Picture this: you, poolside with a cocktail in hand, sun on your skin, not a single email in sight. Bliss, right? Now picture the outfit. Is it sleek? Timeless? Effortlessly elegant? Because while we’re all dreaming of the perfect vacation, let’s be honest, we’re also dreaming of the looks.
Here’s the good news. You don’t need a billionaire’s bank account to dress like you own a villa in the South of France. With the right styling tricks, smart shopping, and a little planning, your outfits can whisper old money and scream first class, even if you flew Ryanair. I’m breaking it all down for you — from what to wear to where to buy it — so you can look luxe without going broke.
Let’s talk strategy.
The Secret to Looking Rich on Vacation
It’s not about the price tag. It’s about the aesthetic.
Think neutral tones. Monochrome palettes. Clean silhouettes. Natural fabrics. No logos, no chunky hardware, nothing that screams for attention. Instead, you want calm, curated, confident. That’s the vibe. Add sleek sandals, woven bags, and vintage-style sunglasses, and you’re well on your way to giving “I summer in Saint-Tropez” energy.
Here’s how to build that look.
1. The Custom-Looking Linen Set
Nothing says “I own the villa” like a well-tailored linen set. Whether it’s a relaxed button-down with matching shorts or wide-leg trousers and a cropped tank, this combo oozes elegance.
Style it rich:
Go for shades like off-white, soft tobacco, or pale pistachio. Keep the fit slightly oversized — not sloppy, but relaxed. Add minimalist slides and a woven tote and voilà. Instant coastal wealth energy.
MY PICKS
- MANGO TAILORED LINEN VEST FOR €69.99
- MANGO TAILORED LINEN PANTS FOR €59.99
- H&M LINEN SHIRT FOR €29.99
- MANGO LINEN BLEND ONE SHOULDER DRESS FOR €49.99
2. The Gliding Maxi Dress
If “rich auntie on holiday” were a dress, this would be it. A floaty, full-length number with soft volume or a subtle open back is the easiest way to look expensive with zero effort.
Style it rich:
Avoid loud prints. Solid colors and muted patterns win here. Layer delicate gold jewelry (real or plated, both work), slick your hair back, and throw on oversized sunnies. Done.
Where to shop:
3. The Quiet-Luxury Swimsuit + Sarong Combo
Minimalist swimwear is your best friend. Think one-piece or bikini in black, white, or olive green paired with a draped sarong in a silky or mesh fabric.
Style it rich:
Go for ribbed textures or asymmetrical cuts. Finish with a wide-brim hat and leather flip-flops (please no plastic).
Where to shop:
4. The Oversized Shirt Cover-Up
The “borrowed from his closet” look is a vacation staple for a reason. Breezy, versatile, and rich in energy.
Style it rich:
Wear it unbuttoned over your swimwear or belt it like a dress. Stick to white, soft blue, or sage green. Add a structured mini bag and clean sandals.
Where to shop:
- Uniqlo for crisp, classic cuts
- Pull&Bear (surprisingly great oversized pieces)
- Arket for quality cotton when it’s on sale
5. The Elegant Evening Outfit
We’re talking those alfresco dinners, candlelight, and ocean breezes. Your go-to here: silky camisoles, bias-cut skirts, slip dresses, or tailored culottes.
Style it rich:
Look for satin blends, crepe textures, and minimal detail. Add strappy kitten heels and a sleek clutch. Finish with gold hoop or drop earrings.
Where to shop:
- Nasty Gal’s satin edits are shockingly good
- ASOS DESIGN (they have Tall, Curve, Petite – something for everyone)
- Mango and Zara for elevated separates
Build Your Capsule: Mix, Match, Repeat
You don’t need a full suitcase. You just need the right pieces. Here’s what your chic capsule could look like:
- One linen shirt
- One linen pant or shorts
- One maxi dress
- One swimsuit and sarong
- One tank or camisole
- One pair of slides
- One clutch or woven tote
Rotate. Restyle. Repeat. It’s magic.
Accessorise Like You Have a Stylist
Accessories are where the magic happens. They elevate everything.
Sunglasses:
- Quay Australia
- Mango
- ASOS DESIGN
- River Island
- ALDO
Jewelry:
- H&M for sleek minimal styles
- Amazon dupes galore
- Pilgrim and PDPAOLA for that luxury look on a budget
Shoes:
- Zara (always on point)
- Bershka
- Stradivarius
- Charles & Keith for sleek and sculptural
Bags:
- Mango
- JW Pei
- Anna Field via Zalando
- Amazon’s rattan and crochet styles
The Bottom Line
Looking expensive on vacation isn’t about money. It’s about taste. It’s the details. It’s choosing outfits that breathe, not shout. It’s intentional styling, neutral tones, and knowing how to carry yourself like you know exactly what you’re doing.
You don’t need a trust fund. You just need to know where to shop and how to style it. And now you do.
If you’ve got a favorite vacation look that makes you feel like the best version of yourself, let me know in the comments. I’m always collecting inspiration.
Love always,
Maureen!