Packing for a holiday trip can be frustrating when you struggle to fit everything in your wardrobe into a tiny cabin bag. A retail expert has shared her tips for jetsetters on creating a “perfect holiday capsule wardrobe”.
We understand that you might want to fit as many outfit opportunities as you can, so a capsule wardrobe with key fashion pieces is essential to avoid overpacking.
Lorna Meikle, Head of Womenswear at House of Bruar, lends her expertise in fashion to give you advice on pulling a combination of on-trend outfits to elevate your holiday style.
She said: “A white T-shirt is an essential fashion staple for holidays and to have as an all-year-round capsule wardrobe option. Selecting a neutral, solid colour gives you limitless options for dressing up or down. Our top tip is to look for high-quality, soft cotton that will withstand wear and tear and also wick away moisture from the body.
“For sunny destinations, a relaxed fit will be more comfortable and selecting one with a long hemline gives you the choice to tuck it in at the waist into a pair of linen trousers or a maxi skirt.”
The Essence standard T-shirt from Weekday is a good affordable option and you can buy it on ASOS for £10. It’s made from soft cotton jersey and gives a boxy shape but the only issue is it tends to sell out fast out. ASOS usually restock it very fast so it’s best to keep your size in a wishlist.
House of Bruar’s basic white T-shirt, £14.90, features a more fitted cut, which goes well with loose-fitting trousers or skirt. Sunworshippers can get this cooling Uniqlo Airism Cotton Oversized White T-shirt, £19.90, the mid-sleeve design covers your arms while the quick-drying layers cleverly release heat and moisture to adapt to any weather condition.
As for bottoms, it’s crucial to pack for shorts. Lorna picked tailored shorts and explained: “Tailored shorts are the perfect piece for practical days. With belt loops and side pockets, they offer a sense of vintage style that remains elegant and sophisticated. Denim shorts are a classic choice but can be weighty and uncomfortable in higher temperatures.
“Alternatively, a lighter natural fibre like cotton provides all-day comfort and is available in various colours to suit your sensibilities. Lighter hues will reflect the sun in the day, while darker shades can be called upon for dressier occasions.”
M&S Collection’s High Waisted Pleat Front Shorts, £29.50, are classy yet lightweight to pack for a holiday. They give off smart tailor design and shoppers said they are “great for holidays and ideal for a warm casual evening out”. Seasalt Corwall has reduced prices on a pair of lovely white Clover Bloom Shorts from £52.95 to £27.95. Made for hot summer days, the Riviera-inspired silhouette has a fitted waist and floaty hem made from linen to keep you cool.
Other than separates, Lorna suggested to add a day-to-night dress. “A dress that can take you from day to night ticks several style boxes all at once. Flowing fabrics that don’t cling to your body but gently accentuate your silhouette offer the most versatility: dress down with comfy sandals for an afternoon of sightseeing, or pair with statement accessories for a striking yet feminine dinner-time ensemble,” she explained.
House of Bruar has slashed prices on the midi dress made with Liberty fabric. The “Vintage Dress” features short, frilled sleeves, a shirred waist and V-neckline with a flare hem, now shoppers can get it fro £59.95.
Alternatively, the Lpecmin Linen Summer Dress has piqued many Amazon shoppers’ interests. It features a comfortable round neckline and a slight pleat detail right under the bust, and not to mention there are two functional pockets on the sides.
A midi skirt is another versatile piece for your all-year-round holiday capsule wardrobe. Lorna suggested shoppers “tuck your T-shirt into your midi skirt for a casual daytime look, or swap for a camisole and wedge sandals for an evening-appropriate feel. She added: “Pretty floral prints offer statement appeal, but solid neutral colours give you limitless style combinations.”
You can’t say no to the classic black and whites, try Nobody’s Child linen-blend Monie Midi Skirt in either colour, it’s been reduced to £35.40 and they are light to pack. For floral lovers, Roman’s floral print midi skirt, £26, is flexible with a stretchy elasticated waistband and shoppers said it’s comfortable and pretty.