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The holiday capsule wardrobe: what to pack for a week

July 11, 2016

Jetting off on holiday soon? We’re not jealous at all…

So what is the formula for a perfectly packed holiday wardrobe? We’ve created this guide to everything you should be packing for a week of fun in the sun, and you’ll only need 21 items for a full wardrobe!

Take five TOPS

top

Pack yourself five holiday tops. Think camis, t-shirts, vests and some kind of layering option such as a denim jacket or light cardigan in case it’s a little chilly in the evenings. A mixture of block colours and prints and patterns make it easy to mix and match outfits.

Take four BOTTOMS

trousers

Mix and match your bottoms. We’d suggest two pairs of shorts, a skirt, and one pair of trousers. Linen or chino trousers and shorts are a great choice for summer holidays abroad as they’re lightweight and cool, and look great paired with a huge choice of tops.

Take three DRESSES and three PAIRS OF SHOES

maxidress

Dresses are also key in your capsule wardrobe. Maxi dresses are ideal for holidays. We’d recommend casual maxi dresses which are easily dressed up with statement jewellery and wedges for the evening, but also look great layered over swimwear for the day. Sun dresses are a great choice for exploring and day trips, and are versatile cover ups for the beach too.

flatshoes

When it comes to shoes, three is key. One pair of super comfy flat pumps or espadrilles for long walks, a pair of pretty flat sandals or flip flops for around the pool and more casual evenings, and some statement heels or wedges for when you want to glam up.

Take two SWIMSUITS and HANDBAGS

swimsuit

Two swimsuits will be plenty – we’d recommend one swimsuit plus one bikini, or pick which you prefer. Quick tip: alternate your swimsuits every day to reduce tan lines.

When choosing your handbag, go for a larger style to use as your carry-on hand baggage, beach bag and bag for day trips and exploring, and pack a smaller clutch for use in the evenings.

totebag

Pack one HAT and one PAIR OF SUNGLASSES

hatshades

Although accessories make the outfit, you really only need one hat and one pair of sunnies for a week long holiday. Go for neutral shades like black, white or beige for accessories that work with every outfit of your capsule wardrobe.