The Vacation Edit: The 7 Key Trends to Bring Along in 2026

      As summer travel picks up, vacation plans take center stage. Whether you're gearing up for a European summer in the French Riviera or the Balearic Islands, heading to a charming surf town in Mexico, or just taking a quick weekend trip nearby, an approaching vacation means it’s time to refresh your wardrobe. We’ve got all the stylish fashion essentials you could possibly need for your next escape. There are numerous summer trends perfectly suited for a warm-weather getaway, such as lovely beaded sandals that accompany the finest summer outfits, the elegant nightgown-inspired dresses that work as swimsuit cover-ups, and the bold It color that’s capturing everyone’s attention. We see it as our responsibility to present you with the best shopping selections, so consider this your guide to the essential vacation trends of the season. If you were to look inside a fashionista's suitcase, these trends and items would certainly be in their luggage for vacation. Below, discover everything fashion-related that you need to pack for your most stylish getaway yet.

      The runways have predicted a softer and more romantic dressing style for spring and summer 2026, manifesting in light cotton dresses adorned with lace and eyelet details. Among these, a popular category of airy minidresses inspired by sleepwear is emerging, including Dôen's top-selling Nessie dress and a viral linen piece from Prada.

      Free People

      Sundazed Mini Dress

      Helsa

      Mini Dress With Lace

      Posse

      Danielle Mini Dress

      Forget the minimalists—there's a new shoe trend climbing the ranks, leaving the barely there styles behind. Beaded sandals are currently the standout sandal trend, with brands everywhere providing a wide variety of options, from vibrant and bold to strappy and tonal.

      Ancient Greek Sandals

      Esther Jelly Thong Sandals

      Gianvito Rossi

      Shanti Thong Sandal

      Reformation x Courtney Grow

      Geffen Sandal

      Larroudé x Ciao Lucia

      Eloisa Sandal

      Summer '26 is enhancing color saturation across many shades, with a particular focus on teal, aquamarine, and turquoise for vacation styling. While the blue-green tones may seem unexpected, the chicness of colors seen on stars like Anne Hathaway and Jennifer Lawrence has made them a must-have.

      Dries Van Noten

      Scarfy Skirt

      Reformation

      Zoe Sage Sandal

      Oséree

      Lumière Metallic Bikini

      Paris Georgia

      Remmy Mini Dress

      Julietta

      Sabine Magnesite Necklace

      Topshop

      Strapless Peplum Top

      The rumors are accurate: This summer is all about one-pieces. Bikinis are nice, but as swim season progresses, it’s clear that the most fashionable look at the beach or pool is a one-piece swimsuit. From Bella Hadid enjoying the sun on a yacht in Saint-Tropez to stylish figures at Miami Swim Week, the classic swim design is definitely making a comeback.

      Burberry x Hunza G

      Faye Swimsuit

      J.Crew

      Claudia Scrunchie One-Piece

      Saint Laurent

      One-Shoulder Swimsuit

      Hunza G

      Pamela One-Piece Swimsuit

      Zara

      Contrast Trim Satin Swimsuit

      Denim? In the heart of summer? Not so fast! Denim occupies too much precious space in your suitcase, so opt for one of the trendy pant styles embraced by fashion enthusiasts. Whether it’s chic taffeta pants, comfortable drawstring styles, or modern bloomers, the choices are plentiful—all sharing an effortless, relaxed vibe.

      Chan Luu

      Techno Taffeta Barrel Pants

      ZARA

      Ruffled Beaded Pants

      J.Crew

      Luna Drawstring Pant

      Free People

      Forever Young Bloomer Pants

      Forget the pukka-shell necklace and grab those board shorts—surfer-inspired fashion is making significant waves this summer. Surfer-inspired swimwear has seen a steady rise following Miu Miu's influential spring/summer 2024 show, but the trend is now expanding to include items like Staud's viral surfboard-shaped clutch and High Sport's surf-inspired trousers, suitable for land as well.

      Miu Miu

      Raso Silk-Blend Shorts

      Made Some Sportswear

      Short Shorts

      ZARA

      Nylon Drawstring Pants

      High Sport

      Lane Floral Pants

      Casual elegance is an emerging style defined by outfits that exude sophistication while maintaining a laid-back, effortless appearance. For vacation, a key piece that embodies this aesthetic is a drawstring pouch bag (in place of a more traditional raffia tote). These bags strike a balance between relaxed and polished, elevating even the simplest ensembles. Vacation dressing often unleashes a playful side to your style personality, making a whimsical drawstring pouch the perfect accessory.

      Prada

      Prada Wish Silk Duchesse Pouch

      Le Sundial

      La Isla Tasseled Pouch

      Reformation