Our Editor Shares the Number One Item to Pack for Your European Vacation

Welcome to our podcast, Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Summer is officially here, which means it's time to pull that suitcase out from under your bed and set up your OOO message. But figuring out what to bring on vacation can be stressful, especially if you are trying to pack light. Whether you're deciding which dressy shoes to bring or which items you can repeatedly wear in different ways throughout your trip, we understand those travel woes.

But don't worry. Who What Wear's Anna LaPlaca is sharing her recommendations for the best items to pack in your carry-on ahead of your next trip. From a pair of linen trousers that easily pairs with everything to a big straw hat perfect for protecting yourself from the sun, LaPlaca says it's all about packing with a purpose. In the latest episode of Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr, LaPlaca shares the one item she will always tuck into her suitcase, her favorite pair of dressy shoes, and more. 

For excerpts from their conversation, scroll below.

Let's say you only have space in your suitcase for one of each of these types of items. Which style or specific product are you picking? First up: one pair of casual pants.

For me, without a doubt, it has to be a pair of linen trousers. They look so chic and effortless. I think there is a reason why French women are always in them. If the famous French girl aesthetic is what you're after, this is the way to do it.

I actually just acquired a pair from the Australian brand Dissh, and they are perfect. I love the quality of Dissh's pieces. They're so, so good for the price. It's just the kind of brand that looks good on everyone.

Let's say you like a heel, especially for dinner, and you want to bring a nice pair of heeled shoes. What are those shoes?

This might be controversial for some, but I love the look of a sleek-heeled thong. I think they are just so minimal. I think they also tap into that '90s aesthetic, which I'm always after. I love them, and I think they actually do go with so many different outfits, whether you're throwing them on with a little miniskirt or a fancier dress to go to dinner. Those are definitely going to be in my suitcase. 

Toteme does a great little kitten-heeled version. The style is really not hard to find all over the internet.

What about a chic matching set for a day of sightseeing?

I absolutely love a vest set. They are just so easy. I think it's one of those things that [even though] you have put zero effort into getting dressed in the morning, you still come out looking extremely polished. In terms of a set, they're best done in either a vest and trousers or a vest and tailored shorts, so you still have that polished feel. 

Of course, since it's a set, each piece is styled separately or together. I think that's a genius packing move. Regardless of what kind of set you're packing, you can do multiple outfits with each item because it just leaves more space in your luggage.

What is the beach hat that you will take?

I'm a sucker for the classics. My hat of choice for the summer has to be that big, floppy straw hat. It's dramatic, but it also protects your skin. I mean, it's iconic really.

Is there any designer or retailer whose hats you really like right now?

J Crew has some really great ones. The one that always comes to mind for drama is Jacquemus. I was just in Banana Republic the other day, and they had one that was dramatic, like the Jacquemus one, but surprisingly wearable. It really took me by surprise. Lastly, I'm going to throw in the Simon Miller and Mango collaboration because there were a few really, really fun huge straw hats that they made in a few different colors, and I think those are a great option.