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Packing for a Euro summer is basically a skill—and after living in London for five years (and dragging way too many overweight suitcases back and forth), I like to think I’ve become fluent. It’s not about stuffing your luggage with overdone “coastal grandma” looks or panic-ordering pieces that can’t survive cobblestones, café culture, or 90-degree heat. It’s about building a smart, versatile wardrobe that works for breezy park strolls, spontaneous aperitivos, and those inevitable rainy days, all while feeling polished—even after a red-eye.
Working and studying fashion journalism in the UK taught me how to curate a stylish capsule wardrobe and be prepared for surprise summer showers. I also spent years traveling Europe as a broke uni student—from Santorini to Malta—learning to stay true to my style on a budget (major shoutout to Primark). Now, heading into my 30s, my wardrobe may be more refined, but the staples I pack for any Euro girl summer remain the same.
With insights from friends and family still living (and working in fashion) across the UK, I’ve put together 10 essentials that deserve a spot in your suitcase—no exceptions. Keep scrolling for everything I recommend for your next European adventure.
A Base Tank:
Intimissimi Superior Cotton Racer Back Tank Top
This tank is that girl—it pairs with everything from breezy linen pants to flirty skirts and lived-in cutoffs. Lightweight, layer-friendly, and made for heatwave days.
The Perfect Linen Trousers:
Willit Women’s Linen Pants
Reviewers are obsessed with how these linen pants fit, feel, and don’t lose their shape even in the heat. The stretchy waist and breezy fabric make them an easy yes for summer plans.
A Pair of Comfy Sneakers:
Madewell Asics Skyhand OG Sneakers
I lived in sneakers like these while in London, perfect with floaty dresses, midi skirts, and basically anything in your suitcase. They nail that rare combo of looking cute and saving your feet when you’re hitting 20k steps on cobblestones and endless stairs.
An Effortless Matching Set:
EXLURA Women’s Sleeveless Tank 2 Piece Outfit
A swingy top with breezy drawstring shorts is the kind of effortless combo that makes getting dressed feel fun again. Made from 100% cotton, this striped set comes in colors like green, coffee, orange, and classic blue, and it holds up beautifully wash after wash.
A Sleek & Chic Silk Scarf:
& Other Stories Satin Scarf
I love adding a pop of color to my neutral summer fits, and recently I’ve been wearing this chic, satin scarf tied around my purse, my neck, or as a bandana.
Statement Maxi Dress:
Madewell Smocked Maxi Dress
I’d mark this special mention from Madewell as my favorite summer dress of the year. It comes in petite-friendly sizes, hits perfectly at your ankles, and hugs all your curves in the right places. Trust that once you make the splurge, you’ll never want to take it off.
Everyday Hoops:
Nordstrom Demi Fine Molten Hoop Earrings
Simple, little gold hoops are always a great touch to any flowy fit you’re planning to wear. Just imagine these, paired with a flower behind your ear (divine).
Aperitivo-Ready Sandals:
The Drop Women’s Mila Slide
You can’t go traveling without a comfy slide, and these Mila ones from The Drop are exactly the style you need. They come in three neutral colors and pair perfectly with any vacation fit.
Trusty, Waterproof Trench Coat:
Buck Mason Storm Stopper Mackinstosh Trench
Available in black or khaki colorway, this Storm Stopper from Buck Mason is a pricey trench that’s actually worth the investment. Not only is it beloved by our editors, its relaxed cut and weather cloth fabric make it a trench that can be worn in any weather (not just spring ladies!).
A Carry-All Handbag:
Polène Cyme Mini Edition Textured Black
I’ve tried them all, but I always find myself falling for the iconic Polène Cyme bag. Crafted from Italian textured calf leather, it’s a minimalist fashion staple that definitely deserves a spot in your year-round capsule wardrobe.
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