This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
Who else finds they pack way too many clothes when they are off on holiday? So many of us are opting for cabin luggage these days, we need to be very selective about what we take. So, without further ado, here are my style choices for a sunny winter holiday capsule wardrobe…
First thing to think about when off on a winter holiday is that it will be cold at the departure airport and, as we found it to be in Marrakech, very (very!) hot on arriving. So layers come to mind. For inspiration, see our recent posts on slouchy fashion and super slipovers.
A COOL DRESS…
Nothing beats a pretty midi or maxi dress when you’re on holiday. Great with flat sandals for daytime, then with statement jewellery and wedges/heeled sandals for the evening.
- Patterned viscose Midi Length Long Sleeve Belted Shirt Dress from Next £54
- Blythe striped shirt dress by Jasper Conran £110
- Trailing Flower Print Maxi Dress (100% recycled satin) at Me+Em £325
When it’s really baking hot, I find there is no option but to go sleeveless and to hell with my bingo wings! These are just the sort of dresses I love to wear – elegant in their simplicity: Linen Rich Knee Length Shift £27.50. If you like a longer length check out the Albee Midi from Hush £65 and/or the Open Collar Tiered Maxi from Me+Em £125.
And I popped into H&M the other day and was delighted to pick up this viscose shirt dress (ie breathable fabric) for £17.99. Generously sized and perfect for a hot climate.
A KAFTAN…
Float around with confidence in one of these. When you’re on holiday, a slightly sheer material is just the ticket because it dries quickly, keeps you cool and can be used in the evenings too. Just as good by the pool as it is while eating a casual lunch. Look no further than Aspiga – they have a wonderful range. BROWSE NOW
A PAIR OF TAILORED SHORTS
Comfortable, not too short, elegant. Such as the cotton rich chino style shorts from M&S £22.50 which are available in six different colours. SHOP NOW
TEE SHIRTS
Two or three tees won’t take up much room and an essential part of your holiday capsule wardrobe. Ideally a couple of plain colours that you can mix and match with your other clothes and perhaps a classic Breton?
SOME LOOSE TROUSERS…
You’ll be cool as a cucumber in a pair of lightweight and breathable trousers. White goes with everything, so is a practical and, let’s face it, rather glamorous choice. We all have our fave styles – wide legged, cropped, leggings – so I’m sure you’ll already have a pair in your wardrobe. I packed my Patra classic 100% Fuji silk straight legged trousers with elasticated waistband (£90, available in 8 colours) with me – so pleased I did as they kept me cool and I like to think I looked cool too!
Or you may prefer the linen rich tapered trousers at M&S (£22.50) which are available in three leg lengths, have a mid-rise elasticated waistband at the back and sides for comfort, as well as front and back pockets.
SANDALS
A pair of ergonomic FitFlops will keep your feet comfortable and cool. And, of course, there’s Aspiga who sell some of the prettiest sandals on the internet: BROWSE NOW
MULTI PURPOSE BAG
Got to be a straw bag – looks great on the beach, by the pool, out sightseeing and in the evening. Check out this one from &OtherStories
SWIMMING COSTUME
If you are lucky enough to have a fabulous bod, un-lumpy knees, toned arms/tum and a smooth cleavage, then you don’t need any style advice from me because you can wear anything you like when you are lounging in the sunshine and look amazing.
If you are like me however, you only put a costume on because you are forced to. And even then I usually have a flimsy cover up over the top, which I only shed as I get in very close proximity to the water! Which is why I recommend flattering swimdresses. They come in all colours and many have Magisculpt elements to keep our tummies looking firm and flat. Take a peek at JD Williams’ range
Lastly, the three S’s: SUNGLASSES – in a protective case. STATEMENT JEWELLERY – a pair of bold earrings and/or necklace will only take up a tiny bit of space in your luggage and yet transform any outfit. SCARF – tie it around your waist as a kikoi when you’re by the pool or on the beach, or use it in the evenings to keep you warm if it’s breezy, or to add colour to an otherwise plain dress.
Now that the Holiday Capsule Wardrobe is sorted, click here for our unmissable holiday packing tips and tricks.