Whether you’re exploring a city or staying on the beach permanently, these are the essentials you need. Find them in the Village boutiques now and start packing!
The truly stylish have their packing down to a fine art – and it’s easy to join the club with this expertly selected capsule wardrobe, ready and waiting for your summer getaway.
THE DRESS
The most versatile piece in your holiday capsule wardrobe, the right dress can take you anywhere. A shirt dress in cotton or linen makes the basis for a chic city break outfit, but will work equally well as a smart cover-up that will take you from beach towel to bar stool with no fuss.
THE HAT
Nothing says ‘out of office’ better than a hat, so pack one that’s stylish and sun-safe. Bucket hats were big on the catwalks this season and, when chosen in bright colours or bold prints, make a fun holiday companion that keeps the rays at bay. Opt for an unstructured design to be rolled up in your suitcase or keep your headwear classic with a finely woven panama.
THE BAG
This season’s raffia trend is good news for your holiday wardrobe. A lightweight raffia bag with shoulder-length leather handles will happily double as a beach bag while a cross-body version makes an ideal style for city sightseers. For men, a rucksack or satchel crafted in waterproof technical fabric can likewise serve as a practical carry-all from plane to poolside and all points in between.
THE SHIRT
Lovely linen is the ultimate summer fabric. A cool linen shirt is a must-pack for all – keep it colour neutral for prime pairings or go for a pop of vibrant colour to show off your tan. A well-cut shirt will team well with this season’s tailored shorts and pleated trousers for a smart look, while an oversized one makes a great beach-to-bar transition piece.
THE SANDAL
Take a break from heels in favour of strappy sandals for comfort and style, while slides and mules take minimal space in your suitcase. A tour of the city sights calls for something with a tad more support – a smart pair of trainers will see you right on this front.
THE SUNGLASSES
Make a great pair of sunglasses your holiday style signifier. Pick a frame that’s large enough to offer protection while flattering your face shape, and have fun with different coloured lenses. Green hues work well with classic aviator frames while brown-toned lenses are destined for tortoiseshell styles. Try matching your frame to your outfit too – we’re thinking all-blue or all-red – for maximum impact.
