Top packing tips: The 8 items of clothing you MUST take on holiday
No-one really needs 35 outfits for a seven-day break, but we're all guilty of over-packing at times, particularly for summer holidays.
If you're limited to cabin baggage it's even worse, and planning for a relaxed weekend away can result in a bedroom floor strewn with clothing and a full-blown tantrum when you should be in chilled-out holiday mode.
But it doesn't have to be that way. By compiling a streamlined capsule collection of items you can wear in multiple ways (plus a few basics and accessories, of course) you'll have enough outfits to last the week without lugging your whole wardrobe on the plane.
Here are eight essential holiday fashion buys to help you pack with precision...
1. The swimsuit
No longer reserved for the beach or pool, a swimsuit can double as a sexy body top when tucked into shorts or a high-waisted midi skirt. Block colour cossies work best, and you can layer over an unbuttoned blouse if you feel a little too exposed.
2. The shirt dress
By night, a cute dress paired with metallic accessories, by day, a poolside cover-up (wear it unbuttoned), a shirt dress will come in very handy on hols. Just be sure to choose a neutral tone that works with all your swimwear.
3. The metallic sandals
As for metallic accessories, a pair of minimalist flat sandals in silver, gold or rose gold offer maximum day-to-night potential.
4. The Little White Dress
There's something about a white gypsy dress that makes it chic enough for evening with heels and a clutch, but relaxed enough to re-wear for the beach or strolling around town - and in warmer climes, it's cooler than an LBD.
5. The in-between sandals
Practical and pretty, a low block or wedge-heeled sandal will feel smart enough for a fancy restaurant but not too dressy for a day of sightseeing in the city.
6. The kaftan
Not just a beach cover-up, a midi or maxi length kaftan will take you from the beach to the bar to dinner - as long as the fabric isn't see-through!
7. The statement shorts
Denim cut-offs are great, but if you want to get more mileage out of your separates on holiday, choose a pair of city shorts with trendy detailing, like a scalloped hem, paper bag waist or bow belt. Pair with a blouse (or swimsuit) for sundowner cocktails.
8. The Bardot blouse
If there's one print the fashion pack can't get enough of this summer, it's gingham. The high street has about a hundred versions of this cotton off-the-shoulder top, which is a real holiday hero. Dress it down with denim shorts or dress it up with a city shorts and silver sandals.