Before I became a fashion editor, I traveled for a living. I presented a travel show, which meant among all the adventures, planes, trains, and jet lag, I spent a lot of time perfecting my packing. As you can imagine, I picked up a lot of tips and tricks along the way—especially when it comes to traveling light. First and foremost, I learned that having an arsenal of elevated and versatile basics is essential. I'm talking about the items that you can lean on day or night, that aren't too bulky (especially for summer travel), and that can be easily mixed and matched throughout your stay.
So with summer travel at the forefront of our minds, below, I'm sharing some of my favorite chic basics from trusty retailer Nordstrom that are perfect for warm-weather trips, no matter where you're going. From crisp button-downs to day-to-night dresses, these are the perfect blend of practical and stylish and will see you through your travel plans and vacations in style.
Tops
Madewell
Madewell Supima Cotton Rib Cutaway Tank
A white '90s tank is perfect for layering or wearing on its own.
Reformation
Reformation Dusk Stretch Knit Top
This black boatneck will take you from day to night seamlessly.
Rolla's
Rolla’s Toni Stretch Organic Cotton Ribbed Crop Tank
I love the idea of styling this under a relaxed white button-down.
MANGO
Mango Cotton Button-Up Shirt
A crisp cotton button-down is a travel essential.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren Oversize Stripe Button-Down Tunic
Wear over a bikini or with white pants for dinner—the styling possibilities are endless.
MANGO
Mango Lino Linen Shirt
For hot summer days, you're going to appreciate having a breezy white linen button-down on hand.
& Other Stories
& Other Stories Relaxed Fit Cotton T-Shirt
I never travel without a relaxed white tee.
AG
AG Relaxed Cotton U-Neck Tee
I recently got this, and it looks even better in person. I 100% recommend it for wherever you're traveling to.
Theory
Theory Tiny Apex Organic Pima Cotton T-Shirt
A chic baby tee you can wear on the plane and beyond.
SKIMS
Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt
This fitted tee is perfect to take you into the evening.
Bottoms
Madewell
Madewell The Harlow Linen Wide Leg Pants
Comfortable, stylish, and practical—don't leave home without packing a great pair of white linen pants.
EDIKTED
EDIKTED Seaside Stripe Wide Leg Drawstring Pants
These are my exact go-to pants for long-haul flights. They're cool and so comfy.
MOTHER
MOTHER The Dodger Sneak Wide Leg Jeans
For resort vacations, I try to avoid packing jeans, but for city getaways, I'll always pack a light-wash, relaxed, straight-leg silhouette.
Reformation
Reformation Lucy Stretch Organic Cotton Skirt
A white full skirt feels very of-the-moment and is surprisingly versatile.
Reformation
Reformation Layla Linen Maxi Skirt
This is another excellent white skirt option to wear with flats and heels alike.
& Other Stories
& Other Stories Pleated High Waist Linen Shorts
Linen shorts that look polished are always a yes in my book.
Good American
Good American Stripe Stretch Cotton Poplin Shorts
For a more relaxed resort getaway, I love a pair of striped poplin shorts.
Dresses
Faithfull the Brand
Faithfull the Brand Marinia Linen Shirtdress
When it comes to dresses, I'm all about easy day-to-night styles.
Reformation
Reformation Jessi Sleeveless Linen Dress
I never go on a summer vacation without packing a chic and simple LWD.
Madewell
Madewell Smocked Sleeveless Dress
Style with a pair of simple black Mary Janes for a chic look with zero effort required.
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.