What I'd Pack for Euro Summer

Because dressing well is half the fun of going away

Packing for a summer holiday can be a little tricky. When abroad, I seem to switch into a different mode where I feel a bit more relaxed and usually a bit more playful with my style. Suddenly, everyday clothes feel too… everyday. We want to have fun on holiday! But that doesn’t mean we need to buy a whole new wardrobe.

A lot of the pieces we already own such as simple tops, easy bottoms and flat sandals, can absolutely be reworked into “holiday mode.” The only things I really feel the need to buy are the truly seasonal bits: a bikini, a great cover-up and maybe an evening dress that feels a bit more special.

That said, shopping for a holiday dress is half the fun, isn’t it? What I find helpful is to ask myself “Can I imagine wearing this after vacation for another occasion?” If the answer is yes, I’m sold. For me, it’s all about balance: mixing in a few fun or vacation-specific pieces with the trusty basics I already know I’ll wear again and again.

So, here’s a roundup of what I’d pack if I were going on a European summer trip this year. Think relaxed, comfortable, and playful, because that’s what a holiday wardrobe should feel like!

1. Sophie Buhai Necklace: I rarely wear long necklaces day-to-day, but something about summer makes them feel right. They pair beautifully with breezy silhouettes and open necklines, especially when linen or cotton outfits need a little something to ground them.

2. The Row Kaftan: Every holiday wardrobe needs a kaftan. It’s one of those pieces that feels instantly elegant, no effort required. I’d wear this one poolside over a bikini or dress it up with strappy heels and a clutch for a relaxed dinner. It’s airy and comfortable but still gives that lady-of-leisure kinda look.

3. Loewe Culottes: These are the perfect versatile bottoms. I’d wear them over a bikini by the pool, with a linen shirt for a walk through town or styled up with a halterneck top for dinner. The volume and cut make them feel elevated, but they’re still comfortable and cool in the heat.

4. Pucci Silk Scarf: I’m still warming up to the silk scarf life, but holidays are the best time to experiment. This year, I’d bring something colourful like this Pucci one and wear it either tied around my hair, as a bag accent, around the neck for dinner or even as a mini sarong. It’s a great way to add a pop of colour without needing a whole new outfit.

5. Bikini: When it comes to swimwear, I keep it simple. One-shoulder styles and cut-outs are gorgeous in theory, but no one has time for those awkward tan lines! A bandeau bikini is my go-to — no straps, no stress.

6. D.S & Durga Perfume: I like to switch up my scent when I’m going away. Usually, I get sucked into the duty-free perfume section and pick something new on the spot. But, recently I read somewhere that this one is “summer in a bottle” and that’s sold me.

7. Satin Evening Dress: On those Mediterranean summer evenings, I love a satin dress. But one thing that bothers me is thin straps that keep falling down, so I look for options with slightly wider straps like this one. I’d also bring a lightweight cardigan or shawl to throw on after dinner, just in case the evening breeze picks up.

8. Espadrilles: If I want a bit of a heel without sacrificing the beachy vibe, espadrilles are always the answer. They’re comfortable enough to walk in, but they still feel like “going-out shoes.” Ideal for evenings when you want to feel a touch more dressed up.

9. Rabanne Earrings: I love chain details in jewellery. These earrings are just bold enough to elevate a simple evening outfit without overpowering it. The perfect finishing touch when you want to feel just a bit more polished.

10. Striped Pants: For lounging or strolling, I like a printed pair of wide-leg pants. These stripes add something graphic and fresh without being loud. They keep things breezy while giving a little more visual interest — ideal when most of your holiday wardrobe is made up of soft neutrals.

11. Toteme Bucket Hat: I’ve tried the big floppy sun hats and the sporty bucket hats, but this one combines the best of both: clean shape, structured design and a raffia texture.

12. Blouse: Massimo Dutti does “elevated basics” better than almost anyone. Their summer tops always have a little detail like an interesting neckline or a unique cut that sets them apart. I love them for holiday packing because they work with anything: jeans, skirts, culottes, you name it. Plus, most are made from linen or cotton, so the fabrics are always warm-weather-appropriate.

13. Gucci Aviator Sunglasses: Another one I often find myself picking up in that darn duty-free section is sunglasses. Aviators are always the shape I reach for first. Oversized, slightly dramatic, but still classic.

14. Keratase Hair Oil: When you’ve got chlorine, sea salt and sun all going on at once, I always find my hair needs some extra love on holiday. This is the same hair oil I use day-to-day, and I always pack it when travelling. A few drops after the shower or before dinner keeps things smooth and shiny.

15. Loewe Raffia Tote Bag: This is a classic holiday piece that I’d absolutely use post-trip as well. I love how the leather straps add a little edge to the beachy vibes. It’s the kind of bag that works just as well for the beach as it does for sightseeing in the city.

16. The Row Flip-Flops: Last summer, I took my fisherman sandals with me to Croatia, but this year, I’m leaning towards these chunky flip-flops. They look sturdy, ultra-minimal and perfect for both city streets and beach days.

I hope this gave you some ideas for what to bring on your next trip. At the end of the day, it’s about curating pieces that make you feel relaxed, put-together, and most importantly, like yourself… just on vacation.

Til next time,

Sophie xx

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