All of us want to know the secret to mastering the perfect holiday wardrobe. We want clothes that make us feel special, that indicate we are away somewhere beautiful with our best people.
We also don’t want to spend part of that precious holiday worrying about what to wear, which is why we’ve rounded up 10 key sunshine-ready styles that will make you look more pulled-together. With these investments stored in your suitcase, you’ll also avoid overpacking too (this fashion editor’s personal nemesis).
There’s also something about holiday style that can make us buy things we would never wear in ordinary life, a time that makes even minimalists reach for crochet or pompom trims. This is all fine so long as you actually wear them – what you need are pieces that will be useful on your trip, that cater to the activities you’ll be doing and the people you’re with. There’s no point in filling your carry-on with white linen if you’re travelling with toddlers, it’ll just make you feel resentful. Plus, its futile to pack heels, ever really, unless it’s a sturdy block incarnation. Cobbled streets and beaches seldom make good use of a stiletto. Bring your most beloved clothes, the ones that make you feel your sunniest self.
The below edit spotlights essentials that can be worn multiple ways for multiple trips. There are no one-hit wonders here, just hard-working staples that will offer maximum practicality and style.
The Versatile One-Piece
Invest in a swimsuit that you feel good in. It often feels mad to spend more on something with such little fabric, but premium price tags often come with more long-lasting materials and better support. Hunza G’s one-size-fits-all swimwear is famed for its flattering propensities and timeless designs.
The Cashmere Jumper
Stay with me here; it is always worth packing a light jumper when travelling. Not only is it useful for the cool AC climes of flights, but it’s also a godsend for chillier evenings. Goosebumps just isn’t chic, so bring a cashmere jumper in a neutral tone. Uniqlo and M&S do more budget-friendly versions, while Brunello Cucinelli and Khaite offer beautiful luxury versions.
The Day-To-Night Dress
A perfect summer dress should make you feel like a lighter, more carefree version of yourself. It should work during the day, but also have after-dark mileage. Head to DÔEN, Zimmermann, Ulla Johnson and Farm Rio for breezy styles. I recently discovered resort wear brand Matteau, who specialise in classic designs with real sun-drenched energy – like this black midi with cut-out bow detailing at the back. You can’t go too far wrong with a LBD.
It feels counterintuitive to take anything that could conceivably be worn to an office on holiday, but a classic, oversized shirt makes a great staple. Leave anything fitted at home; you’re after loose, boyfriend-style silhouettes. I like wearing mine on the beach as a cover-up, and also tucked into shorts for city breaks. Look for breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen to cater to warmer temperatures.
The Denim Cut-Offs
There is a lot of talk about how denim cut-offs shouldn’t be worn after the age of 35, but ignore all that. If you don’t want to feel like a malnourished Love Island contender, then choose high-waisted styles with a roomier cut, like the below style from Mango. The joy of denim cut-offs is that they go with everything whether shirts, vests or jumpers.
The Classic Leather Sandals
Don’t ruin a holiday with uncomfortable footwear; a sturdy pair of leather sandals is a true travel asset. We love Ancient Greek Sandals for their versatile, timeless designs. Black and brown styles have more longevity, but don’t overlook the power of silver which have a surprisingly adaptable edge to. Holiday sandals should be easy to put on and take off, and flat is better – after all, your feet deserve a break too.
The Tank Top
This is the year when the tank top comes into its own. Prada and Loewe have elevated this reliable staple with catwalk versions, but of course you don’t need to blow the budget when it comes to a good tank – the high street offers plenty of affordable iterations, like this below Arket style. Again hugely versatile, the tank brings a sporty, streamlined element to any given outfit.
The Oversized Shades
Few things spell ‘holiday’ more like a pair of great shades. Spend time finding sunglasses you really love – you’ll wear them more than anything else you pack on holiday, so it pays to get it right. Although micro-shades have enjoyed a recent renaissance, a classic oversized style is hard to beat and almost universally flattering.
The Beach Necklace
Details matter; lean into the holiday vibe with one piece that really speaks to farflung shores. Think about shell necklaces (this one from Isabel Marant is made from vibrant jasper) and colourful pendants. If all that feels too gap year, then consider a string of pearls – Missoma offers beach-ready contemporary versions.
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Lead picture: Courtesy of Matteau
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