I believe half the fun of holidaying is in the planning. Preparing a capsule assortment and arranging clothes like Jenga blocks into bulging cabin luggage (as is often my case) brings so much anticipation. Travelling is also an opportunity to dress to a theme, letting the destination inform your wardrobe choices and play with different combinations.
I’m passionate about intentional purchases, and so I want my holiday buys to have longevity, and where possible, I look for pieces I can wear at home, too. It can be all too easy to make hasty decisions 48 hours before a flight, so I find it's best to start planning your new buys as soon as you book your trip. So what is on my holiday wish list this year?
The oversized shirt is a timeless staple, and this summer, it comes in a plethora of shades, from bright blue to dulcet brown tones, for those of us averse to colour. As for shoes, it's all about the platforms. If Versace's 160-millimetre Triplatform heels are a little too wobbly for you on the cobbled streets of Europe, there are lots of amazing sturdy, chunky sandals that have taken my fancy.
Then we come to the ultimate summer holiday piece: the sundress. Undoubtedly, every summer, it comes back around like clockwork, but this year, there is no shortage of shirred maxi and midi styles. Then we have my favourite: cut-out midi dresses. We all bore witness to the birth of Cult Gaia’s Serita dress in 2021, and this year, it’s an inspired take on the midi style, this time with longer, exaggerated sleeves.
It was hard to whittle it down and create a concise holiday shopping list, but below I’ve brought you some quality pieces that will have you dreaming of your next trip.
1. WOVEN BAGS
Mango released a similar style last year, and we all had non-buyer’s regret.
A forever purchase. I wear mine from spring through to autumn.
A roomier version.
2. TEXTURED AND ASYMMETRIC SWIMWEAR
Sage green with texture in a classic scoop-neck cut.
An update of the classic seersucker style.
You can’t go wrong with a square-neck high-waisted two-piece.
The thin cross-body strap is a modern take on the asymmetric style.
A white swimsuit is a classic in my summer wardrobe.
3. BIG AND BRIGHT SHIRTS
My favourite vibrant summer shirt. You can even add an embroidered monogram!
The only pop of colour you need!
Size up and wear with white jeans or linen trousers for relaxed styling.
4. SHIRRED SUNDRESSES
The tiered length and shirred detail work so well together.
Tuck in the straps for a bandeau fit.
An exaggerated skirt with a '50s silhouette.
The perfect daytime dress in a silk-cotton blend.
5. CROCHET AND FRINGING
An elevated fringe-and-crochet style for beach days and beyond.
An amalgamation of '20s flapper style and modern beachwear.
Wear with an oversized linen shirt, straw beach bag and sunnies.
This beautiful knit is RWS certified!
The closed knit makes this wearable for candlelit dinners.
6. CUT-OUT DRESSES
The one to wear for date night.
A real princess dress.
Featuring an intricate back detail.
7. POPS OF COLOUR
Warehouse’s new plus-size range is here with a bang, Just look at that colour.
Add a black blazer in the evening and flatform shoes.
A white shirt pairs wonderfully with this clementine orange.
Chunky brown sandals look great with this mini.
8. PLATFORM SANDALS
These look just as neat in real life.
An almond colourway to go with any outfit.
Woven leather and platforms—you’re spoiling us, St Agni!
A cushioned sole equals comfort.
Look down for a constant reminder of spring blossoms.
If you're anything like me, flip-flops don't leave your feet for the entirety of your holiday.
9. CO-ORDS
Tuck the top in and belt the pieces together.
A piece that will be in your wardrobe for years.
Ruffles add some flair to this midi style.
Business at the front, party at the back.
A playful take on tailoring.
The laser-cut fabric brings some light into this look.
Guaranteed, this piece will become a timeless wardrobe staple.
Wear with the matching top for your go-to summer uniform.
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