Channel Vacation-Ready Style Like A Fashion Editor

When dressing for summer — and vacations, in particular — there are certain style mainstays that stand the test of time. These are the sunny-weather pieces that keep you comfortable, while also looking incredibly chic. But curating a getaway wardrobe that’s as comfy as it is photo-ready can be tricky. Thankfully, Fashion Market and Accessories Editor Stephanie Sanchez is dropping all of her tips for traveling in style. And, spoiler alert: It’s all about the capsule wardrobe.

Landing key styles that can be worn multiple times during your trip is the way to go. Sanchez is finding all of her favorite capsule items at Macy’s, from versatile slip dresses and trendy tropical prints to breezy linen separates that can be mixed and matched (even with swimwear). If you’re wondering where to start, take a cue from Sanchez. She gravitates toward a balanced mix of comfort and on-trend styles. “I love being put-together, but definitely lean toward lighter fabrics, like linen, and flat shoes for comfort,” she explains.

Keep scrolling to see how Sanchez is mixing and matching her summer favorites, and get some inspiration for your own travel looks.

Go For The Bold In Maximalist Prints

Even with a capsule wardrobe, summer is a great time to experiment with trends — especially when it comes to bold prints. Sanchez’s advice? Stick to silhouettes or styles you know you love, but find them in fun prints or different fabrics, such as this classic ruched skirt in a bold tie-dye print. You can pair it with a sheer white cotton jacket or wear alone over a crochet bathing suit. “I’m very much a T-shirt and jeans kind of girl, but in the summer, I like to switch to linen,” she says.

Keep It Comfy In Relaxed Silhouettes

Sanchez’s ideal vacation consists of a warm coastal city, like Oaxaca, Mexico, or Porto, in northern Portugal, because she “loves being by the beach but also experiencing a new city.” A great pair of wide-leg pants, like these ones from Bar III, are a great piece for Sanchez to have in her travel arsenal. After a day at the beach, she can pair them with her bikini top and a roomy blue button-down for some sightseeing.

Color-Block Your Sets

Matching sets are a great shortcut for an easy, stylish outfit. But try refreshing the co-ord look by color-blocking your pieces, like Sanchez did here with a blue top and green shorts in the same material. Sanchez loves linen sets because they “feel put together,” but are also so easy to wear. Don’t forget the versatile footwear, either. A strappy sandal can be worn with this shirt-and-shorts set just as easily as it can with a bathing suit or maxi skirt. Style this look for a poolside lunch or exploring a new beach.

Level Up In Luxe Slip Dresses

If you’re trying to figure out the right piece to pack for a nice dinner out, it’s all about the slip dress. “I love slip dresses as going-out dresses. It’s such an easy way to look polished, while still feeling comfortable,” Sanchez says. Reach for a coordinating sandal in a head-turning hue, and grab that breezy white jacket again in case temps drop after sunset.

Creative Director: Jill Sabato; Director: Sarah Herbst; Director of Photography: Stephen Taylor; Wardrobe Stylist: Ian Bradley; Prop Stylist: Adri Suarez; Hair Stylist: Yoichi Tomazawa; Makeup Artist: Tiffany Patton; Branded Fashion Lead: Elly Ayres; Production: Danica Butkovich, Nancy Valev, and Lauren Schweitzer