Summer holidays call for a wardrobe that is light, versatile and effortless: from the beach to the beach club and back again. Below we outline the essentials — featuring the brands we stock and practical packing tips, so you can travel light without compromising on style.
Short answer: build your holiday wardrobe around a few swim shorts, lightweight t-shirts and polos, comfortable shorts and sneakers that go with everything. Choose breathable, quick-drying fabrics and neutral colours that are easy to mix and match.
Swim shorts: from beach to beach club
A good pair of swim shorts is the foundation of your summer wardrobe. Look for quick-drying fabric, a comfortable elasticated waist and a length just above the knee — that is classic and flattering. Solid colours and subtle prints are the most versatile and stay beautiful for years.
Feel free to pack two or three: that way you always have a dry pair on hand and can easily change your look. Dark tones are practical, while a fresh colour or print instantly gives holiday vibes. Think of Stone Island, Moncler, Parajumpers, Woolrich and Casablanca. Check out the full range at men's swim shorts.
- Rinse your swim shorts with cold water after swimming and let them dry in the shade.
- Choose at least one neutral colour that goes with all your shirts.
T-shirts and polos for warm days
Lightweight t-shirts and polos are the workhorses of your holiday wardrobe. A well-groomed polo instantly lifts a simple outfit and pairs nicely with evening meals at a restaurant; solid t-shirts in cotton or cotton blend stay fresh during the day.
Invest in a few good basics in neutral tones — white, navy, beige, olive — that you can mix and match endlessly. One shirt or polo with stripes or a print adds just a touch of character. Think of Valenza, Stone Island, Casablanca and C.P. Company. Check out the full range at men's t-shirts & polos.
Shorts for getting around
A smart pair of shorts in a lightweight fabric is essential in summer. Choose a length just above the knee and a cut that is not too loose; a chino-style pair of shorts looks more polished than a sporty version.
Keep the colour coordinated with your shirts, then everything goes with everything. Beige, navy and olive are safe, versatile choices. Think of Valenza and Jacob Cohen. Check out the full range at men's shorts.
- Shorts with belt loops or a neat finish instantly look more polished.
Sneakers that go with everything
A clean, lightweight sneaker completes any summer outfit — from shorts to linen trousers. White and off-white are the easiest to match and go with almost every colour. Choose breathable uppers and a comfortable sole if you walk a lot.
Pack one versatile pair of sneakers for a week and perhaps a pair of slippers or sandals for by the water. That way you travel light without compromising on style. Think of Axel Arigato, Premiata, Nubikk, Mason Garments and Golden Goose. Check out the full range at men's sneakers.
The complete packing list
Travel light and mix smartly. For a week in the sun you'll easily get by with this:
- 2–3 swim shorts in coordinating colours
- 4–5 t-shirts and polos in neutral tones
- 2 pairs of shorts plus perhaps lightweight trousers
- 1 versatile pair of white sneakers
- 1 pair of slippers or sandals for the pool
- a lightweight overshirt or jumper for cooler evenings
With a handful of well-chosen, mix-and-match pieces, you put together an outfit in minutes every morning — and keep space in your suitcase. Quality over quantity: a few premium basics will last for years and stay beautiful.
At Eleganza you shop at an official retailer with free shipping, fast delivery and easy returns.
Frequently asked questions
What do you pack for a week in the sun?
Plan for two or three swim shorts, four to five t-shirts and polos, two pairs of shorts and one versatile pair of sneakers. Choose colours that coordinate with each other, then you can make do with less.
Which fabrics are nice in the heat?
Breathable, lightweight materials like cotton, linen and quick-drying technical fabrics keep you cool and crease less easily.
