What to Pack for a European Summer Holiday: The Style Edit

On a European summer holiday, swimwear is half your wardrobe.

A great swimsuit goes from the beach to the pool then to lunch with a linen shirt thrown over it. Bikinis are easy if you like mixing colours and cuts. One-pieces double as a bodysuit under skirts, shorts or wide-leg pants. Minimal, sculptural shapes need the least styling and look the most put together.

Pack two if you can. Back-to-back beach days are inevitable. Start with swimwear options from brands like Seafolly, Hunza G and Bond-Eye Swimwear for bikinis, one-pieces and holiday-ready cuts.

Once swim is sorted, dresses and resort wear are next.

The best holiday pieces are the ones you can pull straight from your luggage with minimal creases and move from beach to bar without a full outfit change. Crochet dresses, linen midis, floaty maxis and printed sets are the ones to prioritise. 

For daytime: cotton, linen, relaxed silhouettes and prints in white, yellow, baby blue or green . For evenings, one or two pieces in silky or more structured fabrics. Consider the kind of dress that works for a coastal dinner, a rooftop bar or the “we found this place down an alley” reservation.

This is where linen dresses earn their place. Faithfull The Brand and SNDYS are our picks for holiday dressing that's relaxed, refined and easy to wear.

European cobblestones do not care how cute your shoes are, flats or wedges are a must.

Two to three pairs are enough. Flat sandals for pebble beaches, sightseeing and long lunches. A slightly dressier sandal or wedge for evenings. A sneaker for big city days, train platforms and the classic “it’s only a 25-minute walk” situation. 

The key is choosing shoes that feel secure, not precious. Slim leather sandals, low block heels and simple slides all work great across summer holiday outfits without taking over your suitcase. 

Browse sandals from brands like Tony Bianco and Billini for pairs that can move between beach, city and dinner. Then add a pair of sneakers, Veja and Adidas have plenty of styles made for gallery-hopping and exploring on foot.

Accessories are where a simple outfit either comes together or gets complicated. Keep it edited. 

A strong pair of sunglasses is non-negotiable for bright beach days, long lunches and looking far more rested than you actually are. Luv Lou  is an easy place to start for shapes that feel fashion-led without trying too hard.

A silk scarf is one styling piece that can double as a hair accessory, neck scarf, top, or over swim piece. 

Add one tote or woven bag that works for the beach, markets and travel days. A roomy tote bag from Brie Leon can pull a linen dress, swimsuit and sandals together in one move. Finish with a hat for sun protection, and you’re basically packed.

European summers are hot, but evenings can still turn cool, especially in cities, northern destinations or anywhere close to the water. Pack one lightweight jacket or linen blazer, plus a simple knit you can throw over dresses, swimwear or relaxed separates. Keep it neutral so it works with everything. MNG is a good brand to start with when it comes to easy layers.