The Summer Suitcase

What to pack for a week in paradise and beyond

Aloha!

I just got word that I’ll be shooting in Hawaii next week…sometimes ya get lucky! As I was throwing together my packing list, I started to think about summer holidays...Is it really almost June? I haven’t quite started my summer shopping yet, but if I had time to order some new things, here are some pieces I’d love to wear on holiday…or while working in a fabulous location…or wherever your dang heart desires! Here are a few versatile pieces that I think will take you near and far…in a carry-on of course. Summer is almost here!

Let’s start with timeless classics. These are some pics from my last trip to Hawaii a couple years ago when I didn’t realize I only brought B+W film. It was a happy accident. I love wearing black in the tropics and beach goth is always a good vibe. I’ll be bringing a lot of these same tonal pieces this time around…When packing for vacation or warm weather, which can sometimes skew casual, I like to still feel like myself and bring pieces that feel elegant, comfortable and chic. My keys to a great holiday wardrobe are: A couple of bathing suits, a fresh pair of white jeans, some great button downs, a good bag, and a fun dress! It always makes me smile to get mileage out of pieces I love. When it works, it works!

A Matching Set: is chic and a no brainer. My favorite way to dress while on vacay. Sessei is one of my favorite brands and I can’t wait to wear this red stripe set all summer as separates too. I also love this taffeta top and pant from Donni. I like packing a linen vest and pant from Scout, super easy to dress up or down!

Skirt: A white denim mini skirt feels so cute and fresh and will look great with your tan. 

Swimsuits: For the past few years, I’ve been on a black only bathing suit tip. I’m feeling like I might want to branch out this year. I like this putty colored suit from Tropic of C which is a great price at $120. I also really like Lido’s color palette of light blue, brown, black and red. My favorite one piece is by Matteau - perfect cut and lasts forever. 

Shoes: I love my Vibi Venezia’s for the beach. Looks so freaking chic and works for dinner too. I’ll be throwing in a pair of Haviana’s, wearing Sambas on the plane and wouldn’t mind a pair of Emme Parsons sandals. Depending on the vibe of the location, I love Beatrice Valenzuela’s slides or my St Laurent flats. 

Button downs: The heart of my wardrobe. It’s the perfect beach coverup by day and layering piece by night. I’ll bring an oversized denim shirt from Sezane to wear over a white tank with denim shorts. A light and slinky black shirt from Kule for dinner. No suitcase should be without a white linen shirt no matter the destination. Also, this is the dream vacay shirt from Matteau. 

Shorts: I love these Agolde denim shorts that are finished and not cutoff. Feels elevated and less ‘spring break’. These Donni shorts are very cute in a good ‘spring break’ way.

Pants: White jeans always and forever. I like mine oversized and comfortable like these Ref jeans. Also love a slinky silk pant for nighttime. 

Bag: I love my Dragon Diffusion bag for summer travels. I also have a Balenciaga panier from TRR that is fun. They both pack flat in my suitcase and look sharp. A net tote for the beach or pool is a must. Also, I’m always happy to have a dedicated beach pouch for sunscreen, credit cards, room key etc. I love this one from my fave store in Rome, Chez Dede.

Pareo: The chicest gals I know tie a pareo around their waist to go from beach to lunch and beyond. They’re light, can really change a look, even becoming a new outfit without taking up space in my suitcase. I love my black Chan Luu one or a nice silky one like this from Matteau. 

Dresses: You have to bring a fun dress for going out and having a few umbrella drinks. I love this adorable red linen one. Get the matching jacket while you’re at it. A silky slip dress from Doen will always be perfect. Also, this long sleeve cotton dress with a belt would be so cute. 

Hat: I am a big fan of Janessa Leone’s Felix hat. It’s perfect. Look no further. Also will be bringing my Lorenza baseball hat bien sur. We’re currently sold out but hopefully making more! Let me know if you want one.

Sunglasses: I like to bring two pairs. Always my old Celines. And I think these new Ref x Jimmy Fairly are very cute!

T-shirts and Tank tops: A white t, a black t, a vintage graphic t, a striped long-sleeve shirt, a black tank and a striped tank and you’re good to go.

Jewelry: I love to wear big gold hoops on the beach. These ones are perfect and not too precious. Also loving a pearl anklet and you can’t forget a lil bling.

I hope this gets your vacation packing juices flowing! I’ve also gathered my travel essentials here if you’re wondering. And for those of us sticking close to home, a piña colada always puts me in an aloha state of mind.

In other news, the best bite of my week was at Holbox in LA. They are very deservedly at the top of best restaurants in LA lists and I highly recommend going ASAP! Go to a LAFC game afterwards for a perfect night out.

Til next week!

Michèle

P.S. If you make a purchase using the links above, I may make a commission, so thank you! And I hope you love your new pieces.