We’re sorry to disappoint, but there are plenty of things better than a London summer. The first being, a European one.
The crisp taste of a pale rosé (or a refreshingly fruity Sangria depending on your out-of-office poison), the feeling of ironed linen resting against your sun-kissed, sea-salt saturated skin, the sensation of dipping your Townhouse pedicure into the Mediterranean sea. The 40-degree Central Line and Hampstead Ponds can’t compete.
Holiday style is where our sartorial dreams meet the harsh realities of limited suitcase space. Hence, a European sojourn requires faultless packing. Think of it like this - your holiday is your off-duty runway and effortless chic is the name of the game.
Cue the European Summer Wardrobe trend. With a sizeable 43.3 million posts for ‘Summer in Europe outfits’ on TikTok last year alone, the latest Gen Z fad continues to see countless creators show off their outfit picks for a trip to idyllic European destinations such as Italy, Greece and the South of France.
What is a European Summer Wardrobe?
“The ‘European summer’ aesthetic puts an emphasis on clean, elevated outfits”, says Arwa Hassan, in-house style director at jewellery brand PRYA. “This curated wardrobe is all about looking comfortable and low-key, but dressed at the same time - inspired by the likes of Sofia Richie Grainge and the gorgeous old-money aesthetic. The Euro summer wardrobe can be dressed up from day to night, whether you’re strolling along the cobblestone streets of a European city or lounging by the pool at a seaside resort.”
© Instagram/Elsa Hosk
© Instagram/Sofia Richie GraingeBesides linen, there are a series of boxes to tick off when it comes to essential elements. Firstly, flats. Slip into a pair of espadrilles, trainers of ballet pumps because who are we kidding, comfort is key when you're cobblestone-hopping from one Instagrammable café to the next.
Loose silhouettes are another pillar of failsafe summer holiday dressing. Breezy designs can be coolly thrown on over a bikini, taking you from beach to bar with ease. Or perhaps you’d rather slip into a floaty sundress that flits around your knees as you meander through markets, paired with a floppy woven hat that exudes Golden Hollywood glamour.
© Chanel
© Chanel
© ChanelAs for accessories? You can never go amiss with a raffia tote and a pair of Jacquemus sunglasses, perched in a nonchalant manner to make you feel like an incognito celebrity. Anything to help make the most of your last drop of sunshine before autumn settles in.
Ready to embrace your new European Summer Wardrobe in all its glory? Read on to discover which essentials you’ll need to check out before you check in.
Shop H! Fashion’s European Summer Wardrobe essentials:
Moya Linen Two Piece
Reformation
The sun's high, and so are your style stakes. A breezy sundress in a crisp linen in perfect for market strolling and city exploring. This frost white linen set by cult-brand Reformation provides the perfect foundation for accessorising, be it with an oversized woven hat or a crimson crossbody.
Clara Skirt
With Nothing Underneath
Crafted from 100 per cent linen, With Nothing Underneath's crisp white midi skirt is a true hero staple - sophisticated and versatile in equal measure.
Cyme Mini
Polène
Paris-based Polène has garnered a cult following - and for good reason. Take the brand's Cyme Mini for example, wearable, luxurious and bound to catch attention wherever you go.
Stevie Dress
Ruby Yazmin
A masterclass in summer elegance, Ruby Yazmin's polka dot Stevie Dress pairs a fluid silhouette with a playful print, delivering effortless polish that moves seamlessly from sun-drenched afternoons to after-dark cocktails.
White Ramie Mini Dress
Self-Portrait
If your summer is booked up with weddings, parties and everything inbetween, look no further than Self-Portrait. From classic longline cuts to flirtatious summer-ready minis, the brand is brimming with covetable pastel-hued pieces to invest in this season.
Dionysus Adjustable Cuff
YSSO
YSSO is the Greek demi-fine jewellery brand to know. The label is brimming with striking gold jewels that will take any out-of-office look to new heights. With its curved silhouette and shimmering gleam, the Dionysius Cuff caught our attention.
Clarise Mini Dress
Free People
A feminine, throw-on number is all you need to see you through your Euro summer in style. Lightweight, lace-trimmed and laid-back, Free People's mini is a no brainer for out-of-office sojourns.
Red Camilla Ballet Flats
Repetto
The prettiest pumps we ever did see, Repetto's crimson block heels are ideal for serene summer stomping. With bow detailing and a patent sheen, these elegant slip-ons are ideal for all occasions while frolicking abroad.
White Floral Print Tie Waist Tube Skirt
Bhoem
A timeless warm-weather staple, this effortlessly versatile piece pairs understated design with everyday wearability, promising endless styling potential throughout the summer months.
Vespa Dress
Staud + Da Adolfo
Colourful and ideal for shimmying into on the beach this summer, this striped mini is a playful pick hailing from Staud's new collaboration with Da Adolfo.
Summer Banana Tote
Chloé
Chloé's tote features an open, breezy design, skilfully crocheted from natural raffia. The front showcases the brand's name delicately embroidered in flowing cursive, while gold-tone charms add a touch of elegance. It's the perfect companion for spontaneous beach outing - just toss in your favourite book, sunglasses, and a small towel.
Printed Swimsuit
Versace
Imagine strutting into the sun-soaked scene, not just any beachgoer but a beacon of haute couture, draped in Versace’s printed swimsuit. A move against minimalist beachwear, this one piece incorporates all house motifs. Think baroque swirls, Medusa heads, and a cacophony of colours that will accentuate your honied tan.
Toile de Jouy Pink Boxer Shorts
Drayton
Drayton's British-made boxer shorts are bang on trend for spring/summer 2026. Crafted from 100 per cent cotton and available in an array of timeless colourways, these lightweight shorts are a versatile wardrobe staple.
© @susmie'sMaria Dress
Susmie's
Barcelona based brand Susmie's have quickly worked their way into our hearts thanks to their easy-breezy prints and the relaxed Spanish energy their pieces ooze. Our pick of the bunch is this halter neck maxi dress in this season's cool-girl approved print: the polka dot
Angela Blouse
Loretta Caponi
Ideal for those taking part in this year's summer solstice, this cotton blouse is the prettiest staple piece that's set to see you through the summer in breezy ease.
Ex-Boyfriend Culotte Garrix
Hand Over
Fresh in from cool-girl label Hand Over, these striped shorts are set to enhance your off-duty wardrobe with a dose of retro charm.
Apron Checked Printed Top
Anna Sui
The prettiest checked top we ever did see, Anna Sui's halterneck stunner is fresh off the runway. Note the dreamy lilac tone and girlish yet boho-infused halterneck style.
Crochet Ankle Strap Ballerinas
Mango
Step into summer with a helping hand from Mango. The brand's crochet ballet flats in silver are destined to be an adorable addition to your shoewear arsenal.
Ruched Side Cap Sleeve Top
Topshop
Affordable yet endlessly versatile, Topshop's striped cap sleeve top is set to turn heads this season.
Louey Mary Jane Flat
DKNY
Available in three charming pastel tones, DKNY's Mary Jane jellies will take you from boardroom to beach with nostalgic ease.
How we chose:
- Style: We've selected an array of breezy, beautiful pieces to amp up the glam during your European Summer.
- Price: With prices starting from £22.99, we've included a range of stylish, sustainable pieces for all.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
