If you’ve been wondering what you’ll be seeing fashion insiders wearing on vacation this summer, you’re not alone. I too have been curious about the new finds and chic summer trends the fashion set will be packing into their suitcases. So I went straight to the source and asked some of the most stylish women from the fashion scene to share what they are buying this year. Ahead, they’re sharing the seriously cool pieces that have landed on their summer shopping lists.
From the latest It shoe that is about to explode to the swimwear trends NYC girls are wearing to the affordable top our editor in chief just spotted from Reformation, these are the 20 must-own items for the season ahead. If you’re currently planning outfits for an upcoming vacation like I am, you’ll want to keep scrolling. Go on to shop the summer vacation clothing essentials fashion girls are investing in now.
Lisa Aiken, Fashion & Buying Director, Moda Operandi
"It is all about the one-piece from Matteau. As a longtime fan of the brand, I’m drawn to their incredibly flattering pieces in clean silhouettes. From rust to rich brown, Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen also have the best eye for color.”
"Loewe’s canvas tote has been on my wish list for ages. It's the travel- and city-friendlier version of the signature basket bag. After a few more encounters with it on my Instagram feed, I knew I had to own it.”
"Zimmermann speaks to my girly side, which only comes out on vacation. Floral dresses with billowing sleeves are an easy go-to, suitable to pack for any getaway.”
Chrissy Rutherford, Special Projects Director, Talent and Social, Harper's Bazaar
"This dress is sexy and a bit impractical, but I knew I had to have it after seeing Rihanna wear it over a decorative bra and cutoff shorts. I'll probably use it as a fun beach coverup that will take me straight to cocktails/dinner."
"I’ve been wanting these Saint Laurent sandals for so long. They’re the perfect effortless summer sandal that goes with everything from shorts to a sundress."
"My friends designed this swim collab, and it’s such a fun take on crochet swimwear. The T-shirt style bikini top works on or off the beach; just add high-waisted shorts."
Kat Collings, Editor in Chief, Who What Wear
"It's all about a sporty, sleek tank this season, and this affordable bodysuit fits the bill."
"I've weirdly always been drawn to jug shapes, whether in jewelry or bags. This Albus Lumen feels like a fresh iteration."
"Just over two inches of heel height is just my speed on vacation. These are comfortable enough for all day, and the snakeskin makes them feel special enough for evening."
"Zimmermann just launched sunglasses, and I'm newly obsessed with this warm brown
Amelia Talbot, Director of Operations and Marketing, Réalisation
"My suitcase is full of Réalisation silk dresses on any vacation. Not only do they make you feel super sexy and feminine; they can be dressed up or down in so many different ways. And when suitcase space is at a premium, these dresses are so lightweight that they barely take up much room in your bag."
"A pair of chic sunglasses are a must for a summer vacation. I won't go anywhere without them. I love the shape of this Stella McCartney pair, classic and elegant."
"Gold jewelry helps elevate any outfit. I love layering gold necklaces and rings with my summer looks. This Alighieri necklace is the latest addition to my jewelry collection. I never take it off."
"These Chanel mules are my new favorite shoes! They can be worn with just about any outfit. If I could only pack one pair of shoes for my vacation, these would be it. A new, fun twist on classic Chanel that will take you from day to night."
Lucy Akin, Founder, Shop Super Street and Ciao Lucia
"This is my favorite dress that I made for spring/summer. I love that you can choose which side you want to wear on the front. It's that by-the-beach and straight-to-dinner dress."
"I love the shape of this hat. I think it's perfect for travel—not intended to wear by the beach, but I will definitely be bringing it along for any city travels I have planned!"
"I love, love, love these sandals. They're so flattering/comfortable on the foot, and this summer is all about a sandal. I plan to wear them with everything!"
Kristen Lam, Social Media Content Manager, Shopbop
"I'm really into citrus tones and neons. I love adding a pop of lemon to an otherwise monochromatic outfit. It really brings it to the next level. Imagine this Ganni bag with a white tee shirt, big baggy boyfriend jeans, and a cool neon belt—that's my go-to summer look."
"I'm stacking all the bracelets this summer—the more the merrier. They make any outfit feel fun and fresh."
"I'd throw this on with a simple slip dress and sneakers."
Next up: 17 pieces I've been wearing this month.
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