models wearing euro summer outfits like linen sets head scarves and sheer midi skirts

If you clicked on this article, you are most likely one of the lucky Aussies planning a Euro summer this year (or what I like to call a double summer year). From Aperols by the beach to hiking the Alps, it can be challenging to have cute and wearable outfits without completely overflowing your suitcase. Luckily, after plenty of research and a few Euro adventures of my own, I've curated the perfect selection of versatile, travel-friendly looks to carry you through every sunset aperitivo and sightseeing day.

The Comfy Travel Day Outfit

Travelling from Australia to Europe is no small feat, with most of us spending more than 24 hours up in the sky or in transit. The long-haul flight makes travel day outfits an essential yet tricky category - you need something comfortable yet presentable, cosy yet breathable, and versatile enough to wear for the rest of your holiday. Not to mention, you need an extra outfit on hand to freshen up mid-flight. Fail safe items include wide leg pants, basic tees, cosy sweaters, compression socks and a ludicrously capacious bag.

woman at airport in comfy black jumper and flowy white pants with silver suitcase — *Source: (IG) @charlotteemilysaunders*

jennifer lawrence in two piece denim airport outfit — *Source: Image Direct*

The Easy Breezy Sundress

Perfect as a beach cover-up, made for sweltering weather, and ideal for those “nothing to wear” days, the sundress is a Euro summer suitcase essential. With thousands of playful prints and silhouettes to choose from, it delivers a ‘fun Euro summer outfit’ with minimal effort. Style it up for sunset dinners with kitten heels and an overshirt, keep it casual during the day with your favourite sandals, or layer it over trousers for cooler stops. Is there anything a sundress can’t do?

woman in a strapless green sundress at popular beach in europe — *Source: (IG) @vicmontanari*

woman in white linen sundress with brown pants on and gold jewellry — *Source: (IG) @jademacj*

woman in sundress wearing sunglasses and light blue button down shirt — *Source: (IG) @livvbanks*

The Euro-Essential Linen Pieces

Yes, I know that every Tom, Dick or Harry is wearing linen for Euro Summer; it ain’t groundbreaking but is a summer essential for a reason. It is breathable, easy to wear and undeniably Euro-chic. If you are sticking to coastal spots, linen pants are probably the only pants you will actually wear. Pro-tip: if you are venturing to Belgium, France or the Netherlands, keep a lookout for some flax linen to take home!

girl wearing white linen two piece set halter top and pants — *Source: Deiji Studios*

girl drinking coffee in a light blue linen two piece set — *Source: Pinterest*

The Surprisingly Handy Scarf Belt

Nodding to this year’s predicted trending aesthetic, piratecore, the scarf belt may just be the perfect summer travel accessory. With limited luggage space, it’s an effortless way to refresh and reinvent your outfits. Having a scarf on hand is also surprisingly practical: it doubles as an emergency shawl when temperatures dip, protects your scalp from harsh rays, and can even be swapped out for a lightweight Turkish towel for spontaneous swims.

girl taking a mirror selfie of her outfit which features a belt scarf pants and blue top — *Source: (IG) @daughterofahoarder*

woman's outfit photo wearing white tshirt shell necklace and silk scarf belt — *Source: (IG) @hannahlovey*

The Sheer Power Outfit

Euro Summer is fun, sexy, and playful — qualities that perfectly mirror the appeal of sheer fashion. Set to continue its reign this year, sheer pieces have firmly cemented themselves as a summer must-have across wardrobes everywhere. From airy ponchos and dresses layered effortlessly over bikinis to delicate lace crochet skirts made for sun-soaked festivals, sheer styles truly scream Euro summer.

outfit photo showing woman wearing floral sheer skirt and matching top — *Source: SIR the Label*

mirror selfie woman showing red sheer skirt and yellow t shirt — *Source: (IG) @drew* *___donnelly*

model wearing white top and white midi lace skirt — *Source: With Jean*

The Transitional Long Sleeve Button Up

With Europe’s varied climates, mastering the art of layering becomes essential when moving between its stunning destinations. In summertime, a long-sleeve button-up shirt is the ultimate transitional piece — light enough for warm days yet substantial enough to offer coverage when temperatures shift. In the South, it works perfectly as an extra layer for cooler evenings after sunset; in the North, it becomes a go-to staple, keeping you comfortable through unpredictable weather, breezy conditions, and long, mild days spent exploring.

woman wearing striped white and blue button down shirt — *Source: Marle*

woman wearing beach outfit striped blue button down top and striped pants — *Source: (IG) @bentheliem*

The Controversial Yet Comfy Capris

When Charli XCX sang about “Capri in the distance” in her hit track Everything Is Romantic, she may as well have been trend-forecasting capri pants for summer. Love them or hate them, three-quarter-length bottoms deserve a place in your Euro summer suitcase. Shorts can ride up and feel restrictive, while full-length pants often prove too warm; making cropped trousers the perfect middle ground. Practical, comfortable and quietly chic, they’re ideal for long days of walking on cobblestone streets, alfresco lunches, and sightseeing.

model wearing striped red strapless top and white capris — *Source: Mode Mischief*

girl wearing black capris sunglasses and scarf — *Source: (IG) @ally.donofrio*

The Drapey, Slinky Silhouettes

Like the marble drapery of the Venus de Milo and La Pietà, your Euro summer wardrobe should embrace soft, sculptural movement. With long days in the sun, you will probably encounter a fair bit of sweat, sunburn and a little holiday bloat, making this trend a godsend. Think slinky dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, handkerchief skirts, and asymmetric cuts or cowl necklines for comfortable yet sophisticated fits.

girl wearing matching skirt set grey flowy — *Source: Isabella Vrana*

girl wearing black matching skirt set flowy — *Source: With Consideration*

The Super Functional Gorp and Tech Wear

Even if hiking the Dolomites or the Lofoten Islands isn’t on your itinerary, incorporating a touch of gorpcore into your Euro summer wardrobe is a smart move. Lightweight windbreakers, cosy fleeces, packable raincoats, and supportive walking shoes (hello Salomons) are practical pieces to have on hand for any trip. With Europe home to over 400 national parks, a spontaneous nature day trip is also always within reach; making functional, on-trend dressing a win-win.