The Best Shirts to Wear on Vacation

It’s vacation season. You’ve booked your airfare, poured over photos of the hotel, and scoped out all the best shops and restaurants in town. Now the only problem is how to pack. And what a problem it is. Even the most seasoned of travelers have a little bit of hesitation from time to time when working out the most efficient way to travel in style without dumping their entire wardrobe in a suitcase they’ll have to lug around.

One of the most daunting parts of packing for vacation is what to wear on top. Sure, you’re set with a few one-and-done dresses and you’ve settled on a few great skirts and pairs of easy jean shorts. But what to pair them with? Silk camisoles that wrinkle when you breathe are a huge pain, a top that you can really only style with a single pair of skinny jeans is simply not worth it, and don’t even get us started on the tops that are sure to stretch to double our size after a single wear. The solution? Reach for rougher silks with a little more endurance power, grab neutral tones that can be paired with anything in your entire wardrobe (though that doesn’t have to mean only black and white!), and opt for cottons with a little bit of stretch or a thicker weave that will hold their shape for multiple wears. That said, throw a fun statement top in there as well so you’ll be able to have fun whether you’re wearing vintage cutoffs or a more dressed-up skirt.

From the most affordable tees to splurge-worthy statement tops, these are the vacation tops we’re shopping for right now.

The bodysuits

A no-fuss top that will stay put no matter where you’re headed. Zero fuss but tons of wardrobe star power come from these favorites.

The silks

Invest in tops that have a more textured silk, a blend, or thicker weave that won’t look awful from the moment you take it out of your trunk. Bring a steamer along for the ride, though—nothing is perfect, but it’s nice to feel a little more elevated than a cotton tank from time to time.

The tees

For everyday wears, pack a ton of T-shirts. These should be neutrals, but don’t feel like you’re stuck with the boring basics. Go for black and white to be sure, but add in a little navy, tan, and muted pastels for a little bit of a subtle pop.

The statement tops

Take at least one with you for that gorgeous date night dinner or night at the bar. Opt for classic tops that boast subtle details that take them to the next level like a pleat, ruffle, or tie fastening.

Grab one and grab them all. With these wardrobe additions, packing has never been easier.