What to Pack for a Stylish Getaway to Charleston, South Carolina
Anyone who tries to tell you Charleston is just a quaint Southern town hasn’t experienced the city with fresh eyes—or with a designer’s attention to detail. Charleston is a sensory delight, a jewel box of historic charm and contemporary flair, and it earns its top-spot status on every travel enthusiast’s list for good reason.
From the vibrant, centuries-old architecture to the innovative culinary scene that rivals any major metropolis, Charleston is a city that doesn’t just welcome you—it charms you. Picture cobblestone streets lined with pastel-hued homes, landmark churches, and oak trees draped in Spanish moss, all nestled beside a glittering harbor. It’s the kind of place where history and modernity blend effortlessly—just like a well-styled room.
And let’s not forget the shopping. This city is a curated dream of designer boutiques, charming antique malls brimming with one-of-a-kind finds, timeless jewelry stores, and artisan markets showcasing traditional Gullah craftsmanship. Every stroll through town feels like a treasure hunt.
So, what does one wear in a place that’s equal parts chic, historical, and sultry with humidity? Think effortless elegance with breathable fabrics, polished accessories, and a touch of Southern charm. To help you travel in style, I’ve put together a thoughtfully edited packing list that ensures you’re as prepared for a rooftop cocktail as you are for a morning exploring the historic district.
Stay tuned—your Holy City packing list awaits, and trust me, you’ll want every detail just right.
- Ecru Sunglasses by Tuckernuck Handcrafted from clear acetate with 100% UVA and UVB protection to keep your eyes safe from the sun, these eccentric sunnies are as functional as they are fashionable. Timeless and effortlessly chic, this gorgeous pair looks incredible in all seasons, with any southern outfit,
2. Veronica Rancher Palm Hat- The sunny city requires sun protection and this gorgeous woven hat is so stylish. Bringing a chic, wide-brimmed woven hat to Charlotte, SC is a must—it’s the perfect blend of style and sun protection. With the city’s warm Southern charm and sunny strolls through historic streets or rooftop brunches, this accessory keeps you cool, shaded, and effortlessly polished.
3. A fun set of light weight earrings is always a must.
4. The Perfect Travel Dress- Effortless, classy, and feminine, we love everything that the James Dress brings to the table. This maxi is cut in a flattering A-line silhouette that is easy yet elevated. Easy to dress up or down, we are pairing this show stopper with heels and gold accessories for date night, flats for showers, and white sneakers for a casual picnic with the gals.
5. This stunning dress from Hemline in Winter Park, FL is perfect for Charleston, SC.
This dress was practically made for strolling down King Street or sipping a French 75 on a hotel rooftop. The breathable cotton eyelet fabric keeps you cool without compromising on style, and the soft blue hue echoes the coastal tones of the city—sky, harbor, and all. Pair it with a simple slide sandal and a woven clutch, and you’re ready for anything from brunch at The Darling to an afternoon gallery visit in the French Quarter.
6. Park Avenue Jewel Clear Vinyl Slides
Why they’re perfect for Charleston:
Charleston is a walking city, and these sandals strike that ideal balance between style and practicality. The block heel gives you the polish you want for elevated settings—think lunch at Zero George or browsing through an art gallery—while still being comfortable enough to wander the cobblestone streets of the Historic District. The fresh tone pairs beautifully with a breezy dress or pants, tailored shorts, or even a linen set, making them a capsule wardrobe essential for your trip. Elegant, easy, and effortless—just like Charleston itself.
7. The Perfect Lightweight Crossbody Bag: Camille Cane Belt Bag
A cane lightweight crossbody bag is the perfect companion for a trip to Charleston—both effortlessly stylish and wonderfully practical. Its woven texture adds a touch of organic, coastal charm that mirrors the city’s breezy elegance, while the structured silhouette keeps your look polished, not too casual. Lightweight by design, it won’t weigh you down as you stroll through the Battery or peruse the shops along King Street.
The crossbody style is key—keeping your hands free for snapping photos of pastel row houses, holding an iced matcha, or sifting through treasures at the antique market. And unlike larger totes, it offers just enough space for your daily essentials: phone, cardholder, lip gloss, and a pair of oversized sunnies. Bonus points if it has a leather strap or brass hardware—those little details elevate the whole look.
In a city where fashion leans classic with a wink of charm, a cane crossbody is both a functional must-have and a chic finishing touch.
8. A Comfortable, but chic t-shirt.
Fashioned in our favorite, year-round jersey-knit organic linen, this flattering tee will stay in your constant rotation. Geometric embroidery frames the silhouette with feminine flair. A stylish linen shirt is a must when visiting Charleston—lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly refined. It keeps you cool in the city’s signature heat and humidity while still looking polished for everything from brunch al fresco to a gallery tour. Plus, it pairs seamlessly with everything from tailored shorts to flowy skirts, making it a versatile staple in your travel wardrobe.
9. A pair of very comfortable walking sneakers. Inspired by the mythology of the Phoenix, our new sneaker brings attention to the technical details that create an everyday sneaker. Crafted in unlined leather for a lightweight feel and deconstructed look, tonal stitching outlines the streamlined shape and a translucent rubber sole reveals the shoe’s internal construction. Finished with an embroidered Double T and contrast back tab.
10. A Pull On Linen Short from Banana Republic. The vibe is vacation. We cut these easy shorts from our signature linen, a favorite fabric for its ability to stay cool and crisp even in heat and humidity. Style with all-linen everything.
