summer travel wardrobe 2023

A Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Will Keep You From Overpacking

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding reliable clothing staples to rewear again and again helps us all to become more sustainable travelers—and refrain from overpacking. When building a summer travel capsule wardrobe, versatile and comfortable basics are key: Rather than packing a suitcase full of trendy items or statement outfits you'll only wear once, consider investing in basics you can pair with several outfits and wear from day to night. To lay the foundation, we've put together a list of top summer wardrobe essentials, whether you’re headed to a beach vacation in Mexico or are planning to eat your way through Italy . No matter where your upcoming travel plans take you, these are the pieces you’ll be glad you packed. From crisp white button-downs and packable slip dresses to walking sandals and everyday sneakers , you can count on them to keep your packing list short and your outfit options long.

Below, 13 pieces to build a summer travel capsule wardrobe, with men's and women's styles from brands we love: Everlane , Lulus , Buck Mason , Teva , and more. Keep scrolling to see them all or jump right to your section of choice.

• The basic tee  

The classic button-down

• The perfect short  

The lightweight denim

• The breathable tank top  
• The midi dress  

The exercise dress

• The white sneaker  

The walking sandal

The comfortable heel.

• The quality bathing suit  

The crossbody bag

The basic tee.

Every traveler needs a favorite tee . A basic T-shirt pairs well with almost any pair of shorts, linen pants, jeans, or skirt you pack this summer (sometimes I even throw one underneath a sleeveless dress). For something a little more polished than the fit of a classic cut tee, a seamless bodysuit tucks neatly into every pair of bottoms and looks flattering  on every body type. 

Along with a plain white tee, I never travel without a button-down —I wear these with denim, as a cover-up by the pool, or over a slip dress at night if it gets a little chilly. For something ultra lightweight, a linen button-down looks put together and keeps you cool. 

The perfect short

Finding a trusted pair of shorts can feel nearly impossible. We chose options that aren’t too short, so you can avoid unwanted chafing while still keeping cool. We turned to a few of our favorite brands, like Buck Mason, Everlane, and Lululemon, to bring you the perfect pair of shorts you'll actually want to wear on a hot day.

While not always necessary if you’re traveling to a particularly hot destination, it wouldn’t be a list of essentials without including a pair of tried-and-true denim, like these straight-leg jeans from Madewell and classic Levi’s. These pairs can be worn and washed again and again—they only get better with age. 

The linen pant

For something a little more breezy, opt for a pair of linen pants. Whether I'm headed to a barbecue or lunch by the pool, I'm always gravitating toward linen in the warmer months. Lightweight, packable, and chic—it's the ultimate summer pant. 

The breathable tank top

Hot summer days mean you’ll need a few basic tanks. Ribbed tank tops are always a smart choice—they're both comfortable and flattering. If you want something that looks a little more put together with a pair shorts or a midi skirt, I wear this seamless bodysuit from Amazon constantly (it’s double-lined and I have it in multiple colors). Nike and activewear brand Vuori make some of our favorite performance tanks for men—they’re available in a variety of colors, too. 

The midi dress

One of the most fun items to pack for summer: midi dresses . Staple pieces like this rib tank dress from Buck Mason and Mara Hoffman’s mega-popular wrinkle-resistant popcorn dress are always smart options, but for something with a little more flare, I’m eyeing colorful picks from Lulus and Abercrombie. Whether you’re headed to a dinner party or want to explore a new city in style, these dresses scream summer and are easy to throw on with any pair of sandals. 

Ideal for active travelers and especially hot destinations, exercise dresses are supportive enough for hikes and workout classes, while doubling as a chic day-time outfit. I don't always work out on a trip, but when I do a sporty yet feminine exercise dress is the way to go—I'll wear one for a morning walk and still feel put together enough for breakfast at the hotel afterwards. I love that these have built-in shorts underneath so they're just as practical as they are cute. 

The white sneaker

When it comes to essential shoes, every traveler needs a crisp pair of white sneakers . It’s always my most-worn shoe on every trip, especially when there’s a walking tour on the itinerary. Some of our favorite comfortable white sneakers come from Veja, Everlane, Allbirds, and Adidas, with men’s and women’s sizes available for all of them. 

Summer sandals can be a tricky shoe to purchase: You want a pair that can withstand a good amount of walking without leaving you with blisters, and that still leaves you looking put together. Sandals from Teva fit the bill, with a variety of color options available and some designed specifically for hiking . Our editors also rely on Birkenstocks once the weather turns warm—these classic sandals last for years. 

For those summer nights when you need something a little more elevated than your favorite pair of sandals, a comfortable heel is a must-have. Black, ivory, or nude heels match just about any midi dress you toss in your carry-on . The height of these heels is just right—high enough to wear to any destination weddings you're attending, but low enough to actually dance the night away in. 

The quality bathing suit 

No matter where I’m headed—beach vacation or not—I always pack a bathing suit . You can't go wrong with a supportive one-piece (bonus points if there’s some ruching, like this blue J.Crew suit has). The brand makes comfortable swim trunks for men, too; we also love the beachy board shorts from Fair Harbor.

To carry all of your essentials, you’ll need a versatile bag that transitions well from day to night. The Coach Tabby bag, Cuyana Saddle bag, and Tory Burch Pebbled crossbody are a few great options, whether you’re headed to a museum or are shopping for souvenirs. If you’re planning to be a bit more active, our editors swear by the Lululemon Everywhere belt bag —it has a cult following for a reason.

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28 Summer Capsule Wardrobe Staples That Are Just Impossibly Cool

By Talia Abbas

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Real talk: Warm-weather dressing isn’t always as effortless as throwing on a dress and slippers, but a summer capsule wardrobe can help you stylishly navigate the very hot and humid spaces—and the most refrigerated ones—with ease. 

The trick to building out the ideal summer capsule wardrobe is focusing on fabrics and silhouettes. Just as in spring you gravitate towards wardrobe essentials that lend themselves well to layering, for peak temperatures you want breathable, lightweight materials, like linen , cotton, and silk, that move easily and feel good on skin—and don’t trap heat. When it comes to fit, anything loose and flowy usually works. (It’s little surprise that one of the most popular summer fashion trends is relaxed suiting.) And don’t sweat the length: Midi and maxi styles tend to be just as—if not more—comfortable than minis, while tailored shorts (and jorts) read more appropriate than cutoffs in semiformal settings.

Our top picks: 

• Best Tank Top: Free People Kate Tee , $38
• Best T-Shirt: Hanes Essential T-Shirt (4-Pack) , $16
• Best Strapless Bra: Skims Fits Everybody Bandeau , $28
• Best Summer Dress: Daily Practice by Anthropologie Long-Sleeve Knit Dress , $128
• Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress: Bl-nk Painterly Off-Shoulder Slip Dress , $148 
• Best Summer Sneakers: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low-Top Sneakers , $60
• Best Summer Sandals: Birkenstock Milano Slingback Sandals , $170
• Best One-Piece Swimsuit: Solid & Striped Veronica One-Piece Swimsuit , $228
• Best High-Waisted Bikini: Peony Pleated Bandeau Top ($50) and High-Waist Bottoms ($50)
• Best Denim Short: Levi's Premium 501 Mid Thigh Short , $42
• Best Summer Bag: J.Crew Woven Straw Market Tote , $118
• Best Summer Hat: Madewell Straw Bucket Hat , $48
• Best Sunglasses: Aire Ceres Rectangular Sunglasses , $39

The best part about dressing for the season, though, is all the colorful accessories that come out to play. A great beach bag , a charming woven tote , and stackable summer jewelry —these are small staples that pack a punch with a simple look—and tend to get a ton of wear. 

To make the next few weeks as fuss-free as possible (at least when it to comes dressing for the heat), we rounded up all the warm-weather essentials you need for a stylish summer—check them out below. 

  A closet overhaul—or restock—adds up, so save when you shop on wardrobe essentials with the best 4th of July clothing sales , and these Free People , Anthropologie , Madewell , Nordstrom , and Saks Fifth Avenue promo codes , as well as coupons from Shopbop and Net-a-Porter .

The Tank Top

White tank tops are a dime a dozen but a great one always stands out—and Glamour editors agree that Free People and Skims have some of the best around.

Free People Kate Tee

Free People

Skims Cotton Rib Tank

The White T-Shirt

Ditto for white T-shirts. Our editors can get very particular about the small details that set a good white tee apart from an excellent one. Here are a few at various price points we like to stock up on.

Hanes Essentials T-Shirt (4-Pack)

Good American Stretch-Cotton Baby Tee

Saks Fifth Avenue

Good American

Elysewalker Label Carrie Crew

Elysewalker

Leset Classic Margo Tee

The Summer Sneakers

Whether you're at home or vacation, summer sneakers are a must for 10,000-plus-step days—and comfy white kicks are classics for a reason.

Adidas Samba OG Sneakers

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low-Top Sneakers

The Strapless Bra  

Along with nipple covers and boob tape , the best strapless bras can help you pull off a tricky summer ’fit. We’ve tried dozens to find ones that stay up and hidden for small breasts and large busts alike—Wacoal and Skims never disappoint. 

Wacoal Halo Lace Convertible Underwire Bra

Skims Fits Everybody Bandeau

The Tube Top 

Somewhere between a longline bandeau and strapless top—this late-’90s, early-’00s staple has made a quiet comeback, managing to look both timeless and modern when paired with relaxed trousers or high-waist jeans. 

Babaton Contour Tube Top

Spritz Linen Tube Top Reformation

The One-Piece Swimsuit

Long sleeves , with tummy control , with UPF protection —we love a one-piece swimsuit around these parts. And not just because it takes the guesswork out of shopping for swimwear; it can also double as a bodysuit with denim shorts or a cute sarong. 

Peony Vacation One-Piece Swimsuit

Solid & Striped Veronica One-Piece Swimsuit

The High-Waist Two-Piece Swimsuit

Those in the market for a two-piece will appreciate the variety the best swimsuit brands have to offer. Gone are the days of finding only triangle bikinis and low-cut briefs; this new generation of bikinis has everything from interesting cutouts and strap placements to high-waist bottoms with cheeky coverage —all in a bevy of fun prints and colors.

Mikoh Queensland One-Shoulder Bikini Top

Mikoh Lami High-Waist Bikini Bottoms

Peony Pleated Bandeau Bikini Top

Peony Gathered High-Waist Bikini Bottoms

The Statement Shades

Sunglasses are always a good idea—especially ones that can get coated with sand and seawater without you being too precious about them.

Aire Ceres 51mm Rectangular Sunglasses

Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses

The Linen Button-Down

Naturally lightweight and breathable, linen is a quintessential summer fabric—and the best linen shirts look a little (or lot) lived-in.  

Boden Relaxed Linen Shirt

Everlane The Linen Relaxed Shirt

The Day Dress 

Sleeveless, puff-sleeved, smocked or strapless—the perfect summer dress instantly ups your level of excitement for getting dressed in the morning. It’s also a vacation must-have.

J.Crew Carolyn Dress

Hill House The Ophelia Dress

The Denim Shorts

Like an on-off relationship, feelings towards jorts have been hot and cold for the past few summers, but it seems the internet’s finally reached a consensus: They can stay. Blame it on Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid , who make them look so good with Sambas—but you’ll want to embrace these longer hems, ASAP. 

Citizens of Humanity Marlow High-Waist Long Organic-Cotton Denim Shorts

Levi’s Premium 501 Mid-Thigh Shorts

The Everyday Sandals

If you don’t already own a comfortable pair of walking sandals , now’s the time to get one. Madewell just introduced the Birdie, a strappy platform shoe, while Birkenstock’s Milano slingback sandal—with big buckles!—offers a fresh take on its ever-popular Arizona style.

Madewell The Birdie Double-Strap Platform Sandals

Birkenstock Milano Slingback Sandals

The Beach Tote

A sturdy beach bag is a nonnegotiable for carrying towels, sunscreen , books , and snacks with style.

J.Crew Woven Straw Market Tote

Clare V. Sandy Tote

The Extra Sun Protection 

The window for wearing a straw boater is a short one, so make the most of summer hat season while you can. 

Madewell Straw Bucket Hat

Lack of Color Seashells Straw Boater Hat

The Beach Coverup

The best beach coverup is an outfit unto itself. We love the way an oversized shirt looks over a one-piece swimsuit, or a printed sarong with a matching bikini. 

Solid & Striped The Oxford Tunic

Anthropologie

Tory Burch Printed Cotton Silk Pareo

The Summer Skirt

Slip skirts will always have a place in our wardrobe, but there’s something about structured midis—in linen and jean—that we’re really into right now. 

Reformation Gia Linen Midiskirt

Lioness Barbie Split Midiskirt

The Cargo Pants

Utilitarian trousers may be reaching a fever pitch, but if you’re still as into them as we are, you’ll love Agolde’s and Leset’s sleek take on the trend.

Agolde Ginerva Cargo Pants

Leset Yoko Cargo Pants

The Tailored Vest

Equal parts cool and sophisticated, a vest is what you wear when the vibe is put-together but not super fussy. Skip layering and wear it sleeveless.

Faithfull The Brand Elfie Tie-Front Linen Vest

Favorite Daughter The Favorite Vest

Favorite Daughter

The Romantic Top

You may be living in T-shirts and tanks most of the time, but a cute summer top is great to have for dressing up casual bottoms.

The Great. The County Line Plaid Cotton Tank Top

Dôen Renee Cropped Ruffled Pintucked Ramie Top

Net-a-Porter

The Airy Trousers 

If you’re going to wear pants at all, make it breezy, pull-on trousers—in linen, natch. 

Boden Relaxed Pull-On Linen Pants

Faithfull the Brand Ottavio Linen Flare Coverup Bottoms

The Linen Blazer 

Blazers get the linen treatment for summer too. Black always works, but it’s hard to go wrong with an off-white version slung carefree over a T-shirt. 

Everlane The Linen Oversized Blazer

& Other Stories Double-Breasted Linen Blazer

The Woven Bag

If summer were a bag, it’d be a charming little basket bag. (No? Just us?)

Muuñ Abby Striped Woven Basket Bag

Matchesfashion

Inès Bressand Mini Wave Raffia Shoulder Bag

Bergdorf Goodman

The Summer Knit

Perfect for windy beaches and A/C-filled offices, a lightweight knit you can toss in a big tote bag goes a long way.

Kule The Raleigh Pickleball Sweater

La Ligne Stripe Tissue-Weight Cashmere Cardigan

The Event Dress

A special-occasion dress should make an impact—and have life beyond a single wear. You can find the best summer wedding guest dresses across all budgets and styles, though Tanya Taylor has some our favorite printed ones. 

Tanya Taylor Maya Dress

Tanya Taylor

Me+Em Graphic Tulip Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress + Belt

The Heeled Sandals

Perfect for after-work events, weddings, or date nights, a kitten-heel sandal is a versatile addition that’ll get plenty of wear. 

Staud Brigitte Mules

Bloomingdales

Senso Tommie Heels

The Claw Clip 

Cute claw clips to the rescue in the unrelenting heat and humidity. 

Chunks Nimbus Claw Clip

Emi Jay Sweet Shell Claw Clip

The Summer Jewelry Stack

Pile on the campy pieces—we love Martha Calvo’s and Crystal Haze’s playful creations—or mix metals for a colorful, layered look; celeb-loved brands like Jennifer Zeuner and Jenny Bird have great pieces for every day. 

Joolz by Martha Calvo Enamel Beaded 14kt-Gold-Plated Necklace

Crystal Haze Jewelry Serena Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Necklace

Jennifer Zeuner Perla Hoop Earrings

Jennifer Zeuner

Jenny Bird Rodin Rolo Chain Necklace

All eyes are on belts right now. Invest in a luxe leather one you’ll own for years to come, or have fun with a chain style that’ll pair nicely with slip dresses and denim skirts.

Khaite Benny Leather Skinny Belt

Epifene Paloma Chain Belt

Talia Abbas is the senior commerce editor at Glamour. You can follow her @_taliaabbas on Instagram.

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By Jake Henry Smith

By Jake Henry Smith and Talia Abbas

By Talia Abbas and Paula Lee

Ultimate Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Are you looking for the ULTIMATE Summer travel capsule wardrobe? In this guide, we tell you exactly what to pack for Summer travel in Europe and around the globe.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

But before we get onto the specific items we put in our favorite Summer travel capsule wardrobe, we first thought it would be a good idea to tell what is a travel capsule wardrobe is, why you should pack one and where it can be used.

Table of Contents

What is a Travel Capsule Wardrobe?

To know what a Summer travel capsule wardrobe is, it is worth outlining what a travel capsule wardrobe actually is!

Generally speaking a travel capsule wardrobe is a method of limiting what you pack for vacation by creating more minimalist packing lists , and thus preventing you from overpacking .

A travel capsule wardrobe uses a few key pieces of clothing to make up several mix and match outfits. Basically meaning that every piece of your wardrobe, can be used in multiple outfits to create completely different outfits.

Now depending on the length of your travels or vacation, the time of year you are traveling and the destination will depend on how many items should be included in your capsule wardrobe. However in my opinion the less the better. But be sure to pack enough so you don’t have to do laundry or buy new items at your destination.

Some ways we create out capsule wardrobes are using the following packing methods:

• The 54321 packing method
• the Sudoku packing technique (3 x 3 packing method)
• . 4 x 4 packing method

Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe

So now you know what a travel capsule wardrobe is we will look at capsule wardrobe for Summer in particular.

Our Summer packing list and capsule wardrobe is designed to be used in the traditional Summer months of June, July and August in the Northern Hemisphere such as in Europe, Asia and of course the USA and Canada.

Note : if you are travelling to the Southern Hemisphere Spring is categorised as December, January and February.

And if you are traveling at another time of year of for a specific type of vacation be sure to check out our other capsule wardrobe packing lists for more specific guidance:

• Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe
• Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
• River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
• Safari Capsule Wardrobe.

So now you know what a Summer travel capsule wardrobe is how do you begin to put one together?

How to put together a Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Whenever I am putting together a capsule wardrobe I always start making my wardrobe in the same way using a couple of considerations these are:

Color palettes

Having a clear color palette is essential for creating any successful capsule wardrobe. Without a clear color palette your items will not mix and match correctly and therefore will not create multiple cohesive outfits for a true minimalist closet.

Now obviously monochrome is the easiest capsule wardrobe to make as you are so limited in colors. However I find this makes my vacation photos look a bit boring, especially for vibrant summer destinations and beach destinations.

When I put together my own Summer capsule wardrobe I always gravitate towards bright colors, pastels and florals. My favorite color palettes for a Summer capsule wardrobe are:

But this is very much a personal choice and you should pick a color palette that you feel comfortable in.

Plan out your outfits in advance

Whenever I am packing my travel capsule wardrobe, I always lay my clothes out and plan my outfit combinations in advance.

This way you know that everything you have goes in your outfits and can be used multiple times. This is why I like the sudoku method as it is the easiest method of laying out outfits.

Check weather and itinerary before travel

Obviously this is a generic Summer capsule wardrobe designed for use during traditional Summer weather. For this reason waterproof wear is not a top priority for this list. However, a word of caution is to always check the weather at your destination 7 days before travel and keep an eye on it up until departure.

And if you are looking for other seasonal capsule wardrobes these posts may be of interest:

• Spring Capsule Wardrobe
• Fall Capsule Wardrobe
• Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe .

Also it is worth mentioning that we have seasonal travel lists for specific destinations. To check your destination and time of travel head to the search function on the top of this page and type your destination and month of travel (i.e. Venice August or Italy July ). This will give you packing tips for local dress codes and weather in more specific detail

Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essential Items

So now you know the principles of how to put together a Summer travel capsule wardrobe we will look at some of our favorite pieces to include no matter the destination:

Best Pants for your Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobes

Usually when I start putting together my capsule wardrobes I start with the pants / trousers first. I generally speaking own more tops than bottoms, therefore I like to pick our the pants first as I have more tops to play with.

The essentials on your summer capsule list are:

Linen Trousers / Linen pants

Linen trousers are a great pick for Summer no matter where you are traveling to. We like to pick linen pants in a neutral color such as cream, beige or white as they work well no matter the color you pick for your capsule wardrobe.

Dress / Skirt

As you transition from your Spring capsule wardrobe into your Summer one, you will want to change the skirts and dresses you wear. Personally I like a Maxi Dress or Skirt or midi one as I find they work no matter where you are., These work even if you plan on visiting religious sites such as churches or mosques .

I also like that these are great day to night transition pieces with a little dressing up with jewelry and pashminas.

Click here to shop Summer dresses.

Athleta Brooklyn Travel Pant

My absolute favorite travel pant of the moment has to be the Athleta Brooklyn Pant. These pants have a stylish but comfortable elastic waistband which for me make them my go to airplane outfit.

But not only that the fact that they do not wrinkle, along with the ability to machine wash and dry make them perfect for traveling.

I like to wear these as part of my airplane outfit which again saves room in your suitcase and means you can try and pack carry on only. They also work well for nights out where you want smarter trousers.

Click here to shop the Athleta Brooklyn ankle pant for travel.

Although not for every destination, when we are visiting summer destinations with beaches, or outdoor activities as opposed to cities I always pack shorts.

I tend to pack smarter more tailored shorts such as chino shorts instead of short shorts or denim shorts as these work in more settings.

Best Tops for Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobes

So now you know our favorite bottoms for your Summer travel capsule wardrobe we will turn our attention to tops.

And our first pick has to be:

A basic t shirt is a great staple and an essential of any packing list at any time of year. Now depending on the color scheme you are going for will depend on what color you should have. But in my opinion you can never go wrong with a plain white tee.

For Summer I tend to pack more short sleeve t shirts as opposed to long sleeve ones.

Click here to shop basic tee shirts.

Note : For Europe in Summer I would avoid a graphic t-shirt or slogan tee for several reasons. Firstly they are less versatile so aren’t as easy to combine in your Summer outfit combos. But also they aren’t in keeping with many local European styles.

Also for cities rather than beach destinations, I tend to avoid tank tops because at some cultural institutions these are not appropriate.

Blouse / Shirt

A shirt or blouse is a great addition to a summer capsule wardobe. Again I stick with tops in natural fabrics such as cotton and linen to reduce sweat.

Personally I love a floral blouse but also think you can never go wrong with an oversized linen shirt. And as an added bonus can look casual with some jeans or be dressed or with accessories for a more smart casual look.

Click here to shop printed and patterned blouses.

Best Layers for your Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Layers are important no matter the time of year you travel even in Summer. Now depending on the location will depend on the thickness you need.

However, generally speaking I normally try and take 3 top layers and 3 base layers with me when I travel which in Summer usually consists of:

A cardigan is essential for this time of year as it can be layered on top of blouses, tops, t shirts and dresses whether you need an extra layer during the daytime, or want to use it to dress up your evening attire.

You can choose the color based on the palette you have in your wardrobe.

Click here to shop cardigans for Spring.

A sweater is another great day to night transition piece. I particularly like sweaters made of merino wool as they are light and easy to pack, but also look very stylish.

Click here to shop merino wool sweaters.

Although a casual item, my capsule wardrobe is never complete without a hoodie and is often worn as part of airplane outfit.

I tend to wear this for more day time sightseeing as opposed to nightwear.

Click here to shop hoodies for travel.

Best Jackets for Summer Travel (Optional)

Waterproof jacket.

Depending on where you are going will depend on whether you need a pack-away rain jacket. For instance I would never travel to the Fjords in Norway without one, however in Spain in summer I would definitely leave this off my packing list.

Click here to shop jackets for travel.

Shoes for Summer Capsule Wardrobes

I often find that shoes are the easiest item to overpack . However, for Summer I recommend packing just two pairs of shoes. They are:

I never travel without a pair of sneakers. Some of my favorite travel sneaker brands are Hoka and All Birds. Bit ecco are a good brand if you want a sneaker with some waterproofing.

However my favorite sneakers of the moment are the Addidas Cloud Foam . These are white sneakers which are very versatile as part of a capsule wardrobe but also are very comfortable for walking long distances.

On top of sneakers I also recommend packing:

A sandal is perfect for summer travel. Depending on how much walking you plan on doing depends whether you need something with arch support. If you do want a comfortable sandal for walking, we don’t think you can go wrong with Teva.

Optional Shoes

Other shoes you may want to add depending on the destination include:

Best Accessories for your Summer Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

The items that are included in this section are definitely nice to haves rather than Summer travel wardrobe essentials. However, packing at least one of the below items can really help transform your outfit and make it pop.

Some of our favorite Summer travel accessories include:

Pashminas are my number one  travel essential for women  as they are so versatile as a great layering piece and are always part of my perfect summer capsule wardrobe. They can be used as an extra layer in the cooler weather or even as a scarf, and can also make outfits more modest at religious sites. And of course they are a great day to style an outfit differently for a day to night transition.

Click here to shop pashminas.

Traveling with jewelry can feel a bit like a minefield especially if you are worried about traveling with expensive or precious jewelry.

The type of jewelry you travel with is really a personal choice about what you feel comfortable with. However we think even traveling with some costume jewelry is a good idea to help you make your capsule wardrobe outfits look a bit different.

Crossbody Bag

A crossbody bag anti theft type is actually always on my packing lists especially for traveling in European cities such as Rome and Barcelona which do have pickpocket problems.

I find these types of bags give me a bit more peace of mind when traveling as they make it harder for pickpockets to get into. When selecting a crossbody bag I would pick something in a neutral color such as brown, black or navy depending on the palette of your capsule wardrobe and think about one that can be sued throughout your seasonal capsule wardrobes.

Shop crossbody bags here.

Note: a tote bag is also handy for souvenir shopping too.

Again, a hat is by no means an essential but they can transform an outfit and can make for some great instagram worthy photos as well as a great way to keep your face protected in the sun..

We like the floppy wide brimmed hats in a color that complements rather than matches your capsule wardrobe. For beach destinations you can go for wider brims than cities.

Click here to shop Summer hats for travel.

We hope this has helped you put together your own Summer Capsule travel wardrobe! And we would love to hear about what you pack for Summer in the comments below

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

A Quintessential Summer Capsule Wardrobe Starts With These 12 Essentials

By Madeline Fass

*All products featured on *Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.

The Summer Staples Checklist:

• The Staple Swimsuit : Eres Les Essentiels Larcin swimsuit , $485
• The Best Button-Up : Nili Lotan Kristen cotton-poplin shirt , $295
• The Linen Shorts : Everlane Way-High drape short , $78
• The Leather Sandal : Birkenstock Milano buckled leather sandals , $154
• The Sundress : Ulla Johnson Phoebe poplin dress , $490
• The Raffia Hat : Prada raffia bucket hat , $950
• The Everyday Sunglasses : Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer sunglasses , $213
• The Basket Bag : Dragon Diffusion woven-leather basket bag , $295
• The Lightweight Trouser : Faithfull the Brand pleated wide-leg pants , $229
• The Sleeveless Top : Vince ribbed tencel lyocell-blend tank , $165
• The Layering Tank: Soldout.NYC Not So Basic tank top , $85
• The White Jean: Frame Le Palazzo crop jeans , $250

While planned vacations or destination weddings would require special attention and outfit planning, the rest of your summer wardrobe should be as carefree as the season itself. For wearable and, most importantly,  rewearable style, consider preparing a capsule wardrobe this summer. With just a handful of pieces come endless outfit opportunities, and we deemed them essential for the summer season.

Capsule wardrobe items should be versatile and classic: After all, the goal is to make getting dressed a breeze and, in this case, to also stay cool from a temperature and style standpoint. The kind of reliable clothing and accessories you won’t mind wearing over and over or paired together, but aren’t totally boring either. Cult buy investments like Prada’s iconic bucket hat or Loewe’s signature basket bags, for example, are perfectly acceptable candidates for an even more stylish capsule wardrobe. Your quintessential summer wardrobe starts with the ten essentials, below.

Seamless Sundresses

For some, the summer capsule wardrobe begins and ends with an easy day dress . It’s hard to refuse a garment that doesn’t cling to the body during hot days, appears very put together, and what’s more, requires only one item of clothing for a complete outfit. You’ll come to find that these sundresses work hard in your wardrobe, wearing just as well for casual outings as they do for more formal occasions.

Ulla Johnson Phoebe cut-out cotton-poplin midi dress

NET-A-PORTER

Matteau shirred organic cotton and silk-blend maxi dress

Merlette Freja dress

Asceno Ibiza linen maxi dress

Hill House Home Ellie nap dress

HILL HOUSE HOME

Esse Studios cut-out cotton-poplin maxi dress

Breezy Button-Ups

Due to their relaxed silhouettes, versatility, and effortless appeal, classic button-up shirts have rightfully earned their spot as a summer capsule wardrobe staple. Take your pick from classic white poplin to subtle stripes to a pop of color to wear on repeat.

Nili Lotan Kristen cotton-poplin shirt

Zara oversized striped poplin shirt

Matteau relaxed button-front shirt

BERGDORF GOODMAN

Denimist oversized cotton-poplin shirt

Filippa K Sammy shirt

Everlane linen relaxed shirt

Staple Swimsuits

Swimsuit trends come and go, but nothing beats good old-fashioned swimwear silhouettes, from unfussy one-pieces in flattering colors to simple triangle bikinis free of bells and whistles. These are the kind of swimsuits you can wear season after season.

Jade Swim Via bikini top and Bound bikini bottoms

Eres Les Essentiels Larcin swimsuit

Matteau string recycled-fibre bikini top and bikini briefs

Solid & Striped Anne-Marie one-piece swimsuit

Anemos Tortoise bandeau bikini top and Eighties bikini bottom

ANEMOS SWIM

Sir. Louis one-shoulder one-piece

Not-So-Short Shorts

Can shorts be chic? These modern minimalist linen or cotton styles from Everlane and Joseph, hit the knee or fall just above, making a convincing case for the garment. Let a tailored, long short be your wardrobe hack for the office , too, as an alternative to dresses on warm and humid days.

linen Way-High drape short

Goldsign Scout pleated denim shorts

Tyler pleated shorts

Handley pleated silk-blend shorts

belted cotton-twill shorts

pleated tailored shorts

Summer Sandals

Every season has its signature shoe type; summer’s, of course, is the sandal . With more options on the market than days you can wear them in the season, the most reliable footwear option for a summer capsule wardrobe is one you’ll happily wear with every item in it. Look for one that’s versatile, comfortable, neutral, or, better yet, all of the above. 

Totême chunky sandals

The Row Ginza leather and suede platform flip flops

Saint Laurent Nu Pieds woven leather sandals

Birkenstock Milano buckled leather sandals

Emme Parsons Leo sandals

Aeyde Renee sandals

White Denim Jeans

You know that old myth that you can’t wear white after Labor Day? While we may not agree with that sartorial guideline, we do support a great pair of white jeans during the summer months. You can’t go wrong with any silhouette or shade this season, from wide-leg to slim fit in washes from chalk to ivory.

Wandler Poppy high-rise straight leg jeans

Goldsign Edgar pleated organic jeans

Frame Le Palazzo jeans

Madewell Perfect Vintage straight jeans

Tibi Murray high-rise wide-leg jeans

Tory Burch mid-rise cropped jeans

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

Bags for the Beach and Beyond

Spontaneous summer days call for a bag that can keep up with any kind of plan. Something you can carry from work to drinks or from planes to the poolside, say, a straw basket tote or carryall. Woven raffia or straw bags are a covetable and convenient accessory that’s quintessentially summer.   

Loewe x Paula's Ibiza leather-trimmed raffia bucket bag

Hereu Calella raffia bag

Altuzarra Watermill straw-woven basket bag

Dragon Diffusion Triple Jump small woven-leather basket bag

Poolside Bags small Essaouira tote

Bottega Veneta raffia shoulder bag

Hot Weather Tops

Be it airy blouses or vests , a rotation of sleeveless tops to mix and match with the rest of your summer separates is crucial to keeping your warm-weather capsule wardrobe feeling cool. Take your pick between Tove to Attersee.

Tove Leila cut-out organic cotton-poplin top

Loulou Studio striped vest top

Ulla Johnson Elora puff-sleeve poplin top

Proenza Schouler drapey suiting ruched top

PROENZA SCHOULER

Vince ribbed tencel lyocell-blend tank

Attersee sculpted vest

Lightweight Pants

For those seeking a quiet luxury or a minimalist summer aesthetic, a pair of soft trousers (think:  Succession ’s Naomi Pierce) in lightweight colors and fabrics will do just the trick. Wear to the office with a collared shirt, with a ribbed tank on the weekends, or to the beach with a swimsuit without breaking a sweat.

Mother Pouty Prep Heel linen-blend wide-leg pants

Aexae pleated linen straight-leg pants

MODA OPERANDI

Faithfull the Brand El Toro pleated linen wide-leg pants

Jacquemus Areia cropped jute-blend pants

Dries Van Noten Pamplona pleated cotton-linen trousers

Fortela Janet pleated cotton-twill straight-leg pants

Shady Sun Hats

While a raffia topper can certainly elevate any vacation or beachy look, the extra sun protection one provides is yet another good reason to have one in reach this summer. Consider wearing one just as often for neighborhood walks or park picnics as you would by the pool or on the sand. Look to the runways for inspiration: white dresses and crop tops were paired with colorful bucket hats at Jacquemus, while Adam Lippes paired lampshade toppers with breezy skirt sets and resort-ready separates.

Janessa Leone Teagan hat

JANESSA LEON

Max Mara straw hat

J.Crew raffia bucket hat

Toteme paper straw hat

Prada raffia bucket hat

Jacquemus Le Bob Gadjo canvas bucket hat

Simple Tanks

As basic as it comes, a tank top is at the top of the summer capsule wardrobe list. Seemingly simple, the humble closet staple can elevate your summer look so long as you have the right kind. (See these outfit ideas for proof). We suggest one in stretchy ribbing and enhanced necklines. Summer dressing made easy!

WSLY Rivington ribbed tank

Soldout.NYC

The Not So Basic tank

SOLDOUT.NYC

Cos ribbed tank top

Éterne thin-strap fitted tank

LNA ribbed double-layer sleeveless tank

James Perse Daily ribbed stretch-cotton tank

Stylish Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses is the finishing touch to any daytime look, making it a rather small but impactful piece among the season’s capsule wardrobe and can be worn with any of the items mentioned above. Shop sought-after styles from Loewe to Bottega Veneta.

Loewe Eyewear tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses

Garrett Leight Broadway sunglasses

Jacques Marie Mage x Lou Doillon All These Nights actetate sunglasses

Bottega Veneta classic oval sunglasses

Givenchy Eyewear Gvspeed oversized square-frame sunglasses

Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer polarized sunglasses

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POV: You're a Fashion Person Packing for Vacation—9 Things in Your Suitcase

Traveling  is finally a thing again, and while that concept alone is thrilling, I'm wondering what we'll be wearing when on vacation. If there's anyone who knows how to dress on vacation, it's fashion people. After deep diving into their covetable summer 2023 wardrobes , I concocted the ideal capsule wardrobe for travel, thanks to some of my favorite sartorial sweeties. Featuring a perfect blend of current trends and summertime staples, the assortment here will ensure your suitcase will be packed to perfection no matter where you're going. 

Get ready to discover the ultimate summer  travel capsule wardrobe, from accessories to going-out pieces and more. Even if you aren't planning on traveling anytime soon, this capsule wardrobe will benefit your local summer plans just as much—I promise.

Crochet Dress

Wear it to lunch or throw it on over your bikini—crochet dresses have proven they are the end-all and be-all of fashionable summer staples. 

Rose-Adorned Swimsuit

Yes, this is the summer of the rosette swimsuit. Swimsuits have taken on a rare form this summer thanks to the rise of 3D floral embellishments. Be it a one-piece or bikini, a floral adornment is the telltale sign of a fashion person. 

Raffia Tote Bag

Trot from destination to destination with a practical yet striking woven tote. You'll almost always see the fashion set with a raffia version of some kind.

Halter Dress

A halter dress will always serve as that go-to dinner look, brunch ensemble, and more while you're on vacation. Thanks to their blank canvas, you can dress these frocks up and down with ease. 

Corded Pendant Necklace

The fashion crowd has been flooding our Instagram feeds with this cool accessory, and we aren't mad about it. At every price and color available under the sun, corded pendants are the easiest way to showcase your personal style this summer. 

Soft Ruffles

Whether it's a top, dress, or skirt, Y2K-inspired soft ruffles are the perfect trendy piece to throw in your suitcase as a pretty swimsuit cover-up or sultry going-out look.

Maxi Skirt Sets

Simple maxi skirt sets make for the chicest day looks when traveling. Not only are they a no-brainer to pack, but you can also wear them individually, meaning you're really getting your bang for your buck. 

Shop the matching  Emma Linen Vest ($210)

Shop the matching  Open Back Halter Vest ($50)

Minimal Sandals

Practical and minimal flat sandals are a must while you're on vacation. Pack pairs that are neutral in color so you can wear them with anything. 

Linen Trousers

Summer vacations typically require a lot of hot-weather outfits, and airy linen pants always make for the easiest option. Not only are they light and breathable, but they look chicer than a standard pair of jeans or jean shorts, whether you pack them in your beach bag to wear over a swimsuit or dress them up for dinner.

Next up, Every Single Cool Person I Know Is Wearing These 8 Trends on Vacation RN

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.

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6 Pieces, 15 Outfits, 1 Carry-on Friendly Capsule Wardrobe

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION

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Think you can’t travel with just six pieces of clothing? This genius capsule wardrobe hack will show you how!

Travel Fashion Girl x Vacay Style Capsule Wardrobe

ADVERTORIAL

You might think that traveling with just six pieces of clothing is absolutely impossible but I have a special travel clothing hack that shows you how to accomplish this and still create two weeks worth of travel outfits for a beach vacation:

Introducing TFG’s Minimalista Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Vacay Style !

Using Vacay Style’s genius two-piece items I was able to transform five of their clothes (plus one additional) to create a total of fifteen outfits!

See all the outfits on the Vacay Style TFG page !

Create Your Own Custom Capsule Wardrobe

Vacay offers themed capsule wardrobe collections, each of which are designed to mix and match to create 15 outfits. Each capsule includes five pieces but you have the choice of either buying a single item, the entire set, or…

… you can shop their entire line to customize your own five-piece capsule wardrobe like I did!

As a bonus, when you buy any five pieces (or more) you instantly get 20% off your entire purchase PLUS one of their gorgeous beach bags for free!

Keep reading below for an additional 15% off exclusive to TFG readers!

Travel Fashion Girl’s Vacay Capsule

Since Vacay allows you to customize your own capsule wardrobe I mixed and matched pieces from three of their themed collections:  Tahiti ,  Martinique , and  St. Bart’s .

Martinique MAXi  |  St. Barts MAXi  |  Tahiti 2-Piece Jumpsuit  |  Tahiti Caftan | Tahiti Halter

The reason why I love Vacay is that their clothing is versatile and you can easily mix and match the pieces together or with a few of your own wardrobe essentials.

All of their sets have lovely hues such as vibrant blues and pretty corals. However, I wanted a neutral capsule wardrobe that I could enhance with whatever color is currently dictating my mood when planning a vacation.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

St. Barts MAXi  worn four unique ways

I’m especially crazy about their MAXi 2-piece dresses. Wear the two items together to create a maxi dress or wear the skirt alone as a midi dress. Then, pair the top and skirt with other pieces to make a variety of other looks as shown above.

I used one of their MAXi dresses on my honeymoon and another in Isla Holbox in Mexico. Take a look!  You can also shop all of their styles here !

Tahiti 2-Piece Jumpsuit

And now they also have 2-piece jumpsuits! GENIUS! Wear them together or separately with contrasting color tops and bottoms for even more versatility.

Grab the 2-piece jumpsuits asap as they sell out quickly. Shop here!

For my capsule , I used the five pieces shown above and added one pair of denim shorts but you can easily replace the shorts for a pair of capris, mini skirt, or whatever else suits your personal taste.

In total I combined two (2-piece) MAXi dress, one (2-piece) jumpsuit, one caftan, and one of their halter tops. Take these five pieces, add one or two more of your own pieces, and create over fifteen travel outfits!

Shop my collection on the Vacay Style TFG page !

Why We Love Vacay Style

I’ve written about Vacay Style several times and even wore all of their clothing on  my honeymoon in the Maldives. Their Tahiti caftan is an absolute must in every sun chaser’s travel wardrobe! It’s light, beautiful, and beyond comfortable. Pic below:

wearing the Tahiti Caftan  on my honeymoon

The idea for Vacay came to Elizabeth Hynes during her own Honeymoon in 2008. It was during her epic sailing journey to Bora Bora that Elizabeth learned how to pull together a collection of items that could create multiple outfits.

She knows how important fabrics are for travel clothing so all their pieces have travel friendly fabrics that are wrinkle resistant or even wrinkle free.

The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing shown in this video!

Martinique MAXi 2-Piece Dress

Satisfaction is guaranteed and you can try the brand 100% risk free. You’re welcome to return unworn items within 2 weeks for a full refund – plus return shipping is free! Definitely worth giving it a shot.

Vacay offers free shipping and free returns within the US and also offers low flat-rate international shipping.

As a bonus, international shipping is FREE for orders over $500 – an awesome deal for travelers overseas.

Vacay Style us offering a special treat for TFG readers.  Not only do you get 20% off with a five-item purchase but you also get an additional 15% discount for being a travel fashion girl with the code  TFGVacay . Expires November 20, 2016.   Shop now!

What five items would you use to create your own collection? Share and comment below!

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

For more about Vacay Style, read our other articles here:

• Luxurious (and Functional) Beach Vacation Clothing
• These 2 Piece Dress Styles are a Game Changer
• Beach Vacation Clothes made Simple
• Honeymoon Clothes that are Practical and Pretty

We hope you liked this post on my custom Vacay Style capsule wardrobe. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

12 comments.

I love these two-piece style dresses and the capsule idea but realizing that the company is now out of business. Are there any other companies offering something similar?? Thanks!!

Hi Becky, sadly we haven’t found anyone that offers quite what Vacay Style did.

You might like Encircled, another popular brand for travel clothing: http://bit.ly/2Ls3ADe

Encircled is a Canadian company that specializes in sustainable, stylish, versatile garments for travel and everyday wear. One item that is really popular is their Chrysalis Cardi, the ultimate travel convertible dress: http://bit.ly/2Ls3ADe

A common issue for travelers attending special occasions abroad is that they struggle with the idea of packing a dress they’ll only be able to wear once on their entire trip. Read my Chrysalis Cardi Dress review to learn how this dress solves that problem: https://bit.ly/3PHIf5A

Most recently, their travel clothing line has expanded to include shirts, blouses, pants, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets, and more! We love Encircled and you will, too!

I would also recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post asking there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Hope this helps.

I like the clothes but they are teally pricey. I think for the price, the fabric could have been of a higher quality such as linen.

Thanks for sharing Cali.

I love Vacay! I have several of the pieces. Elizabeth is a delight to work with! My problem is trying to decide which pieces to take! I love the 2 piece maxis, too!

Love the 2-piece maxis!! Glad you love them as much as we do!! Happy travels Kimberly and thanks for reading!

Alex. You and I are both short. How did you make the St. Barts maxi work for you in flats. Or did you have to wear it with heels?

I hiked it up very high up my waist 😉 However, what I’ve started doing is getting all my dresses and skirts hemmed to a preferred length – it’s a game changer!

I love the two-piece jumpsuits!

Thanks, me too!

This is cute and I love the concept, however even with the discounts, Im not sure that I will be buying. They are really expensive though. For those prices, I would have preferred natural fabrics such as hemp or linen rather than synthetics.

Thanks for the feedback Cali!

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The 13 Best Travel Clothing Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From swimwear to walking shoes, we’ve got you covered.

In This Article

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• Our top picks

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Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

A travel wardrobe is different from a regular wardrobe. How so? It should include comfy, breathable pieces made of stretchy, flexible fabrics while also being versatile, layerable, and suitable for different activities, climates, and occasions.

Finding items that check all the boxes can be challenging. To make it easy, we’ve rounded up the best travel clothing brands that carry casual, professional, weather-friendly, and active pieces alike.

The Travel + Leisure team not only trusts these featured brands but has also personally tried many of their best-selling, highly rated clothes, outerwear, and shoes firsthand. We used our extensive apparel and footwear testing process to come up with the best places to shop online for all types of travelers.

Best Overall

Unbound Merino

Unbound Merino's clothes are woven from ultra-soft, stretchy, non-wrinkling wool that wicks away sweat and promises to keep odors at bay.

The selection is somewhat limited, but it's great for basics.

When it comes to travel apparel, Unbound Merino is tough to beat. Crafted from premium merino wool boasting super-fine, silky fibers, the fabrics are not only not itchy but are also softer, stretchier, and more wrinkle-resistant than many cotton weaves. Wool is naturally antimicrobial and sweat-wicking, too, meaning it won't harbor odor-causing bacteria. So you can wear the garments multiple times on a trip without needing to wash them — the brand says you can wear its clothes for weeks without laundering them.

Unbound Merino carries lots of comfy basics that are excellent for travel, like plain tees, long-sleeves, and pants that feel like sweats but look like professional trousers. We're particularly fond of the Women's Merino Wool Travel Dress . This versatile frock can be dressed up or down, worn as-is or under a light jacket, and styled with sandals, heels, flats, or sneakers. We also like the Men's Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt , a perfect short-sleeve tee or undershirt for guys.

The Details: 90-day return policy

Best for Everyday

The brand's active-meets-casual pieces are just the thing for travel days, athleisure outfits, and sporty weekend looks.

You'll mostly find athleisure and loungewear clothing, but there are some good trousers and knitwear items, too.

Alo is technically a yoga apparel brand, but it makes some excellent athleisure and loungewear pieces for comfy everyday ensembles. The brand has also expanded its offerings to include things like work-ready trousers, knit sweaters, bodysuits, and sporty dresses.

We love Alo's 7/8 High-waist Airlift Legging on account of its extra-wide waistband and soft fabric that lifts and sculpts your curves. When going for a more laid-back look, we'd rock the slouchy Alcolade Sweatpant with a pair of sneakers.

The Details: 30-day return policy

Best for Business Travel

Madewell carries lots of professional-looking pieces, like blouses, bodysuits, button-ups, trousers, and midi dresses.

The men's collection isn't as extensive as the women's.

Madewell is known for its denim, and while we certainly love the jeans, it's also a great place to shop for a work trip. From sophisticated dresses and tailored pants to chic blouses, button-ups, and bodysuits, you'll find a range of high-quality, professional-looking pieces.

The Harlow Pant is one of our favorites for business-casual and business-professional outfits. This best-seller features a high-rise, wide-leg cut and a drapey, breathable blend of cotton and Tencel. (It's also available in a curvy fit , with a contoured waistband and extra room through the hips and thighs.)

Best Sustainable

Besides its impressive collection of classy, travel-ready clothes, we appreciate Everlane's commitment to reducing waste and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

The brand leans seasonless but has some cold- and warm-weather pieces available.

Everlane carries a mostly seasonless collection of travel-ready apparel, including jogger-trouser hybrid pants, jeans in on-trend yet versatile cuts, elegant sweaters, classy Oxford shirts, everyday crewnecks, cotton dresses, and jumpsuits. The brand is also dedicated to sustainability, with a waste-minimizing supply chain and a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by over 50 percent by 2030.

The Dream Pant is one of our go-tos for travel days. These pants look like tailored trousers but feel like stretchy joggers, plus the fabric is wrinkle-resistant and (according to Everlane) "comfortable enough to nap in."

Best Athleisure

Lululemon carries not only top-notch athleisure wear, but also pieces you can wear to work that feel like lounge clothes.

Though the sizes can run a little small, the Align collection stretches to fit even if you fluctuate sizes.

We pretty much always pack at least one Lululemon item when traveling. Originally a yoga apparel brand, it now offers an impressive range of loungewear and athleisure pieces, including leggings in virtually every cut, style, and color. You'll even find work-appropriate garments, like trousers, poplin shirts, and blazers that feel like athleisure wear. The prices can be steep, but you can often strike gold in the discounted " We Made Too Much " section.

Lululemon launched its uber-popular, borderline-famous Align Pant in 2015. While we certainly like the original, the pocketed version is ideal for travel — and it's made with the same buttery-soft fabric and super-wide, high-rise waistband. We also like the slightly looser-fitting Align High-rise Jogger , which has pockets big enough to hold a smartphone .

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Capsule Wardrobes

This affordable luxury brand has pieces you can dress up or down and wear in multiple seasons.

While many cashmere and silk items are machine washable, the brand still recommends hand washing.

Quince is a relatively new clothing brand but has gained a loyal following since its 2020 launch. When you browse the site, you'll find affordable pieces made from premium materials, like cashmere, natural silk, and linen. There's even a chart on each product page that breaks down exactly how it gets the prices so low. Just the thing for building a capsule wardrobe, the high-quality, multi-season garments can be mixed and matched to create endless outfits. Quince also has an almost unheard-of 365-day return window.

We like the Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, which comes in women's and men's sizes. We're also big fans of the Washable Stretch Silk Blouse because it's not only machine washable, but it’s also versatile enough to wear with a skirt, jeans, shorts, or pants.

The Details: 365-day return policy

Best Budget

Amazon essentials.

Amazon's own clothing brand has accessibly priced travel basics, loungewear, professional attire, and swimsuits for men, women, and kids.

The "try before you buy" option is only available for Prime members.

If you're on a budget, look no further than Amazon. The mega-retailer has many private label brands, including a very accessibly priced clothing line, Amazon Essentials. There's tons of great stuff for men, women, and kids, including wardrobe basics, loungewear, dresses, sweaters, underwear, swimsuits, and even workwear. Prime members can get their items within a couple of days (sometimes even with same-day delivery) and take advantage of the "try before you buy" perk. This allows you to order items to try on and ship them back without being charged for anything if you decide you don't want them.

The Women's Short-sleeve Maxi is breathable, stretchy, lightweight, and versatile — everything you want in a travel dress. Amazon Essentials also has many affordable short-sleeve men's shirts, including henleys, V-necks, and crewnecks, like this two-pack of Regular-fit Short-sleeve Pocket T-shirts .

Best Size-inclusive

Girlfriend Collective

Many styles run from XXS to 6XL, plus they're made of stretchy, flexible fabrics that won't wrinkle in your suitcase.

The brand suggests using a wash bag or microfiber filter when washing and hanging items to dry.

Girlfriend Collective has one of the most inclusive size ranges out there — many of its styles come in 11 sizes, running from XXS to 6XL. The brand carries fitness apparel, athleisure, loungewear, bodysuits, dresses, and outerwear – all stretchy, breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and packable. Most items are made of fabrics sourced from recycled plastic bottles, and you can even recycle the pieces you're done wearing through the ReGirlfriend program.

The brand's Compressive Pocket Legging is a stellar choice for travel. We like how the soft yet sturdy fabric holds you in without restricting movement, and the deep side pockets are big enough for a phone or passport.

Best for Shapewear

Spanx has shapewear for every outfit, along with thoughtfully designed clothing items you can wear while traveling, to work, and on weekends.

Many items come in limited colors, but the selection is getting broader.

Spanx is almost synonymous with shapewear. The brand carries a comprehensive selection of undergarments that hold you in, smooth certain areas, and enhance your curves — think bodysuits, high-rise underwear, compressive shorts, tanks, and camis. Besides that, you can now get chic, comfy apparel, including travel clothes, workwear, swimsuits, and even jeans with hidden shapewear features.

Made specifically for travel, the AirEssentials Collection has cozy yet classy jumpsuits, dresses, and wear-anywhere pants. We like the Suit Yourself Boat Neck Ribbed Bodysuit because it combines core-smoothing shapewear with a sleek long-sleeve shirt you can style many ways.

The Details: 60-day return policy

Best for Hiking

This outdoor apparel brand has all types of hiking clothes, from pocketed pants and shorts to layering pieces and weather-ready, stuffable outerwear.

Patagonia doesn't make hiking shoes or boots.

If you're planning a hiking trip, Patagonia likely has almost everything you need. We're talking layering pieces, pocketed trail pants and shorts, windbreakers, rain jackets, packable puffer coats, and thick, sweat-wicking socks. It doesn't carry hiking boots or shoes, but we can tell you which ones to buy from other retailers.

We tested the Women's Chambeau Rock Pants and loved the elastic waistband, adjustable cuffs, ample pockets, silky-soft fabric, and true-to-size fit. The material is also breathable and stretchy, preventing you from overheating while offering a full range of movement on the trail. These pants did a great job repelling water, too, so you can definitely wear them on a drizzly day.

The Details: Unlimited return policy

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Outerwear

Columbia makes a myriad of weather-ready pieces, like vests, pullovers, stuffable puffers, rain jackets, and windbreakers.

The outerwear options are more for outdoor activities than professional or formal occasions.

Columbia has been making outdoor apparel for nearly a century. When you shop the collections, you'll find practical base layers, hiking clothes, snow gear, and lifestyle pieces you can wear for travel and other casual occasions. The brand really stands out for its outerwear offerings, which include fleece pullovers, insulated vests, down jackets, raincoats, and windbreakers. Some options feature Omni-Heat technology, a foil-like lining that essentially reflects your body heat back onto itself to keep you toasty-warm when the temperatures drop.

We tried the Women's Carson Pass Interchange Jacket firsthand and were thoroughly impressed. We found it very warm and liked how easy it was to layer over various shirts and even sweatshirts. What's more, this coat has fleece-lined pockets, sleeves with thumbholes, and a hood that actually stays in place when you put it on.

Travel + Leisure / Maria Rowella

Best Swimwear

Andie Swim 

This swimwear brand has well-made one-pieces and bikinis in multiple coverage options, cuts for long torsos, and an inclusive range of sizes.

Some styles may not be supportive enough for large chests, and the return window is pretty short.

Andie is a prime place to shop for swimsuits. The brand is known for its well-made one-pieces with flattering cuts and comfortable designs that don't require constant adjusting — including options for long torsos and plus-size bodies. You'll also find bikinis, cover-ups, and various accessories, like hats, sunglasses, and beach bags.

We tested The Amalfi One Piece and fell in love with the thick, durable ribbed fabric. It's exceptionally comfy, even when soaking-wet, and dries quickly, so you're never soaking-wet for long. Though the thin straps may not be supportive enough for those with large chests, we appreciate that you can choose from three coverage options on the bottom: medium, cheeky, or full.

The Details: 14-day return policy

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best for Shoes

Nike's footwear selection goes far beyond trainers, with streetwear styles and walking shoes that'll keep your feet happy for hours.

The rocking outsoles might take some getting used to.

Nike has dominated the sportswear market for multiple decades. Over the years, its offerings have expanded to include athleisure clothes, streetwear, and travel-friendly lifestyle pieces. Beyond clothes, the brand has some of the best shoes not just for working out and playing sports but also for hanging out and taking a leisurely stroll.

We tried Nike's Motiva Walking Shoes , which have unique rocker-style bottoms. The shape of the outsoles took some getting used to, but it really seemed to optimize our stride in terms of stability, shock absorption, arch support, and overall comfort. We also adore the sporty-chic look.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Travel + Leisure / Donna Freydkin

Our in-depth testing process for clothing involves carefully inspecting the garments, assessing the materials, trying them on to evaluate the fit, and wearing them for various activities for multiple hours at a time. We rate apparel based on factors such as fit, comfort, breathability, moisture resistance, stretch, durability, care requirements, and overall value. The results for this article were compiled from multiple testers who used the products in real-life settings, often for ongoing, months-long periods.

Tips for Buying Travel Clothing

Choose versatile items.

When buying travel clothes, look for versatile pieces you can dress up or down, mix and match with different outfits, and wear on numerous occasions. Like a capsule wardrobe , this will allow you to pack fewer items and re-wear certain garments. The best apparel for travel is also suitable for multiple seasons, meaning you can layer pieces under or over it for cooler or warmer weather.

Look for travel-friendly features

We recommend prioritizing odor-resistant, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant materials, such as wool, cashmere, lyocell, performance fabrics, and cotton blends containing a stretchy fiber, like spandex or elastane. Some fabrics have built-in sun protection listed as UPF (ultraviolet protection factor).

You'll also be glad to have clothing with pockets. These will come in handy on travel days when you need to quickly stash your phone, boarding pass, ID, or cards. Strategically placed pockets can also allow you to forgo a purse or backpack (or at least bring a smaller one) on some outings.

On travel days (whether you're catching a flight, taking the train, or road-tripping), you want to avoid things that make it hard to sit comfortably for hours or quickly go to the bathroom. For some people, this includes bodysuits, jumpsuits, rompers, dresses, and overalls.

Lace-up shoes can also slow you down when going through airport security. Though some advise against wearing sandals (especially without socks), slip-on footwear such as slides or sneakers can be a good choice. Other things that can hold you back include belts, jewelry, hats, and other accessories.

The best material for travel clothing is stretchy, breathable, and moisture-wicking, meaning it'll draw sweat away from your body to prevent you from overheating. It should also be wrinkle-resistant, so you can pack it in your suitcase without worrying about creases. Fabrics that check all the boxes include wool, cashmere, lyocell, some cotton blends, and performance fabrics.

While you have lots of options for what to wear on a plane , it’s most important to be comfortable and able to move freely, with layers you can take off or throw on if you get hot or cold. You can't go wrong with stretchy jeans or trousers with a simple tee or long-sleeve and a crewneck sweater, half-zip sweatshirt, or button-down flannel. While you shouldn't wear pajamas, some people rock head-to-toe athleisure or loungewear sets, which we can totally get behind.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer, editor, and product reviewer specializing in travel, apparel, accessories, footwear, and consumer goods. She has worn multiple pieces from every brand on this list and is personally familiar with the fabrics, quality, comfort features, and wearability.

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2023 FASHION TRENDS SPRING/SUMMER: TRAVEL CLOTHES FOR WOMEN FOR AIRPORT & MORE

Big cargo pockets.

SHINY METALLICS

COBALT BLUE

Cobalt Blue Swimsuit | Rattan Bag  | Cobalt Blue Sandals |  Cobalt Blue Dress

BIG LOOSE DENIM

CROCHET KNITS

BALLET SHOES WITH SOCKS

BIKERS LOOK

EXTRA BIG BAGS

To summarize, the spring/summer 2023 fashion trends include metallics, acid greens, motocross/biker wear, cobalt blues, big cargo pockets, loose denim, crochet dresses and tops, and ballet shoes. 

These are a few designs that were predominantly showcased by most designers. Most designers recycled some past ideas and made a few tweaks. Biker jackets and boots don’t change that much. If you already have one of these jackets, you can alter some parts of your jacket. Add other colored fabric patches to create a color block attire that mimics the current 2023 style trend. All this effort is to reduce waste. After all, most leather jackets sit in wardrobes almost new, having been worn only a couple of times in their lifetime.

The same sustainable measures apply to cargo pants with big multiple pockets. Simply cut an old cotton clothing item with a matching color to your cargo pants or skirt (cut square shapes). Attach the square pieces to your old cargo pants to create a multiple pocket look. The sewing blogs on the internet and YouTube have detailed instructions on how to sew pockets. If you don’t have a sewing machine or don’t want to deal with needles and thread, you can take your small alteration project to your local seamstress or tailor shop. You will be helping keep clothes from landfills, at the same time giving business to local businesses. That’s a win from both angles!

See other posts on travel outfits , focusing on travel clothes for women.

Fall winter travel fashion trends 2022

Spring summer travel fashion trends 2022

Fall Winter Fashion Trends for Travel

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Holiday Wardrobe

Holiday capsule wardrobe: 10 must-have pieces for 2023 summer.

Summer, without a doubt, takes the crown as my ultimate favorite season. It’s the time when I meticulously organise my most unforgettable getaways, all revolving around those scorching temperatures. Picture this: exotic escapades to foreign countries, sun-bathing on sandy beaches, cocktails by the pool, and an immersive infusion of the vibrant Mediterranean culture. All the fun things that make my summer weeks off an absolute delight and the highlight of my year. And that’s precisely why I’m thrilled to write this article as a guide for the perfect Holiday Capsule Wardrobe.

Now, I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who experiences a touch of anxiety when it comes to the dreaded packing torment for vacations. I mean, let’s be real here. For weeks (or for some of us, even months), we are on the hunt for the perfect summer outfit, that flawless bikini, or those stylish sandals. However, many European airlines (and probably airlines worldwide too) steadily reducing their baggage allowance. So it’s becoming quite the challenge to squeeze in all those fabulous new garments we bought with our vacation plans in mind!

After splurging on that extra luggage space, there is nothing more infuriating than returning home from a vacation only to discover that half of the clothes we painstakingly packed remained untouched throughout the entire trip!

For this reason, I decided to write an article revealing the ideal holiday capsule wardrobe containing all the must-have items, so this summer you can bid farewell to the packing nightmare and adjust your shopping just in time accordingly.

10 Must-Have Pieces in Your Summer Holiday Capsule Wardrobe

Holiday item # 1: casual summer dress.

So here is the reason why this is at the very top of my list. Daytime summer dresses will easily claim the throne as your ultimate vacation essential, since it will be worn – safe to say – 80% of the time. From walks through charming old towns and museum explorations to relaxed beachside lunches and shopping tours, these dresses will effortlessly accompany you on all your summer adventures.

When it comes to selecting your casual summer dress, it’s crucial to opt for something effortless and hassle-free . Dresses with zippers are an excellent choice, they are easy to wear without consuming precious time. Comfort is key since you’ll be in this outfit mostly, with possibly no time for a wardrobe change during the day. In terms of fabric choices, go for a breathable material like cotton, ideal for absorbing sweat and keeping you cool. Now, let’s talk color selection! I recommend opting for vibrant colourful patterns that deviate from your usual winter or work wardrobe. Not only will this add a pop of excitement to your look, but it’s also a wise move to conceal any accidental food stains (which are almost inevitable on a holiday).

Holiday Item # 2: Elegant Summer Evening Dress

Don’t forget to include an evening dress that stands out from your casual daywear. There are no hard and fast rules for what defines an evening dress—it’s all about finding a piece that makes you feel extraordinary and boosts your confidence. Think of something slightly extravagant, a touch over the top. This will be perfect for those summer dinner parties at seaside restaurants. To save space, we suggest selecting a dress in a similar color tone to the one mentioned earlier, so you can pair it with the same shoes. And don’t forget, when it comes to hot summer evenings, natural fabrics are a splendid choice to keep you cool and comfortable.

Holiday Item # 3: Linen of Your Holiday Capsule Wardrobe

A summer getaway is incomplete without a breezy linen garment in your suitcase! The choice of colors available for linen clothes, be it a shirt, dress, or trousers or shorts, is absolutely exhilarating! With its moisture-absorbent properties and remarkable durability, linen becomes the perfect summer attire for those scorching holiday destinations.

Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Item # 4: Tops and Blouses

When it comes to preparing the ultimate holiday capsule wardrobe, versatility is the name of the game. The goal is to create several outfits using a minimal number of garments. That’s where tops and shirts become your best friends—they effortlessly mix and match with various bottoms, creating endless distinct looks. Don’t hesitate to embrace bold and vibrant colors because, let’s face it, summer is the perfect time to shine! Unleash your creativity by pairing blouses with your favorite skirts and shorts, unlocking a fantastic summer look every time.

Holiday Item # 5: Summer Skirt

No summer suitcase is complete without a versatile and effortlessly chic skirt. It’s a must-have item that adds a touch of elegance or a dash of leisurely charm to your vacation wardrobe. Pair it with the tops and blouses you’ve already packed, creating a variety of stylish looks. Opt for A-line or wrap skirts, as they are not only flattering but also comfortable for both evening dress-up occasions and casual city strolls.

Holiday Item # 6: Accessories

To perfect your breezy summer look, nothing beats a vibrant silk scarf or a handmade summer satchel. Scarves not only shield you from the occasional chilly breeze but also add a touch of elegance when draped over your shoulders during cool evenings. And don’t forget to grab a stylish summer satchel to not only complement your outfit but also carry your favorite summer novel on leisurely walks. These accessories not only elevate your look but also serve practical purposes, making them essential additions to your holiday repertoire.

Holiday Item # 7: Long pair of trousers

You might assume that I’ve confused the seasons, but trust me, I haven’t! Long trousers are an absolute must-have for all types of holidays, even those hot summer getaways. They not only have your back on cooler days but also serve as a protection against relentless mosquitoes that come out to play in the evenings by the beach. To save space in your luggage, consider wearing your long trousers on the flight since they tend to be the bulkier garments to carry. Once again, when it comes to breathability and temperature control, you can’t go wrong with linen or cotton woven materials. As for colors, it’s best to coordinate with the tones of the tops and blouses you’ve already packed, as mentioned earlier. If you’ve opted for warm peach and orange hues, shades like white, sandy, and mustard make for perfect companions.

Holiday Item # 8: Casual Footwear

Make sure to reserve some space in your luggage for a selection of casual footwear to accompany you on your holiday. 

Include a closed pair of shoes for cooler days. To save space, wear these on your flight since they tend to be the bulkiest items in your holiday capsule wardrobe. Pick a pair that complements the long trousers in step # 7. If you’re going for a chic look, opt for a pair of classy brogues, while casual or sporty lace-ups add a relaxed vibe. 

When it comes to your casual and evening dresses, a pair of heeled sandals works wonders. For the color palette shown earlier, consider white or earthy tones to complement your outfits flawlessly. 

And of course, don’t forget your trusty flip-flops , an absolute must-have for the beach! Choose a color that harmonizes with your bikinis and beach dress for a coordinated and chic look.

Holiday Item # 9: Swimwear and beachwear

It goes without saying that swimwear is an absolute essential for your summer getaway. So, let’s not forget to pack it! Embrace your adventurous side and dare to play with colors and use it to express your style. Oh, and a friendly reminder: make sure to let your swimwear dry before layering your beachwear on top. The salty water can cause the dye in your clothes to fade! Enjoy your beach days in style, while also keeping your swimwear and outfits in top shape.

Holiday Item # 10: Cosy Summer Pajamas

Amidst the excitement of flaunting our newly purchased dresses,, it’s easy to overlook the importance of nightwear. However, practicality should not be ignored. So don’t forget to make room for a cozy, breathable nightgown. Opting for a lovely white cotton is a splendid decision in combating the heat. While it may seem obvious to choose short-cut pajamas, beware of mosquitoes! They’re fairly frequent in coastal regions. It might be wise to consider covering up instead to protect yourself.

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide unveils the secrets to packing light. And at the same time, maximizing your outfit options in your holiday capsule wardrobe. The carefully selected colors take into account weather conditions, practicality and style demands. But remember, feel free to explore and discover what suits you best! Don’t forget to sign up and follow us on social media to be the first to receive our next set of invaluable holiday outfit tips and tricks. And if you are looking for more flowy beach dress ideas, checkout this great article . Stay tuned for more fashion inspiration!

23 thoughts on “ Holiday Capsule Wardrobe: 10 Must-Have Pieces for 2023 Summer ”

Are there links to purchase?

Fantastic article – thank you for the tips

Thank you for your feedback!

Love the article! 🤗♥️

Thanks for your feedback!

I travel frequently to Europe and never take more than a carry-on! I love a good capsule wardrobe for this reason. You’ve got some great ideas for the summer!

Hi Cynthia, thanks for your feedback! I’m glad that you found some useful tips here!

so useful! I definitely enjoy the benefits of packing light but it often brings my fashion lower. your capsule advice here definitely takes the maximum of the clothes.

Thank you Lyosha for your feedback! I’m glad you found our fashion tips useful for your next holiday!

This is a great wardrobe, and fit for the summer months…I love you managed 3 pairs of shoes they are my guilty pleasure and I never seem to have enough room for all I love..

Hi Jeanine, I’m glad you found our article useful! Thanks for your feedback.

This is so perfect for me! I’m always stumped on cute outfits. I love #2! Perfect for summer date night!

Hi Debbie, thank you for your comment and I’m glad you liked our blue floral evening dress!

This is such a good idea! I hate packing for holidays. Enjoyed reading this.

Hi Liv, I hear you! Packing can be frustrating sometimes, I hope this article helps you with that! Thanks for your feedback!

Living in florida, I would be lost without casual, thin summer dresses! You’ve convinced me to add a breezy linen piece too, though! Thanks for putting this together!

Hi Valery, thanks for your comment! Yes, it’s always a good idea to add some linen to your collection, I’m glad you liked the article!

Linen and maxi dresses are my must haves for the summer. Great capsule collection!

Hi Riyah, I’m glad you like our collection, thanks for your feedback!

The mustard trousers is my fave!!!

And also easy to wear, I’m glad you like them!

This post was helpful! I tend to forget to pack light because I always feel like I need everything with me hahah.

Yes, you are not alone! 🙂 It’s too tempting to pack our entire wardrobe!

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How to Create the Ultimate Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe

Here is your ultimate beach vacation capsule wardrobe. With summer weather finally here, if you’re fortunate enough to have a beach vacation planned in the upcoming weeks, perhaps in Provence or on the French Riviera , I have designed a flawless capsule wardrobe specifically for you.

Indeed, after much research, I’ve curated fourteen timeless pieces that can be easily mixed, matched, and styled in casual and elevated looks. These are the kind of reliable clothing and accessories that can be worn over and over in simple and effortless ways but are never boring.

This beach vacation capsule wardrobe has everything from versatile sundresses and pleated shorts to raffia totes and comfortable yet chic summer footwear . Plus, you’ll be able to create endless outfit options for every occasion. With these fourteen pieces curated below, you can effortlessly achieve a comfortable yet chic look for any beach getaway. Bon voyage!

I carefully select and personally love every product featured on Leonce Chenal. If you buy through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Merci for your support <3

The 14-Piece Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe

This beach vacation capsule wardrobe includes fourteen pieces in total: two tops, three bottoms, one dress, two swimsuits, three shoes, and three accessories, which will allow you to create a multitude of looks.

• Farm Rio embroidered linen-blend mini dress
• Loro Piana striped cotton T-shirt
• Loro Piana appliqué linen shirt
• ATP Atelier Aquara leather sandals
• Totême striped silk wide-leg pants
• Frankie Shop sequined tulle shorts
• Loro Piana pleated cotton & linen-blend shorts
• Castaner Kenda canvas espadrilles
• Eres bandeau bikini
• Eres Cassiopée bandeau swimsuit
• Castaner Chiara 80 espadrilles
• Bottega Veneta cat-eye sunglasses
• Maison Michel Virginie straw sunhat
• Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza medium raffia tote

How To Style The Beach Vacation Capsule

1. for a day in town.

Striped T-shirt | pleated shorts | flat espadrilles | raffia tote | sunhat | sunglasses

2. For lounging at the pool

Bandeau swimsuit | linen shirt | wide-leg silk pants | flat sandals | raffia tote | sunhat | sunglasses

3. For a seaside lunch

Linen dress | flat sandals | raffia tote | sunhat | sunglasses

4. For a day at the beach

Linen shirt | bandeau bikini | pleated shorts | flat sandals | raffia tote | sunhat | sunglasses

5. For a summer soirée

Linen shirt | sequined shorts | wedge espadrilles | raffia tote | sunhat

Bonjour! I’m Léonce, the editor of Leonce Chenal, a website dedicated to French style, beauty, and much more. I’m French and originally from a small town near Annecy. I started Leonce Chenal in 2018 to fulfill my passion for fashion and beauty while I was working as a data analyst in London. After living in Paris for a few years, I now reside in Amsterdam and will soon move to Bordeaux. I hope this space brings you the inspiration you need and infuses your life with a touch of joie de vivre. Merci for visiting! À bientôt, xo.

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Holiday Capsule Wardrobe: The only 9 pieces you need for your summer trip

And where to pick up every item...

The key to a good holiday capsule wardrobe is versatility, so invest in multifunctional clothing that can easily transition from day to night. For instance, a black swimsuit is an essential for beachy holidays but can also double as an evening top; while a linen shirt will work as a chic cover-up by the pool, or a light jacket on those chillier evenings.

Even better, we’ve done all the hard work for you by selecting the key pieces you need in your holiday capsule wardrobe. Simply pick one item from each category and you’ll be set for summer 2024 – and many years to come, as these classic designs will never date.

1. The day-to-night dress

A day-to-night dress is a true holiday staple. Floaty midaxi styles are the most versatile; crafted from airy fabrics like cotton and jersey, they work as beach cover-ups during the day but are easily elevated come evening with a belt and statement jewellery. We particularly love how Forever New's sun dress looks underpinned with a white T-shirt – the added coverage is just what you need to stay protected from the sun when you’re sight-seeing.

Forever New Vayda Sun Dress

M&S Pure Cotton Printed Bardot Midaxi Beach Dress

Pink City Prints Geranium Poppy Susie Dress

Aspiga Mykonos Maxi Dress

Boden Eve Linen Midi Dress

2. the classic breton tee.

A t-shirt is a fashion staple that deserves a place in your suitcase this summer – and a space in your wardrobe every season, in GH ’s opinion. Even better, a Breton version will elevate linen trousers for evening looks or add a chic touch to denim shorts during the day. But if you want something a little different to the classic navy or blue stripe, this season Cos has a pistachio green version available, while Jigsaw's style comes in a vibrant red hue.

M&S Everyday Fit T-Shirt

COS Clean Cut T-Shirt

Boden Ella Short Sleeve Breton

Jigsaw Cotton Slub Stripe Tee

Arket Crew-Neck T-shirt

3. the wide-leg trousers.

Whether you choose a tailored fit or looser jogger style, wide-leg trousers are always a great option for holidays – plus, a drawstring design makes for a comfy but chic airport look. Although you may think trousers are the last thing you want to wear in the heat, lightweight options cut from chambray, linen or jersey will keep you cool all day.

Jigsaw Linen Check Palazzo Trouser

M&S Linen Blend Wide Leg Trousers

Mango 100% Linen Trousers

Boden Crinkle Wide Trousers

Arket Linen Drawstring Trousers

4. the midaxi skirt.

A true summer staple, the midaxi skirt can be easily elevated from casual daywear to a more evening-appropriate look – simply by switching out a T-shirt for a delicate camisole and adding a swipe of lipstick. You can choose whether you want to make a statement with summery prints or stick to more versatile, neutral colour palettes. Our go-to is the roomy tiered skirt (especially Boden's ), which is both effortlessly chic and ultra comfy.

M&S Pure Cotton Midi Utility Circle Skirt

M&S Pure Cotton Midi Skirt

Boden Lorna Tiered Maxi Skirt

White Striped Maxi Skirt

Jigsaw Cotton Poplin Skirt

5. the flattering swimsuit.

Despite probably having a drawer full of swimwear at home, you only need one good swimsuit for your holidays. Invest in timeless patterns such as paisley and Breton stripes or, alternatively, black for a bit of understated elegance. We love how halterneck styles and asymmetric straps add polish to poolside looks and make a swimsuit stylish enough to wear as a top (simply layer a midaxi skirt and light jacket over the top) in the evening.

M&S Tummy Control Ruched Plunge Swimsuit

Boden Boden Santorini Black Swimsuit

Arket Crinkle Square Neck Swimsuit

Boden Ithaca Halter Swimsuit

COS Scoop-Neck Ribbed Swimsuit

6. the comfy sandals.

Uncomfortable shoes on holiday are a big no no – nobody wants blisters or aching arches to ruin sight-seeing trips and evening strolls along the promenade. So, choose a flat sandal with some support and cushioning (for extra height, go for anything with a flatform). And if you’re looking for a more dressy option, opt for a minimal strappy design; they always look chic and will go with everything in your suitcase.

Fitflop Flatform Cross Slides

Teva Universal Sandals

M&S Leather Buckle Footbed Mules

COS Crossover Leather Slides

Birkenstock Arizona Eva Sandals

7. the straw bag.

A straw tote isn’t just for the beach. These lightweight bags are perfect for all kinds of holiday occasions where you want to add a boho touch – and we love how they look with pretty summer dresses. This season, the high street is full of oversized styles with luxe accents such as bamboo handles, leather trims and fringing. If you’re worried about security with these open top designs, go for M&S' as it has an internal drawstring for your valuables

Oliver Bonas Betty Crochet Raffia Brown Belt Bag

M&S Jute Shopper

&Other Stories Leather-Trimmed Straw Tote

Jigsaw Straw Bucket Bag

Mango Natural Fibre Carrycot Bag

8. the chic sunhat.

A chic sunhat is a must when you’re travelling to warmer climes. A wide-brimmed boater or fedora will keep your face protected from the sun's rays and add a touch of glam to the simplest of outfits – this season’s styles feature cut-outs, decorative bows and crochet.

Mango Natural fibre hat

&Other Stories Grosgrain-Trimmed Straw Hat

Uniqlo Crochet Hat

COS Woven Straw Hat

Arket Crochet Straw Hat

9. the throw-on shirt.

From tunics to boxy button-downs, a throw-on shirt is ideal for layering over a bikini in the day and wearing with trousers in the evening – it even doubles as a lightweight jacket to style over summer dresses. When it comes to cut anything oversized goes, but stick to lightweight fabrics such as linen and cotton to make sure yours is cool and airy.

Arket Loose Linen Shirt

COS Oversized Linen Shirt

M&S Pure Cotton Relaxed Beach Shirt

Arket Linen Shirt

Jigsaw Linen Relaxed Shirt

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Vacation Capsule Wardrobe 2024

Do you have a warm weather vacation coming up? Whether you have a resort trip, a family beach trip or just somewhere warm with a pool, I’ve made an updated vacation capsule wardrobe for 2024. Save some time without having to worry about checking a bag (or save some space in the trunk of your car for my road-trippers). I’ve included pieces that you can double the wear out of. For example, the swimsuits can be worn as bodysuits paired with shorts. Or wear the swim coverups as dresses! I’ve linked the warm weather vacation capsule wardrobe essentials below.

Vacation Tops

As I mentioned, to maximize suitcase space, choose pieces that can be worn multiple ways. For example, a button-down shirt is a vacation staple because you can wear it buttoned down on its own, layered over a t-shirt and also as a swim coverup.

Vacation Sweaters

I’ve also included a sweater and cardigan for those chilly nights. You can also style them over the shoulders.

Vacation Dresses

Vacation shorts + linen pants, vacation capsule swimsuits.

One particular thing that helps keep your travel carry-on only is a one piece swimsuit that can be worn as a bodysuit or as a swimsuit.

Vacation Capsule Wardrobe Shoes

One thing I really have to be mindful of when I’m packing to travel are the shoes I bring. Footwear can take up a lot of space in my suitcase so opt for two versatile pairs (three if you have the extra space). I personally love a neutral platform sandal. You can also never go wrong with a pair of neutral sneakers if you plan on sight-seeing or doing a good amount of walking.

Vacation Capsule Accessories

Along with this vacation capsule, I’m excited to also share the resort capsule accessory collection I designed with Victoria Emerson ! I was very intentional to design multi-wear pieces so you can get more wear out of less items and you can take the same pieces from daytime to evening looks. For example, the layered necklace are all pieces you can wear individually! Same with the bracelet stack . It’s also water-friendly so you can wear it in the water. The clutch comes with an optional bracelet strap. The earrings can be detached so you can wear them as simple hoops or as a statement earring!

Shop the Vacation Capsule Wardrobe 2024:

Depending on your destination you may want to pack more swimsuit options! I rounded up some long torso swim options in this post . Thanks for stopping by!!

Spring Capsule Wardrobe for Work | Versatile Work Outfits

[…] lot of you loved the vacation capsule wardrobe so I thought I’d put together a spring capsule wardrobe for my office gals!  While […]

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30 Cute Outfit Ideas to Add to Your Summer Wardrobe Right Now

You’ll want to wear these on repeat this summer.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

What does summer 2024 have in store for you? A gorgeous vacation , afternoon brunches, rooftop soirees, a summer romance perhaps? Whatever the season brings, be sure to have a weather-appropriate outfit prepared. From sweating in the city to sparkling in the sea, we might not have your itinerary handled for the summer, but we’ll surely do our best to make sure you look good doing it (whatever it may be) in a cute summer outfit.

In the age of character dressing— clean girl , office siren, rocker girlfriend, etc.—choosing your aesthetic for the summer can seem overwhelmingly compartmentalized. Not to knock the aesthetics of the moment, but your personal style is an ever more important way to stand out from the other mob wives. This summer, try out different characters for different activities or, better yet, create your own complex and nuanced character: you . To help you get started writing your summer story, we’ve analyzed street style, social media, and runway trends to help build out your warm-weather wardrobe. Whether you’re nautical or nice, Wild West or heading east, or anything in-between, scroll on for your dose of summertime fit-spiration:

You might’ve seen this phenomenon on the streets of New York or all over your Instagram feed. Red accents are nothing new, but the pop of red has become synonymous with a sleek, on-trend aesthetic in recent months. To meet the requirements of this trend, just a pop is all you need. Nothing more, nothing less!

Alex Mill Easy Shirt

Still Here Cowgirl Straight Cut-Out Knee Jeans

Bottega Veneta Blink Metallic Knot Slide Sandals

Mediterranean Summer

Whether you’re living it up in the Greek Islands, Mallorca , or St. Tropez, or you’re just trying to make it to work every day, you can still manifest the Mediterranean lifestyle. Dress for the life (or at least the vacation) you want!

Mosquito The Nautilus Hair Clip

Lands' End Lands' End Womens Supima Cotton Camisole White Plus 2X

Vix Solid Kerry Long Skirt

A trend we’ve seen season after season, the appropriate season for hot pants is finally here. You won’t have to freeze your butt off (literally) anymore for this summer ’fit. Pair with boots or loafers and an oversized blazer or moto jacket.

Loewe Cropped Embroidered Tank

Nue Monica Shorts

Miu Miu Leather Harness Buckle Biker Boots

Nothing says summer like a flirty printed scarf worn as a top. Scarf tops can go with anything, from loose jeans to mini skirts, and look perfectly cool and casual. They’re also a great way to even out (or show off) your summer tan lines.

SIR. Ramona Scarf Top

Icon Denim Poppy Eco Jeans

Zszszsu Kitten Heels Thong Sandal

If you paid attention at all during the recent fall/winter 2024 runway shows, you’ll know that boho is back and better than ever. That means fringe bags, flowy dresses, and slouchy boots will dominate the summer and last well into fall.

Dokotoo Ruffled Mini Dress

Isabel Marant Miyako Two-Tone Denim Ankle Boots

Hoce Fringe Messenger Bag

Animal prints.

Animal prints are, in some fashion tribes, a neutral. Glamorous winter prints aside, summer is the best time to have fun with prints, from zebra to snakeskin. Mix and match or wear your print of choice as a single statement piece with true (a.k.a. other) neutrals.

Natori Zebra Mesh Minidress

Saint Laurent Suzanne Baguette Bag

Khaite The Marion Strappy Wedge Sandal

Brunch-ready.

This one goes out to the Sofia Richie Grainge wannabes of the world (so…most of us). For an elegant summer look that you can wear from brunch to boat (read: yacht), go for more skin coverage, minimalist colorways and patterns, and ultra-flattering silhouettes. Hamptons home not included.

Esse Studios Halter Knit Maxi Dress

Le Monde Beryl Luna Sheer Mesh Ballerina Flats

Bottega Veneta Small Andiamo

Nautical or nice.

We should all be around some form of water this summer, whether it’s a beach, lake, pool, sailboat, you name it. For this particular outfit trend, a port town is recommended but not required. We know boat shoes are making a big comeback thanks to Miu Miu, but stripes are fair game here, too.

Same Los Angeles Colorblock One Piece

Victoria Beckham Striped Mini Dress

Sperry Boat Shoe

Fresh off the beach.

Even if you live nowhere near a beach, why not look like you do? Go for a carefree, California vibe with a beach-to-outdoor-dinner look: bikini top, denim shorts, and easy sandals , bonus points if you have gorgeous, glimmering jewelry to elevate the ’fit. In summer, the rules are what you make them! (Disclaimer: If you’re actually going from the beach to dinner, do make sure to bring dry bottoms to change into post-swim!)

Melissa Odabash Barbados Bandeau Top

Citizens of Humanity Ayla Denim Shorts

Mou Suede Sandals

Thanks to Beyoncé (and Lana del Rey’s upcoming country album, lest we forget), it’ll be a cowboy kind of summer . Get your cowboy boots and oversized belt buckles ready. Even if the Western look isn’t exactly your style, you can go with subtle nods to the trend, like the horse print bikini top from Solid & Striped. Yee haw!

Solid & Striped The Miranda Bikini Top

Agolde Parker Long Frayed Shorts

Lucchese Howdy Y'all Boot

Office-appropriate.

Although you might dream of vacationing all summer long, you still have bills to pay, which means you’ll be taking frequent trips into the office. This simple, sophisticated tailored set is ideal for workdays.

Shona Joy Irena Tailored Fitted Vest

Shona Joy Irena High Waisted Tailored Pant

By Far Miranda Semi Patent Leather Top Handle Bag

A blazer set.

Many fashion lovers like to pair blazers with lengthy bottoms, but during the warmer months, swapping a long pair of pants for shorts or a skirt offers a cooler alternative.

Babaton New Agency Blazer

Babaton Contour Muscle Tank

Adidas Samba Vegan Shoes

Crochet cover-up.

If you’re traveling to the beach this summer, packing a crochet cover-up is essential. I’d suggest pairing this colorful look with a white bikini set and a pair of comfy flip-flops that will carry you through the day. By the time the sun sets and the temperatures drop, you’ll be glad to have something to keep you warm.

Missoni Multicolor Open-Knit Halter Maxi Dress

Skims Crochet Swim Triangle Bikini Top

Skims Crochet Swim Bikini Bottom

Public pajamas.

A simple pajama-inspired set is arguably the easiest summer outfit idea to exist. If you don’t feel like putting a lot of energy into assembling an outfit, you’ll want to have one of these tucked away in your closet.

J.Crew Garçon Cotton-blend Voile Shirt in Tidewater Stripe

J.Crew Pull-on Short in Tidewater Stripe

Schutz Ully Lo Nappa Leather Sandal

The button-down shirt.

Button-down shirts have been around for ages, and they’re never going out of style. Why would they? The sharp seam lines and crisp collars exhibit a sense of elegance that is so appealing. To dress it down a bit, we recommend matching this outfit with a pair of white sneakers.

Mango Linen Oversized Shirt

Posse Marchello Pleated Linen Shorts

Loewe Flow Retro Runner Sneakers

The shirtdress.

Summer is all about shedding clothing, so leave the pants behind. Of course, if you want to jazz things up, add a pair of classy mules.

Frank & Eileen Mary Classic Shirtdress

Larroude Magnolia Mule

Bottega Veneta Candy Mini Knotted Intrecciato Leather Tote

Summer corsetry.

Since the corset is the main attraction here, additional statement pieces aren’t necessary. Instead, a plain black skirt will suffice.

Victoria Beckham Strapless Corset Top

Mango Opening Pencil Skirt

Manolo Blahnik Houramu Light Blue Patent Leather Mules

The micro mini.

If you were paying attention during Fashion Week last fall, chances are you witnessed the takeover of Miu Miu micro miniskirts—which are very much still en vogue . Mix up the proportions by styling micro-minis with oversized T-shirts .

Mott & Bow Fitted Crew Marcy Tee

Reformation Mia Low Waist Linen Skort

New Balance 9060 Sneaker in Turtledove

We can’t get enough of baby blue this summer, especially in the form of a flowy maxi dress. You can even dress it down during the day with sneakers and up at night with heels.

Tuckernuck Chambray Callahan Shirt Dress

Salomon Xt-6 Expanse Low Top Sneakers

Prada Cat Eye in White

Easy neutrals.

While vibrant colors certainly dominate summertime fashion, neutrals deserve to shine too. This outfit is functional for a night out on the town or a casual summertime date night.

House of CB Audette Structured Cotton Twill Corset Top

Gap High Rise Stride Jeans with Washwell

Nike Dunk Low Retro Sneakers

Double denim.

The denim-on-denim look is such an early 2000s trend. How can anyone forget that Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s double-denim look? Well, this trend has definitely made a comeback, but in 2023, we’re opting for denim corsets paired with baggy jeans.

Zara Corset Style Denim Top TRF

Free People Tinsley Baggy High-Rise Jeans

Studio Amelia Leather Croissant 90 Heel

The silk slip.

Slip into a silky skirt for a leisurely day in the sun. Satin slip skirts are so versatile, and one of our favorite ways to style this look is with a white tank top.

Reformation Tasha Tank

Dorothee Schumacher Sense of Shine Midi Skirt

Khaite Linden Patent Leather Sandals

On the down-low.

You may have thought the end of low-rise pants had happened years ago, but the style has seemingly resurfaced among the street style set. If you’re wondering how to style low-rise pants during the summer, a scarf or satin top might just be your answer.

Doen Elise Silk Crop Camisole

Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant

Paige Daya Slide Sandal

Unexpected necklines.

An unexpected neckline immediately transforms any outfit from simple to spellbinding. For a chocolate brown shade like this, beige accessories are your best bet.

Rumer Rossana Maxi Dress

Saint Laurent Tribute Mules in Smooth Leather

Valentino Garavani VLOGO Small Raffia Top-Handle Bag

The tailored vest.

There are certain pieces of clothing that are worthy of investment, and vests are one of them. During colder months, style them with a long sleeve garment underneath, and when temperatures warm up you can wear them solo. No matter the weather, vests are always there to save your wardrobe.

Urban Outfitters Baby Got Back Linen Vest

H&M Wide-leg Linen-blend Pants

JW PEI Joy Shoulder Bag

Black & white.

At first glance, this outfit might appear dull, but I’d argue that it’s actually a flattering formula. The black-and-white combination will never go out of style, and its ageless quality is what makes it so special.

Banana Republic Fitted Ribbed Tank

Zara Full Length Pants

Inez Crema Nappa Mule

Every summer wardrobe calls for a white maxi dress. And this season, crewneck styles are having quite a moment.

St. Agni Asymmetric Draped Maxi Dress

Mango Platform Strap Sandals

Jacquemus La Vague Shoulder Bag

Easy co-ords.

The coordinated look is simultaneously polished and casual. Take this look for example—we love how the sophisticated nature of the top balances the relaxed quality of the cargo pants.

Susana Monaco Wide Strap Crop Top

Everlane The Oversized Poplin Shirt

Vince Drop-Waist Wide-Leg Cargo Pant

Summer brights.

Weekend brunches have always been a beloved summertime activity, and aside from the bottomless mimosas and delicious food, dressing up for the occasion is the best part. To really serve a look, style a vibrant dress paired with toned-down accessories.

H&M Tie-detail Shirt Dress

Franco Sarto Linley Sandal

Coperni White Baguette Swipe Bag

A go-to formula.

You know those days when you’d prefer to keep it lowkey, and the thought of piecing together a look is simply a nuisance? If you’re having trouble styling an outfit that doesn’t require a lot of effort, this outfit recipe comes to your rescue: one sleeveless top, wide-leg jeans , and sandals. What more could you need?

Krisa Halter Vest

Nili Lotan Celia Bootcut Jeans

Staud Ollie Zip Leather Shoulder Bag

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Passenger numbers continue to soar at Worcester Regional Airport after record 2023 year

WORCESTER — It is the beginning of a bustling and sunny Thursday afternoon at Worcester Regional Airport with a flight from Fort Lauderdale arriving. Far from the COVID-era drop in flights, the airport has seen a climb in customers.

"In 2023, we exceeded 2019 numbers," Andrew Davis, the director of Worcester Regional Airport, said. "We had over 204,000 passengers fly in and out of Worcester in 2023. We made an all-time record back in July with an all-time number of passengers since Massport took ownership of the airport."

The airport also expects to replicate the strong summer passenger numbers this year.

"The trend is growing, and the demand is growing," Davis said.

More than a year ago on April 2023, JetBlue announced it would be adding two Florida routes to Orlando and Fort Myers at the airport while phasing out its New York City route. Davis said both routes have proven popular.

The flights offered at Worcester Regional Airport have remained consistent since last April.

The Fort Myers route is a seasonal service that began in January and lasts through the rest of April. Davis said the flights have consistently had load factors, a measurement of the percentage of available seating capacity filled by passengers, in the range of 80% to the mid-80s. The load factor jumped to the mid-90s during school vacation week.

With the Fort Myers route, Davis said the airport has seen 38% more passengers flying in and out of Worcester compared to the first quarter of 2023, and a 60% increase in March compared to March 2023.

The Fort Myers route will return in November and run through April 2025. After the first year of the Fort Myers trip being offered, JetBlue is able to schedule flights at the start of season travel in November. Davis said he hopes the popularity will show JetBlue that the flight to Fort Myers from Worcester can potentially work year-round.

The flights to Orlando are a resurrection of a route that was stopped during the pandemic.

All of the airlines now fly bigger planes through the Worcester airport than they did before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Davis said. JetBlue also phased out the planes that have 100 seats at Worcester Regional Airport, for planes with 162 seats. American Airlines and Delta moved from planes with 50 seats to ones with 75 and 76 seats, respectively.

Passengers can still purchase tickets for flights at the airport to New York City through Delta's flights to LaGuardia Airport and American Airlines' flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Davis said the slow recovery of the market for business flights led to a realignment of flights for many airlines, including JetBlue. The realignment was also supposed to meet the increasing demand for leisure travel. The addition of the two Florida flights and the cessation of the flights to Kennedy Airport are part of that realignment.

"Florida has been a strong market for all the airports and all of the airlines out of the Northeast," Davis said. "People are still pent up from the days of COVID and they still want to travel."

The airport has also made changes, in part to accommodate the increase in passengers.

The security checkpoint expanded from one lane to two ahead of the start of the Fort Myers flight, which Davis said has improved efficiency at the checkpoint.

In May, the airport will begin a project to move the checkpoint to a vacant area that will be larger and more spacious. The checkpoint move would also free up space for more seats at the airport's departure lounge, which can get busy whenever the Florida departures come in.

Other infrastructure projects are in the works.

The airport will replace its engineered material arresting system at the east end of its runway as the current system is at the end of its designed life.

An EMAS is a bed of pulverized concrete built at the end of a runway to reduce the potential severity of a plane running out of runway space while trying to depart or arrive.

The EMAS at the west end of the runway is scheduled to be replaced next year.

Worcester's airport, which is built at the top of a hill, does not have a field to run off from and the Federal Aviation Administration requires airports without a field to have an EMAS in place.

The airport has received federal grant funding for the replacement.

The airport will also resurface the three lanes in front of its building, upgrade lights at the front of the airport and repave the curbs. The asphalt on the roadways has aged, Davis said.

"We're kind of at an extreme when it comes to winter weather, being 1,000 feet above sea level," Davis said. "It takes a toll on the asphalt."

Davis said the front roadwork is being assessed now and should kick off at the beginning of 2025. He said the work will be done in a phased manner so only one lane will be resurfaced at a time.

The strong passenger numbers and infrastructure improvements help when the airport goes to airlines to ask for more flights or even to welcome new airlines to Worcester, Davis said.

"If the region supports the air service and fills the airplanes up, that's just going to turn more and more heads," Davis said.

In addition to load factor, airlines value the prices they can get for their tickets. Davis said airlines would like to see that passengers are willing to pay a comparable amount to other airports to fly out of Worcester, which may be more convenient for passengers looking to avoid long drives or shuffling through a large airport like Boston Logan International Airport.

To help airports and passengers, Davis said the airport tries to keep operating costs and parking prices low.

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Americans who have traveled internationally stand out in their views and knowledge of foreign affairs

Do people who travel think differently about the world? A new Pew Research Center survey suggests they do.

Americans who have traveled internationally are more interested in and knowledgeable about foreign affairs, feel closer to others around the world, and favor a more active foreign policy, according to the survey of 3,576 U.S. adults conducted in spring 2023. We also surveyed people in 23 other countries about their international travel habits.

This analysis examines international travel with a focus on Americans’ travel, including which Americans travel abroad and how their interest in the world and views of international affairs differ from others.

For this analysis, we surveyed 3,576 U.S. adults from March 20 to March 26, 2023; 3,581 U.S. adults from March 21 to March 27, 2022; and 10,606 U.S. adults from June 14 to June 27, 2021. Everyone who took part in these surveys is a member of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

For non-U.S. data, this report draws on nationally representative surveys of 27,285 adults conducted from Feb. 20 to May 22, 2023. All surveys were conducted over the phone with adults in Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Surveys were conducted face-to-face in Hungary, Poland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. In Australia, we used a mixed-mode probability-based online panel.

Here are the June 2021 survey questions and responses used in this analysis. Those for the March 2022 survey may be found here , as well as those for the March 2023 survey .

How many Americans have traveled internationally?

Roughly three-quarters of Americans (76%) have visited at least one other country, including 26% who have been to five or more. About a quarter (23%) have not traveled internationally, though most in this group say they would if they had the opportunity.

Related:  How experience with international travel varies across 24 countries

To analyze how Americans’ travel experiences relate to their attitudes on other questions, we placed people into three categories:

• Globe-trotters have traveled to at least five other countries. About a quarter of the U.S. public (26%) falls into this category.
• Casual travelers have traveled to between one and four other countries. Half of Americans fall into this category.
• Nontravelers have never left the United States. This category includes 23% of Americans.

Compared with Americans, people in many European nations are more likely to have traveled to five or more other countries. For instance, 88% of Swedes have done so.

However, international travel is much less common in many middle-income nations. It is strongly correlated with a nation’s gross domestic product per capita. (For more on international travel and views about global engagement, read “Attitudes on an Interconnected World.” )

Who travels internationally?

Perhaps unsurprisingly, older people are more likely than younger people to have traveled internationally. Americans ages 65 and older are more than twice as likely as adults under 30 to fall into our globe-trotter category (37% vs. 17%).

Income is even more strongly related to travel than age. Two-thirds of upper-income Americans have traveled to at least five countries, compared with 9% of Americans with lower incomes.

Similarly, Americans with a postgraduate degree are far more likely to be globe-trotters than those with a high school education or less (59% vs. 10%).

Residents of suburban and urban areas generally have more international travel experience than people who live in rural areas.

There are no significant partisan differences when it comes to international travel: 26% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents qualify as globe-trotters, as do 28% of Republicans and GOP leaners.

Do travelers know more about the world?

Globe-trotters are especially likely to say they are interested in foreign affairs and follow international news. Casual travelers, in turn, are more likely than nontravelers to do so.

Globe-trotters are also the most knowledgeable about international affairs. In 2022, we conducted an international affairs quiz , asking Americans 12 questions related to international news. On average, globe-trotters got 8.2 of the 12 questions correct, compared with 6.4 for casual travelers and 4.2 for nontravelers.

Is international travel related to views of global engagement?

International travel experience is also linked to Americans’ views about international affairs and their feelings of connection to other people around the world.

When asked which comes closest to their view, 57% of globe-trotters say the U.S. should be active in world affairs, while 43% say the U.S. should pay less attention to problems in other countries and concentrate on problems at home. In contrast, most casual travelers and nontravelers say the U.S. should focus on problems at home.

In all three groups, at least half of respondents say that when the U.S. is making foreign policy, it should take other countries’ interests into account – even if that means making compromises. But globe-trotters are especially likely to hold that view.

Globe-trotters are also particularly likely to say they feel close to people around the world, with 42% saying so. By comparison, 34% of casual travelers and 30% of nontravelers say this.

• International Affairs

Richard Wike is director of global attitudes research at Pew Research Center

Janell Fetterolf is a senior researcher focusing on global attitudes at Pew Research Center

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