Weeks and even months before my summer holiday, I spend a lot of time going over and over in my head what I'm going to pack in my suitcase, wishing the days will go faster and the calendar rolls past magically like it does in the movies so I can be on my way already!
We know how stressful it can be organising a lots of different outfits (and squeezing them all into a tiny space - thanks Ryanair). And no one wants to end up like this at the boarding gate:
So here are some of our top tips to pack in style:
Basics:
Just like your foundation pieces in your wardrobe, your luggage needs some pieces you can wear with multiple outfits.White shirt: great with shorts, over a bikini or tied up with a maxi skirt.
Denim shorts: to wear with almost anything. Wear during the day to the beach/pool or add wedges and a kimono for the evening.
Breton top: the epitome of chic. Coco Chanel stole hers from her lovers, just saying.
LBD: your best little black dress will do the trick when you have used up all your summery dresses and have not much left to wear. Pair with gorgeous gladiator sandals and lots of colourful necklaces to give the LBD the appropriate summer feeling.
Trend Alert items:
Just a few stand-out pieces can offer a lot of variety without taking up a lot of space/weight.White dress: crochet, lace, chiffon... The white dress is a favourite and no need to explain why, mixed with a gentle tan and nude sandals for a gorgeous bohemian look.
Swimsuit: if you don't mind the tanning marks, this piece is a versatile must have. It looks chic while chilling on the pool under a white shirt or for the evening with denim shorts and statement jewellery.
Bikini: mix and match print ones with plain colours for even more options. Tribal, checked, tropical or stripes are some of the most popular prints of this season.
Skater skirt + crop top: the substitute of the maxi dress, wear them together or separate.
Playsuit: a great alternative of the dress. A tropical print one for the day, a jewel tone one for the night.
Accessories:
A few simple accessories can give your basics a fresh twist while provided some much-needed protection.Scarf: perfect for turbans, cover yourself on the plane (otherwise get a cold with the air conditioning!), use as an improvise skirt or top, etc.
Sunglasses: a pair of cat eyes sunnies are flattering to most faces and will be the best cherry at the top on the cake in your outfits.
Hat: A straw hat goes perfect for the pool or a walk around the city.
Shoes:
Footwear is probably the most annoying part of packing, but with even with a small set of choices you can balance comfort and chic for whatever you choose to do.Flat sandals: perfect to walk around the airport, during transfers, at the beach, etc.
Birkenstock are definitely the way to go. We love the embellished ones for a touch of glam to our basic outfits.
Gladiator: a nude leather pair if gladiators goes well with everything and are super comfy for a night out if you can't be bothered with heels.
Wedges: swap the espadrilles (so last year) for a wooden look wedge with leather straps, they will be great for the evening too.
Jewellery:
Keep your jewellery packed well and securely (especially if you're taking cherished pieces). Or get some nice new holiday pieces to go with your gorgeous tanStatement necklace: a beautiful silver and turquoise necklace will look great with any of your summer outfits from day to night.
Earrings: hoops,
Rings: a cocktail ring with a colourful stone is the only thing you need to make your LBD or white dress stand out.
Bags:
The irony of packing a bag in a glorified bag is not lost on us, but trust me having a couple of bags spare can be handy.Across body bucket bag: forget the big Birkin bag of the likes of Mrs Beckham. Remember, if you don't have a personal bellhop to carry your luggage around for you a good size bucket bag will be perfect for all your important stuff while leaving both hands free for the rest of your luggage.
Pool side bag: for the towel, snacks, sunscreen sunglasses, ipad, books, magazine... Why do we women need so much stuff by the sea? But yeah, for all this "necessary stuff" a great tote bag or shopping bag will do the trick. Also perfect for the extra goodies you will most likely be bringing back from holiday that don't quite fit in your suspiciously fuller suitcase.
Now you know what to take you can leave packing to the last minute!