The flights are booked, and the accommodation is secured; all that’s left to do is start creating your dreamy Instagram moodboard of European summer outfits.
As the thoughts of spending sun-kissed days on the continent help many Americans get through the long and dreary winter, it’s no surprise that so many people are deadset on fulfilling their idyllic Euro fantasies before fall returns. Fashion, of course, has a big part to play in this. The visuals of your imagined European alter ego that spring to mind are a far cry from ‘corporate core’ and the proliferation of grey, black, and beige that takes over your closet during the colder months.
The mere prompt of European summer outfits brings to mind vivid and bright hues, maximalist patterns, mish-mashed accessories, and fabrics like crochet, linen, raffia, chiffon, lace, and silk that simply get nearly enough airtime closer to home. While each destination undoubtedly has its own varied and distinct style and vibe, the thing that most European locales have in common is the way their inhabitants dress with such effortless ease.
Ahead of your next trip, we’ve prepared a packing guide to help you channel that laissez faire energy—we bet you can even pull it off by taking a carry-on only.
Pick Classic Prints
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Passerby seen in Paris in June 2025.
When your backdrop is a chic cityscape, gorgeous museum, or stunning chateau, dial up the elegance by wearing a timeless print. A faint polka dot on a flattering, demure dress is reminiscent of 1950s movie stars. But adding sleek and modern accessories, like a stiletto heel mule and puffy leather clutch, will keep you in present-day trend-setter territory.
Go Glam for a Boat Day
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Doina Ciobanu in Spain in May 2022.
Head off into the horizon in a bell-sleeve cover-up mini dress, either in a fun print by Italian favorites Missoni or Pucci or in a solid block color. Team it with a silk headscarf and oversized shades for a true seaside serve.
Opt for Simplicity When Sightseeing
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Gili Biegun seen in Paris in July 2025.
Consider us convinced that the only accessory we need is an epic black fan. This streamlined white maxi dress ensemble is faultless for roaming around the cobbled streets, where your only care is where to stop for an aperitivo next.
Embrace Color for Cocktails
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Krizzy Doble in Spain in May 2022.
You wear enough black year-round. When abroad, experiment with joy-inducing shades like emerald green, cobalt, orange, and red. Similarly, reach for fabrics and textures that you don’t get to indulge in at home, like this shimmering woven mesh.
A Silk Maxi is Always a Good Choice
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Jessica Wang in Milan in February 2024.
Not only is a body-hugging feather-light slip dress an easy-peasy thing to pack, you’ll be hard pressed to find an occasion it doesn’t work for when in Europe. From weddings to impromptu cocktail hours, it’s a tried-and-true winner for a reason.
Indulge in Romance
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Kelsey Merritt in Paris in March 2025.
For a long and leisurely evening meal when you want to feel both comfortable and polished, look for romantic details like lace and ruffles. This maxi silhouette is subtle yet sexy, and easy to sit for hours in. Pass the focaccia.
Honor Your Surroundings
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Lashana Lynch in London in July 2025.
Don’t be afraid to lean into traditional tropes, such as clean lines and sophisticated sets. Whether you’re attending a concert or a sporting event that’s baked into the local culture, take cues from those around you as well as via iconic past images of the event. It’s not cosplaying if you ace the assignment…
Monochromatic is Always Chic
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Lily James in Paris in Mach 2025.
If a passerby in Paris or Milan looks impeccable in head-to-toe black, it’s usually because they keep the elements of the outfit interesting. Case in point: this genie pants and peasant blouse combo in vintage-style lace. Chef’s kiss.
Make a Statement
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Karen Blanchard in Milan in September 2023.
Whether it’s with a look-at-me tropical print or a daring cut (or both), Europeans aren’t afraid to be the center of attention. Channel their confidence and have fun with your summer style moments—what’s the worst that can happen?
Cool Vibes for Clubbing
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Gilda Ambrosio in Italy in July 2019.
The most admirably-dressed people in Europe exude that je ne sais quoi quality. A lot of the time, it’s down to people’s knack for making even a fancy outfit look as easy as 1,2,3. Take this dancefloor-ready cocktail mini for example, a diamond necklace adds pizazz while lace-up flat sandals make it feel totally chill.
Read the original article on InStyle
