Every time I have a trip coming up, I find myself in a familiar, albeit ridiculous, pickle of sorts: I want to buy a whole new wardrobe just to take with me and, of course, achieve countless perfect "vacation outfits,” but, unfortunately, my finite closet space and self-imposed attempt at rationality won’t allow for it.
Eventually, however, I always come to an internal compromise and let myself buy just a couple—okay, maybe a few—vacation-ready pieces instead. If they are affordable, all the better. Can you relate? Do you think I’m crazy? Either way, I think you might enjoy the fruits of my labor in researching what affordable items other fashion girls have been packing as of late. From strappy sandals to swimsuits, there are actually more than a few budget-friendly pieces out there right now that lend themselves rather perfectly to an A+ vacation outfit, and I’m all for it. To see and shop them all for yourself, just keep scrolling.
White dresses are in style every summer, but that doesn't mean they have to be a big investment.
Bike shorts are the affordable bottoms that make every outfit better this summer.
Animal print is undoubtedly the biggest swim trend of the season and is conveniently affordable at any budget.
No need to tell you how trendy tie-dye is right now, but I will say that this midi skirt is a particularly wearable iteration that you can style so many ways.
These $80 Zara sandals are everywhere right now, and so versatile.
I love jewelry layering inspo that you can actually buy (and copy).
You can't go wrong with anything by The Line by K right now, but this one-sided tank is especially good.
Our editor, Kristen, loves these Reebok sneakers for travel.
If you ask me, you can't not look cool in a high-waisted, neon bikini.
+ Bondi Bottom ($49)
Kat calls this her leisure suit and I am here for that lifestyle.
And last but not least, no summer roundup would be complete without a pair of block-heel sandals.
Up next? The random color that's literally everywhere right now.
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EmRata, Kendall Jenner, Vittoria Ceretti—Our Guide to the Island Everyone's Vacationing AtWhere to stay, dine, shop, and swim.
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I Spent 5 Days at the Paris Olympics—Here's Everything I Did and WoreAnd ate and bought.
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Coastal Cuisine and an "East Coast Erewhon": Athena Calderone's Guide to the HamptonsHer 12 essential spots.
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I Just Got Back From Paris—These Were the 7 Things I Wish I Hadn't PackedNews flash: Air France weighs your carry-on.
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I Only Fly Coach, But These 5 Expert Travel Hacks Make Me Feel Like I'm in First ClassGet ready for takeoff.
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I'm Going to Capri Next Week—Here Are the Exact Items I'm Considering Buying for My TripIn an ideal world, I'd pack them all.
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Milan Is Peak Luxury—Here's Everything I Packed to Look Like a LocalBuon viaggio.
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I'm Traveling a Ton This Summer—10 Items I'm Buying Now to Make Packing EasyFrom linen pants to easy dresses.
