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Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and with it, a packed calendar of plans that demand more than a pair of denim cutoffs. Whether you’re jetting off to Europe for a spontaneous long weekend, staying put for a staycation in the city, or pursuing the nearest body of water, now is the time to perk up your slumbering summer wardrobe.
From a train-friendly ensemble to chic wedding guest-ready look and a city outfit perfect for quiet cultural exploration, we’ve curated nine looks for every kind of MDW escape, featuring plenty of the season’s It items—capri pants, shield sunglasses, and sneakerinas. Wherever you’re headed, this is how to do it in style.
Vogue’s Memorial Day Weekend Essentials List:
Let’s Go to the Beach!
For a fashionable take on beachwear, try an abstract printed one-piece swimsuit, breezy linen separates, red mesh flats, and Miu Miu’s shield sunglasses for a futuristic twist. Loewe’s raffia tote can easily take you from the sandy shore to the street.
Staycation in the City
Long weekends are a great time to rediscover your own city. Explore the typically crowded exhibits and shows, and finally snag that impossible dinner reservation. Black capri pants feel distinctly now, pair yours with a button-down and Adidas Taekwondo sneakers—perfect for a day of walking.
All Aboard
Tackle the Hamptons jitney (or other mode of ground transportation) in style with denim Bermudas, an oversized stripe tee, and a ruggedly-chic carryall. Stay shady and don’t forget to pack a straw hat!
Americana With a Twist
For a classic Americana look with a fashionable twist, pair a blue and white gingham dress with red mesh ballerinas, a sleek white bag, and a scrunchie fit for an It girl.
Quick Eurotrip
If you’re hopping a flight to Europe (or anywhere really), Donni’s pull-on are perfect for travel—polished enough for arrival and comfortable enough for takeoff. Add a few easy layers alongside Massimo Dutti’s oversized leather tote, which is roomy enough to double as your weekender.
Rooftop Barbecue
A printed caftan is the ultimate BBQ cheat code. It’s roomy enough for seconds (and thirds), and brilliantly patterned to camouflage any rogue condiment spills. Dress it up with statement jewelry, sleek shades, and a whimsical Gohar World wine bag—a guest should never show up empty handed!
Lakeside Escape
For a laid-back weekend by the water, keep things casual but considered. Agolde’s knee-length denim shorts are a polished twist on your classic cutoffs and perfect over a bikini for spontaneous swims. A baseball cap serves as sun protection—and defense against bad hair days—while sturdy Ancient Greek Sandals are built for dock-hopping.
Wedding Guest Weekend
For those attending a wedding over the weekend, we suggest investing in items you’ll want to wear again this summer—like Faithfull’s breezy strapless silhouette, Emme Parsons’s elegant strappy sandals, and Reformation’s pleated pouch.