I Review Clothes for a Living—Here's What to Grab From Quince's Vacation Shop Before Summer Ends, From $30

Travel + Leisure

7 days ago

August is officially here, which means (unfortunately) summer is on its last legs—but this doesn't mean the warm-weather fashion is slowing down. If you have any trips planned this month and are still on the hunt for some stylish yet affordable fashion finds, you've come to the right place. As Travel + Leisure's shopping writer, I uncovered Quince's Vacation Shop, and I've already begun the process of picking out new staple pieces I'll inevitably wear into the ground for the rest of summer and beyond. And, with the sheer volume of stylish, flattering items it contains, it was no small feat selecting the most travel-friendly options to add to my cart.
After an extensive scroll through the site, I pulled out the 12 breathable Quince pieces I'll be packing in my suitcase for every upcoming trip I have planned, ensuring that everything is mix-and-matchable, on-trend, and under $60. From effortless cotton maxi dresses to a pair of shorts I'm actually excited to travel in, these affordable picks will upgrade my wardrobe on a budget, without skimping on quality.
A simple white linen shirt is the cornerstone of any well-rounded summer wardrobe. Just think. It works as a beach cover-up or a sleek layer for a nice dinner out. At $40, this 100 percent linen option is a truly unbeatable deal—and it even comes in 16 gorgeous colors and patterns. The timeless basic is lightweight and breathable, making it a warm-weather essential. Plus, it takes up minimal space in my suitcase when I'm not wearing it. All I have to do is throw it on with a matching pair of linen pants, and I've instantly secured my spot as best-dressed at any destination.
The perfect companion to the button-down shirt above, these wide-leg linen pants are about to become my go-to, especially since I'm a self-proclaimed shorts- hater . The ruched, adjustable elastic waistband is endlessly comfortable, whether I'm sitting through a long-haul flight or spending the day sightseeing in a foreign city. The loose fit is breathable, flattering, and effortlessly cool. Best of all, they come in three inseam lengths, making them ideal for petite, regular, and tall travelers alike.
I practically live in loose-fitting maxi dresses during the summer and even into fall. They're easy to throw on, always look polished, and never feel too tight or restrictive. This $60 tiered maxi from Quince checks all the boxes. It's made from a breezy cotton fabric that's gauzy and free-flowing without sacrificing quality, which is really all I ask for in my clothing. Its slightly cropped fit is ideal for a petite traveler like me—no more excess fabric dragging behind me or getting caught underfoot. Plus, the thicker straps stay put without slipping off my shoulders as I walk around. It also comes in a range of eye-catching colors, though I've got my eye on the white and wild cherry.
A linen top like this one usually goes for upwards of $70 (as noted on the site), but at $40 in the Quince Vacation Shop, it's a deal I can hardly pass up. It's fitted without being skin-tight, offering some much-needed relief on even the toastiest days. The vibe strikes that perfect balance between dressy and casual, giving me endless styling options for my next vacation. The square neckline is one of my favorite cuts. It shows just enough skin without revealing too much and feels like a polished upgrade from a basic cotton tank.
Since summer is winding down, it's time for me to start bringing out my sweaters. I've actually been on the hunt for a lightweight cotton layer to slip on for chilly evenings, and I think I've found my perfect match with this cropped cardigan. The oversized tortoise shell buttons add a gorgeous statement detail without going overboard, and the cotton construction keeps it breathable, especially compared to wool or other heavy fabrics. I picture myself styling it over a plain maxi dress, with linen trousers and a simple tee, or even buttoned up with a silk maxi skirt. No matter how it's worn, it gives off that classic vibe I can't get enough of.
Enough with the basic neutrals. This vibrant vermilion maxi skirt is just what my vacation wardrobe has been missing, thanks to its playful shape and bold shade. The elastic waistband is comfy (and flattering), whether I wear it out to dinner or spend the day exploring, and it even features my all-time favorite detail: pockets. Most importantly, it's made from high-quality organic cotton that's breathable and built to last. At $60, I feel confident it's a worthy addition to my closet.
If there's one pattern I can't get enough of, it's gingham. So when I spotted this luxe linen button-down dress in that very print, I was instantly lost in a vision of myself strolling through New York, a tasteful baguette bag slung over my shoulder to complete the look. The mid-calf cut is the perfect length, and I love the simple tie belt at the waist, which adds shape and a touch of visual interest. It's designed to be heat-regulating and exceptionally breathable, which is a must for summer travel. And yes, it has pockets.
This split-front top style is everywhere this season. Naturally, I've been on the lookout for one of my own—and at $30, I think I've found the one. The hem hits just below the natural waistline for a flattering crop, while the stretchy knit fabric has just enough give to keep me comfortable and unrestricted on the go. I'm already picturing it with a flowy maxi skirt, a pair of linen trousers, or even some oversized shorts for a more casual vibe. And if I love it in black, I might just have to grab the heather grey, too.
While imagining outfits to wear with the Eco-knit Split Front Sweater Vest, I couldn't help but lament the fact that I don't already own a simple black mini skirt. But after spotting this darling satin option for just $60, that problem's officially solved. Easy to dress up or down—and somehow still incredibly comfortable thanks to its stretchy elastic waistband—this flouncy skirt is bound to be on heavy rotation during my travels, from Cape Cod to Montreal. It's the perfect length to show just enough leg without feeling too revealing, and the timeless cut makes it a piece I'll wear for years to come.
It wouldn't be a vacation haul without a swimsuit. With a few beach and lake trips on the calendar, I've been eyeing this stunning $50 one-piece. It comes in both regular and long torso lengths for that just-right fit, with adjustable spaghetti straps and a scoop neckline that'll keep me feeling secure whether I'm swimming or lounging by the water. The fabric is stretchy yet compressive (read: flattering and comfortable), and it doesn't stop there. It offers UPF 50 sun protection, a built-in shelf bra for extra support, and is resistant to chlorine, sunscreen, and oil stains—so I can finally stop replacing my swimsuits every year.
Elevated basics are the MVPs of my travel wardrobe. They make mixing and matching effortless without packing heavy pieces. Since my closet already has enough plain black and white tops to outfit a small soccer team, I've set my sights on this waffled sweater tank in a chic camel shade. It's just as versatile as other neutrals, but the delicate knit adds so much more visual interest than my usual basics do. It'll look great paired with simple linen pants or dressed up with a mini or maxi skirt, and the stretchy, forgiving fabric won't feel stifling in the summer heat. At just $30, I might be tempted to snag it in dark brown, too.
I'm an unapologetically anti-shorts, but I'm determined to find a pair that actually keeps me comfortable without ruining my whole outfit. These $30 cotton pull-on shorts are as good a place to start as any—they're lightweight, loose-fitting, and have a longer hemline that won't ride up when I walk. The elastic waistband is perfect for staying comfy during long-haul flights, walking tours, and more, plus they come with two deep side pockets—ideal for stashing my phone and wallet when I'm running errands without a purse. They even remind me of last summer's boxer shorts trend (specifically this striped pair), so I'm excited to try out the look without spending too much.
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