Holiday wardrobe ideas

Holiday packing is probably the least fun part of getting ready for your summer break. Packing the wrong items or arriving without a crucial thing is every holiday-maker’s worst nightmare. On the reverse side of the coin is the way that most of us pack way too much and end up wearing the same few items despite the twenty tops they still have in their suitcase. There are a few essentials that you shouldn’t leave home without and once you have these basics right your packing should be a breeze.

Jersey tops

Tops are the mainstay of any holiday wardrobe and jersey ones are just about your best friend. They are low cost and come in every colour you can imagine. Even better they take up next to no space in your suitcase and will arrive at your destination completely wearable without ironing.

Take along at least enough for one for every day of your holiday and a couple of extras. Add some variety with a selection of colours and styles. Sleeveless styles are great for holidays but, if you’re looking for something super flattering then also think about three quarter sleeves as they are the most flattering cut. They end at the slimmest part of your arm giving the illusion of a slimmer arm overall.

By choosing a selection of different styles and sleeve lengths, you also open up the possibility of being able to layer your tops if the weather is a little colder.

Swimwear

Swimwear is essential for a sunshine holiday if you are to make the most of the sun, sea and pool. For a week or more it is really important to take along at least a couple of different sets of swimwear to allow one to be drying while you wear the other to the pool.

There is a huge variety of styles available now that it is easy to find something to flatter every figure whatever body concerns there are. If you’re on the curvier side and tempted to keep everything hidden away under low leg swimming costume or beach cover up then you might be interested to know that a higher cut leg on a swimming costume actually makes your legs appear longer and slimmer and by choosing a swimming costume with a great detail around a V-neck will draw the eye to the centre of your body creating the illusion of a slimmer silhouette.

Some of the new styles available include swimdresses which are high on the fashion agenda right now. These include a flirty little skirt to skim your hips and create a more hourglass shape. You’ll feel more girly instantly and look utterly feminine by the pool.

Dresses

Holidays are a great time to get your dresses out. They’re easy to wear and perfect for the sunshine. Linen and cotton dresses are great if you’re heading to a super-hot climate, although be warned that these are prone to creasing. Jersey dresses are less likely to crease so make your choice carefully or of course, take a long a travel iron.

Maxi dresses are a hot choice right now and they’re great for all body types. A versatile jersey maxi dress can take you through a day’s sightseeing, a night on the tiles and even at the beach. Dress them up with heels and jewellery or down with flats.

Cropped trousers

Cropped trousers are a great partner for holidays. Choose a relaxed fitting pair for casual days exploring streets and sights of interest and pair with a jersey top for a simple outfit. For evenings your casual pair can work with a dressier top and jewellery coupled with evening sandals. For the most flattering look, as your trousers are looser cut try to complement these with a more tightly fitting top to avoid adding inches you don’t need to. You could also take along a pair of more fitted crops for evening wear if you have room in your suitcase.

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