The sun-drenched streets and the Amalfi Coast The always-in-demand cafés of ParisEuropean summer outfits need to look just as cool as they are. This year’s style shift is moving toward relaxed luxury and a refined ’90s aesthetic—elevated, breezy, and endlessly packable. To help you make the perfect packing checklist, we asked Brittany Hampton The following are some examples of how to get started: Tara Swennen, two celebrity stylists for wardrobes, break down top trends, must pack items, and style tips for an European vacation this summer. The two celebrity wardrobe stylists break down the top trends, must-pack items, and styling tips for a European vacation this summer.
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Style tips for packing:
- Overpacking pieces that you’ve never worn is a bad idea. A Euro trip is not the time to ‘test’ items you’re unsure about. Your suitcase will be a dead weight. —Brittany Hampton
- Create a mini capsule wardrobe. I prefer to use a palette of colors that allows everything to mix and match. It’s not boring. It’s smart. —B.H.
- Accessories (scarves and belts) can be packed in a small space. —Tara Swennen
- Do not forget texture and movement. Linen, silk, cotton gauze. These are a great option for hot weather. They don’t stick to your skin and feel luxurious. —B.H.
- Europe in the summer can be warm—opt for breathable fabrics that still feel elevated. —T.S.
- You should leave some space in your luggage. You will find something incredible abroad and want to bring it back home. —B.H.
Tops: sheer layers in sunset colors, sporty staples and more
Brittany Hampton states that summer 2025 will feature sheer, airy layers which breathe yet still feel elevated. She mentions that organza overshirts as well as chiffon sets are going to be big. These items will keep you cool without sacrificing your style. Hampton is also a fan of racer tank tops and nylon pieces. “They are great for travelling days when you need to look put together but low-maintenance, and not have to battle the heat,” Hampton said.
Tara Swennen advises packing tops that are sunset-inspired, such as marigolds, cardinals, and tea roses. “They evoke warmth romance and escapism in the summer,” says Swennen.
Dresses – more sheer, boho revival and balloon silhouettes
You can enjoy a daytime stroll or an evening of fun. dresses The Euro style is essential for this year’s wardrobe. Hampton’s favorite dress style of the season? Sheer again. She says they are lightweight and fold flat. They’re perfect to layer over a bathing suit for the beach, or over a bandeau with high-waisted briefs for city wear.
Swennen calls out a more romantic twist: “Volume is in—bubble hems, puff sleeves, peplum waists—but this trend is surprisingly wearable and soft.” What if you feel nostalgic? Swennen says that the ’70s have returned, but with a refined look. “Think soft suede, gauzy lace, ruffled hems, and earthy palettes—all with a breezy, romantic feel.”
Bottoms: Wide-leg trousers and comfortable skorts
“Loose linen Hampton says that blazers with wide legs and a relaxed attitude will always make you look Euro. It’s a balance between comfort and style. She also says that wide-leg pants in a wrinkle resistant fabric can be worn “from the day to dinner, with only a change of footwear.” traveling with just a carry-on.
Swennen suggests balancing comfort and style with modern sports staples, such as a pleated short paired up with a pair platform sneakers. She loves “a stripe oversized top [and a] You can combine striped midi-skirts with solids, or mix them together for a bit of chaos.
Swimwear: mismatched stripes for versatility in and out of the water
Swimwear in 2025 is more than just pool-ready—it’s part of the day-to-day outfit rotation. Hampton suggests layering: What would look good with a sheer cover, such as a maxi-dress or an oversized shirt? Can you wear a bandeau top for both swimming and walking? Can you wear a one-piece tucked in a pair bottoms on a night out with your friends?
Swennen’s approach is playful, and continues her stripe forecast—horizontal, vertical, and even diagonal stripes, and better if mixed and matched. Her advice? Pair it with other stripes you have in your suitcase, like a striped skirt. Avoid matching too much. Let it be mismatched for a reason—varied scale and color in the stripe adds interest,” she says.
Shoes: Sporty sneakers first, flats second, and metallic shine
“Everyone is ditching heels You can also find out more about the following: flats! Hampton suggests using bright colors, fun embellishments, or other elements that add character. “Your feet will be grateful when you walk 10,000 steps.” South of France.”
Swennen reiterates that comfort-first energy with a twist: “Platform sneakers—comfy, stylish, and versatile.” For nights out, what about? Hampton says that “subtle silver and gold sandals are great for sunset photos, as they double up as novelty pieces.” She recommends choosing a pair which can be worn with both casual and formal outfits in order to save space.
Accessories: Functional, multi-use pieces
Accessories can change your European summer outfits from casual and elegant to chic. Try monochrome basic pieces that can be boosted with texture and colour. Hampton suggests thinking small but using accent pieces. A silver mini bag elevates basic pieces.
Swennen stresses the importance of multipurpose items. “Accessories like belts, scarves and jewelry can go a long way with little space.” Scarves can double as sarongsHampton recommends “sunglasses or bold jewelry that will transform an ordinary dress into a complete look” and “earrings that make an outfit stand out.”
