Headed on holiday? Peruse our picks of must-pack holiday style and beauty essentials for him and her this summer
Your flight bookings are secured, hotels are reserved and itineraries are planned; now all that's left is the big question that looms before every holiday: what to pack! No matter where you're headed this summer, there are a few handy essentials that can be found on every travel packing list; be it sunscreen, that gorgeous maxi dress for her, linen shirts for him and a handy beach bag.
Fortunately, you needn't go hunting for the latest trends and best buys to make your holiday photos life-long keepsakes. We've done the work for you. And with our latest edit, vacation mode can be instantly activated.
Resort-ready dresses
The ideal number to take you from day to night, a maxi dress – with bright florals and tropical prints to suit the mood – is a must! Whether you're lunching by the shore or sipping on a post-dinner drink under the stars, the perfect pick is easy to find. Brands we're swooning over this summer include Johanna Ortiz, Hester Bly and Zimmermann, which are bringing bold patterns and eye-catching colours into the spotlight this season.
Breezy linens
There’s a good reason why linen has become synonymous with summer fashion. It's comfortable, breathable and keeps you cooler than cotton does. And what's more? It looks perfectly at home by the beach! This summer staple is what holiday dreams are made of. For more inspiration on what to choose, check out Orlebar Brown's Spring/Summer line-up for 2022.
Insta-worthy beachwear
Nothing says vacation quite like a lazy afternoon spent by the beach, reading a good book, waiting for the sun to set to enjoy a refreshing sundowner. And to nail your look while doing so, our all-time favourite designers have something to suit every style. From swimming suits in quirky prints by Emilio Pucci for her to Versace's baroque-pattern print swim shorts for him, these picks can turn any shore and poolside into your runway.
Trendy totes
There's a reason why the beloved beach tote is a summer holiday staple! They're large enough to carry everything you'd need by the shore and made out of durable fabrics that will keep your belongings safe from the elements. And with brands like Balmain and Yves Saint Laurent adding their oomph to the humble beach tote, these are now more stylish than ever!
Tropical topper
Complete your holiday look with a broad-brimmed beauty. Our favourite pick from Gucci will keep the sun out of your eyes while lending a polished finish to beachwear.
Sun, sand and slip-ons
For flats that go with everything in your vacation capsule wardrobe, we've picked
these buckled slip-on sandals from Brunello Cucinelli and a cool blue pair of embossed logo slides from the house of Alexander McQueen for him. Adding colour to her look, our pick from Burberry – the monogram-print canvas slides – is as comfortable as it is trendy!
Also on our list of covetable finds for her is the latest Manolo Blahnik for Birkenstock collection. Perhaps, one of the least expected collabs, the high-heel connoisseur, Blahnik, thought of Birkenstock as the next obvious step, having worn the brand's sandals his whole life. Not your average pair, these crystallised, plush velvet versions of the brand’s most iconic styles are a fun way to add sparkle to your summer wardrobe.
Skincare heroes
Keep your skincare routine effortless and simple this summer, especially when you're going sans make-up for that sunkissed look! A good quality SPF will keep your skin protected while you soak up the sun stress-free. Our favourites include La Mer's SPF 50 UV protection fluid, Clarins' sun care body oil-in-mist and La Prairie's cellular Swiss UV protection sunscreen.
Eye candy
Yes, beach bags are essential, SPF is key and swimming attire is necessary, but when it comes to sunglasses, they're a non-negotiable. We're fans of statement pairs of sunglasses, and no matter the season, they are a welcome addition to every outfit. With sunshine filling your days ahead, these stunning pairs from Gucci with an aqua tinge and Bulgari's aviator acetate sunglasses are great picks.
Style file
Add major style points to your airport look with these chic leather passport holders from Montblanc. These stylish pieces will have you ready to jet off in no time!
Ready to check in?
While what you're carrying truly matters, what you're carrying it in needs equal attention. Luckily, these statement luggage pieces from Tumi's aluminium line, Montblanc's M Gram collection and Rimowa's Essentials collection which just dropped two new colours – citron yellow (pictured) and lavender – will see you whisk through your travels effortlessly.
