5 Exceptionally Good Outfit Ideas For Your Next Vacation

With summer rapidly approaching, there's one thing on the brain, and one thing only: vacation — the longer it is (and farther away it is) the better. After coming out of a pandemic that placed all previous travel plans on an indefinite hold, it makes sense that 2023’s most popular destinations are in far-flung places — Italy, Portugal, and Japan. But as exciting as it is to plan a vacation, securing flights and accommodations and all that, packing to go on said vacation is a whole other story.

To ease the stress of figuring out what to wear, especially if you leave the task until the last possible minute, we partnered with Vince Camuto to put together five no-fail outfit ideas that are both chic and practical for today’s trendiest vacation destinations, keeping in mind what you’ll actually be doing while you're there. Whether you’re off to yacht along the Amalfi Coast, museum-hop around Naoshima Island, or drink copious amounts of wine in Lisbon, we’ve sorted all your outfit conundrums, ahead.

Is it just us, or has literally everyone been vacationing on the Amalfi Coast lately? If you’re finally planning a coastal Italian getaway of your own, the one activity you won’t want to skip is admiring all the seaside towns from a rented luxury yacht, obviously. Your perfect yachting ensemble is as follows: a simple black one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit (which will come in handy should you decide to take a dip, but is perfectly apt for getting your post-boating pasta and limoncello fix) paired with a silky slip skirt, chunky gold jewelry, and statement sunnies to perfectly nail that chic Italian girl aesthetic. When it comes to your shoes, we advise against wearing anything with a heel — remember, you’re on a boat. Instead, reach for a flat sandal that’s glitzy yet sensible.

Santorini boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, making it an ideal destination for a romantic dinner with a view (in addition to exploring ancient ruins and/or lazily lounging by the sea). A fancy Mediterranean clifftop meal calls for an equally fancy outfit, to which we say, go all out. This may be the only time during your Greek getaway that a high heel will be appropriate, so bring the flashiest pair you can find...perhaps something strappy crafted from shimmery gold leather? Style them with a fluttery sundress in a deep shade of blue — it is one of the national colors, after all — and accessories that match the Santorini skyline.

Japan only just reopened its borders to tourism late last year, which explains the influx of folks planning to make the long-haul journey from the States. Of the many places to check out during your visit to the archipelago, Naoshima Island is one not to be missed, especially if you consider yourself an art enthusiast. Located in the Seto Inland Sea just a few hours west of Kyoto, the serene island is known for its many contemporary art museums, sculptures, and architecture. All of the island's attractions can easily be explored on foot, something definitely worth keeping in mind when planning your outfit. A kitten heel mule is polished enough for post-art-admiring dinner and drinks, and a way more comfortable footwear choice than something with a higher heel. As for the rest of your look, airy separates — an open-knit button-down, a slinky midi skirt, a bra as a top — are perfect for the island’s hot and humid spring and summer seasons. 

Some of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world are located in Portugal, making Lisbon, its capital, a popular destination for wine lovers and travel buffs alike. A handful of vineyards are located in the city’s surrounding countryside, meaning there’s a bevy of tours and tastings to enjoy in between feasting on bacalhau à brás and taking in the city’s ornate architecture. But what to wear for the occasion? For starters, a sandal with a wide, chunky heel strikes the perfect balance of dressy and practical (especially if you find yourself wobbly after one too many). Pack a brightly colored pair along with an equally vibrant sundress to stand out against the city’s signature pastel backdrop — to avoid clashing, keep the rest of your accessories neutral.

You don’t need to leave the States to enjoy a luxurious, relaxing vacation, and Palm Springs is by far one of the trendiest American locales for doing so. While the surrounding Coachella Valley boasts plenty of hiking and bike trails with breathtaking scenic views, the city itself is full of resorts and spas that take advantage of the area’s natural hot mineral springs. Even if your plans include nothing more than a day-long steamy, restorative soak, that doesn’t mean you can’t get dressed for the event. Pair a printed cut-out bikini with grown-up jelly sandals for a look that’s on-trend but low-key. A breezy, oversized button-down makes for a great coverup that’ll keep you cool in the dry desert heat, and don’t forget a roomy tote to carry all your necessities (like plenty of water).