These Are the 30 Best Pieces to Shop for Summer Vacation, Period
Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-haves or current wish-list items.
With summer days and vacations abroad on the horizon, I’ve been thinking about what I’ll be adding to my closet for the warm weather ahead and the suitcase-worthy pieces I’ll be packing for upcoming holidays. My shopping strategy is to buy less but better, so I typically invest in pieces I know I’ll be wearing for many seasons and years ahead. That can translate to anything from a $35 L.L.Bean tote bag to investment swimwear. I also keep my eye out for trend-forward pieces that I think will have longevity in my wardrobe.
With that in mind, I pulled together a tight edit of my top 30 shopping recommendations for the summer season. I’ve included items I’ve personally tested that are so good I’m after them in new colorways, heritage pieces worth the investment, and great affordable finds. Ahead, see the best summer vacation shopping, according to this fashion editor.
It doesn’t get more classic.
Dear Frances
Balla Mesh Flats
I’m ready to embrace mesh flats.
SAVETTE
Symmetry Pochette Leather and Mesh Tote
The same goes for mesh bags.
ERES
Les Essentiels Icone Swimsuit
A timeless investment piece.
Flore Flore makes the most beautifully cut tanks and tees.
HIGH SPORT
Savannah Striped Cotton-Blend Shorts
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops
Jellies will be everywhere this season.
Sunglasses are the accessory I won’t leave the house without, and I’m adding Persol frames to my closet right now.
Matteau
Broderie Anglaise Mini Tunic Dress
Lié Studio
Ada Gold Vermeil Onyx Earrings
ZARA
Striped Long Sleeve T-Shirt
I stock up on Zara’s striped long-sleeve tees.
Cartier
Vintage Tank Française Watch
I would love to add the vintage Cartier Tank Française to my collection.
STAUD
Wells Pleated Cotton-Blend Poplin Midi Dress
I love buying favorites in multiples. I have this in black and just ordered the white version.
The Chanel sunglasses set to take over.
PUCCI
Printed Bandeau Bikini Top
Pucci prints are iconic for summer.
PUCCI
Printed Bikini Briefs
I especially love this pink-and-black print.
MISSONI
Metallic Crochet-Knit Mini Dress
Every summer, I plan to add a great Missoni dress to my suitcase, and I’m eyeing this one.
Burberry
Check Triangle Bikini
One of the hottest buys for the beach.
MATTEAU
Striped Cotton-Poplin Shirt
To wear with linen trousers or over a one-piece swimsuit.
j.crew
Wide-Leg Essential Pants
I’m eyeing these pants in blue as well as white.
This belongs on a beach in the South of France.
Juju Vera
Riviera Petra Tasseled Sterling Silver Necklace
Juju Vera is in every insider’s closet.
CHANEL
Chanel 25 Small Handbag
The bag I can’t stop thinking about.
Attersee
Cashmere Silk T-Shirt
A gorgeous take on a staple from Attersee finished in cashmere silk.
High Sport
Kick Gingham Stretch-Cotton Knit Cropped Flared Pants
My favorite pants from last summer are back. I’ve been thinking about these since last year.
The shoes I own in multiple colors.
The bag that only gets better with wear and time.
I’ve been leaning heavily into lace slip skirts and love this shade called Peridot from Dôen.
