I don't know what it is about an East Coast summer, but the packing process always feels… a little extra special. Maybe it's the hydrangea-lined backyards, the slightly chilly nights that call for a proper jacket, or the fact that, no matter how casual the plan sounds, everyone still shows up looking incredibly put-together. These are destinations that never feel try-hard, overly glamorous, or performative. The vibe among the regulars is simply understood.
After I spent time observing and, naturally, mentally shopping what people wear in the Hamptons, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket, a clear pattern emerged: The vibe is polished, understated, and quietly expensive. Think linen that actually holds its shape, suede in the summer (yes, really), and accessories that whisper rather than shout. Below is the exact shopping list that captures that energy—pieces that feel just as right for a dockside lunch as they do for a last-minute dinner reservation.
Vacationers of these popular hideaways can't wait to live in linen separates once again.
The Row
Carla 80 Suede Pumps
If I could have these pumps in every color, I would.
Savette
Symmetry Pochette Leather Tote Bag
An IYKYK handbag brand that is loved by Hampton-goers.
Saint Laurent
Le 5 à 7 Bea Suede Tote Bag
Suede for spring and summer is winning over this crowd.
Herbert Levine
Gather Around Patent Leather Mules
Another transitional pair of shoes you will want to wear now through high season.
Barbour
Kinsale Tartan Cape Coat
This is for the people who grew up wearing Barbour.
Juliet Dunn
Embroidered Cotton Poplin Minidress
Casual days in the vineyard revolve around dresses like this.
Blumarine
Long Sleeve Top
A unique take on summer fashion in the best way.
A purchase you simply won't regret.
Self-Portrait
Embroidered Paisley Cotton Midi Dress
This dress was simply made for a backyard party surrounded by hydrangeas in Nantucket.
This brand was made for the summer girls.
Alejandra Alonso Rojas
Nausheen Dress
Invite me to a wedding out east, and I'll show up in something like this.
Oséree
Lumière Embellished Bikini
The shell details on this bikini are yacht-worthy.
How gorgeous is this set?
Anna Kosturova
Crochet Cotton Scarf
Crochet headscarves are going to have a big moment this year.
This entire collection by Khaite was made for this type of woman.
Phoebe Philo
Wool and Cashmere Sweater
Cashmere you can wear from now to summer.
Marina Moscone
Tabard Tie Tunic Top
I can't stop staring at this dress.
Saint Laurent
Intertwined Cuff Bracelet
A cuff worth talking about.
The perfect jacket to throw on for chilly nights.
Veronica Beard
Jean Ellisandra Top
A smocked top wins over this crowd every time.
Faithfull
Biba Halterneck Linen Top
A top worthy of any summer plans.
Phoebe Philo
Silk Cargo Pants
This pretty yellow won me over at first glance.
Veronica Beard
Georges Linen Dress
A dress that has Martha's Vineyard written all over it.
Something about these shoes just exudes perfection.
Alémais
Printed Linen and Cotton Miniskirt
A brand to know if this is your ideal vacation destination.
Khaite
Joan Large Leather Shoulder Bag
An understated tote says it all.
I can easily imagine wearing this set in any of these places.
Monse
Leather Belt Backless Shirt
Remixes on the classic shirt would really impress this crowd.
St. Agni
Strapless Rouleau Dress
Just wait until you see the back detail.
Nour Hammour
Leather Tassel Belt
This belt is going to be the ultimate outfit finisher once the summer starts.
Lemaire
Oversized Cotton Cropped Trench Coat
This funnel-neck trench is perfect in the final moments of cold.
While other summer destinations are only about dresses, these East Coast hideaways love a good top-and-pant combination.
AGOLDE
90's Mid Rise Loose Jeans
Don't neglect denim when planning your East Coast summer wardrobe.