Here’s exactly what I packed and wore on our beach vacation last week. Real outfits, not just cute ideas that don’t survive actual travel.
I always want to share what I actually wear on trips because packing inspiration tends to be either too aspirational or too boring. There’s a middle ground where things are cute and comfortable and you’re not stressed about what to put on.
This beach trip had a mix of beach days, casual dinners, and wandering around, so the outfits needed to do different things. Here’s what I landed on and what I’d pack again in a heartbeat.
If you’re heading somewhere warm soon, this is basically your packing list.
Outfit 1: Beach Day Look A colorful printed swimsuit coverup or kaftan worn loose over a swimsuit, with flip flops or simple sandals. Sunglasses and a hat pulled everything together. This is the outfit that lives in my beach bag.
Why it works: A coverup that works as a dress means you can go from the beach to lunch without changing.
AMAZON DRESS | MADEWELL HAT | REEF SANDALS | RAFFIA BAG
Outfit 2: Casual Vacation Day Linen wide-leg pants in a neutral paired with a fitted tank and sandals. Relaxed but polished enough to go anywhere on vacation. I wore this more than once.
Why it works: Linen pants are the cheat code for vacation dressing — cool, comfortable, and always look intentional.
AMAZON TANK | OLD NAVY PANTS | REEF SANDALS
Outfit 3: Vacation Dinner A flowy midi skirt in a bold print paired with a bodysuit tank, with strappy sandals and a small crossbody bag. This is the easiest vacation dinner outfit because the dress does all the work.
Why it works: One statement piece — a bold print dress — means no coordinating required.
ABERCROMBIE TANK | AMAZON SKIRT | JEFFERY CAMPBELL SANDALS
Outfit 4: Travel Day THE biral wrinkle-free pants, a basic t-shirt and a sweater. Comfortable enough for the travel home but put together enough that I didn’t feel sloppy.
Why it works: Elevated, but comfy enough for a 12-hour travel day!
ARITZIA PANTS | ARITZIA T-SHIRT | WHITE SNEAKERS | ABERCROMBIE SWEATER
Vacation dressing doesn’t have to be complicated. A few versatile pieces, some easy formulas, and you’re good. I hope this gives you some ideas for wherever you’re headed this summer.
