IT’S ALMOST THAT time of year again — where Instagram is saturated with friends sipping Aperols atop Mediterranean cliffs, endless texts about a Greek bar you simply must visit some day, and half the office appears to be empty because no one wants to stick around for puffer jacket season. That’s right, European Summer is right around the corner.
This year, if you’ve given in to the wanderlust and heading abroad for la dolce vita —your biggest question likely isn’t about visas or flights or hotel stays (though if it is, check out our comprehensive Euro Summer guide here). Rather, it’s: “What am I going to wear?”
As much as European summer trips are about living your best life and exploring the magnificent continent, let’s be real — it’s also about the clothing. Social media users have been sharing their holiday hauls en masse, providing guides on what to buy, and how to style a Euro-specific capsule wardrobe. But with the sheer mass of content, it can be difficult to actually find fashion inspiration that is both practical and chic.
Lucky for us, this year the celebrity set landed in Europe early offering endless inspiration. Just this month, a myriad of stars touched down in France for the Cannes Film Festival, showing off their enviable European street style while wandering around between events. Even celebs who weren’t invited to cinema’s glitziest event are also abroad —such as Hailey Bieber who declared she’s “about to have the best summer of my life.”
In addition to your core wardrobe — tank tops, shorts, bikinis and t-shirts — it’s always worth having a few flashier pieces on hand to upgrade an ensemble. Ahead, we break down the top trends celebs are wearing and the non-capsule garments you should pack to ensure your Euro Summer style is top-tier.
Related: How Australians can travel in style this Euro summer
Euro Summer 2023 outfit inspiration
1
A simple shirt
A simple button-up is the perfect layering piece. It stands alone as a top for a day (or night) out, or can be thrown over a swimsuit as a beach-side cover-up. In Cannes, Ella Fanning opted for a striped number by The Row, but any linen, cotton or breathable style will ensure you look elevated and effortless.
2
Sun and slip dresses
Is anything more summery than a sun dress? In Cannes, Laura Harrier proved that even the most simple style can look chic, pairing a polka dot slip with sandals, sunglasses and a thin jumper.
3
A nautical top
If you’re planning to spend time on the sea, there’s no more fitting garment than a nautical top or t-shirt. But instead of a classic Breton style (which could be interpreted as a French cliché), opt for a knitted number or a style with thicker stripes or detailing.
4
Chic sneakers
Yes, sandals are the shoe of summer. But if you’re planning on doing some sightseeing — which involves plenty of walking — comfortable, enclosed footwear is a must. In Cannes, Irina Shayk proved even the sportiest of trainers can be elevated, pairing hers with a stylish red tweed dress and coat.
5
Sophisticated day-to-night dinner dress
Unless you’re on a shoestring budget, you might as well make the most of the fine dining Europe has to offer. As Kylie Jenner recently proved in Paris, a good dinner dress — hers is Alaïa — is a must-have in your travel wardrobe. A simple, muted option that can be worn multiple ways and layered under shirts or sweatshirts is both practical and space-saving.
6
A cardigan
Yes, it may be summer, but parts of Europe can still get cold — especially at night if you’re by the sea! Protect yourself from the potential chill with a chic, cozy cardigan. Take notes from Iris Law, who paired a pink cardi with a miniskirt and headscarf in France, or rug up with lightweight trousers or jeans.
7
Simple sets
A co-ord is desirably practical because it literally takes away the procrastination of choosing an outfit. For an activity-packed day, being able to wake up and just throw on a set means you have a few more minutes to rest and reset before a busy day. Coordinated pieces — such as this cream set donned by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley — can also be mixed and matched, offering extra outfits without taking up precious space in your luggage.
8
A vibrant print
Be it a dress, jumper or tee: At least one fun printed garment will add a pop of colour to a capsule wardrobe that is, most likely, of a muted palette. A bright striped dress like this one Didi Stone wore in Portofino is sure to be a go-to for events or late-night dinners. Alternatively, a printed shawl or scarf takes up little room while making for an eye-popping accessory.
9
Jeans, of any style
As mentioned, Europe can get cold! We aren’t saying you need options for wash or cut, but ensure you have at least one pair of jeans on-hand for those nights when the mercury drops (and it will). In Cannes, Sydney Sweeney proved that a simple look can actually look very effective!
10
A chic (or sheer) cover-up
If you plan on spending time by the beach, it’s worth investing in a stylish cover-up; be it a sheer number a la Kendall Jenner, a crochet dress or simply a cool, oversized T-shirt. Simply a throw-on piece to get you from the sand to your stay in style is a Euro must (bonus points if it shows off that cute bikini you bought especially for the trip. No shame).
