I Cracked the Code on Vacation Style—With 6 Key Pieces

Taking a summer vacation is relaxing—but packing for one is anything but. For about a week before I even step on the plane for a big getaway, I am tormented by thoughts of organizing my suitcase. What shoes do I bring? How many pairs of pants is too many? And what about bathing suits? What if I forget something crucial? I (often) overpack as a result, inevitably bringing 20 pairs of socks for a six-day trip. (Just me?)

But this past month, when I embarked on a much-needed trip to Barcelona and Mallorca, I challenged myself to rethink my hoarder tendencies. Could I pack only the essentials for Spain, and still look cute and Instagram fit-pic-worthy? It was worth a try.

The key to a successful vacation wardrobe, I soon learned, is zeroing in on staples that can be mix and matched with abandon. You want items that pull double duty—nothing hyper-specific that you can only really wear once. Think: easy polo shirts and button-ups that can be paired with just about any bottoms; a sleek sandal that can last you from day to night; fun, printed bathing suits to add pizazz to your beach look; whimsical accessories to amp up a nighttime outfit.

Ultimately, I zeroed in on six such hero pieces—and I made use of every single one of them during the trip. Turns out, you only need a handful of items to complete a chic vacation wardrobe. Besides, that way there’s plenty of luggage space for tchotchkes and souvenirs. See my recommended vacation-wardrobe edit below:

Solid polo or button-up

A Ralph Lauren polo, Tania Larsson necklaces, and Acne Studios shorts. Worn at the Grand Hotel Son Net.