If you're someone who grew up with your head stuck in a magazine, you might be living under the impression that all fashion editors spend their holidays wafting around in designer gowns and heels, adorned with glittering jewels and logo-clad handbags. I can't speak for everyone, but I can safely say that having worked in fashion for over six years, I have yet to embody this vision of beachside glamour.
It's all too easy to look at the feeds of fashion influencers and editors and feel like everyone else is achieving superior levels of holiday dressing to yourself. Well, I'm here to tell you that it's okay to not purchase a whole new expensive wardrobe for your South of France alter ego and that there are people out there who are just dressing to avoid sweating into oblivion.
That's not to say you can't still look chic whilst dressing practically on holiday. I recently jetted off to Albania with a group of friends, and there were certain pieces I wore literally every day. Most of them were loose-fitting, minimalistic styles in neutral colourways that could easily be thrown together yet still look cohesive: Think smock dresses, jumpsuits, strappy camis and utilitarian separates… all low-maintenance, versatile and able to be adapted for summer in the city. Ideal. Scroll down to see my 20 holiday staples.
Shop My Holiday Basics Edit
A chic way to cover up from the sun.
My Next sandals have lasted me years.
The perfect plain white tee.
This will elevate all your fave basics.
I wore this with everything from slip skirts to high-waisted trousers.
Loose-fit shorts are the most flattering silhouette.
The ultimate throw-on-and-go breezy mini.
Officially this season's comfiest sandals.
Ideal for smartening up a tank top or tee.
I've seen so many fashion editors wearing this Mango shirt.
Related: 7 Classic Summer Outfits Fashion People Are Wearing Right Now
Topshop's slip skirt in black is the gift that keeps on giving.
This bag goes with everything I own.
An unexpectedly flattering bikini from Other Stories.
Complete the look with the matching bottoms.
You'd never know these were only £7.
A checked dress for both day and evening wear.
I bought these over five years ago and still love them.
Whether you sleep in it or style it up with a gold chain, this is a definite hot-weather must-have.
Super easy to throw on with all holiday getups.
Sézane's cardi was a godsend on the plane.
Up Next: I Just Tried on M&S's Entire Summer Collection—Here's What I'd Recommend
-
Trust Me—Buy These 22 ThingsHere we go again.
-
These 31 Anti-Trend Basics Are Quickly Becoming the Foundation of My 2025 WardrobeTake note.
-
10Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing Editors, 64 Spring Buys—Inside Our Seasonal Mood BoardsEverything inspiring our wardrobes this season.
-
You're Looking to Get a Head Start on Spring Dressing, and I Know Exactly What to Order—30 Chic Picks That Fit the BillA little something for every personal style.
-
39 Items All of My Chic NYC Fashion Friends Are Buying From ZaraAnd those are some picky New Yorkers.
-
Trust Me—Buy These 22 ThingsSorry in advance.
-
These Under-$100 Winter Buys FromReplica Store Are a Pure Hit of Fashion DopamineThese will have your friends doing a double take.
-
The NYFW Outfit Prep Has Begun—36 Standout Buys I'm Adding to My LineupFrom opera gloves to scarf coats.
