I'm Living in Europe for a Month—10 Easy Basics That Deserve a Spot in My Suitcase

In a few weeks, I'll be flying to England to visit my family, then hopping on a train to visit a friend in Paris and hopefully getting to Mallorca for a little sunshine and sangria. I'll be away for a month, and while the overpacker in me wants to stuff my entire wardrobe into my suitcase, my goal is to take the load off and travel light. This means really honing in on the essentials. Having an arsenal of elevated and versatile basics is a must. I'm talking about the items that I can lean on day or night, that aren't too bulky (especially for summer travel), and that can be easily mixed and matched throughout my stay.
Below, I'm sharing some of the easy and effortless basics that I'll be packing this summer. From crisp button-downs to day-to-night dresses, these picks below are the perfect blend of practical and stylish and will see you through any vacation in style.
Tank Tops
A white tank is perhaps the most essential item of your summer wardrobe.
I love the idea of pairing this with crisp white pants and a chic belt.
Basic Tees
A crewneck tee you can pair with white shorts and jeans alike.
A striped tee is perfect for mixing and matching with different bottoms.
I recently got this, and it looks even better in person. I 100% recommend it for wherever you're traveling to.
Button-Downs
A relaxed blue button-down oozes effortless French-girl vibes.
Linen Vests Blazers
A linen blazer is a must to throw on over tops and dresses on breezy summer evenings. This one is a favorite of mine.
Simple Skirts
When you don't have time to think, simply style this chic floral midi skirt with a tank top and sandals.
Effortless Pants
Striped pants are trending and are also incredibly versatile.
Casual Shorts
These vintage-inspired denim shorts get rave reviews.
Day-to-Night Dresses
A-line fit-and-flare dresses are everywhere this season, and they're incredibly versatile for day or night.
Comfy and Versatile Shoes
Mesh flats are trending hard this summer. Pair these with skirts, denim shorts, dresses—the list goes on.
Honestly, you'll never regret packing a pair of black ballet flats.
Everyday Accessories
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
-
This Is Your Last Chance to Shop the Amazon Big Spring Sale—31 Chic Finds Not to Miss
So good even Levi's jeans are on sale.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Chicest Fashion People I Know Love COS—Here's What's Worth Buying From Its Major Sitewide Sale
Take 25% off.
By Judith Jones
-
Hold Up! 5Replica Store Staples That'll Definitely Elevate Your Spring Outfits
Spring shopping made easy.
By Chichi Offor
-
I Found a Trove of Cool-Girl Basics From theReplica Store Sale—31 Chic Standouts
These have closet-staple status.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm a Shopping Editor—6 Spring Basics I'm Over and 6 I'm Going to Wear All the Time
Basics don't have to be boring.
By Audry Hiaoui
-
The Good Stuff, Basics and Shoes—30Replica Store Styles That Will Fit Into Any Fashion Person's Wardrobe
New closet staples.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
These Are the 2025 Versions of Every Basic Your Closet Needs
Bookmark this.
By Allyson Payer
-
I Already Have an Elevated Closet, But If I Were to Start Over, I'd Go for These 5 Staples
Effortless outfit ideas ahead.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes