The hot pieces you should be packing for your next getaway
What's hot to wear on the beach when the mercury rises? We asked the experts for their favourite pieces that should make the holiday wardrobe cut.
ON THE BEACH
Bold, vibrant swimwear is huge this season and it’s a great way for a man to stand out from the crowd. “These orange print shorts from Far Afield are a favourite,” says James Rennie, director at Ryan James Studio, Glasgow. “If you’re hitting a pool party double up with the matching open collar shirt and a pair of classic wayfarer sunglasses,” he adds. Universal Works also offer some great slim cut beach shorts designed for everyday wear as well as swimming so check them out for a good, versatile option. Add a bucket hat to complete the look.
A fabulous (and flattering) swimsuit will make any woman feel confident and look great too. For trend-led high leg, cut-out or under boob revealing styles (yes, the under boob really is A Thing) look to ASOS, Missguided, Mermaids Swimwear and H&M. For plunge tops and ruffles aplenty, try Zara and River Island. For shapewear swimwear, Figleaves, bouxavenue.com, M&S and John Lewis all have some good stylish options. If you want to rock Riviera chic, we love this classic striped Seafolly Castaway bandeau style swimsuit with boning and moulded cups for a strong silhouette. Add a wide brim woven sunhat and beach appropriate bag (think straw, woven and pom poms) for maximum style points.
Beach cover ups are also big news and the shops are full of them. For a versatile investment piece splurge on a kimono. “The kimono is one of the hottest trends of SS18 and an essential for your holiday wardrobe as it can be worn in so many ways,” says Sarah Murray of Jane Davidson. “On cooler days team with jeans and sandals, glam it up for evening wear with a high heel or wear it open as a summer jacket. Athena Procopiou does some gorgeous fringed kimonos in amazing fabrics.” For a look fitting for Santorini try a kaftan dress. “The long Pitusa dress is a must for poolside chic. The pom-pom detailing is fun, stylish and playful and it looks great paired with a straw sequin clutch,” says Amanda Mitchell of Biscuit Clothing.
WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN
Mini, midi or maxi, summer dresses are the ultimate go-to for ladies on warmer days. Thankfully the High Street has some crackers. Look out for florals, bright Crayola colours, ruffle detailing and off the shoulder styles to rock some of the biggest trends this season. “For lunch al fresco the Leon & Harper Royal Poan cotton dress is perfect,” adds Amanda Mitchell of Biscuit. “I wore it recently on a holiday in Corfu and loved the soft, pretty fabric. Match with simple sandals or espadrilles and straw bag.”
The cotton frill dress from Masscob is another great midi style, as recommended by Lisa Taylor, owner of Epitome of Edinburgh. “It’s a great warm floral print and flattering style that can be worn for any occasion. For day wear team with Rosa leather sliders from ATP (my absolute must-have) or dress it up with a clog sandal from Swedish Hasbeens.”
For a smarter, stand out from the crowd evening look try a colour clashing dress or cold shoulder maxi. If you’re a man trying to nail the capsule holiday wardrobe, a linen shirt and polo shirt are a must. For a dressed-down daytime look roll up the shirt sleeves and team with neutral shorts and a pair of crisp white trainers, says James Rennie. For smarter occasions swap your trainers or slides for loafers. “This short sleeved cotton polo is a great choice worn with tailored shorts for a smarter feel that will take you from early evening drinks right through to the end of the night,“ adds James. “The vertical stripes add a slight vintage feel and the block colours will show off your tan. Finish off with a pair of dark loafers, woven navy belt and a minimalist watch for a polished look.”