We’ve traveled to Oahu, wine country, Scottsdale, and now Italy with fashion influencer, Sophie Elkus the woman is a master packer — she seems to always have just the right outfit.
When we went to the Amalfi Coast, she had a mix of midcentury Italian glam and summer style that left us envious so we asked her to share her secrets:
I haven’t been anywhere quite like the Amalfi Coast. From the stunning cliffs of Positano and Ravello to the iconic beaches of Capri, I fell in love. Amalfi is all about classic seaside style: white linen dresses, off-the-shoulder accents, a glamorous pair of sunglasses, and feminine silhouettes.
The key is to feel elegant and elevated, but not too overdone — an attitude reflected in the culture too, from the ingredients and wines to the all-around “la dolce vita” way of life. I’m a serial over-packer but I narrowed it to the key items you’d need for an Italian getaway.
Tie Front Shirt
A light button-up like this one by cupcakes and cashmere (I like a subtle stripe or crisp white) will be your jack-of-all-trades top, no matter if you style it over white jeans, a cotton tank dress, or a swimsuit.
Dressed-Up Shorts
Save your cutoffs for another time and instead pack high-waisted linen or cotton short like these tie-front shorts by Blue Life. Wear them with that tie-front shirt and a hat for a look that is minimalist but elegant.
Off-The-Shoulder
The look of the summer—off-the-shoulder tops and dresses—epitomizes vacation glamour. Show off your shoulders in white lace, a subtle print, or this beachy blue number by Sanctuary.
Pop of Red
I love a pop of red but don’t manage to wear it much while going about my day-to-day in LA. There’s something about being in a beautiful setting that inspires me to whip out a brighter color for nighttime, paired with a bright lip and tanned skin. This sleek Cinq a Sept red dress is just fitted enough to flatter while still maintaining that effortless vacation vibe—perfect for a sunset cocktail at Le Sirenuse.
Classic One-Piece Bathing Suit
Yes, you can wear a black bikini anywhere, but I like to channel Gwyn in The Talented Mr. Ripley and pull out a classic one-piece, like this Peixoto one-piece, for European getaways. Since you’re more covered in a one-piece, don’t shy from a super low-cut front, open back, or dramatic (in the best way) cutout.
Boater Hat
True, traveling with a hat can be a pain, but if there’s a place to deal, it’s for Amalfi! A hat is an essential accessory, say, for a photo opp perched on the edge of a Riva boat. Rather than go trendy, take a classic like this Lucky Brand boater—you’ll feel just as glamorous looking back on photos in years to come.
Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Where else are cat-eyes more appropriate than Amalfi? And clear ones by PERVERSE at that? Sunnies this classic elevates even the simplest shorts and tees.
Beach Bag
You’ll need a beach bag for laying out at chic beach clubs like La Fontelina and any old tote won’t do! I love the pom-poms on this neutral striped Mar Y Sol Tybee Tote.
Statement Jewelry
When it’s August-in-Europe kind of hot, I want anything heavy off my skin. So my jewelry choices are a subtle stud earring or delicate necklace for daytime then a statement piece for dinner. Bold earrings are the easiest way to dress up your look, and they don’t have to be a heavy metal either — look for a beaded, fabric, or embellished earring like these fan earrings by SHASHI.
Saddle Bag
My go-to bag style for any vacation is usually a hands-free crossbody bag. And for the Italian coast, I love something neutral with feminine gold accents like this Sole Society number.
Wedge Sandal
The cobblestone streets of Positano and Capri don’t do your stilettos (or ankles) any favors, so go wedge instead. A crisp wedge or espadrille in a low-medium height will work with any outfit or time of day, and they’re comfortable enough to wear on shorter travel days. Truth is, Amalfi Coast is so glamorous, that I was tempted to swap my sneakers out for this scalloped Loeffler shoe whenever possible.
Festive Clutch
My fave accessory of the moment for an Amalfi vacation is a neutral SHASHI bag. I can’t think of anywhere else better to rock this embellished clutch.
Travel to Italy with Salt & Wind!
Speaking of Italy…why not go there with these wardrobe musts in tow this fall? Check out our travel site for all the deets on Milan, the Italian Lakes, and the Franciacorta Wine Region that we can’t wait to visit with you!
Opening photo by Chris Kalima
