There’s nothing quite like a Euro-Summer city break. There is always so much to see and do (and eat and drink), you’re never short of things to do and experiences to have. And whilst every city of course has its own unique style and personality, there are some undeniable staples you’ll need to pack for maximum comfort whilst looking and feeling your best.
The vibes are 1990s/00s model off-duty, with comfort, practicality and the heat of the European summer in mind… let’s get into it!
1. Cross Body Bag
The Crosstown Bag by Graco Makes is a beautiful crescent shaped bag with an adjustable strap so it can be worn as a cross body or as a shoulder bag. It’s the perfect size – big enough to fit all your essentials for a day exploring, but not too big that you’ll feel like you’re carrying your entire 20kg baggage allowance with you.
The inside zip pocket is so great for added security, which having been a victim of pickpocketing in on a euro-summer city break years ago (one passport and purse down), I can safely say is a must.
The pattern itself comes as a pdf, is aimed at confident beginners and has SO many amazing reviews. Bags are such a great way to add extra style to an outfit, and with the shape of the crosstown bag already so stunning, this is a complete winner. I’ll have one in every colour please.
2. Cargo Trousers
The Lane Pants by Sydney Graham have it all for your euro-summer city break: super comfortable loose-fit, lightweight and the additional of the cargo pockets give some added functionality to the fit. You can also make the trousers with an elasticated or a drawstring waistband depending on your preference, and of course, you can leave the cargo pockets off if that’s more your style.
The pattern comes as a digital download for you to print off at home, and a detailed YouTube tutorial for you to sew along to. For more inspo, we definitely recommend checking Sydney Graham out on TikTok, she is a sewing genius!
3. Racer Tank
Let’s be honest, every wardrobe needs a staple tank top and the racer style is so flattering for every figure. For this, the Muscle Tank by Wardrobe by Me in a stretchy jersey fabric couldn’t be more perfect for a effortlessly cool look, and with the right accessories, the tank would be the perfect basic to dress up for an evening out.
You could keep the whole tank one colour, but a tank top with contrast binding is everywhere this year. I’m currently loving a black fabric for the main body, white fabric for the contrast binding – a super simple way to add some edge to your outfit (pardon the pun).
4. Boxer Shorts
Yes, you read that right – boxer shorts – they are everywhere this year, and it’s not hard to see why. They are comfortable, lightweight and effortlessly cool. With the elasticated waist and working fly, the Boxer Shorts pattern from Measure Twice Cut Once are the perfect addition to your city break wardrobe. What’s more, Peppermint Patterns have very generously offered the pattern on a pay-what-you-can basis, making it accessible for everyone (but please do pay what you can!).
Depending on your desired fit, you may wish to widen both the front and back leg for more ease walking around. Shorts are a really simple and quick make, so if you’re new to sewing or unsure where to start this summer, start here!
5. The Baby Tee
The Honeygirl T-shirt by Paradise Patterns and Lyrical Fabrics is the perfect nod to 90s baby tees, with a slightly fitted body and short cap sleeves. It is cropped, but if you prefer a longer fit, you can easily add that to the bottom of the pattern. This pattern is also super versatile in its options of crew neck or round neck, and the option of adding long sleeves instead. This is one you will come back to time and time again through each season, so you’ll certainly get your money’s worth.
As with the racer tank, adding a contrast neckline is the perfect way to add more colour to your fit, but if you truly want to embrace the early 00s baby tee style and if you’re feeling confident, you could add a slogan to the front using patch letters e.g. the iconic Britney ‘Dump Him’ t-shirt.
With your step count through the roof, and your brain full of historical facts from museums across the continent, you may be in need of a relaxing trip to the beach. Ready to dive in? Watch this space, we may be able to help!
In the meantime, if you’re in need of more fabric (when are we not?), check out the latest on some of the best fabric shops in the UK here.
