As we near those sacred few days towards the end of the year, where the world collectively switches on their 'out of office', the fantasy of vacation dressing starts to take hold. Maybe it’s the sun-soaked version of yourself you imagine stepping off the plane – nailing that impossible balance between comfortable and chic for the airport. Or, maybe it's the version of yourself sitting at the hotel bar, with salty hair and a cocktail in hand, wearing something light and linen after a day spent on the sand. It's a feeling Australians know intimately — on our side of the globe, summer arrives as both a season and an invitation, reshuffling our wardrobes into something altogether more easy-breezy.

Whether you're hopping on a plane to somewhere remote, or venturing by car to your favourite nearby beach, that shift in mood seeps into the everyday. The days stretch longer, plans spill into evenings, and the clothes we reach for naturally loosen their grip — lighter fabrics, softer silhouettes, pieces that can carry you from a morning swim to a late dinner without much thought. In other words, vacation dressing is less about where you are, and more about how you want to feel: unhurried, sun-kissed, and in a permanently relaxed state.

It follows that mastering the art of vacation dressing isn’t just about finding the perfect bikini or sundress. It’s about mood. Want to capture the feeling? Below, our edit of pieces that capture that spirit — whether you’re packing a suitcase or simply dressing for an Australian summer in full swing.

MISSONI Mare open-back striped metallic crochet-knit mini dress

MATTEAU Gathered organic cotton and silk-blend maxi dress

PUCCI Printed silk-twill halterneck tank

Bondi Born Ardea Draped Dress

JETS Minimal Tank One Piece

FAITHFULL Lia Maxi Dress Valentina Broderie Black

AMBER SCEATS Lucca Earrings

CHRISTOPHER ESBER Stripe Knit Ruched Orbit Tee and Stripe Knit Extension Drape Mini Skirt

VENROY Cross Back Silk Cami and Layered Silk Skirt

DISSH Wilma White Sleeveless Lace Tunic Top and Wilma White Lace Pant

CHLOÊ Jelly TPU sandals

POSSE Salma Mini Dress

Need more sartorial inspiration for your next getaway? Why not get acquainted with our pick of the best string bikinis, or peruse the brands we're shopping for summer linens.