer. Known for their gorgeous swimwear, the brand has recently expanded into resort wear, so you can buy an outfit that can go from the beach to the bar.
customer
customer
With a focus on minimalist silhouettes and creating authentic wardrobe staples that are both fashion-forward and luxurious, SIR designs pieces you’ll want to wear again and again – exactly what you need when packing into limited suitcase space.
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Emma Mulholland on holiday
Emma Mulholland on holiday
Emma Mulholland’s eponymous brand, as its name suggests, aims to take the stress out of dressing for the holidays.
Expect bold, bright and quirky prints designed to help you “look your best self on the go.” What more could you want?
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Crab
Crab
The Italian coastline and Greek islands may be the staples of any classic European trip, but if you’re heading further north, especially to Scandinavia, you’ll want to dress appropriately. We start with our favourite Danish brand, GANNI.
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LMND
LMND
Button-down shirts have become a staple in our everyday wardrobes, and that’s no different when we head to the Northern Hemisphere. Whether you throw it over your swimsuit at the beach or pair it with trousers and sandals for dinner, the styling possibilities are endless. It’s one piece you won’t regret bringing along, and no one does it better than LMND.
bow down
bow down
The best European summer suitcases are built around elevated staples like those found at Kowtow.
“All Kowtow clothing is made from 100% Fairtrade Certified Organic Cotton, making it easy to care for and versatile for your holidays, not to mention breathable if you’re heading to a warmer climate,” says Marilou Dadat, Kowtow’s Creative Director.
Loyal Brand
Loyal Brand
With “the feeling of summer and the spirit of travel” at the core of its designs, Faithfull The Brand was always destined to be on our list and in our European wardrobes. Their effortless and romantic pieces are made from lightweight fabrics that are effortlessly comfortable to wear even in the summer heat.
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Pfeiffer
Pfeiffer
If you’re looking for pieces you can wear throughout your European vacation and beyond, PFEIFFER is a must-see.
“We create quality, transseasonal essentials with a twist, so if you unfortunately return to the Australian winter after a European holiday, you can still wear your favourite pieces from your holiday,” Aspradakis and Pepin say.
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Venroy
Venroy’s Holiday 23 collection is a European summer dream: a versatile and vibrant selection of luxurious pieces perfect for evening wear and lightweight fabrics for day and night, with styles that will take you effortlessly from the beaches of Amalfi to clifftop bars.
VRGGRL
VRG GRL is an Australian brand run by two style legends, Daniella and Natalia.
The brand’s latest collection, “Isla Menorca,” is inspired by colorful mosaics and Mediterranean vibes, perfect for a getaway to the continent’s turquoise shores. The collection features exclusive prints and carefully selected fabrics, perfect for sun-soaked moments on the Spanish coast.
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By Madison Hockey, Senior Shopping Editor
