New England summers are a study in charming contrasts—one moment you’re basking in warm seaside sun, and the next you’re slipping on a light sweater as a cool Atlantic breeze drifts in. After years of living here, I’ve learned to pack pieces that transition effortlessly from ferry rides and rocky beach picnics to candle-lit lobster shacks and misty morning hikes. The edit below gathers my tried-and-true favorites: classic stripes, airy linens, polished yet practical footwear, and just-in-case layers that never weigh down a suitcase but always save the day. Whether you’re bound for a Nantucket cottage or a lakeside cabin in Maine, these staples will keep you comfortable—and chic—through every delightful turn of a New England summer. Find my edit featuring nautical touches, seersucker, madras, cable knit, stripes and a touch fo red below!
New England Vacation Packing List:
Shift Dresses: I love wearing shift dresses in the summertime - an easy throw-on-and-go silhouette. They look great with a sweater over your shoulders for chilly evenings and I have a few on rotation from affordable to fancy. I own and love this white sailor stripe dress (cute with these slides), I just bought this red eyelet number in Newport, and always get loads of compliments on this stunning shell shift. If you prefer a longer hem length this is beautiful!
Sundresses - This summer I'm reaching for this chambray number, this red striped shirtdress (might wear it with these red rope slides). On the topic of red dresses, I love this one and this one.
Caftans and Tunics: Nothing beats the easy glamour of a caftan. Two favorites I'm packing for my next trip include this linen embroidered caftan (makes you look so long and lean!) and this yellow cotton stripe (wouldn't it look cute with this bag?!) Also, this timeless tunic is great as a beach coverup or wear as a top with these tailored white trousers!
Straw Bags: Ideally you have a couple, and you hang them in a jumble on the coat rack pegs in your beach house. My current favorites are this (under $70!), this, this, and this. I'd bring a clutch or two as well, and my current favorites are this and this!
Swimsuits: I've found several new favorite swimwear brands this summer as I look for suits that stay put while chasing a toddler. This "shapewear" tank swimsuit (seen here) reminds me of my fav french brand Eres, but is a much better price and has an invisible tummy control panel plus padded cups. I have it in two colors and want more it's so versatile, and can pass as a tank top if you wear it out to each after the beach. Two other favorites include this triangle bikini and high waisted bottoms (I wore it in Newport last week) and this one shoulder swimsuit which is so flattering and elegant.
Tops: And it doesn't get more classic than a linen shirt with the perfect proportions to tie at the waist.
Sweaters: Coastal areas are known for chilling mornings so be sure to pack a sweater or two! (Or four!) I love this Nantucket red flag sweater or this blue version, this modern twinset (I have in ivory, and also love the yellow!), and this amazing blue and white wrap cardigan! I also reach for this amazing cashmere crewneck for warming up after a swim or on the boat. (I love it so much I have 5 colors!)
Pants: A great pair of white jeans (size up) are a summer essential and these silk trousers are so special. I also love linen/guaze pants for throwing on over my swimsuit or pairing with a cozy sweater. My two favorite pairs are these and these.
Shorts: I love a good shorts + sweater combo on vacation and have recently been obsessed with this pleated pair (only $35?!) which look elegant with a belt and blouse-y top, or effortless and beachy if you cuff the hem.
Skirts: You need one madras piece in your New England summer wardrobe and this wrap skirt is it for me. I plan to throw it on with this navy swimsuit for a beach-to-lobster-shack look. This striped skirt is an unexpected take on the classic pattern -- mine just arrived and I love it!
Shoes: There are always several pairs of Sarah Flints in my bag due to their wear-all-day comfort perfect for days spent exploring. My most-worn summer pairs are 60mm block heels and these raffia slides. I also recommend of Stubbs and Wootton loafers, this chic wrap sandals and these patriotic espadrilles, and these classic boat shoes!
Hats: I love this bucket hat that looks amazing on everyone and my Peter Beaton's Galley Beach XXL hat is perfect for saving your skin from the sun's rays! Plus I always have a baseball cap in my bag for early morning coffee runs.
Active wear: I usually do a pilates mat work out in my pajamas when traveling (ha!), but am bringing this tennis dress in case we decide to play!
Jackets: You honestly will reach for sweaters more than a jacket, though I've got my eye on this beautiful patchwork jacket because it's so fun!
Accessories: Aside from an absurd number of bags, my accessories tend to be on the simple side: a lightweight cashmere wrap, pearl studs, a pair of big sunnies (these are so flattering!) and a patriotic silk scarf!
SHOPPING LIST:
This content may contain affiliate links. If you shop through my links, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!