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When you imagine summer in Europe, you're probably not thinking about heat waves, crowded streets, and no air conditioning.

BUT TRUST ME WHEN I TELL YOU THAT PACKING THE RIGHT SUMMER DRESSES FOR TRAVEL CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR TRIP.

Traveling through Europe in summer means long, hot travel days and crowded streets, trains, and attractions.

It’s not uncommon to have sweat literally running down your forehead on the hottest days, even in the shade!

Add in tightly packed itineraries that take you from a day of sightseeing straight into dinner, and you can understand why a basic summer outfit of shorts and a t-shirt doesn’t quite cut it.

BUT I WANT TO LOOK GOOD WHILE I’M STROLLING THROUGH ROME, PORTO, OR TAORMINA, AND I BET YOU FEEL THE SAME WAY.

So how can you pack a limited selection of summer dresses that will keep you comfortable while also helping you stay cool on even the hottest days?

Read on for my recommendations on the types of summer dresses you should pack for a trip to Europe — from casual dresses for daytime sightseeing to more fashionable dresses for photos and evenings out, and even a few two-piece options.

For each category, I’ve also included the most popular dresses in case you’re looking to invest in a new piece for your wardrobe.

Casual Summer Dresses for Long Travel Days

ONE TYPE OF DRESS THAT DESERVES SPACE IN YOUR CARRY-ON IS A CASUAL DRESS FOR DAYTIME OUTINGS.

For years, I only packed one or two dresses for vacation — you know, those dresses to wear out to nice dinners.

But when I got home from those trips, I realized that the majority of my camera roll was from daytime activities.

It can be so easy to reach for shorts and a shirt when you’re heading out for a tour, but a great daytime dress will keep you cooler and look more put together.

PRIORITIZE NATURAL, BREATHABLE FABRICS, AND LOOSE, NOT FORM-FITTING, CUTS.

Sèzane Raquel Dress - A must for vacations. A belted, short-sleeve shirt dress that defies trend cycles. I especially love the light blue denim version and the new white and red rose print for summer.
DÔEN Ischia Midi Dress — This flowy, cotton-based dress offers a taste of cottagecore and is insanely comfortable. Easily transitions from day to night.
J.Crew Fleur Linen Mini Dress — A linen mini-dress perfect for museum visits and gelato tastings.
Sèzane Pippa Short Dress — An iconic t-shirt dress with a tied-waist detail, the Pippa comes in multiple colors and lengths. I like the short version as it’s a bit fitted.

Beautiful Summer Dresses for Photos and Evening Plans

Even if you prefer a sportier look during the daytime (thankyouverymuch!), it’s a good idea to pack one or two, well, aesthetic summer dresses, too.

These are my go-to for evenings with nice dinners planned, or days where I know there will be a lot of photos taken.

JUST RELEASE THE NEED TO PACK FANCY SHOES TO WEAR WITH THESE DRESSES.

Many will look great with the relaxed sandals or block heels that are already on my list of the best shoes to pack for Europe.

DÔEN Quinn Dress — A versatile, year-round staple with a smocked bodice and dainty sleeves. I swear this dress looks good on everybody.
J.Crew Scallop-trim Eyelet Popover Dress — A long sleeve linen mini-dress practically made for cooler summer evenings.
Reformation Roma Linen Dress — A sleeveless midi-dress with square neckline and hook and eye bust closure. Accessories could pull this in so many different directions.
House of CB Ysabella Floral Stretch Cotton Maxi Sundress — For evenings that demand a bit more va-va-voom, this maxi sundress has a lovely fitted bodice and flowing skirt.
Sèzane Olany Floral Embroidery Maxi Dress — It’s giving romantic bohemian, with 100% organic cotton and all-over openwork embroidery.

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2-Piece Summer Dresses for Easy Packing

I am not the biggest fan of matching sets, but 2-piece dresses are an exception!

THESE DRESSES PULL DOUBLE DUTY IN YOUR SUITCASE, TOO.

The top and skirt look great together, as intended, but each piece can also contribute to other outfits on its own.

If you’re a chronic overpacker or just someone trying to make their travel wardrobe stretch as far as it can, then give these options a try.

Reformation Fontana Linen Two Piece — Made from lightweight, breathable linen, with a sweetheart neckline top and column midi-skirt.
Pink City Prints Sicily Top & Skirt — Linen set with a cropped, open-back top and midi skirt. I love this print!
Lulus Sweet At Heart Floral Embroidered Two-Piece Midi Dress — Charming set with a bustier style cropped top and high-rise, A-line skirt.
Tuckernuck Greer Top & Carolyn Skirt — A dramatic, sophisticated combination for formal events and soirées. Great for a black-tie destination wedding.

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Affordable Summer Dresses That Still Feel Elevated

I PROMISE, IT IS NOT MY INTENTION TO GIVE ANYONE STICKER SHOCK WITH ANY OF THE PREVIOUS RECOMMENDATIONS!

But I’ve personally been so burned by fast fashion over the years, that I now prefer to spend a little bit more for better quality clothing, even if it means I can only buy a few items.

If you’re looking for great summer dresses under a hundred dollars that are still made of natural, lightweight fabrics, then these are the best ones to shop.

Quince 100% Organic Cotton Poplin Smocked Midi Dress — A lightweight dress with a smocked bodice, adjustable ruffle straps, and a tiered A-line skirt.
Everlane Racerback Maxi Knit Dress — A fitted, sleeveless racerback dress with a slightly flared skirt.
Lulus Exceptionally Pristine Green and Cream Striped Cutout Midi Dress — Made of textured cotton blend, with a darted bodice, straight neckline, and adjustable spaghetti straps. I love the cutout back detail on this one.
Gap Linen-Blend Midi Shirtdress — A classic midi shirtdress made of linen blend and available in multiple colors.