At the end of May, I escaped to Hawaii for a dream week of crystal-clear waters, dramatic lava landscapes, and unforgettable sunsets. If you’re planning a trip to the islands, I cannot recommend Kona Village Rosewood on the Big Island enough and Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay on Oahu.
Before leaving, I stocked up on a few pieces that instantly put me in vacation mode. As I unpacked in Hawaii, I realized they all shared the same spirit: effortless, sun-drenched, and endlessly wearable.
Here are the pieces I would pack again for my trip in France in July.
The Perfect Striped Dress
Nothing says summer quite like a striped dress. This season, I’m particularly drawn to crisp linen styles from A.L.C. and fluid rayon silhouettes from Simkhai. Worn over a swimsuit during the day or styled for dinner by the water; perhaps it’s my French roots, but I find that they’re timeless, effortless, and always chic. (You can find all outfit details here)
The Sophisticated Jelly Sandal
The nostalgia trend I never thought I would embrace? Jelly sandals, but make it Chloe. The latest versions feel surprisingly chic. Also a simple brown leather thong sandal remains a summer essential.
The Matching Set
A matching set remains one of the easiest ways to look polished with minimal effort. Zimmermann does this particularly well. Whether worn together or separately, a coordinated top and shorts always feels vacation-ready.
Tassels, Fringes & Movement
Summer dressing should move with you. Tassels and fringes add texture and a carefree spirit to even the simplest outfits. Simon Miller has some beautiful interpretations this season that instantly evoke vacation mode.
Wearing a skirt, top and shell wedge sandals from Simon Miller
Animal Print, But Make It Summer
Animal print isn’t reserved for fall anymore. This season, zebra feels especially fresh. Graphic yet surprisingly versatile, it pairs beautifully with raffia accessories and sun-kissed skin. Think of it as summer’s statement neutral. Shop this tee and swim. Paired with an orange raffia clutch for that summer touch.
Coral, Shells & Pearls
This season, my jewelry box looks like it was curated during a seaside escape. I’m gravitating toward coral, shell, and pearl jewelry: pieces that instantly evoke sun-soaked days and ocean breezes. As you can probably tell, I’ve been especially drawn to my Oscar de la Renta coral jewelry earrings and necklace set. These pieces have become my most-worn accessories of the season, not only because they elevate even the simplest summer outfit, but also because they never fail to attract compliments.
White Cotton With Vintage Soul
A white embroidered cotton garment may be the hardest-working piece in my summer wardrobe. Delicate embroidery, eyelets, and airy fabrics create the perfect balance between minimalist and vintage-inspired. I especially love my set from Posse (top, skirt, bag) and my fringed top from Sea New York that captures a touch of modern bohemian.
Silk & Lace
While cotton and linen dominate my daytime wardrobe, summer evenings call for silk. A white silk camisole trimmed with lace feels effortlessly elegant, while a vibrant orange silk dress perfectly captures the warmth and optimism of the season. Both are easy, timeless, and endlessly chic.
Crochet Forever
Every summer, crochet returns—and every summer, I fall for it all over again. Natural crochet remains a favorite: its artisanal feel and natural palette make it a piece you’ll wear year after year. Here wearing a skirt and cardigan from JCrew.
The Mood
This summer isn’t about overcomplicating things. It’s about striped dresses fluttering in the breeze, raffia accessories collecting memories from seaside escapes, silk catching the last rays of the day, and jewelry inspired by treasures found along the shore. Effortless. Textured. Sun-drenched. Exactly how summer should feel.
Top / Skirt / Sunglasses
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