Stylish Ensembles Donned by Europe's Fashion Icons During Their Non-Vacation Hours
In the heart of Europe, where magical destinations lie within reach of a weekend trip, fashion trends lean towards effortless, sophisticated, and versatile pieces that blend elegance with practicality. Allyson Payer, a senior editor for our platform, has put together a "staying local" outfit roundup to showcase these key trends for summer 2025.
Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Allyson joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant. Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she holds a BFA in theater arts, and her knowledge of fashion and style shines through in this roundup.
For the Parisian cityscape, a white linen dress, paired with a raffia bag and flat sandals, exudes a polished yet comfortable look, perfect for local, everyday wear. Another Parisian outfit features a striped tee, capri pants, and kitten-heel pumps, offering a chic and trendy ensemble suitable for various occasions.
In the city of lights, minimalist, quiet luxury styles are also prevalent. A scarf top paired with silky pants and ballet flats is a timeless combination that embodies understated elegance. For a more casual look, a tank top, studded belt, mini shorts, and ballet flats create a stylish yet laid-back outfit.
The European style for summer 2025 also includes muted yet modern color palettes, such as soft reds, sky blues, and other shades that add continental sophistication without requiring a complete wardrobe change. Light, breathable fabrics, like thin-knit dresses, provide versatility between casual and dressy settings.
Strapless tops with denim skirts or jeans are making a comeback, combining comfort with a refined European aesthetic when staying local. Layering pieces, such as brown suede jackets or matching sets, add a chic and practical touch to any outfit, suitable for city life or cooler summer evenings.
In Oslo, the key pieces include the J.Crew Étienne Oversized Shirt in Striped Cotton Poplin and Reformation Wren Knit Top. For London, the Madewell Cotton Perfect Crewneck Tee and Adidas 3 Stripes Sprinter Shorts are must-haves, while in Copenhagen, the Massimo Dutti Cropped Suede Leather-Lined Jacket With Buttons, Everlane The Dream Capri, and Madewell Tamia Heeled Thong Sandals are essential items for any wardrobe.
The Netherlands outfit features the J.Crew Heritage Terry Short-Sleeve Sweatshirt, Lovers and Friends Eloise Mini Skirt, and Reformation Marnie Heeled Sandals. Meanwhile, the Oslo outfit includes the key pieces of the J.Crew Cotton Perfect Crewneck Tee and Reformation Wren Knit Top.
In the city of love, a second Paris outfit showcases the Jenni Kayne Kinney Dress and Schutz Elysa Flat Sandals, while a third Paris outfit highlights FLORE FLOREE'sme Tank Top, Madewell Studded Western Belt, and Spanx Stretch Twill 5 Shorts. The fourth Paris outfit features the Reformation Asher Oversized Long Sleeve Tee and MAJORELLE Claudia Capri Pants.
Lastly, the London outfit consists of a red t-shirt, a cotton crewneck tee, athletic shorts, a sweater, and block-heel pumps, offering a comfortable and stylish ensemble suitable for various occasions. The Copenhagen outfit includes a brown suede jacket, capri pants, and high-heel flip-flops, combining elegance with practicality for urban living.
Overall, chic Europeans favor timeless and adaptable pieces with a focus on quality, understated elegance, and easy incorporation of trending colors, allowing them to transition seamlessly from sidewalk cafés to work or social outings without the "holiday" vibe dominating.
Incorporating these trendy European outfit ideas, Allyson Payer's lifestyle curation for summer 2025 also highlights essential fashion-and-beauty choices for home-and-garden enthusiasts. The vibrant color palettes, such as soft reds, sky blues, and more, extend beyond clothing, incorporating home decor items like cushions, rugs, and garden furniture.
