Europe is a wonderful destination for exploration, romance, and adventure. Each country is filled with its own illustrious culture, art, food, and hidden treasures. However, with each destination and occasion, you’ll want to make sure you’re dressed to impress while blending with the locals. Packing for Europe can no doubt be stressful and it may be hard to stay up to date with the latest trends of the seasons. But no worries, we have you covered! Here are a few tips to channel your inner fashionista and complete your Europe packing list.
Are you planning a winter getaway in Europe? Or how about a summer retreat? The time of year you chose to travel plays a huge impact on the essentials in your Europe packing list. Your destination dictates if you’ll be sporting a trendy maxi or a chic trench coat, not all countries experience the same climates. Typically in northern Europe, summers are cool and winters are brutal. However, eastern Europe experience cold winters and summers even hotter than the western parts of Europe. On the other hand, central Europe experiences the warmest of summers compared to the rest and have milder winters with significant snowfall. We know, this is a lot to take in and you’re probably staring at your closet in utter confusion. But don’t worry, we’re going to break down Europe by season so you can prepare your Europe packing list and look fab in whatever climate you face.
Keep in mind, European style tends to be a bit dressier than your typical American wardrobe so bring along a couple of outfits that will show off your inner stylist. Not saying you have to be dressed to the nines at every given occasion, but just keep in mind that in more chic cities like Paris and London, style is a way of life. Whatever pieces you decide to include in your Europe packing list, the ultimate goal is that you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to take Europe by storm.
Europe in the Spring
If you’re packing for the perfect European springtime getaway, you might need a bigger suitcase. During the springtime in Europe, the weather tends to fluctuate often, depending on your destination of course. Let’s start with the basics. Every packing list should begin with your favorite staple pieces. Including your timeless denim jeans, a chic moto leather jacket, a trendy denim skirt, or some of your favorite tees. Not to mention, have fun with it by pairing bold and fun accessories with each ensemble to dress it up with some edge. Now it’s time to talk shoes (our favorite part). Whether you want to strut in heels or a basic pair of sneakers, make sure they are walkable! Comfort is key when choosing the shoes you are going to stroll miles around Europe in through the tourist attractions and cobblestone streets. The last thing you’ll need is to cut your itinerary short in search for a Band-Aid to cover that not to subtle blister from your shoes. Don’t forget to carry Cell phones.
For the warmer, sunnier days, you’ll want to embrace the heat and mimic the vibrant colors Europe has to offer. You can never go wrong with your go-to flowy floral dress or even a bright blouse with a chic pair of jeans. Colors not really your thing? Neutral colors will do the trick by pairing your staple pieces with bright accessories to add a fun element to any outfit. Try pairing a vibrant cross body bag, belt, or even hat to a plain outfit and you’ll be ready for the runway in no time. Don’t forget your favorite pair of sunnies of course, because we all know that one of the best parts of vacation is people watching. Oh, and they’ll be sure to complete any outfit.
Europe in the Summer
White, sandy beaches on your mind? Dressing for summer is a little less tricky than spring, as the temperatures tend to stay warm in most destinations. However, as the day progresses, expect the climate to drop a bit and be prepared to layer. During the day, have fun with your outfits while dressing comfortable and light to beat the pesky heat. Opt for pieces with breathable fabrics such as a flowy maxi dress or a patterned skirt. Make sure to include a denim jacket, light scarf, or even an airy cardigan on your Europe packing list for when the temperature drops. Layering will transition your outfit from day to night in the snap of your fingers. Not to mention, you’ll have a whole new look to work with. Whether you choose an open toe sandal, or even some edgy converse, the same rules apply to summer for shoes. Be sure to bring shoes that are comfortable and trendy. You want all eyes to be on your outfit, not your limp. Don’t forget your favorite pair of sunglasses, earrings, and clutch you’ve been dying to dress up any daytime outfit with. After all, you’re in Europe! So do like to Europeans do and dress it up.
Europe in the Fall
As much as we all adore the warmth of summer, who doesn’t like a nice autumn breeze? Okay autumn in Europe may bring a little more than a breeze, but don’t worry, you’ll be dressed for it! Depending on your destination, fall in Europe tends to come with rainy days and maybe even snow. Before you change your flight, fall is the perfect season to express yourself through fashion and experiment with trends. During this season, it’s all about slimming shades and pops of color to compliment any outfit. The key to taking on Europe is packing pieces in your Europe packing list that are versatile, stylish, and capable of weathering any storm. You know what that means, layering! Layering will add dimension to any ensemble, and keep you comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Opt for neutral colors as a base, and then build up your outfit to incorporate fun patterns and colors to make it unique. Slimming tops, patterned sweatshirts, denim jackets, and trendy overcoats will be sure to top your packing list. Dress it up with accessories and have fun with your footwear to create a true European outfit that will leave you looking like a local.
Europe in the Winter
Winter in Europe if the perfect opportunity to channel your inner fashionista and dress to impress. However, packing the perfect winter essentials will be the difference between a fashion forward trip and frostbite. To ensure you are properly dressed to face the cold, let’s start with the basics. These include socks, leggings, long johns, cardigans, sweaters, gloves, and of course, a parka or trench coat. When it comes to bottoms, keep it neutral, such as your favorite pair of black or dark wash denim jeans. Now that we have your clothes figured out, let’s talk shoes! No matter how badly you want to bring them along, forget about the stilettoes and opt for a chic pair of boots that are comfortable and weather safe. You’ll thank us when your strutting your stuff through Europe and can feel your toes! As for accessories, play around with scarves, gloves, and hats to compliment any outfit while keeping you nice and toasty. Last but certainly not least, make sure you are choosing your coats wisely. Opt for a cute faux fur jacket or puffy parka to keep you warm and comfy.
Well, there you have it. Creating the perfect Europe packing list can be stressful, let alone suppressing your inner over-packer to battle the fluctuating climates of Europe. However, don’t let the temperature prevent you from dressing to impress and having fun with it at the same time. No matter the season or destination, comfort and versatility are key when creating your European packing list. So grab your bright red lipstick, fur jacket, and worn down converse and get packing! After all, the best style is the one that makes you feel confident, chic, and ready to strut through Europe.