Summer Travel Essentials: The Fabrics I Swear By

From beach days to city breaks, here’s what I’m packing (every summer).

If there’s one thing I’ve learned running Ella Pop Shop (and living in floaty outfits all summer), it’s this: when it comes to holiday dressing, it’s all about fabric. The right material makes all the difference, whether you’re navigating a heatwave, cramming your life into a carry-on, or transitioning from sun-soaked sightseeing to sunset spritz.

So, as we gear up for the great August getaway, I wanted to share the four fabrics I always reach for when I’m packing my suitcase: lightweight, breathable and travel-friendly. These are the building blocks of a summer wardrobe that actually works on the go. Ready?

Linen: for breezy days and cool nights

You already know I’m a linen fangirl, and for good reason. Linen is made for travel. It’s breathable, quick-drying, and naturally crinkly (read: no need to iron if it’s been stuffed in your suitcase, which is honestly the dream).

I love a classic linen shirt; it works as a beach cover-up by day and an easy over-jacket for dinner when the breeze kicks in. Throw it over a cami, pair it with denim shorts, or wear it loose over a dress… You can’t go wrong.

Plus, linen is one of the most sustainable fabrics out there, made from flax and kinder to the planet. Light, functional, stylish. 10/10.

Cotton: the OG summer staple

Cotton is that no-brainer fabric you can always count on. It’s soft, breathable, and super gentle on the skin, which is exactly what you want when you're hot, sweaty and hauling luggage through a new city.

I always pack a couple of 100% cotton tops or dresses; they’re easy to layer, play well with everything, and let your skin breathe when it’s 30°C in the shade. Cotton also dries quickly, so if you're hand-washing bits in your hotel sink (we’ve all been there), it's a lifesaver.

My tip? Opt for pieces in natural tones or lightweight prints; they’ll go with everything, and you won’t feel overdone when you're just grabbing an ice cream or walking to the beach.

Silk: for those dress-up moments

Yes, silk can feel a bit fancy, but hear me out here. A vintage silk slip dress or camisole is a dream to travel with. It barely takes up any space, and it instantly elevates whatever you’re wearing.

Going for dinner? Silk. Date night abroad? Silk. Rooftop cocktails? Silk. It keeps you cool in the heat, and if you’re careful, it doesn’t crease as easily as you'd think. Plus, there’s just something about how it catches the light on golden hour holiday skin... chef’s kiss.

Look out for vintage silk pieces too; they tend to be better quality and way more sustainable than buying new.

Denim: the anchor of your wardrobe

Denim might not be your first thought for hot weather, but a good pair of vintage denim shorts or a midi skirt is essential. Denim holds its shape well, doesn't show wear easily, and works with literally everything.

I always bring one pair of jeans or shorts (depending on the trip). They’re great for travel days, casual strolls, or even dressing up with a silky top and cute sandals. Denim is dependable, and with vintage denim, it just gets better with age.

Pro tip: vintage denim tends to be 100% cotton, which means it’s more breathable than the stretch-heavy stuff you find new.

When I pack for a trip, I’m not just thinking about outfits, I’m thinking about pieces I’ll live in, and I really hope this blog will help you do the same. These fabrics don’t just look good, they work with you. They let you move, breathe, and enjoy the trip without stressing about sweat marks or suitcase creases. So whether you're hopping on a plane, driving down to the coast, or staycationing with a view, pack smart. And if you need help picking your go-to summer pieces, you know where to find me. 💌

See you out there (and don’t forget SPF),
Ella x

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