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PACK FOR A EUROPEAN SUMMER HOLIDAY?
You’ve dusted off your passport and booked flights – now it's time to pack for your European summer getaway. Whether you’re jetting off to sun-soaked coastal towns or have your sights set on cities filled with foodie delights, chances are this is your first trip away since borders reopened. And with the excitement of planning comes the panic of what to take with you.
HOW TO PACK FOR A HOLIDAY ABROAD?
Making a packing list is the first step to a successful holiday wardrobe. But remember, less is more. While it might be tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink, the reality is that half the clothes in your suitcase will probably go unworn. From budget airlines with tightly capped luggage rules to the rooftop Parisian Airbnb with no elevator, your holiday self will thank you for packing light. Plus, you’ll want to save room for vacation keepsakes that you find along the way.
DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS
However, the Scout's motto “always be prepared”, does ring true when it comes to travel. Depending on how far off the beaten track you’re planning to go, chances are there will be somewhere to buy a toothbrush and top up your sunscreen (French pharmacies are a tourist attraction in their own right after all). But your passport, bank cards, and other documentation are non-negotiable. Invest in a travel wallet that can double as an evening clutch to keep your important information safe (and stylish). Bonus points if there’s room for your phone, too. Speaking of tech, charging cords and adapters are also key to having a smooth trip. You might even want to buy a portable battery as Google maps and Instagram will likely drain your devices faster than you’re used to at home.
LEARN THE 54321 PACKING METHOD (AND STICK TO IT)
When it comes to packing clothes, shoes and accessories, the 54321 method is a good place to start. If you’re a serial over-packer, it might take some willpower to stick to the rules. Plotting cute Instagram moments and capturing your #OOTD is great in theory, but when you’re lugging around a 30kg suitcase you’ll be too exhausted to post anyway. According to successful light packers, all you need to pack is:
• Five tops.
• Four bottoms.
• Three dresses.
• Three pairs of shoes.
• Two swimsuits.
• Two bags.
• One of each miscellaneous accessory (think hat, sunglasses and statement earrings).
The actual items will vary depending on the season, where you're going and for how long, but the general number of items in your suitcase should remain the same. So what’s the secret? Succeeding at this method comes down to choosing versatile items that can be mixed and matched, and looking for fabrics that are easily worn (no one wants to iron on their holiday).
European Summer Clothes Must-Haves
Discover our collection of new arrivals clothing from MANNING CARTELL, so you can pack all the essentials and look stylish and put together while enjoying your European summer abroad.
1. TOPS
The perk of travelling in the summer is that most items are smaller and lighter anyway. T-shirts and tanks will form the bulk of your five tops. Our No Limits Knit Cami is perfect if you would like a pop of colour or a classic neutral to pair with bottoms.
Home or away, no one can deny the power of the “nice top and jeans” combo, so think about pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the time of day and location. A statement shirt, like our Frilled Neck Blouse, Artist's Way Blouse or Queen Of Arts Blouse will match perfectly with our Graffiti Denim Jeans or H/W Skirt for evenings when you need to feel a bit more pulled together.
2. TAILORED BOTTOMS
Think about pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the time of day and location. A playful mini skirt, such as the Editor's Pick Mini Skirt or Graffiti Denim Skirt or a relaxed pant like our Cool Clique Pant or Hipster Pant. Wear them while you’re exploring with a relaxed tee and comfy sneakers, swapping out for a cami and sandals as you head for sunset drinks.
3. TWO-PIECE SETS
Two-piece sets are a multi-wear winner. Worn together, or matched back with other pieces in your suitcase, our Soiree Set in Silver or Gold speaks the language of European summer style fluently. Close your eyes and imagine them set against the whitewashed backdrop of a Greek island town. Bliss.
4. DRESSES
Perhaps the hero of European summer clothes, dresses are an instant outfit. Since you’re only allowed to choose three, we recommend looking for lightweight knit fabrics that pack easily and are even comfy for travel days. Our Sweet Ride Knit Dress, MVP Knit Polo Dress and Love Match Knit Dress might just be the perfect picks.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion during your trip abroad, be sure to pack a show-stopping evening dress that ups the suitcase ante. We love the High Voltage Slip Dress, Miami Heat Mini or Backless, Don't Wait Knit Dress for nights that call for a little something extra.
Discover our curated edit from MANNING CARTELL, so you can pack all the essentials and look stylish and put together while enjoying your European summer abroad.