CAPSULE HOLIDAY WARDROBE

Over the last few summers I’ve perfected my holiday packing, so much so that I’m not one that starts organising my valise days in advance. I do a quick list and pack the night before, because I now know exactly what I want to take with me. For the last three summers in particular - during all of which I’ve spent some time in the south of France, I have packed the same usual suspects: Goldsign Denim jacket, Agolde cut-off shorts, Ganni checked seersucker dress, a black Hunza G swimsuit, linen shirts and at least two pairs of ATP Atelier Rosa sandals.

Then each year I just add a few new items that I’ve picked up or have been specifically gifted that slot seamlessly into my summer wardrobe. So I thought I would do a round-up of exactly what I packed for this summer, to show you that you don’t have to totally refresh your wardrobe every year. All you need are a few key favourites, your capsule pieces and then just add some updates!

Dresses

I always make sure to pack a black dress, like this linen one that I purchased last year, as well as a white one. I brought this Leol white tired dress that I was kindly gifted with me too, here’s a similar version - basically you can go wrong with monochroming as they will go with everything! I also pack one colourful dress too, just to change things up. For the past few years it’s been a flowery midi dress from Faithfull the Brand who do brilliant options for sunny weather. I’ve found some similar below.

FOOTWEAR

As I’ve mentioned in the intro, I never go anywhere warm without my ATP Atelier sandals. I now have them in three different colour ways. Over the last few years I’ve also added a trekky style (incredibly practical and stylish when you’re hiking to beaches or canoeing), as well as evening pairs - always in neutral colours so they go with everything.

SKIRTS & Shorts

I like to pack a mix of wrap midi skirts (like this and this) - perfect for throwing over a swimsuit to take you from beach to bar, or for dressing up in the eve with heels, a pair of denim shorts for everyday running around in and of course the classic denim skirt which goes with everything. This year I took a while one to the south and pair with a black top and my Arizona Love trekky sandals.

JACKETS

I never go anywhere on a summer holiday without a denim jacket. It’s my go-to cover-up just in case the evenings get a little chilly. I’m wearing one by Goldsign in this photo, which sadly isn’t available anymore, but I’ve linked a few below. When choosing one, go for a lighter wash and slightly oversized so you can also wear it in autumn and into winter. I would certainly include this in my year-round capsule wardrobe as it can be worn over knits and under coats, if you’re opting for layers in colder weather.

Sunglasses & ACCESSORIES

I like to have a various sunglasses styles to suit different looks and generally go for a cat-eye shape as I find them to be the most flattering.

Bags

Last year I invested in the Loewe basket bag and it has since seen me through trips to the beach, picnics in Paris and food shopping. It’s an investment piece, but one of the best I’ve made and will be with me for years to come. I also usually don’t go anywhere without my Simon Miller bucket bag, which is such a great small carryall. I have it in beige and black.

SWIMWEAR

I always take a mix of swimsuits and bikinis with me. I was lucky enough to do quite a few water activities whilst in the south of France and always feel more comfortable in a one piece when I’m being active, such as going canoe-ing, paddle-boarding and paddle-boating. Then bikini wise I have a few mix and match pieces from Arket, YSE and Reina Olga.

BEAUTY PRODUCTS

Over the years I’ve found my go-to beauty and skincare products and this goes the same for summer too. Although this year I did discover the likes of Rudolph Care via Oh My Cream, who do great SPFs. I took the SPF 50 with me. And I also love the Oh My Cream travel products - click here. Below is an edit of the products I packed.

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