14 Summer Travel Outfits That Double as Business Casual

Being a fashion writer means I’m basically paid to be a professional outfit detective. I’m always on the hunt—scrolling through new arrivals, adding way too many tabs to my browser, and finding pieces that fit my personal style. One of the unexpected joys of going into the office (aside from the free cold brew) is getting dressed for it. After a few days of working from home in sweats, I relish the chance to pull together a real outfit. And let’s just say my coworkers never let a good look go unnoticed—their compliments make my morning coffee taste even better.

Somewhere along the way, I realized my go-to office outfits were pulling double duty as my go-to travel looks. Whether it’s a maxi dress, matching skirt set, or comfortable sneakers, they’re the kind of effortless staples that can handle a full work day in New York City, a gelato run in Florence, and a boat ride on the Seine, without missing a beat. 

With workwear trending well beyond the cubicle, these versatile pieces are having quite the glamorous side hustle. Here are the 14 heroes of my summer wardrobe—from Madewell, Amazon, Nordstrom, and more—that have been racking up compliments from the office to the other side of the Atlantic, starting at just $35. 

My Most-worn Staples

Madewell Bubble Tee

I wore this striped bubble-hem tee to a team barbecue and fielded many “Where’s that from?” questions. The boat neckline and playful hem make it look like I put way more effort into my outfit than I did, and the cool-girl color palette works with everything from linen shorts to white denim. I pack it for trips because it dresses up easily with jewelry yet feels breezy enough for sightseeing.

Madewell Relaxed Pleated Trouser Shorts in 100 Percent Linen

These 100 percent linen pleated shorts are my warm-weather office savior—structured enough for meetings, but breathable enough to wear straight into a weekend getaway. The double front pleats and back welt pockets give them polish, while a belt or layered necklace makes them feel styled without effort. I’ve worn them to work with loafers and then on vacation with slides, proving they’re a true multitasker.

Prettygarden Two-piece Maxi Skirt Set

The day I wore this two-piece set to the office, I lost count of how many coworkers stopped me to ask where I got it. It’s that good. For $23, you get a lightweight maxi skirt and matching top that work as a pair or as separates—ideal for packing light. I’ve worn the skirt with a tee and the top with jeans, and it feels like a new outfit every time.

Zara Tiered Maxi Skirt

This is my all-time favorite skirt for both commuting and traveling—it’s so airy, I barely notice I’m wearing it even on sweltering subway rides. The low-waist and front-tie give it a laid-back edge, and I love how it goes from a strapless top and sandals on vacation to a tee and cardigan in the office. It’s the definition of easy, versatile style.

Steve Madden Verdict Slip-on Sneakers

I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve heard “Those are cute—where’d you get them?” when I wear these Steve Madden sneakers to work. The slip-on style is a lifesaver for airport security, and the tan-and-white palette ties together almost everything in my closet. They’re the kind of shoes that look styled without trying, which is my favorite kind of travel hack.

Madewell Poplin Maxi Dress

This bright orange poplin maxi always earns a “That color!” comment when I wear it to work. Made from 100 percent cotton, it’s featherlight for hot days yet structured enough to feel put-together. It’s just as great for a summer Friday in the office as it is for walking along the coast of Italy with sunnies and sandals (as you can see).

Nordstrom Button-up Vest

This textured vest is one of those pieces that makes your outfit instantly look intentional. I’ve paired it with jeans in the office and silk pants for a trip, and it layered beautifully both times. At 30 percent off, it’s a solid wardrobe investment—it’s light enough to throw in a carry-on, but still pulled-together enough for a work presentation.

Aritzia Wilfred Twirl Pleated Skirt

When I wear this pleated skirt with my Nordstrom vest, the compliments start before I even reach my desk. The semi-sheer, lightweight fabric means I never overheat, and the movement gives it a subtle drama that’s perfect for strolling through museums or attending an office happy hour. It’s the rare wardrobe staple that works in every season, which makes it a packing no-brainer.

Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flats

I’ve walked 10,000 steps in these Mary Janes without a single blister, which for me is unheard of. The square toe and gold hardware make them look elevated, and they add personality to even the simplest jeans-and-tee combo. Whether I’m dashing to a meeting or wandering cobblestone streets, they keep me comfortable and looking polished.

Lillusory Striped Cardigan

Even in summer, my office is an icebox, so this cardigan is my desk-side savior. The gold buttons make it look way pricier than its Amazon price tag, and people are always shocked when I tell them where it’s from. I throw it over everything—from a maxi skirt to straight-leg jeans—and it’s saved me on more than one chilly evening abroad.

The A&F Scarlett Linen-blend Mini Skort

I have this skort in oatmeal, but it comes in nine colors—and every time I wear it, someone asks for the link. The linen-viscose blend gives it a comfortable, breezy feel I look for in a skirt, but it has the added practicality of shorts underneath, which makes it ideal for bike rides in Europe or running errands between meetings. It’s a rare piece that feels playful but still professional.

Vivaia Round-toe Satin Sneakerina

These sneaker-flats feel like butter the second I slip them on, and they’re my secret to surviving long office days without sacrificing style. The satin finish makes them look a little more refined than regular sneakers, so they work just as well with tailored trousers as they do with a sundress. Comfort plus polish is the sweet spot for me.

Madewell Harlow Wide-leg Jean: Airy Denim Edition

I’ve been wearing these Madewell Harlow Wide-leg Jeans on repeat since the start of summer. They have the drape of trousers but the softness of broken-in denim, which means I can sit comfortably on a plane and still look meeting-ready when I land. I love how they pair with sneakers for sightseeing and loafers for the office.

Zara Short Sleeve Knit Cardigan

This short-sleeve cardigan with a gold accent is the ultimate “I tried” piece for mornings when I didn’t. I wear it over a tank to the office or with a maxi skirt when I travel, and it always earns compliments. It’s light enough for layering, and it adds just the right amount of polish.

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