Holiday season is well and truly under way and the fortunate amongst us will be absconding for some much-needed time out over the coming weeks.
So we’ve compiled an overview of some essential style items to add to your packing list so you can avoid last minute panics at check-in, whether it’s all-night raving or all-day sleeping you have a hankering for.
Destination: Ibiza
We could remind you that there is more to Ibiza than Playa d’en Bossa, San Antonio Bay and 24-hour raves. We could do that. But, chances are, if you’re going to Ibiza, you’re probably not planning nights in with a selection of regional artisan cheeses, a modest couple of glasses of Malbec and a Pulitzer prizewinner – chances are, you’re there to party. So what are the sartorial prerequisites for a healthy spot of summertime debauchery?
First up, printed T-shirts, vests and short-sleeved shirts. These separates are essential; being low maintenance (needing little to no ironing if packed correctly) and lightweight (keeping sweat at bay), they should form the backbone of your Ibizan wardrobe. On the high street, River Island offers a wealth of limited edition printed tops, as does Uniqlo with its apt range of ‘Music Icons’ tees featuring the likes of Wu-Tang Clan and Daft Punk.
And, of course, you’ll need shorts. But for this destination you’ll need a pair that works both for day (Ocean Beach) and night (Amnesia) – a style that’ll take you seamlessly from poolside to dance floor. Bin those shiny Union Jack numbers that have been winking at you from the top of your wardrobe since last summer’s trip to Magaluf and opt for a neutral, quick-drying pair of swim shorts in a tailored silhouette.
Orlebar Brown, Dan Ward and Frescobol Carioca all offer masterfully detailed options at the slightly higher end of the price range, with the likes of Saturdays Surf NYC and David Gandy for Marks & Spencer offering styles that’ll make less of a dent in your bank balance.
Alternatively, if dressy swim shorts don’t leave you feeling dressed enough, then throw some rugged chino or denim shorts into your case, which are better built to withstand hard partying.
You’ll also need a hat. No, we’re not talking a party hat, one that lights up, claps, or comes complete with a convenient lager can holder and straw. Instead, stick to something simply styled, lightweight and ideal for protecting your bonce from the sun in the day (after all, you’re unlikely to remember to religiously reapply your sunscreen), but also capable of concealing your (probably) sweaty locks in the evening.
Best to pick up an inexpensive style from your usual high street go-tos (who knows where it could end up), filtering through the selection for a cotton baseball cap or bucket hat to invoke some of that Second Summer of Love swag.
When it comes to footwear, a pair of on-trend slip-on plimsolls or low-top trainers will set you up from sunset to sunrise. If you’re into keeping your whites white, then avoid white canvas styles as they’ll mark easily and wear quickly. Vans has some fun printed options this season, while ASOS stocks the essential plain colour styles. Team with invisible socks from Falke or any good high street store to avoid your poor shoes humming like a vintage Stilton by the end of your stay.
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Destination: The Hamptons
Located on Long Island’s South Fork, The Hamptons has long been the preferred destination of the American East Coast’s most affluent and impossibly good-looking holidaymakers. Not to mention the impossibly stylish. Think Ivy League, all-American prep and you’ve got it down pat.
An indubitable American classic, the button-down Oxford shirt is your first port of call when packing for the Hamptons. Brighter colours like powder blue, white and pink are best suited to the warm weather, as well as the modern-day Gatsby vibe. Go for a long-sleeved style that’ll see you looking smart for garden parties, but also allow for you to roll up your sleeves on hotter days.
Ralph Lauren’s Oxford shirts have reached iconic status and make for great investments, however Uniqlo also has a strong offering, with a comprehensive array of colours, patterns and fabrications available.
While temperatures in the Hamptons generally lie between the mid-20s and 30s Celsius in July and August, it’s important to remember that it’s a coastal area, so packing a fine gauge jumper is advisable, especially for the evening chill. In keeping with your surroundings, we recommend opting for a sporty cricket or cable knit version crafted in 100 per cent cotton.
When it comes to styling it, embrace your inner Carlton Banks by day, knotting the jumper nonchalantly around your neck. Colour-wise, neutrals will work well, sure, but why not have a little fun with it and try a seasonal block colour? Choose according to your skin tone; darker complexions will look great set against bold lemon or orange, whereas lighter skin tones will suit blues and deeper greens.
Down below, a freshly pressed tailored short will look sharp on the beach when styled with an Oxford shirt. J.Crew (what better brand to outfit yourself for a Hamptons sojourn?) and COS both offer myriad styles and hues. Failing that, if your neighbour’s housewarming doesn’t kick off until sundown, opt for a pair of flat front or single pleat chinos in light neutral or pastel shades for a little extra interest.
Finally, pack a pair of boat shoes – whether or not you plan to set sail. Keep it simple with a design in white, tan or stone leather, or mix it up with a two-toned panelled style. Head to Sebago and Sperry for time-honoured classics, or Topman and River Island for more contemporary updates.
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Destination: Côte d’Azur
The Côte d’Azur, otherwise known as the French Riviera, is the Mediterranean coastline of the south east corner of France. And if there’s one thing the French can do, it’s dress. So you’d better pack accordingly.
Not only quintessentially French, but a summertime staple too, a short- or long-sleeved Breton stripe T-shirt will guarantee your look a nautical charm. Wear it with a pair of tailored shorts or under a blazer with chinos for a particularly sophisticated flavour of smart-casual.
For something slightly smarter, a short-sleeved shirt is unbeatable. Perfect worn open over a cotton T-shirt or buttoned up under a sports coat, the shorter sleeves will allow you to play with layering without melting in the summer sun. London-based label Folk offers a solid selection in striking summer prints, while you’ll find some well-cut plain colour styles at Ted Baker.
Think you can repurpose that Harris Tweed suit for summer by simply switching the shirt out for a tee? Think again. A winter suit’s heavier thread count and viscose lining will make it nigh on unbearable to wear in warmer weather.
Instead, turn your attention towards unlined designs in fabrics like cotton and linen (ask a sales assistant or personal shopper if you’re not sure). A lightweight suit in a lighter neutral colour (think shades like off-white, stone, sky blue and light tan) will work well, as both its colour and fabrication will keep you cool. Remember that, if a fully suited look feels a little overdressed, you can easily switch out your suit trousers for a pair of white or pastel chinos.
No Riviera-worthy look is complete without a subtle debonair touch in the form of a straw hat. Goorin, Lock & Co. Hatters, and Christy’s offer a huge range of high quality styles in various brim widths and crown heights, while high street favourites such as Topman, River Island and ASOS all have their own versions for those working to a budget.
Finally, while leather sandals or espadrilles are fine for the beach, you’ll need something a touch more refined for strolling through town. Suede loafers or driving shoes perfectly straddle the line between practical (they’re supremely comfortable and keep you cool) and stylish (epitomising the undone elegance the Riviera’s known for). Try Bass Weejuns, the brand synonymous with the style, or Burton if you want to save some holiday pocket money.
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