I Returned From Portugal With 12 Affordable Style Hacks for My Travel Outfit—From $9

Embracing the Portuguese Girl Aesthetic on My Latest Journey

Traveling to Portugal has always been a source of inspiration, but my most recent trip left an undeniable mark on my personal style. From the sun-drenched cliffs of the Algarve to the vibrant wine bars of Porto, I found myself drawn to the bold and expressive fashion that defined the local scene. The “Portuguese Girl” aesthetic—characterized by its mix of texture, playful color palettes, and vintage market energy—was one of the standout trends this summer. It blends coastal ease with a touch of bohemian flair, creating a look that feels both effortless and stylish.

As someone who frequently travels across Europe, I’m always looking for ways to refresh my travel wardrobe. This trip was no different, and I came away with a new appreciation for the colorful, layered styles I encountered. Fortunately, many of these pieces were easy to find, even in my own country. Through Amazon’s fashion section, I discovered affordable versions of the key items I saw during my trip, from delicate crochet vests to flowy floral dresses. Below are 12 style tricks I’ve already incorporated into my rotation—and they’re all available at Amazon, starting at just $9.

Must-Have Fashion Essentials for Your Portuguese-Inspired Wardrobe

Crochet Sleeveless Vest – $13
I spotted these versatile pieces everywhere in Portugal, worn over dresses, paired with denim, or displayed in boutique windows. The lightweight design makes it perfect for layering, and I’ve been wearing mine over a midi dress during the day and swapping it out for jeans and a cropped tank for evenings.

Prettygarden Casual Wrap Maxi Dress – $36 (originally $50)
Flowy, floral dresses are a staple of the Portuguese Girl aesthetic. This wrap-style maxi dress is flattering and easy to wear, with a waist tie that adds shape without being restrictive. The green floral print is ideal for dinner dates or strolls through seaside towns.

Ewedoos Wide-Leg Stretchy Trousers – $28 (originally $37)
Wide-leg trousers were everywhere during my trip, and I loved how they paired with everything from cropped tanks to oversized button-downs. These stretchy pants offer two inseam options, making them perfect for shorter frames.

Soda Combat Ankle Bootie – $30 (originally $50)
Chunky black boots are trending in Portugal, often styled with soft, feminine pieces like floral dresses. These combat boots provide the same look without the heavy price tag, with a lug sole for traction and a side zipper for easy wear.

Houlengs Button Down Long Sleeve V Neck Crop Cardigan – $37
This rainbow cardigan captures the bold, colorful style I saw throughout Portugal. It looks like it came straight from a vintage market stall and pairs well with neutral basics for a pop of color.

Sojos Vintage Oversized Square Sunglasses – $13
Oversized square sunglasses are a must-have for the Portuguese Girl aesthetic. These affordable shades have a chunky black frame and gradient lenses, perfect for beach days or wine tastings.

Beaded Crossbody Bag – $16
Beaded bags are making a comeback in Portugal, and this small crossbody bag is perfect for carrying essentials without weighing you down. The bright beading gives it a handmade, playful look.

Dr. Scholl's Women's Time Off Sneaker – $75 (originally $110)
A clean white sneaker is essential for any travel wardrobe. These platform sneakers offer comfort and style, working with nearly every outfit.

Cici Bell Women’s Casual Blazer – $50 (originally $59)
Lightweight blazers are popular in Portugal as daytime layers. This linen-blend blazer is structured enough for dinner but light enough for daytime wear.

Dailyacc Lightweight Bandana Scarf – $9
This polka dot scarf adds a playful touch to any outfit, perfect for tying around your head or a purse. It gives off a Euro-chic vibe and is incredibly affordable.

iPierre Dumas Women's Medallion Slide Thong Sandal – $40
Bright sandals are a key element of Portuguese style. These slides feature a medallion detail and are comfortable for all-day exploring.

Gold Chunky Hoop Earrings – $15
Gold hoops are a timeless accessory, and these chunky yet lightweight earrings add polish to any look. They catch the light beautifully and work for both day and night.

Whether you're planning a trip to Portugal or simply looking to update your travel wardrobe, these pieces are a great way to channel the bold, colorful aesthetic that made such an impression on me.