Forget the logos—this is what women in France and Italy are truly wearing for a summer in Europe.
If you’re like me, your social media feed is flooded with sun-soaked images from the Amalfi Coast and the streets of Saint-Tropez, featuring content creators enjoying the final days of summer. While I appreciate a great pasta picture and a sunset boat selfie, it’s the fashion that truly keeps me saving every other post. I’m referring to those quintessential European summer outfits.
The online world might suggest that a full designer ensemble is the summer dress code, but the chic women I observed in Paris and Positano tell a different tale. Spoiler alert: it’s not about flashy logos or trendy gimmicks. Instead, European women are choosing dependable staples, such as linen sets and silk scarves, to carry them through the summer's end. Below, you can shop for all the European summer essentials that women in Europe are actually sporting this season.
**Slip Skirts**
Paired with tank tops and oversized shirts, slip skirts are perfect for effortless dressing, being light, fluid, and incredibly versatile. French and Italian women favor neutral tones and soft pastels for a polished yet easy-going look.
- With Jéan Penny Skirt in Yellow Dot
- Princess Polly Asymmetrical Midi Skirt
- Old Navy Crepe A-Line Midi Skirt
**Linen Sets**
Coordinated linen sets are this season's low-maintenance, high-impact outfit. Think boxy tops, drawstring shorts, and earthy shades. These airy pieces are ideal for the long, hot days along the Mediterranean coast.
- Madewell 100% Linen Scoopneck Cutaway Vest
- Gap 365 High Rise Linen-Blend Trousers
- Aritzia Cruiselinen Regal Vest
**Poplin Button-Downs**
It’s evident that poplin button-downs are the ultimate summer layer, whether layered over swimsuits or half-tucked into trousers. Classic white is ubiquitous, though soft blue runs a close second. European women are also enjoying colorful striped button-downs.
- Gap Organic Cotton Poplin Big Shirt
- COS Tailored Pima Cotton Shirt
- Alex Mill Jo Striped Shirt in Cotton Poplin
- Reformation Andy Oversized Shirt
**Crochet Beachwear**
Crochet dresses, skirts, and tops are everywhere on the beach (and on luxurious yachts!) this summer. Neutral shades keep them classic, while the open knitting provides a subtle glimpse of swimwear underneath.
- Tularosa Bryce Crochet Top
- Capittana Sabrina Crochet Cutout Dress
- Gap Factory Crochet Pull-On Sweater Shorts
- Tularosa Luanne Cold Shoulder Top
**Simple Bikinis**
Minimal triangle bikinis are the preferred swimwear choice. No patterns or embellishments—just sleek forms in timeless colors like black, red, and white. This stylish bikini design often comes with the season's must-have accessory: an oversized bucket hat.
- Riot Swim Jax Bikini Bottom
- Tropic of C Equator Top in Black Terra
- Los Angeles Apparel Strappy Bikini Top
**Nightgown-Style Dresses**
Nightgown-style dresses resemble what you’d wear to bed, but are much prettier. These airy, romantic dresses feature delicate straps, lightweight fabrics, and a hint of lace, giving off a vintage film vibe. French women often pair them with worn leather sandals or go barefoot.
- Mango Embroidered Cotton Nightgown
- Reformation Holly Sleep Dress
- Helsa Summer Vintage Nightgown
**Silk Scarves**
A summer look wouldn’t be complete without a classic silk scarf. Tied with effortless ease yet creating a maximum impact, silk scarves can be found everywhere—ornamenting handbags, hair, and waistlines.
- Toteme Centered Monogram Silk Square Scarf
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Forget the logos—this is what women in France and Italy are truly wearing for a summer in Europe.
European women are enjoying the final days of summer with these essential Euro staples, including silk scarves and sheer nightgown dresses.