If you’re anything like us, you may have left your holiday booking a little late, or perhaps been left wondering if it was even going ahead at all. Naturally, vacation shopping is a slightly more limited, last minute affair – which makes the search for the perfect holiday capsule wardrobe even more of a challenge. However, as always, we’ve got you covered with ease – be it a carry on bag or cabin case, here are the holiday essentials you should add to your need-to-pack list.
The Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Essentials You Need
Must-have swimwear
The first thing you need? A stylish piece of swimwear to carry everywhere you go. As mentioned by Melissa Odabash herself, always have a bikini on hand, that way if your luggage goes missing, you can still still go for a swim. When it comes to packing more than one set, try and go for mix and match styles you can coordinate with ease.
Melissa Odabash Yellow Corfu Swimsuit – £85
Promise Black Ava Underwire Bikini Top + Midi Bikini Bottom – £29
Seafolly Reflex Blue Spirit Animal Ring Front Maillot – £38
Wear-everywhere sandals
Whilst we feel perfectly coordinating shoes to our outfit is the perfect pastime, they do tend to take up quite a lot of space. That’s why it’s best to stick to just one or two pairs of shoes that have a multitude of purposes. Think about perhaps a pair of neutral flats and some espadrille wedges, perfect for transitioning from daytime to evening with simplicity.
Ash Pink Salt Leather Precious Sandals – £89
Paseart Brown Leather Wedge Espadrille Sandal – £39
Oliver Sweeney Cream Matilde Chain Luxe Leather Flats – £69
Gold jewellery
Whilst accessorising is of the upmost of importance when curating a summer look (if not for putting together the perfect ensemble for an Instagram post), it’s not always the best idea to take your most prized jewellery possessions. Instead, fake it until you make it with seriously chic costumer jewellery. Plus, a gold piece will offset your tan in the most complimentary way (be it a real or faux one).
Liv Oliver Gold Link Bracelet – £35
Otiumberg Gold The Dash Chain Necklace – £59
Astrid & Miyu Rose Gold Shell Huggies – £29
Linen shorts or trousers
The ultimate summer material, a lightweight linen pair of trousers will forever be fashionable year in and year out. Stick to a classic, neutral hue for exceptional versatility, then complete with a Breton top or a crisp white blouse.
Le Jardin Du Lin Rose Straight Linen Trousers – £25
No. Eleven Black Linen Paperbag Trouser – £39
Mango Green Cropped Linen-Blend Trousers – £17
A timeless Breton top
Complete your linen look with a versatile, goes-with-everything Breton top. Ideal for wearing on cool evenings in warmer locations, or during the day to perfect your staycation style in the likes of Cornwall and Devon, look to the traditional navy and white striped combination, or you can brighten things up with a more colourful variation.
Crew Clothing Green Stripe Breton Top – £12
Boden Striped Long Sleeve Breton Top – £16
Laycuna London Lemon/Cream Cotton Long Sleeve Breton Stripe Tee – £14
A spacious-yet-chic tote bag
Be it emergency hand luggage, essential snacks or sun cream, it’s more than likely that you’ll need a larger bag for your staycation ensembles. However, keep it chic with a designer piece to add flair to your looks. Raffia and basket bags are a real style essential this year, or look to a branded piece by your favourite designers. The beauty of the tote is that is has a multitude of functions, so don’t be afraid to spend a little more if you’re in search of something with longevity.
A throw on dress
Simplicity and effortless elegance is key when you go on holiday, especially if it’s a hotter destination. Whether you’re heading from beach to bar, perusing the local shops and markets or socialising with friends, look for a piece that’s not only lightweight and flowing, but equally looks good. When it comes to the colours, think bright and bold – you’ll attract all eyes on you in the very best way.
Pranella Forest Beatrice Maxi Dress – £89
Melissa Odabash Yellow Kirsty Tropical Wrap Dress – £85
Poupette St Barth Blue Watercolour Sylvia Off Shoulder Mini Dress – £85
A versatile midi skirt
Another throw on piece (and great with a bikini top), a midi skirt again has that simple day-to-evening appeal that is vital for any holiday capsule wardrobe. On-trend both with a pop of print or in a plainer style, pair with a cute cami and sliders for an easy outfit solution.
Maje Red/White Striped Midi Skirt – £49
Hush Red Floral Ossie Pleated Midi Skirt – £39
Mango Light/Pastel Grey Bow Midi Skirt – £17
An oversized shirt
In case you haven’t already got the idea, simplicity and neutral hues are a priority for your vacation style. For a chic staple, or used as a lightweight layer, look to an oversized shirt. Whether paired with trousers, on top of a dress, your swimwear or as a jacket for the journey home, it’ll be the one piece you’ll be the most grateful about packing.
