Taking a summer trip to Nashville? Here’s what you should pack.
So you’ve decided to take a little summer trip to Nashville! Known as Music City, Nashville is the home of country music, honky tonks, hipster vibes and some of the best coffee and food in the country. All that to say, you've made a great choice!
The city is thriving like never before, with great entertainment, vibey neighborhoods, and the possibility of a run-in with one of your favorite celebrities - all up for the taking.
But when you’ve got your travel buddies confirmed, and your Air BnB booked, there’s still one big detail you have to think about. What in the world should you pack?
After spending over a decade living and working in Music City, I’d love to offer some recommendations!
If you want to look cool, stylish, and supremely comfortable for your trip to Nash, keep scrolling. Here are the the pieces you’ll be so glad you packed.
What to pack… for a night out in East Nashville
A Vintage Band Tee
When it comes to spending a memorable night out in East Nashville, there's no better way to embrace the vibrant music scene and eclectic atmosphere than wearing a vintage band tee. The perfect weathered tee not only pays homage to legendary artists on the music scene, but it can also be a unique fashion statement!
You can pair your band tee with wide leg jeans, knotted over linen pants, or even layered under your favorite slip dress. It’s the ideal wardrobe piece whether you're eating at one of the East side’s delicious restaurants or checking out the iconic bar scene.
Pro Tip: If you're going vintage, make sure you know a few songs from the artist on your tee… just in case someone asks.
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What to pack…for strolling and shopping in 12 South
Cut-off Denim
When it comes to soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the 12 South neighborhood, there's no better attire than cool-girl cut off denim. Whether you choose a pair of perfectly distressed shorts or a frayed skirt, denim offers the perfect blend of comfort and style while you explore this trendy part of the city. Try pairing your denim with a loose button up shirt and sandals, a perfectly tailored white tee, or a breezy cami with a blazer thrown over it! Then get out there and explore the awesome coffee shops and boutiques with your effortless laid-back look.
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What to pack… for an afternoon sipping wine at Arrington Vineyards
A Strappy Floral Sundress
If you’re ready to take a breath and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you'll love spending an evening with friends at Arrington Vineyards. Pack a picnic dinner and watch the sunset over the rolling Tennessee hills at this winery owned by Kix Brooks from Brooks & Dunn. The dress code? An effortless, breezy dress with delicate florals that you can wear with sneakers, sandals or low heels. When the sun goes down and the live music kicks off, add a lightweight cardigan or denim jacket to complete the look.
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What to pack…for your required trip to the Honky Tonks
White Cowgirl Boots
You know I couldn't leave you without some boot recommendations, right? It just won't feel right to paint the town red in downtown Nashville without some elevated cowgirl boots. And for summer, white is always the preferred choice. These statement-making boots are the perfect mix of country charm and urban sophistication - an ideal choice for your night out in Music City. When you wear your boots, skip the fringe and cowgirl hats. Instead, explore pairing them with leather, denim and other structured pieces to complete your look.
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What to pack….for brunch and people-watching in The Gulch
An Oversized Jacket or Coverup
You can't spend time in Nashville without experiencing brunch! If you're ready to indulge in a delicious brunch experience, head to Nashville's trendy Gulch neighborhood. The Gulch is a walkable destination full of eateries, coffee shops and shopping, and an oversized jacket adds an effortless touch of style for a morning spent exploring. Think chambray, linen or a lightweight blazer to get the vibe of this one right. It's the perfect way to exude a sense of laid-back sophistication in this vibrant Nashville hotspot.
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Regardless of what you do during your summer trip to Nashville, you’re sure to have an amazing time. As you pack, remember to include versatile clothing pieces like this one that can withstand the heat, and comfortable footwear for exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods. And if you happen to do something awesome on your trip, we want to hear it about. Happy travels!
Abby Flynn
Abby Flynn is a content writer and mom of two littles living in Charlotte, NC. She’s also the host of the Joy Rally Podcast. In her free time, she keeps up with the Kardashians, rummages through thrift stores, and loves trying out new restaurants with her husband, Cole. You can find Abby at http://abbyflynn.com or on Instagram at @abbyflynnco.
