WHAT’S HOT?
A Vacay Capsule Wardrobe!
7/31/26
Dear Hot Friends,
Can you believe summer is already half over? As an all-out super fan of the season, I get a little depressed just thinking about it ending.
I don't have travel plans just yet—do you? Are you headed for a relaxing beach vacation, an invigorating city break, or, if you're lucky, a little of both?
My favorite trips always combine seaside relaxation with city exploring, like two of my favorite vacations in recent years: Cascais, the beautiful beach town just outside Lisbon, and Fontane Bianche, a charming seaside village near Noto in Sicily.
Of course, vacations like these come with one challenge: packing.
The answer? A capsule wardrobe filled with pieces that multitask. Clothes and accessories that can take you from the beach to sightseeing to dinner without weighing down your suitcase.
Perfectly packed traveler.
Here's my packing list for at least a week away, no matter where your travels take you:
1 blazer or lightweight cardigan
1 pair of jeans or lightweight trousers
1 pair of shorts
3 T-shirts
1 dressier top
1 dress that works for dinner and doubles as a beach cover-up
1 swimsuit (2 if you'll be spending lots of time in the water)
1–2 large scarves (pareo, shawl, or head wrap)
1 pair of sneakers
1 pair of sandals
1 pair of pajamas—or an oversized T-shirt
1 large tote that works for the plane, the beach, and the city
1 bold pair of earrings and/or a statement necklace
1–2 colorful headbands or bandanas
1–2 belts
See my suggestions below for some great packing choices.
Whenever I travel, my goal is simple: to look as stylish as possible without packing half my closet. Here's how I make it work.
1. Limit yourself to two or three colors.
A tightly edited color palette instantly makes everything mix and match beautifully. I usually build my wardrobe around one piece I'll use every day, like a favorite tote, scarf, or pair of sandals.
2. Lay everything out before you pack.
Seeing everything together makes it easy to spot gaps, eliminate unnecessary pieces, and make sure every item earns its place in your suitcase.
3. Roll, don't fold.
Rolled clothes take up less space and usually emerge with fewer wrinkles.
4. Bring extra bags.
A few lightweight tote bags are invaluable for dirty laundry, beach gear, shopping, or souvenirs. Those free promotional totes we've all collected finally have their moment!
5. Decant your toiletries.
Beauty products are notorious suitcase hogs. Transfer your favorites into travel-size bottles and finally use those skincare and makeup samples you've been saving all year.
6. Pack pieces that work overtime.
These are my favorite packing tricks. A large scarf can keep you warm on the plane, become a pareo at the beach, a shawl for dinner, or even a chic top or tote bag with a clever knot. (Loro Piana showed us how to do this, but you can have it for much less here). A swimsuit can double as a bodysuit with shorts or trousers. These unexpected jellies can work at the pool and at a fancy dinner. A matching set can be worn together or mixed with everything else you've packed. Your makeup bag can become your evening clutch, and a breezy dress can work as both a cover-up and dinner attire. The more jobs each piece can do, the lighter your suitcase becomes!
7. Never underestimate great accessories.
If you know me, you know I would never leave home without a fabulous pair of oversized earrings. They instantly elevate everything—from a simple white T-shirt to a swimsuit. I'd also pack one statement necklace to wear all week and, of course, a packable straw hat to protect both your skin and your hair while adding effortless summer style.
Happy travels—and happy packing!
Terry xoxo
Of course, we have some great items on HOT that will help you complete your packing list.
This stunning tote, handmade in Cape Town S.A., is all you need this summer at the beach or anywhere you plan on carrying a lot stylishly! Created with 100% cotton African print fabric, each piece is made with zero waste in mind and measures 17 1/2 x16 x 7 inches.
This is a new pattern in the mini version of Juditha Sakinofsky’s brilliant zippered pouches! Each bag is handmade in 100% cotton with 2 compartments. They are strong and sturdy, and lined with waterproof camouflage material. Use them as makeup bags, evening clutches, or for a stylish packing assist, the sky’s the limit! 9.5” x 6” x 2”.
Beautiful seaside coral resin earrings by renown Italian jewelry designer Angela Caputi. Purchased at her beautiful shop in Florence, these are a stand out for any summer event. 3 1/2” long.
From well-known, charming and whimsical jewelry maker Lunch at the Ritz and just in time for summer, these enamel fish earrings in pretty ocean colors come with colorful crystals dangling from the bottom.
2" long.
This necklace by prolific jewelry designer RJ Graziano is composed of large butterscotch-colored acrylic beads and features one oversized gold acrylic bead for contrast. A stunning, eye-catching addition to your necklace wardrobe that elevates both casual and dressy looks. 18" long.
A gold-tone rolo chain (30") holds a gold jump ring from which hang three sizable pendants: a glass-encased Buddha, a decorative gold shark’s tooth, and a small orb embellished with gold detailing. Each piece reflects influences gathered over years spent traveling through Southeast Asia.
This vintage Connie Bates mesh belt is as stunning as it is useful! Made of woven linen, it can be worn at the waist or hip and is closed with an enormous silver buckle with mother of pearl and brass embellishments. It’s the ultimate in boho chic! 40” long. A prolific 1980s designer known for her belts as well as her jewelry, Connie Bate’s designs are sculptural and imbued with urban glamour. Inspired by the vibrant energy of New York City, the pieces emphasized individuality and strength, making them wearable statements for powerful self-expression.