8 Destinations, 16 Trends: What to Pack for the Ultimate 2026 Vacation Wardrobe
Wherever you're planning to spend your OOO days, this guide curates the mood, wardrobe, and essentials to match.
Booking a trip is easy. But packing for it? That's where things get complicated. After all, not all destinations are created equal in terms of relaxed dress codes and aesthetics. While securing a flight and hotel takes just a few clicks, curating a suitcase that balances style, comfort, and the unique vibe of your destination requires a much more thoughtful approach.
Take Nantucket and the French Riviera, for example. Both are coastal and affluent spots, yet they project very different styles and ideas of luxury. Nantucket is rooted in nautical, maritime culture and prep-school traditions, which call for crisp button-down shirts, open-weave sweaters, and canvas tote bags. On the other hand, the Riviera aesthetic stems from the resort culture of places like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Antibes, which is more fashion-conscious and elegant, calling for one-piece swimwear, wide-brimmed straw hats, and elevated flip-flops.
With summer travel top of mind, I'm simplifying the process for all stylish jet-setters. I'm covering destinations such as Nantucket, the Hamptons, Puglia, and Ibiza and sharing the top two trends for each location that every traveler should pack. I've also included which items pair best with each trend. Remember, these are not set outfit formulas. They're the ingredients, if you will, for what will best suit the destination's vibe and make you feel comfortable and confident during your well-deserved time off.
Nantucket possesses a quiet magic. Located just over an hour by plane from New York, this tiny island spans only about five miles. Its charm is defined by a deep respect for history and a tight-knit local community. Its aesthetic includes shells, stripes, and an effortlessly relaxed coastal vibe. As for a fitting wardrobe, two fashion trends come to mind: canvas tote bags and sleep dresses. These pieces capture the New England summer spirit and are versatile enough for famous landmarks, secluded beaches, and dining spots favored by locals. Since you'll be strolling the cobblestone streets, flats are a must—as is a light sweater since the ocean breeze often brings an evening chill.
If you're looking for a quiet European beach escape that feels untouched, Sardinia is it. The southern Italian region features a sprawling, rugged landscape and an intimate resort scene along with pink-washed villages like Porto Cervo, where carefully curated designer shops and bars are nestled into the hillside. It's become a popular destination in recent seasons for those in the know, especially those who keep up with the It hotels. Hotel Cala di Volpe is the property in Sardinia that everyone is talking about, especially fashion people, because the hotel will be draped in Dolce & Gabbana's iconic Maiolica Gialla print this summer. Aside from the hotels, the turquoise waters are not to be missed, whether you're island-hopping by boat or relaxing seaside. For either option, you'll need a one-piece swimsuit. Whether you wear a style from the Hunza G x Burberry collab or a timeless silhouette from Eres, dress it up with a bold beaded necklace, then add drawstring pants, flip-flops, and a raffia bucket hat.
So you've finally booked the group trip, share house, or romantic getaway to the Hamptons you've been talking about forever. That means you've also put together an itinerary that includes walking into town to see if Round Swamp Farm lives up to the hype, biking through Bridgehampton to daydream about owning a beautiful home on Ocean Road, shopping at the new Chanel store in East Hampton to see if you can score one of Matthieu Blazy's new pieces, and perhaps trying the new breakfast spot, Babe's Diner, in Sag Harbor. Now, the question is, What should you pack?
Having visited the Hamptons every summer for the past 10 years, I can say that almost anything works. However, as a fashion person, I know that's not very helpful, so let me get specific. For 2026, a foolproof outfit for the Hamptons includes a lightweight long-sleeve shirt paired with Bermuda shorts—an ensemble endorsed by Margot Robbie, who wore it at the airport with mesh flats and a long-strap shoulder bag. You can do a striped variation with long drawstring shorts, a plain black shirt with tailored shorts, or patterned shorts with a white long sleeve. The decision is yours. For shoes, think flats, such as elevated flip-flops or strappy sandals. And for accessories, a relaxed, slouchy straw bag and retro sunglasses will complete the look beautifully. The best part is that this look can be taken from day to night. Just add kitten heels and a clutch.
In Mexico City, vibrant color, culture, and creativity are woven into every corner. From striking street murals and historic architecture to thriving markets and museums, the city radiates energy and personal expression, so dressing for it should match that vibe. At the same time, keep in mind that temperatures are generally mild, so aim for bold, dynamic, lightweight pieces. Traveling to Mexico City between April and May is when you'll experience the warmest temperature, but if you go after that, it isn't quite as hot, making balloon trousers an ideal base for your look. A fitted tee to balance the trousers' volume will make the perfect pairing. Add personality and whimsy with beaded flip-flops and a straw bag—ideally in a vivid shade like green or red to reflect the city's vibrancy. Finally, incorporate a silk scarf by tying it around your bag, head, or waist to add even more individuality and flair to your ensemble.
Summer in Ibiza is all about letting loose, celebrating life, and making the most of long sun-soaked days. While the island is famous for its nightlife, you don't need to club-hop until sunrise to embrace its energy. The beach clubs, seaside restaurants, in-town shopping, and nearby island of Formentera are just as lively. With that in mind, what you pack for your trip should feel just as carefree, colorful, and fun. Whether you've been to the island before or are visiting for the first time, you can expect to see a shift toward sporty daytime dressing this year, specifically board shorts and any other athletic-inspired drawstring shorts paired with one-piece swimsuits and bikinis. On top, oversize button-down shirts are chic, but graphic tees and tanks are what will really pull the entire look together. For shoes? Skip classic black sandals and opt for colored flip-flops, whether two-tone from Havaianas or solid colored from Tkees.
Mallorca is one of the most walkable islands in the Mediterranean, offering endless opportunities for exploration on foot. As you wander, you can stumble upon charming medieval towns, mountain villages, and secluded coves. The region is all about natural architecture. Since you'll likely be on foot for most of the day, explore in style and comfort with lightweight separates. Consider a slip skirt paired with a pretty blouse, or for a more modern look, try the 2026 trend of taffeta pants, which make a statement when worn with a simple tank top. Stylish accessories like flip-flops with raffia footbeds and a pouch bag, such as Prada's colored nylon style, will enhance your look and make you look like a fashion person.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. It's known not only for hosting Sofia Richie Grainge's wedding but also for its Instagram-approved heated saltwater infinity pool built into the hotel's rock formation and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Understandably, not everyone who goes to the French Riviera stays or even visits there, though. The southeast corner of France also includes Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez—arguably the most luxe summer destinations. If you're planning a trip to the region this summer and want to dress the part, the first thing you should pack is a contrast-trim bikini. I know it's very specific, but it is the number one swimsuit trend of 2026. Everyone from Hailey Bieber to Alix Earle has already been spotted wearing one. The second thing you need is oversize sunglasses. If you can get your hands on the '70s-inspired round Celine pair, that's a major win. If not, brands such as Linda Farrow and Jimmy Fairly have great alternatives. To complete your poolside look that can be easily taken into town, opt for a sarong or pareo that can be worn as a long skirt (the length is what will have you looking polished) along with a structured straw bag and flip-flops. A favorite is Christopher Eseber's clear jelly slides because of the clean, lean lines they create on the body.
If you've been thinking about taking a trip to Puglia or have already booked it, you're one step ahead of everyone else because the Italian spot is quickly becoming a top summer destination. While it's important to know which part of the region to stay in, it's also important to know that life in Puglia revolves around simple pleasures, which are best exemplified by the region's culinary traditions. You will find locals enjoying unhurried alfresco meals featuring staples like burrata, focaccia, and premium olive oil in charming piazzas and on terraces overlooking the sea. In a place where intentionality and slowing down are the norm, your wardrobe should reflect that thoughtful approach. Given Puglia's hot and dry summer climate, dresses offer a sophisticated one-and-done solution that simplifies packing and styling.
A key silhouette to include is the drop-waist dress. Its fitted bodice and breezy, voluminous skirt are perfectly designed to move with the warm coastal winds. To elevate the look for the evening, opt for modern wedges that add an elegant touch. Current favorites from designer labels such as Khaite, Phoebe Philo, and Jude are excellent choices for this aesthetic. Complete the ensemble by accessorizing with bold chunky bracelets and vintage-inspired earrings.
