The Suitcase Diaries: How I Found My Italian Alter Ego On the Amalfi Coast

We no longer just head to the sunshine for six weeks in summer—one quick scroll on Instagram confirms that plenty of people are turning on their out-of-office messages every single month of the year. To reflect our new constant state of holiday envy, we're introducing The Suitcase Diaries—a series in which we (virtually) hop inside the luggage of some of the most stylish women we know and let them be our tour guides.

The style possibilities of an upcoming holiday always feel overwhelming. There's something about defining my style in one packing list that induces a state of panic. What even IS my style? I'll usually find myself questioning out loud.

For my recent trip to the Amalfi Coast, my alter ego emerged: the holiday version of Isabel (let's call her La Dolce Vita Isabel), who is more put together, changes before dinner, drinks espresso and isn't afraid of wearing a big hat.

What to Pack

I stuck to linen sets, black-and-white pieces (which doesn't mean boring, BTW) and my fabulous Rixo dress (which was at the core of my wardrobe).

Then I let the accessories do the rest. Hats, scarves, tiny vintage handbags and gold jewellery took up most of my suitcase for this trip.

Where to Stay

My fabulous self needed a fabulous place to stay, and there is no place more magical than Palazzo Avino. It sits at the top of Ravello, one of the tiny towns that scatter the Amalfi coast. The hotel's pink exterior is a cake-like Instagram paradise covered in flowers. Since it is a former palace, the setting is incredibly romantic and the staff treats you like the queen you are.

We stayed in an Airbnb in Amalfi first, so we were able to feel the buzz of the town and hit the beaches. Saving Ravello for the end left us with a quiet retreat that felt like heaven on earth. The cherry on the cake.

Where to Eat

You must go to Ristorante Teresa in Amalfi. They pick you up by boat and take you to a quiet, cave-like beach spot for fresh seafood and limoncello spritz. Order the spaghetti with clams for lunch and thank me later.

For a romantic evening that you'll never forget, make a reservation at Rosselinis in Ravello. Arrive early for a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the coast and then leave your divine dining experience in the hands of this Michelin-star restaurant.

Where to Shop

Lastly, the shopping. Save space for your new shoes, ceramics and bags because this is the perfect place to buy them. Hop on a ferry to Positano and get yourself handmade loafers for under £100, while in Amalfi you can get a pair of custom sandals made in 10 minutes on the main street. Any little shop in Amalfi will have plenty of lemon-themed ceramics (which were what I stocked up on and looked at every day).

Now you're ready for your next trip on the Amalfi Coast.