With the summer in full swing, it’s time to get those holiday outfit ideas sorted. Whether you’re jetting off somewhere exotic or staying close to home, we’ve got all the inspo you need to take you from beach to bar in one fell swoop.
Along with holiday excitement comes cabin bag restrictions and there’s nothing more stressful than trying to cram your entire summer wardrobe into a tiny case. But if you plan ahead, curating the perfect holiday capsule wardrobe will save you time and stress, giving you outfit options aplenty. The key to packing like a pro is to pick versatile pieces that can be styled in a multitude of ways. So you can mix and match as you go, dressing pieces up for alfresco dinners, before reworking items for sightseeing the next day.
This means that you can pack less, but still have loads to wear. The best midi dresses are a great example of an item that can be worked for different occasions, taking you from day to night with ease – ideal if you have a jam packed schedule. Meanwhile the best linen shirts can work in the day or as one of the best beach cover-ups over your swimsuit. When considering what to wear on a plane, try to choose items that you’ll be able to make use of during your trip, so that you’re truly maximizing what you can bring.
Holiday outfit ideas – five looks to try
1. Wide-leg trousers
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These relaxed trousers are not only uber flattering (hello longer legs!) but they have a pajama like quality that’s delightfully comfy too. Perfect for all-day wear, team with the best t-shirts or a light shirt for a lazy lunch or a day of endless exploring. Opt for a vibrant printed pair if you want to make a statement and style with block color tops or keep it tonal in chic whites and creams. Finish with tan accessories for an effortlessly laidback look. Come the evening, lean into the instant glamour that wide-leg trousers bring and swap your best sandals for a pair of wedges to really emphasize your pins.
If you’ve chosen an elasticated waist design, these work well over the best swimsuits too for a quick added layer around the pool.
A style tip…
If you’re worried this look will swamp your figure, offset the voluminous trousers with a more fitted top. Tuck it into some high-waisted trousers to show off the waist and define your silhouette.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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H&M Wide-Cut Jersey Pants
RRP: $17.99 / £12.99 | The closest thing to wearing pjs out of the house, these soft trousers have a comfy elastic waistband and easy pull on style. We love the paisley print, answering our eternal quest to nail what is boho style.
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Everlane Apron Top
RRP: $70 / £75 | Crafted from 100% organic cotton, this luxe-feeling top puts more bang into your basics. With a modern cross front strap, it has a cropped finish that’s ideal for pairing with high-waisted pants. Available in four muted shades.
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Charles & Keith Sandals
RRP: $49 / £49 | Tan sandals look instantly luxe and will pretty much go with any holiday outfit. This sleek strappy design is easy to stash in your suitcase and the toe ring detail gives them a fresh update. Add an anklet for extra vacation vibes.
2. Midi dress
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Midi dresses really do make the best dresses. One of the best holiday outfit ideas, midi dresses will take you from day to night with ease. Requiring virtually nothing in the way of styling, just swap sliders for smarter sandals (either your best designer heels or some metallic comfortable flats) and you’re ready for an alfresco dinner or dancing ’til dawn. By far the item that offers the most mileage in your suitcase, breathable fabric designs will keep you cooler in warm climates too.
A style tip…
Chillier evenings may require an extra layer so try adding the best blazer to sharpen the look. If you want to wear your best jeans when travelling, pair them with a blazer to stop it getting creased in your case and ensure you have a smart look too.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Mango Flowers Cotton Dress in Green
RRP: $119.99 / £69.99 | Stop the search we think we’ve found our dream holiday dress. One of the best green dress, with a punchy floral print, cute square neckline and an elegant open back this frock ticks all the boxes. Just add gold jewels and that holiday glow.
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Zara Printed Cuff Linen Blend Blazer
RRP: $69.90 / £49.99 | This linen blazer will make a worthy addition to your holiday wardrobe and can be thrown over dresses, jeans and so much more. The beige hue keeps it super versatile and the relaxed fit makes it easy and comfortable as a layering piece.
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Jimmy Choo Avenue 50 Knotted Mules
RRP: $650 / £495 | Slip on and go with these chic mules. You can’t beat Jimmy Choo when it comes to designer heels, and these ’90s-inspired beauties are a winner. Ideal as part of your holiday outfit ideas, they’ll work just as well with summer occasion wear.
3. Shorts and a tee
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When it comes to holiday outfit ideas, the bulk of your suitcase should contain daytime outfits. Whether you’re spending a week by a pool, or exploring a new country, t-shirts and shorts are the warm weather items that are made for sunny climes. Comfortable and relaxing, if you’re looking for items that give off a smarter feel, look for linen shorts, or tailored cotton iterations that won’t compromise on breathability. Ideal for holidaying in style, team with your best sunglasses and best crossbody bag for a look that’s ready to take on the day.
A style tip…
Move over Daisy Dukes, Bermuda shorts are one of the top fashion trends 2022. The longer length not only offers extra coverage, but they’re flattering too, often sitting high on the waist with a loose, straight leg. Dress up with heels and a cami in the evening.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Boden Flutter Sleeve Blouse
RRP: $110 / £60 | If anyone knows how to do a sweet print, it’s British clothing brand Boden. This features ruffle accents on the neckline for a flirty finish and subtle metallic detailing giving it a glamorous feel for the evening too, pair with tailored shorts.
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Cos Relaxed-fit Denim Shorts
RRP: $69 / £45 | These have a looser, oversized fit for a relaxed feel that will keep you cool in a heatwave. Made from a recycled cotton mix they have some sustainable credentials too. Embrace the ’90s vibes and style with a tank or a half-tucked blouse.
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Dune London Loch Sandals
RRP: $135 / £95 | When it comes to shoe trends 2022, the fisherman sandal has come out tops and they’re great for adding a grungy feel to a summery look. Plus the closed-toe design and supportive strap detailing makes these ideal for sightseeing too.
4. Beachwear
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A linen shirt makes for a savvy beach cover up that you can wear on and off the beach. Layer over your bikini or one-piece and finish with a pair of coordinating shorts for a pulled-together look that you can take straight out to lunch. Again, it’s a good idea to stick to breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. To tap into the dopamine dressing trend for bright color clothing, try opting for a bolder look in a zesty hue such as orange or yellow. Don’t forget to complete the look with a pair of the best designer sunglasses.
A style tip…
Get even more bang for your look and choose a longline shirt that you can wear as a dress too. Just add one of the best designer belts for extra definition and a pair of strappy sandals and voila! Cocktail hour outfit completed.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Arket Oversized Linen Shirt in Blue
RRP: £35 / $50 | Arket is a master at elevated basics and this shirt is no exception. It has an oversized fit for that borrowed-from-the-boys look that makes it ideal for layering too. Wear post holiday as part of your summer outfits for work, winning.
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Arket Linen Drawstring Shorts
RRP: $59 / £45 | Complete the look with some matching shorts. One of our favorite holiday outfit ideas, these feature an elasticated waist for comfort and a drawstring fastening for extra waist definition. We guarantee you’ll be living in these.
Monte & Lou Asymmetrical Maillot
RRP: $132 / £110 | Give the classic one-piece an update with this one-shoulder iteration. Featuring hidden shelf bra support and removable cups, the swimsuit is fully lined with a recycled body sculpting lining for a smooth silhouette. A wardrobe essential!
5. Swimwear
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When it comes to choosing the best swimwear for your summer vacation, look to the swimwear trends 2022 for directional style ideas. There’s a design and silhouette to suit every body type this summer and no holiday wardrobe is complete without some confidence boosting poolside attire. Block color swimsuits are a versatile choice, pairing up with A-line floaty skirts, or linen shorts to create daytime outfits, but for a seamless head-to-toe look that will get you noticed, opt for a printed swimsuit and coordinating cover-up.
A style tip…
When it comes to beach cover-ups, the denim short is a classic. For a more fashion-forward feel, swap your go-to blue denim for a lighter shade of cream or ecru this summer. Take the lead from the denim trends 2022 when it comes to silhouettes. Styles such as mom fits and straight leg styles have made a real mark on the fashion crowd.
Fashion editor’s picks…
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Peony + Net Sustain Floral Print Pareo
RRP: $110 / £100 | Finish your poolside look with the coordinating sarong skirt. But this will work with more than just it’s matching bathing suit. The pretty floral print will brighten up any block color swimsuit too. Cut from organic cotton, it’s lightweight, breathable and oh-so-soft.
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& Other Stories Chunky Flip Flop Sandals
RRP: $129 / £85 | Once a shoe for shuffling around the pool, the humble flip flop has had a fashion makeover. These ’90s, black leather flatforms have a minimalist approach that’s ideal for a versatile vacation wardrobe. A sturdy design you can wear them for sightseeing too.