No Excess Baggage Required

It's a rare sight to see Olivia Cigliano, News & Deals Editor at InStyle, without her trusty luggage in tow. The chronic overpacker's reputation precedes her, with friends and family often pitching in to help maneuver the weighty load. But this summer, Cigliano's got a new approach – courtesy of fashion expert Dawn Del Russo.

The pair teamed up to pare down the packing list, focusing on what Del Russo calls "amazing foundation pieces" from Quince that adhere to the 3-3-3 rule: three tops, three bottoms, and three shoes that can be mixed and matched to create a whopping 27 outfit combinations. Cigliano's new summer uniform is built around these versatile staples.

The first piece Del Russo highlights is a simple tank top made from 100 percent linen. This elevated basic can be styled into a work look with pants or dressed down for a cool-girl street-style vibe, thanks to its thicker straps and charming buttons that climb down the back. It's a quality that Cigliano agrees is paramount – this top is that.

Next up is a classic button-down shirt in linen. Del Russo touts its endless versatility, saying it can be worn open over a swimsuit at the beach, tucked into shorts for casual outings, or dressed up with a silk maxi skirt. There are 14 different color and print options to choose from, but neutrals or solid tones will yield the most versatility.

For dinner dates or nicer occasions, Cigliano's packing this low-maintenance silk cami that Del Russo describes as "so lightweight in the summer heat." It features a not-too-low V-neckline, adjustable straps, and a subtle sheen that shoppers say makes it feel elegant. The fashion pro adds that it also makes for an easy layering piece, whether paired under a cardigan or over a tee.

A skort is Del Russo's go-to summer staple – it's the ultimate in comfort and practicality. This particular style features a high-rise silhouette that bodes well for shorter summer tops, and the front overlap panel is both flattering and elevated, hiding comfy-soft shorts underneath.

Historically, Cigliano's packed multiple pairs of pants for a trip, but Del Russo advocates for a single pair: European Linen Wide Leg Pants. All they require is a basic top for a complete outfit, she says, and the relaxed fit will prevent that sticky feeling that often comes with thicker fabrics. Reviewers rave that they're perfect for long flights, making them double as both lounge and daytime pants.

The stylist also recommends this maxi skirt as a third bottom option – it can be worn casually during the day or accessorized for a night out. The elastic waist gives the option of wearing it higher or lower based on comfort, and one shopper agrees that it's great for travel due to its lightweight construction.

When it comes to footwear, Del Russo advises starting with an everyday white sneaker that's clean and ready to wear. This best-selling pair from Quince features durable leather uppers and cushy ortholite insoles that fans attest are blister-free and super comfy right out of the box.

Next up is a pair of podiatrist-approved block heel sandals that Del Russo calls "so on trend." The brown leather style will take any look up a notch or two, and they feature TPU inserts for enhanced traction. Flat, slip-on sandals round out the trio – an easy-on-and-off shoe perfect for dashing to activities.

With these three categories of travel staples, Cigliano's created a wardrobe that can be mixed and matched to create up to 27 combinations. Del Russo shares her top three looks that come to mind: a classic combination featuring a linen crop top, linen pants, and block heels; a relaxed look pairing the silk cami with a skort and slides; or a model-off-duty vibe combining the linen button-down with the silk maxi skirt (untucked) and sneakers.

There you have it – Cigliano's new summer uniform built around Quince's versatile foundation pieces. The possibilities are endless, making self-styling on vacation all the more fun like a choose-your-adventure game every day while away.