With a cluster of bank holidays upon us, mini-breaks are having a moment. Whether yours will involve a country hotel, city getaway or a stay with family or friends, here are the 10 essential wardrobe items you mustn’t forget to pack!
1
THE CLASSIC-BUT-
COOL BRETON The first thing to pack? A Breton top, of course! The beauty of this wardrobe icon lies in its versatility. Worn solo, styled beneath a crisp white shirt or paired with tailored trousers or a tulle skirt, the result is always effortlessly cool.
Denim jacket, £195, 6-18, Wyse London. Shirt, £69, xs-l, Cos. Breton, £29.95, 6-24, Seasalt. Trousers, £45.99, xs-xl, Zara. Clogs, £159, 3-8, Penelope Chilvers. Suitcases, stylist’s own
2
THE LIGHTWEIGHT JUMPER
For those moments when you’re caught off guard by a chilly spell or overzealous air-con, a soft knit is always a must-pack, as is a layering top. These are different to long-sleeve T-shirts: they’re ultra-thin, often with a fancy collar or cuffs, and designed to be worn under jumpers, shirts, tops and dresses.
3
THE WEAR-WITH- EVERYTHING JEANS
What gets the most wear in your wardrobe? We bet it’s fashion’s most enduring staple – a pair of hardwearing jeans. As they’re quite bulky to pack, wear them as part of your travel outfit. You’ll save room in your weekend bag and will arrive looking ready to relax.
Jumper, £140, s-xl, Aspiga. Layering top, £55, 6-18, Baukjen. Jeans, £69, 24-32, Cos
4
THE ALL-SEASON TRENCH
How to avoid overpacking? Only take versatile pieces that you can wear on repeat. A tailored trench is one such hero – a trusty all-rounder jacket that can be worn over everything day or night, and is a particularly handy weatherproof outer layer in our unpredictable British climate.
Trench, £159, 4-18, Hush. Dress, £329, 6-20; tote, £119, both L.K.Bennett. Espadrilles, £135, 3-8, Brora
5
THE CHIC SWIMSUIT
For indulgent spa breaks and hotel pools, a swimsuit that makes you feel sensational is a must. Think beyond basic black – this dark green cossie has elegance and edge – and add a vintage-inspired swimming cap for a dose of old-school glamour.
6
THE BREEZY ROBE
Worn as an elegant cover-up by the pool or as a dressing gown when staying with friends, this really is an essential, not least because it rolls up to practically nothing!
Robe, £90, xs-xl, The White Company. Swimsuit, £79, 4-20, Whistles. Swimming cap, £11.99, Fine Saratoga. Espadrilles, £135, 3-8, Brora
7
THE DAY-TO- NIGHT DRESS
