Before we can allow ourselves to experience a shred of pre-vacation excitement, our minds are almost always consumed by one question: what am I going to pack? As a chronic over-packer, this question has the potential to take over everything, leaving me thinking and planning almost all day long. It wasn’t until recently that I started to pay attention to the little-known formulas of stress-free packing; pack smart, pack methodical, but most importantly, pack with intention.
Identifying which items can go further than just one look is the first and most crucial step. Which pieces are going to take me to the beach, yet become instantly elevated come evening time? Which items are timeless holiday staples, to be re-worn throughout my stay? Do I have at least two hero pieces? The questions are as endless as they are overwhelming, so it helps to have your tried and tested items that can simplify the packing process.
Below, our editors have curated a list of our favourite getaway items, highlighting seamless summer packing at its best — with the perfect item-to-occasion ratio, alongside some SS24 vacation must-haves and travel essentials to mix and match. From Isabel Marant’s bohemian silk shorts, to Ganni’s coveted Raffia tote bag, our packing list covers all bases, so you can city stroll, beach hop and dine out while looking every bit the part.
Ganni Habotai Smock Dress
The Ganni Habotai smock dress sits firmly at the top of my summer wish-list. Ultra-light viscose keeps things airy for all-day wearability, and its long adjustable straps add charm to the smocked silhouette. Pair this with some stand-out jewellery to compliment its dark shades.
Hunza G Red Square Neck Swimsuit
A Lyst summer suitcase without a dose of Hunza G is not easy to come by. The highly acclaimed Original Crinkle swimsuit qualifies as a packing essential, and in this striking red hue, you’re ready to make a statement.
Isabel Marant Talapiz Shorts
These Isabel Marant shorts certainly qualify as a hero item. The perfect pair of shorts become your summer uniform, worn over countless days, and are extremely easy to style — they are a necessity in our suitcase. The Talapiz black shorts are one hundred percent silk, adorned with eye-catching contrast stitching and raw hems that truly embody the nature of high summer.
Ralph Lauren Polo Shirt
A packing list is not valid without that one linen piece. Ralph Lauren's classic polo linen shirt is a must-pack, with trending butter yellow stripes and a loose lightweight shape.
Toteme Denim Midi Skirt
When in doubt: denim! Whether opting for your favourite jeans or midi skirt, it’s imperative that at least one staple denim piece makes it to your suitcase — a fail-safe and classic base for any holiday look. Toteme’s organic cotton denim midi skirt is a great multipurpose choice for any climate.
Linda Farrow X The Attico Mini Marfa Sunglasses
The Attico cannot go wrong when it comes to elevated, chic vacation accessories. These all-black, thick-rimmed glasses are an exclusive collaboration with Linda Farrow, and are expertly crafted in Japan.
Ganni Red Two-Strap Sandals
Red is still making its mark on fashion this summer — and we’re here for all of it. Packing a pair of flats that work in harmony with every vacation outfit is essential for your packing list, and Ganni’s two-strap buckle sandals are the best shoe to upscale your look with trending hues of red and silver.
LOEWE Anagram Tank Top
LOEWE’s cotton tank top is not just a vacation staple, but a packing list must-have. This minimalistic item has the ability to be mixed and matched amongst other items — a piece to be worn time and time again during your break.
Ganni Bou Raffia Tote Bag
With so many raffia tote bags to choose from this season, we almost expect a drumroll introduction for the one that made the list. The Ganni Bou raffia bag is easily our carrier of choice; sizeable enough for hazy beach days yet well crafted and structured for long days out. Our third hero item is ideal paired with a long smock dress, denim midi skirt or loose-fit trousers.
Isabel Marant Salika Blouse
Isabel Marant's Salika blouse is a great layering piece for cooler evenings, or for pairing with shorts come daytime. Light cotton allows for breathability, with button front closures to tailor the neckline to your preference.
Fendi Triangle Bikini
All-black swimwear is an item that you will never regret packing. Fendi’s triangle bikini is perfect for days where you’re dressing more low-key or when looking for a minimal base to up-style. This would work well styled with a pair of your favourite statement sunglasses and a raffia bag.
Hay Sleepwear
Pyjama shorts are not just for bedtime this season — proving to be very effective as daytime wear, elevated when paired with a camisole or Bardot top. If that is not quite your style, this HAY pyjama set is the perfect lightweight yet stylish sleepwear for your vacation nights.
Toteme Slingback heels
No packing list is complete without a sharp, low-heeled slingback to wear on a candle-studded date night. These Toteme black heels would pair perfectly with a gilded silk dress or maxi sarong.
Isabel Marant Agathe Dress
At least one item of occasion-wear is always worth considering adding to your list, and the Isabel Marant Agathe silk dress is a great option. Floral, gathered silk with a centred bow make this dress a romantic option for that special occasion during your stay.
Eckhaus Latta Bug Sunglasses
A SSENSE exclusive, these Eckhaus Latta Bug eye sunglasses are a stand-out accessory for any sunny vacation. Durable acetate wraparound frames in a transparent cherry red are bound to work well with any daytime ensemble.
Ganni Overdyed Denim Jacket
It’s tricky to know what outerwear is going to make the cut when packing for vacation. A tip is to bring a versatile yet unburdensome item that can be worn to and from the airport, as well as at the destination. Enter: the denim jacket. This Ganni overdyed jacket is another hero item — boasting practicality and edge, it will keep you warm during colder nights whilst accompanying you during any commute.
Isabel Marant Poros Dress
An openwork dress or sweater belongs in every summer rotation; it’s the optimum piece for layering, keeping you cool whilst simultaneously working as a clever cover-up. Isabel Marant’s Poros Dress is ready to be paired with your favourite everyday short, swimwear or over a black slip dress.
Toteme T Lock Clutch
It’s useful to pack two multipurpose handbags for interchanging on different occasions — this Toteme T Lock Clutch is the perfect accompaniment for an evening out, a stroll around old towns, or a city day trip. Its earthy tone ensures it can match varied outfit colourways.
COS Necklace
This COS necklace is a sculptural beauty, a distinct piece to be styled with both bold and paired-back looks.
VEJA CAMPO SNEAKERS
It’s always smart to take a practical everyday sneaker along with you on vacation, like these all white Veja Campo’s. Great for the commute to and from your destination, and a well-rounded shoe for days spent constantly on your feet. So easy to pair with most items, but would look especially great coupled with light wash denim or shorts.
By Amy Jackson