Be honest for a second... Do you spend an embarrassingly long time selecting vacation outfits? Although it's easy to decide the next destination we're ready to visit, packing for said place is a whole different story. As a reformed chronic over-packer myself, I've spent more time than I care to admit in a doom spiral over how to fit everything into my luggage—luckily, I know I'm not alone in this experience. There's something about packing for a holiday that can make anyone stressed out. Maybe the blame lies in the pressure to post our outfits on Instagram or the anticipation of traveling in general, but I digress.
Either way, it goes without saying that even the most well-traveled people struggle with how to pack for a holiday. In an effort to help alleviate some of that anxiety, I've scoured social media in search of the best spring travel outfit ideas. Sure, my research is a bit self-serving as I've got a vacation coming up, but the great thing is that you'll reap the benefits, too. I've done the legwork to ensure that each outfit formula is easy to replicate and includes versatile staples that can be styled in different ways throughout the trip. Prepare to become a packing pro.
Sunglasses + Pendant Necklace + Drop Waist Dress + Pumps
What's one of the easiest ensembles you can pack for a spring vacation? A white dress. The benefit of packing this "boring" item is that it can be paired with just about anything—e.g., pumps or sandals, a cardigan or trench coat—for just about any destination.
Sunglasses are a must-have no matter the destination.
If you're going to a seaside destination, why not lean into the location with this lovely little shell-shaped pendant?
Without fail, you'll always find at least one white dress in my suitcase.
Sunglasses + Bustier Top + Shoulder Bag + Slip Skirt + Mules
Besides packing, the first thing I'm always planning for a trip is which restaurants I will try while traveling. If you're the same, you'll want to take note of the ensemble above. There's no better way to celebrate securing a table at the hottest spot in town than by wearing a sultry bustier top, slip skirt, and heeled mules.
BRB will be spending a few minutes daydreaming about wearing this top in Italy.
Ok, I'm back... I have to say that a simple slip skirt is a must-have for any trip.
When it comes to packing shoes, my rule of thumb is to pack only one pair of versatile heels that can be worn throughout the trip.
Cardigan + T-Shirt + Slip Skirt + Raffia Bag + Sandals
One of the benefits of packing a slip skirt for a vacation is that it can be styled for dinner at a buzzy destination and a day excursion, too. If you're leaning towards the latter, you can dress this staple down by pairing it with a simple t-shirt, cardigan, raffia bag, and sandals.
Pro tip: pack light versatile layers for a spring trip.
The way this bag just told me to book a beach vacation.
For every trip, you want to pack at least one type of shirt that you can wear with multiple bottoms—albeit a t-shirt, tank, or tube top.
Linen Vest + Maxi Skirt + Raffia Bag + Sandals
If you loathe the idea of looking like a tourist, you'll want to opt for matching linen separates. Locals won't even bat an eye if they see you donning a waistcoat with a matching maxi skirt and raffia accessories.
Sunhat season is here.
Posse's pieces are perfect for a spring getaway.
When it comes to packing flip-flops, I recommend looking for elevated versions that don't read too-casual.
Sunglasses + Gold Jewelry + Matching Linen Set
As aforementioned, matching linen sets are the easiest way to pack for any spring vacation. But if you want them to feel a bit more special, buy a set in the season's trendiest color. Bonus points if you style the set with stacked jewelry.
Chain necklaces can pair well with just about anything you choose to pack.
You'll defiantly be the center of attention in this linen set.
Pair with the matching linen popover shirt ($88).
Opt for a minimal sandal, that way you can style them with various outfits.
Button-Down Shirt + Tank + Pleated Shorts + Mesh Ballet Flats
When it comes to packing for a holiday, the personal rule I always abide by is that pieces must be able to be styled in at least two different ways. For example, if I've packed a linen set with a button-down shirt, I'll style that top with other items—e.g., with a tank top, mesh flats, and pleated shorts, like above. It's the easiest way to avoid overpacking.
You can style this shirt in so many different ways—e.g., with jeans and sneakers or even layered over a bikini.
You don't have to just wear these on a trip to Bermuda, BTW.
The perfect alternative to sneakers.
Sunglasses + Gold Jewelry + Tank Top + Trousers
Chronic over-packers, listen up: the easiest way to make the idea of wearing what you pack multiple times is by embracing accessories. The one tank top and trousers you wore the day before can look different if styled with statement sunglasses, stacked jewelry, and a bold belt.
The perfect little scoop neck tank.
Personally, I always try to pack at least one statement belt that can be styled with multiple outfits.
White linen pants are a must-pack for vacations.
Shell Earrings + Strapless Top + Linen Trousers + Flat Sandals
Again, you don't have to pack ten different outfits in order to look good on your trip—the key is versatile basics, baby! Pack a pair of neutral trousers, but make simple swaps throughout your trip to keep them feeling fresh. For example, if you wear them with a tank top one day on your trip, try styling them with a sultry strapless top and a pair of statement earrings on the next.
I'm obsessed with these earrings.
You'll wear this long after you return home.
Pro tip: pack a pair of neutral trousers that can be styled with at least three tops for your trip.
Printed Bikini + Scarf + Sunglasses + Bangles + Ring
While you can defiantly get away with recycling a few outfits for your trip, there's one thing you can not skimp on packing: swimwear. Whether you're going to an all-inclusive resort or a tropical destination, a bikinis are typically a non-negotiable for most. But if you want to make your suit stand out, style it with a matching scarf, oversized sunnies, and stacked jewelry.
Is it even a vacation if you don't pack Loewe?
Printed perfection.
Pair with the matching printed bikini bottoms ($90) and silk scarf ($71).
Just because you're by the water doesn't mean you should skimp out on the accessories.
Sunglasses + Clip-On Earrings + Bikini Top + Capri Pants + Scarf + Mules
Another way to style your swimsuit for your trip is to pair it with different pieces post-dip. For example, you can dress it up for dinner by wearing your bikini top with capri pants, heeled mules, a shoulder bag, and a long silk scarf. This formula will allow you to maximize your suitcase space, like a pro.
Nothing screams "I'm frolicking in the sun" quite like a printed silk scarf.
It's the hardware that did it for me.
Capris are making a comeback, BTW.
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