Whether you’re planning an international mini-break or a UK staycation, it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a few summer wardrobe updates, dust off your suitcase and start efficiently packing a weekend’s worth of killer looks.
When space is limited and you’re only traveling for a weekend, I would suggest packing a capsule wardrobe – key pieces that are versatile can be mixed and matched with everything in your case and can be dressed up or down if the occasion arises. Make your items work hard for you, so that you don’t end up packing a load of things that you won’t actually wear, because we’ve all been there and done that, right?
1. A classic shirt
A classic oversized shirt is a total wardrobe staple, a failsafe piece, an item that’ll work for everything and something that should be packed for every trip. Take an oversized cotton shirt for example: it’s perfect as a beach cover-up, with wide leg trousers at dinner, with tailored tracksuit trousers for a lazy Sunday brunch and tucked into denim shorts for a day of sightseeing.
Honestly, there really isn’t a time that this shirt won’t be the item you are so glad you packed. I love a classic white oxford, £12.99, from H&M (if not oversized by cut then size up x2 for that boyfriend shirt look) but summer is also a great excuse to try a pop of colour, like this linen shirt.
2. Comfy flat shoes
Depending on your location, you might be doing a ton of walking. Whilst we all have wild dreams of looking like Carrie Bradshaw a la SATC season six wandering around Paris in a spindly heeled Manolo, the reality is you’ll be crying into your croissant real quick and desperately trying to find somewhere to buy yourself some comfy shoes. So save yourself the hassle and pack some instead.
Weather depending, I would always go for Birkenstock Arizona sandals, £90, the summer shoe that delivers year after year – and if it gets chilly just add a pair of chunky socks. If the weather forecast for your weekend mini break is not predicting sunshine, then a sneaker is a great option, something chunky like the New Balance 530, £130, is comfortable without compromising your fashion credentials.
3. Sleek gold hoops
Simple gold hoops, like this pair, £85, from Missoma, are a no-brainer. Worn from start to finish – or just on the last day of your break when you’re officially hungover and desperate for anything that makes you look a little more human – a bit of subtle bling is a stylish must.
4. A cross-body bag
It’s simple, always chic and leaves your hands free for Instagramming and drinking coffee. Hate to sound like your nana, but if you’re starry-eyed trying to navigate a new place, it’s nice to know all your belongings are in one place and close to your person, too.
Anyway, practicalities aside, the cross-body bag is also super timeless and looks great with everything. This Ganni bag, £95, is still an item high up on my wishlist.
5. A chic blazer
I know we’re packing your capsule wardrobe for summer, and ladies I’m really keeping my fingers crossed that you’ll come home sunkissed, but sadly sometimes the sunny weather stars just don’t align – and even if they do, evenings can still be chilly.
So this is where you’ll be so grateful to your former self that you threw in that extra layer. You want something slight that keeps you warm at the same time, like this blazer, £49.99, Bershka.
6. A bright dress
I like a dress in general but definitely on a summer break. Add a knit and it’s suddenly a whole new outfit. Wear with trainers and still feel cute, add heels and you’re ready for dinner. Fingers crossed the sun is beating down and you don’t want anything that feels fussy or uncomfortable, so a simple slip dress, £55, Omnes is the piece for you.
7. Kitten heels
Packing a heel for a two to three day trip sometimes feels a bit extra – will you really need them? But that’s where the kitten heel comes into play. They are comfortable, can be worn with just about everything and take you from breakfast plans to dinner plans with ease. Try this strappy pair from Zara.
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