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 (15% off with STACIE15) (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 ($10 off with STACIE10) (I wore it in Newport last week) and this one shoulder swimsuit ($10 off with STACIE10) 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 ($50 off with STACIE50) (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:
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