I'm Living in Europe for a Month—10 Easy Basics That Deserve a Spot in My Suitcase

Woman in blue striped button-down.

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

In a few weeks, I'll be flying to England to visit my family, then hopping on a train to visit a friend in Paris and hopefully getting to Mallorca for a little sunshine and sangria. I'll be away for a month, and while the overpacker in me wants to stuff my entire wardrobe into my suitcase, my goal is to take the load off and travel light. This means really honing in on the essentials. Having an arsenal of elevated and versatile basics is a must. I'm talking about the items that I can lean on day or night, that aren't too bulky (especially for summer travel), and that can be easily mixed and matched throughout my stay.

Below, I'm sharing some of the easy and effortless basics that I'll be packing this summer. From crisp button-downs to day-to-night dresses, these picks below are the perfect blend of practical and stylish and will see you through any vacation in style.

Tank Tops

Woman in white tank top and skirt.

(Image credit: @jordanrisa)

Basic Tees

Woman in t-shirt and jeans.

(Image credit: @lizzthadfield)

Button-Downs

Woman in button-down and black skirt.

(Image credit: @claradyrhauge)

Linen Vests & Blazers

Woman in linen vest and pants.

(Image credit: @bellathomas)

Simple Skirts

Woman in white skirt and black blazer.

(Image credit: @taffymispa)

Effortless Pants

White linen pants with a black top.

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Casual Shorts

Woman in casual shorts and shirt.

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Day-to-Night Dresses

Woman in black sun dress.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Comfy and Versatile Shoes

Woman in white dress and mesh flats.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Everyday Accessories

Woman in striped shirt, sunglasses, and white pants.

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)
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Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.