4 Easy Steps to Create Ideal Vacation Outfits

If you're reading this, chances are you're probably daydreaming about your next getaway. Better yet, maybe you've already bought plane tickets and secured swoon-worthy accommodations. Now you need to get packing but aren't sure where to begin. No matter what, there's no need to panic, we've got you covered.

Whether you're planning on spending a few idyllic days by the beach, basking under the sun at a tropical destination, traveling all over Europe, exploring a faraway land, or getting cozy at a gorgeous ski resort in the mountains, we've come up with four easy steps to create ideal vacation outfits. Read on to get the scoop. 

Step 1 - Plan ahead 

We know not everyone is into planning, but when creating ideal vacation outfits, it's definitely the best approach. Of course, you can get creative down the line and come up with unexpected looks using pieces from your suitcase, but it's best to consider aspects like the weather, your planned itinerary, and how long you'll be out of town before you begin packing. 

Checking the weather will determine the number of pieces you should use to create different vacation outfits. If you're beach-bound, garments will probably take up a lot less space while cold-weather destinations require more planning in terms of layering and choosing wisely when selecting the right coats or outerwear pieces. 

That said, planning ahead also means setting aside some time to consider what vibe you're going for while on vacation. Perhaps you want to focus on a boho chic vibe or maybe you're more of an effortlessly stylish minimalist. If you're lounging by the beach for an entire week, you'll want to place your focus on choosing cute swimsuits and perfect cover-ups, while a more adventurous itinerary will require finding pieces that are as stylish as they are comfortable. 

Also, you'll want to carefully consider the amount of suitcase space available to you. Perhaps you want to stick to a weekend bag or carry-on luggage only, or maybe you're fine with extra bags as long as it means more space to pack your favorite outfits. Whatever the case, knowing what you're working with beforehand will come in handy when completing the next steps to creating ideal vacation outfits. By the way, if your trip lasts about a week and you're thinking of keeping things simple with a carry-on, check out this guide to learn how to pack a carry-on for a week. 

Step 2 - Start with a few favorite classics 

Classics can mean different things, depending on your style. For some, they mean simple essentials like a white t-shirt or your favorite pair of jeans. For others, favorite classics may be pieces that truly represent their style, like a gorgeous maxi dress they find themselves drawn to over and over again, or that mini skirt they can't wait to wear once winter is over. Some examples of timeless classics you should consider when creating vacation outfits may include, the perfect blazer, a cool jean jacket, black and white garments, or your favorite cashmere sweater. Define what classics mean to you, and think about a few of these pieces you'd like to wear during your vacation. 

The great thing about starting with a few favorite classic items when creating ideal vacation outfits is that you're building a foundation that provides both comfort and confidence during the time you're on holiday, both things you want to prioritize. Of course, there's also space to get creative when putting together vacation outfits, but not every single garment you wear has to be a statement piece or something out of your comfort zone. Plus, styling classics for vacation outfits helps to avoid overpacking, which you want to do if you plan on leaving some room in your luggage to bring back precious mementos and perhaps even some goodies for friends and family. 

Step 3 - Incorporate some versatile pieces 

Planning ideal vacation outfits can be a bit like creating a capsule wardrobe. Since you won't have access to your entire closet, you'll want to favor garments that can be worn in many different ways. When choosing resort wear for warm weather, for example, consider repurposing your one-piece bathing suit as a chic bodysuit worn with a pair of flowy pants. If you're more of a bikini gal, wear your bikini top with a midi skirt and an open button-down shirt for a laidback yet stylish ensemble. 

If you're cold-weather-bound, versatility means layering. Choose pieces that look well on their own to use while you're inside or warming up by the fireplace, but also work when used alongside cool outerwear garments like camel coats or cashmere sweaters. Matching sets are also a go-to option when it comes to selecting the right resort wear. They can be worn as a statement outfit, especially when styled with the right accessories, and they're also fantastic to use as separates to create a few more looks. And here's another simple but great idea: opt for a white vacation dress that can be dressed up or down with accessories or layered with a loose button-down shirt. This sort of piece is the epitome of versatility. 

Pro tip: when choosing the right versatile pieces to create ideal vacation outfits, you should favor wrinkle-free, easy-to-care-for fabrics. You obviously want to look your best without having to iron or steam your clothes while you're on holiday. So if your destination demands warmer garments, go for fabrics such as wool and cashmere pieces. On the other hand, if you're expecting to have some fun in the sun, you'll want to look for casual dresses in fabric blends that include materials like polyester or spandex to avoid unwanted wrinkles. 

Step 4 - Have fun with accessories 

Vacations are all about having fun, so bring a little bit of extra joy to your holiday wardrobe by choosing the right accessories. When it comes to tropical or beachside resort wear, consider adding some flair to your chosen ensembles with a chic bucket hat, a stunning wicker tote, pretty strappy sandals, or statement sunglasses. 

Jewelry is also the perfect way to get creative when putting together vacation outfits, especially since earrings, necklaces, and rings won't take up too much space in your luggage. Bold accessories can instantly bring an unexpected yet cool effect to an otherwise dull outfit. And believe it or not, they can also be a great way to balance comfort and style. 

In short, creating ideal vacation outfits doesn't have to be a hassle. If you plan ahead, begin by focusing on classics, remember to bring in some versatile pieces, and have fun with accessories, you'll come up with plenty of fabulous looks to wear during your next getaway.