My Ultimate European Vacation Capsule Wardrobe

In this post, I am sharing my ultimate European vacation capsule wardrobe for your summer travels. From wine tasting in Italy to beach hopping in the South of France, this European summer packing guide has everything you need for a stylish and beautiful European vacation.

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I don’t know about you, but I can’t visit Pinterest these days without seeing so many cute outfit roundups for the South of France or Italian summer vibes. And across Instagram, all of my favorite influencers are taking cooking classes in Florence or sipping an Aperol Spritz in Saint-Tropez. 

If all of this has you looking to book a last-minute holiday to Europe this summer, let me help you pack. In today’s post, I am going to be sharing my ultimate European vacation capsule wardrobe. Think ‘Emily in Paris’ meets your summer vacation. 

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential clothing items that you’ve selected to create a versatile, stylish, and functional wardrobe. I love sharing capsule wardrobes with you because they help simplify the process of getting dressed each day, they streamline your closet and they help you perfect your personal style.

The point of a capsule wardrobe is to focus on quality over quantity. They’re the easiest way to build a sustainable wardrobe. Focus on timeless, well-fitting pieces of clothing that can be mixed and matched for an endless range of outfits. 

Around here, I like to organize capsule wardrobes by season, event, and occasionally, by trend. My overall goal is to help you create the ultimate classic capsule wardrobe that is a smart and stylish approach to fashion. You can download my Classic Capsule Wardrobe guide here. 

When traveling, a capsule wardrobe ensures that you look stylish each day, without overpacking, all while avoiding outfit fatigue. 

European Vacation Packing List (Summer Edition)

• Flowy maxi dress
• Casual mini dress
• Night out dress
• Linen button-down shirt
• Blazer
• Knit tank
• Simple t-shirt
• Tailored shorts
• Satin skirt
• Jeans
• Linen pants
• Strappy sandals
• Espadrilles
• Sneakers
• Clutch
• Straw tote
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Scarf
• Bikini or one-piece swimsuit

European Vacation Capsule Wardrobe (Summer Edition)

I’ve included 20 items in this capsule wardrobe. I normally wouldn’t include 3 dresses, but when traveling in Europe (especially in the summer), I know that I’m a lot more likely to wear a dress each day. 

I’ve also included several pairs of pants because while most people think of Europe as being very hot, depending on where you go the summer could surprise you! Lastly, I’ve thrown in some accessories, shoes, and handbags because one of the best ways to look stylish each day is through your accessories. Feel free to pack your favorite jewelry pieces as well. 

Dresses

I’ve chosen three styles of dresses for this European vacation capsule wardrobe. Mostly because I find when I’m traveling in Europe I usually wear a lot more dresses as opposed to when I’m at home. There’s just something about the European style and summer sun that has me reaching for my dresses. 

Having a maxi dress is always a good idea, especially if you plan on visiting any cathedrals while you’re there. You’ll definitely need a more ‘modest’ option for sightseeing in any of Europe’s beautiful churches. I know the print of this dress will look gorgeous in every European city as well. 

It’s such a classic style that looks good on everyone. I personally love this gingham dress and can already picture myself wearing it on a wine-tasting tour in Italy. The shirred cap sleeves add a stylish detail that I love as well. 

This is the dress for exploring Europe this summer. I don’t think I’ve ever found something more perfect. This dress can easily be styled for day or night and is a must-have for any trips around the South of France this summer. I think ‘Emilly in Paris’ would definitely approve. 

It’s so simple, yet stylish and easy to dress up. Whether you’re looking for a dress to wear around Europe or the Hamptons this summer, the Carla mini dress is just what you need.

Europe (like New York) has classy nights out whether it’s dancing until 3 am in Ibiza or playing blackjack in the casinos of Monaco. The Izel dress will definitely have you turning heads either way. 

Tops & Blazers

Layering is the key to any successful capsule wardrobe. That’s why I’ve included some of my favorite essential items like a classic linen blazer and long button-down shirt. You might not think you need a blazer for hot summer days, but it’s also the perfect thing to wear on your flight or train as well. 

I love this blazer in Ivory, it’s a gorgeous style for summer. The gold button details are very stylish for a European summer capsule as well. A blazer like this will definitely last you for years to come. 

I have one in every color because I know it’s such a staple in my wardrobe. You can throw this button down over a bathing suit, pair it with jeans, or style it over a fancy dress. It’s so versatile and a must-have item for every packing list. 

The style in Europe is very much ‘quiet luxury’ – a trend I am loving this year. And simple (but well-made) knit tanks like this have been around every capsule wardrobe I’ve seen. You can style this with a skirt or jeans, dress it up with a scarf or dress it down with a pair of linen shorts. 

Whenever you feel like dressing up, put on one of the gorgeous dresses you’ve packed. However, whenever you want a simple, yet classy look in Europe this summer, simply pull out a relaxed t-shirt and jeans. This relaxed t-shirt is an essential part of my capsule wardrobes. 

Shorts, Pants & Skirts

In other words, your bottoms. I wanted you to have a mix of trousers, jeans, and skirts for your trip because while summers in Europe do get very hot, they also have cool evenings, especially if you’re by the seaside. Besides, I know they’re bulky but I always love a stylish pair of jeans with a simple white top. 

The fabric is lightweight, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant. Style these shorts all summer long, no matter what country you’re jet-setting off to. I love them in white, but could honestly have a pair in every color! 

For your European vacation capsule, I recommend going with a lighter color. Unless you’re going to be in London or Amsterdam, I wouldn’t actually recommend wearing a lot of black! Instead, choose light colors that match the ancient stone of Europe. 

Though I will say, if you’re going to leave anything from this capsule at home, it should be the jeans! While I love styling a pair of jeans with a simple white T-shirt, European summers are warm enough that jeans might feel too much! If that’s the case, leave the jeans at home. But if you are looking for the perfect pair of jeans (especially for tall women), these are them! 

Called the ‘everywhere’ for good reason. These stylish pants just might become your go-to in Europe. Once again, grab a pair of these in a nice light color and throw them on over a bathing suit for lunch near the sea. I can’t wait to see how you style these in the South of France. 

Shoes & Accessories

My favorite part of any capsule wardrobe is the shoes and accessories. This is the quickest way to make each look unique and original – even though you’re styling the same 5-7 pieces. My biggest tip for Europe, pack comfortable shoes. You’re going to be walking along the cobblestone streets, you definitely don’t want high heels (trust me!) 

Also, bring a bag that’s big enough for shopping and that can double as your beach bag. 

I love that they stay on your feet with the back strap, and they’re so stylish – they’ll go well with everything else in this capsule. Plus you can easily slip them off and explore the beach barefoot. 

This is the perfect pair of shoes for nights out in Europe. Plus, the wedge heel is so much more comfortable when you’re spending all day on your feet and on those cobblestone streets. I can already see you rocking these sandals at a beachfront restaurant in Positano. 

You can wear them for long days spent walking to the shops, but you can also wear them through the airport. I’ll never understand people who wear sandals to the airport – it just means you’ll have to go through security without socks! Having a good pair of sneakers is essential for any holiday in Europe. 

Maybe you’re headed out to brunch with the girls, stopping by for a drink with a friend, or getting ready for a night out. You definitely don’t need an entire bag. This clutch is unique, coastal, and the perfect size for your essentials. 

I honestly think this is the perfect bag to take to Europe this summer. You can carry it on the plane with your travel documents, books and electronics. It’s a great size for beach days and shopping trips. It’s also gorgeous – and will never go out of style. If you need one bag for summer – it’s this one! 

This pair has become my new summer go-to pair. I love it for this European vacation capsule wardrobe. They’re so stylish and comfortable and the oversized look is classic for Europe. 

Especially for a European vacation. I’m already imagining styling this hat with the gingham sundress I shared early in this capsule collection. Plus, the tie on this hat means it won’t blow away – and you won’t have to worry about holding your hat all day! 

Europeans are always wearing stylish scarves. It adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. Plus this stunning scarf comes in colors for everyone’s style. 

I love this one-piece. The material is soft, the fit is comfortable and it’s a classic look that won’t go out of style any time soon. It comes in a variety of colors and prints meaning you can choose your favorite. 

Are you looking for more vacation capsule wardrobes? Check out these additional style guides: 

• How to Create a Summer Beach Capsule Wardrobe
• The Resort Capsule Wardrobe You Need

Where are you traveling this summer?

It’s my goal to help you create the perfect Classic Capsule Wardrobe. This would ensure that no matter where you travel this summer, you have everything you need to pack light and dress with style. Download my free guide to creating your own classic capsule wardrobe here. 

Make sure to follow me on Instagram (@stylewithbasia) and Pinterest (@basiarestrepo) for more lifestyle, fashion, and travel inspiration.