Like the majority of Americans, you're probably planning your summer vacation to make the most of the weather and paid time off. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a trip abroad, you need a travel wardrobe that matches your destination. Luckily, this former fashion buyer is here to help you find the biggest travel clothing trends for this summer.
I'll be honest, before I became a travel writer, I worked as a fashion buyer in Manhattan for 15 years. Working with some of the biggest names in the industry, I fell in love with working with fabrics, trims, silhouettes, and taking ideas from conceptualization to the final product. Now, I use my previous merchandising experience and keen sense of fashion to design chic travel clothes to take to work or on vacation.
Although I'm a minimalist packer who prioritizes comfort, my suitcases aren't completely devoid of this season's trends and hot items. In fact, some of these trends and hot items will give you a trendy look without sacrificing comfort (and will last long after the season is over). Here are 14 travel clothing trends to pack for your upcoming vacation, starting at $23.
Two Piece Matching Set
Amazon
Matching sets are popular again this year, as they're the perfect mix-and-match piece to maximize outfit possibilities, especially when traveling. We highly recommend this set from popular Amazon brand Fixmatti, as it's made of cozy, lightweight linen, perfect for the warmer months.
This top can be worn as a beach cover-up with leggings, denim shorts, or a swimsuit, while the shorts have an elasticated waist for a casual look that pairs easily with your favorite t-shirt or sweater. You'll be wearing this set all summer long (we're especially eyeing the Glacial Blue and Apricot versions). Get yours now! It's available in 17 colors and sizes ranging from S to XL.
Square neck
Amazon
Square necks are a wardrobe staple because they flatter a variety of body types and flatter classic silhouettes. Plus, you can dress them up or down depending on your travel itinerary. My favorite from this trend is Halara's Breezful Slip Dress, made with four-way stretch fabric that's breathable and sweat-wicking, which is helpful when traveling. Another contender is Amazon's popular brand Potany's Square Neck Maxi Dress.
Slingback sandals
Amazon
Aerothotic's Aura slingbacks are my go-to sandals, whether I'm at home or traveling the world. These fashionable sandals offer all-day comfort with orthopedic insoles that provide great long-term support for your arches. They're easy to slip on and waterproof and sweat-resistant, making them perfect for the beach, hiking, or just relaxing around a new city. With 14 colors to choose from, at this price point, you'll want to buy several colors to match multiple outfits.
Wide leg linen pants
Amazon
Summer and linen go hand in hand, but the resurgence of the wide-leg pant trend is taking this classic fabric to a new level. Whether you're wearing Petal & Pup's Hawthorne pant or Amazon's bestselling version, this popular wide-leg crop is made from soft linen and features a flattering smoky waist. Perfect for lounging poolside or as a travel pant for long drives or flights, the functional side pockets add practicality and are perfect for stashing keys, lip gloss, or cash. I love pairing them with Adanola's short-sleeve zip top for a clean, minimalist look, but they'll look great with anything.
Bohemian Floral
Amazon
Florals are a must-have for warm-weather travel, especially this lovely maxi dress from Alicia Bell, which is made from cotton and silk and is the perfect lightweight option for hot summer days. The flutter sleeves and tassel and beaded details add a romantic touch, giving it a contemporary, bohemian vibe. Casual and elegant, it's perfect for a daytime picnic or a fun dinner out, or you can wear it as a beach cover-up. It has a removable sash and is partially lined, so you don't have to layer a slip underneath. We also love this affordable version from PrettyGarden, which is a steal at just $47.
Leather sneakers
Everlane
Everlane shoes are always at the top of my packing list because of their long-lasting comfort, and the brand's day sneakers are no exception. They go with almost anything, making them a staple shoe to have in your closet. They're also great for sightseeing or days where you'll be walking a lot. The thick rubber outsole, made from recycled rubber, offers great arch support. In fact, shoppers have compared the sneakers to wearing slippers, with one writing, “My feet are so happy! I walked nearly five miles on the first day I wore them and had no issues.” The sneakers come in four colors and sizes from 5 to 11.
Sophisticated jumpsuit
Spanx
I'm a big fan of Spanx's washable Carefree Crepe capsule collection for sleek travel suits, so when the brand's AirEssentials Jumpsuit first launched, I was eager to try it out. I love how versatile and packable it is. Made from a premium knit blend with plenty of four-way stretch, this flattering piece is perfect for a day of adventure or a night of dinner and drinks. The soft, drapey material flatters your figure and keeps you cool on hotter days, but you can also dress it up with the right shoes and a cropped blazer if you want. It's available in three colors and three inseam sizes (regular, petite, and tall) from XS to 3XL. If you're on a budget, check out this version on Amazon. It's priced at $37 and comes in 14 colors.
Marine Stripe
Amazon
A marine striped top will definitely be on my 2024 travel packing list because it adds elegance and glamour to any outfit. This top is especially convenient because it is short-sleeved, lightweight, soft and breathable. Plus, it looks great with cut-off denim shorts, khaki pants, or skirts. I also love this sweater t-shirt, which you can buy on Amazon. I love the classic navy color scheme, but beige is a close second. Neutral colors are my favorite because they are so versatile and go with any outfit.
tiered midi dress
Amazon
Looking for a dress that will keep you cool and chic on those hot summer days? Look no further because this Zesica dress is comfortable and on trend. The smocked waist and flutter sleeves are feminine details that create a flattering silhouette without feeling restrictive. We also love that it has two side pockets. It's a convenient dress to wear on vacation, and it's available in 28 colors to match any outfit and itinerary.
Extra Large Tote Bag
Amazon
My favorite tote bag for everyday use is the Luxe Medium Italian Leather Tote from Everlane, but for travel I also love this generously sized tote from Bagsmart. It's super practical because it holds so much, and I can use it as a personal item when I'm on a plane. Made from lightweight quilted nylon, the bag features a padded interior pocket that fits a 15.6″ laptop, a spacious main compartment, and two side pockets. The side straps can also hold a yoga mat, making it a great gym bag. It comes in seven colors, but my favorite is black because it's so stylish.
Crescent Crossbody Bag
Amazon
Don't be surprised if you see travelers carrying crescent bags this summer. Instead, join their ranks by adding a bag like the buckled Sunlight Leaves or the two-tone Bostanten to your cart, both available on Amazon. I have a Strathberry crescent satchel bag in rotation and love it when visiting big cities because it's super sleek and holds a ton of items. It fits my iPhone, wallet, makeup bag, and a small notebook. The interior pockets are perfect for organizing smaller items like receipts, airline tickets, and concert tickets.
Slip skirt
Everlane
This slip skirt from Everlane is the ultimate summer staple. Available in two colors, it features an A-line silhouette with a center-front slit. The subtle jacquard stripes add a fresh look without being too flashy, and it can be paired with solid or printed tops. Made from FSC-certified viscose and recycled polyester, it's breathable and wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect for travel.
Laptops
one day
Aday carries some of my favorite travel apparel. If I'm traveling for work, I love the brand's Turn It Up Pants and Like A Boss Pullover, both of which are wrinkle- and pill-resistant. Of course, I also love their That's A Wrap Top, which checks all my trekking boxes. Plus, this comfortable, wrinkle-resistant top can be worn five different ways, making it a travel essential for any season. You might see me wearing it with these cute high-rise shorts from Carve Designs, which double as cute shrugs.
Athleisure jacket
Lululemon
Contrary to popular opinion, jackets are perfect for summer, especially if you're traveling somewhere cold (or want to hit the trails or cities early before the sun peaks). That's why I always include a lightweight, athleisure-style jacket, like Aritzia's Golden Canyon Jacket, on my packing list. But if you want color options, you should consider the Lululemon Always Effortless Jacket. Available in seven colors, this water-repellent jacket is functional, packable, and stylish. You'll also love its stowable hood, soft lining, pockets, airflow panels, and cinch hem.
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