As someone who grew up traveling constantly with my parents for work, what I used to pack wasn't the utmost priority. For years, comfort over chicness took precedence in my carry-on luggage. Instead of packing sundresses and heels, I would bring hiking shoes and biker shorts to scale the Great Wall of China (true story). Now that I'm older, wiser, and much more stylish, where I'm heading off to next is almost equally as important as what I'm bringing with me.
When you live as a fashion editor, there's no "off" moment. Every weekend, social function, and holiday plan is turned into an opportunity to get as creative as possible to your heart's desire. Now that the summer is heating up and my out-of-office requests are piling up, I'm itching for vacation items that'll look good on me and feel good on my wallet.
While a quick scroll on your #FYP will launch a barrel of summer trends in any given direction, I'm focusing on long-lasting neutrals and high-quality basics. Think linen pants, tortoiseshell sunglasses, and raffia bags that will last for years beyond a blip in the trend cycle. If these 40 under-$150 finds aren't getting you excited to plan your next vacation, frankly, I don't know what will.
Lack of Color
Holiday Bucket
This has to be my favorite hat of all time.
Sporty & Rich
Bridget Embroidered Striped Cotton-Poplin Shorts
Throw a pair of oversize boxer shorts over a swimsuit or tank top for a cool-girl look.
Reformation
Rosalie Linen Top
This viral top is back in stock.
Moon River
Off-the-Shoulder Cutout Maxi Dress
Looking for the perfect day dress to wear on your travels? Opt for this incredibly timeless pick from Anthropologie.
Joolz by Martha Calvo X Revolve
Drop Earring
These look 10 times more expensive than they actually are.
Although I'm a handbag hoarder, there's something so effortlessly cool about a simple netted throw-and-go handbag.
H&M
Linen-Blend Shirt
Who doesn't love a breezy button-down shirt?
Mango
Bow Linen Pants
Linen pants are a staple for anyone heading somewhere warm this summer.
Charles & Keith
Black Noemi Spool Heel Sandals
These ultra-wide heeled thong sandals feel so '90s.
H&M
Fringe-Hem Dress
Tulum is calling…
Lisa Says Gah
Nautilus Shell Necklace
This just in, shell motifs in jewelry are about to be everywhere.
Good American
Capri Stretch Recycled-Voile Pareo
Forever a European staple.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Ultra High Rise Tailored Short
I'm really digging the tailored-shorts trend at the moment.
Reformation
Calix Dress
Reformation wins the award for prettiest dresses.
Hat Attack
Esme Mini
The perfect bag doesn't exis–
Zara
Bead Bandeau Swimsuit
Perfect for lounging in Saint-Tropez.
Vibi Venezia
Blanket-Stitched Cotton-Canvas Mary Jane Flats
Tomato-girl summer is around the corner, and these adorable Italian cloth Mary Janes might be my favorite find from this list.
Chimi
09 Brown
Act fast—these cult-beloved sunglasses are on sale now.
Free People
Dylan Midi Dress
Drop-waist dresses are one of the prettiest trends to emerge this summer.
Birkenstock
Madrid High Shine Big Buckle Sandals
Welcome to the cult of Birkenstocks. Enjoy your stay!
Urban Expressions
Sunny Circle Handle Handbag
Coming in at $100, this structured crescent bag is a steal compared to the designer alternatives we all know and love.
Free People
University Rib Sweater Scarf
One way to make your outfit look extra rich? Use a sweater scarf slung over your shoulders for an added bougie factor.
DISSH
Banks White Linen Vest
I bought this vest at the start of the summer and I have to admit, it's been packed in every single suitcase since then.
Superdown
Renata Swim Cover Up
A perfect beach cover-up is nearly as important as choosing where you're traveling to.
Wayf
Tie-Strap Tiered Midi-Dress
Adorable.
Aire
Whirlpool Sunglasses
Need. It. Now.
Charles & Keith
White T-Bar Ankle-Strap Sandals
If you know, you know.
Brandon Blackwood
Bamboo B Hoop One-Piece Swimsuit
Now that Brandon Blackwood has launched swimwear, I'm officially buying everything.
Mango
Jute Basket Bag
The perfect bag for any beach day.
Mango
Linen Dress With Stone Detail
Mango girls, its our time to shine this summer.
H&M
Jersey Wrap Skirt
Chic.
Agolde
Parker Long Loose Vintage Shorts
Although jean shorts can veer on the casual side, opt for a linen-blend vest or ruched bodysuit to elevate your denim.
Madewell
Natasha Flatform Sandal
I own these, and I can confirm they're so comfy.
With Jean
Juni Bikini Top
The brand all It girls love just launched swimwear, and I wouldn't be shocked if I saw these bikinis all across my Instagram feed this summer. Shop the matching bikini bottom.
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.