Nine essential items to include when packing for your summer holiday

Make packing for your holidays a cinch this summer with our nine essential items to invest in before you take off.

As holidaymakers, we tend to make a bigger fuss than needed when it comes to packing when really, it is quite simple. There are nine essentials every woman needs when she is embarking on a well-deserved holiday. Whether it’s a short city break or a prolonged beach getaway, these are the pieces that will never let you down.

And the perfect place to create this essentials ensemble is Kildare Village. With designer brands like LK Bennett, Diane Von Furstenberg, The Kooples and Sandro, it has everything you need for sartorially-pleasing holiday style.

The summer dress

Dress, French Connection 

A key piece in any woman’s wardrobe, the summer dress is the quintessential holiday item. Perfect for days by the pool or nights out for dinner, the versatility of the dress is its true power. Wear with flats, trainers or heels – whichever makes you feel most comfortable. This is your summer saviour.

The hat

Hat, Gerard Darel

If you want to look instantly glamorous, a summer hat is the way to do it. Depending on style preference, you can choose either a wide-brimmed seventies version or a classic Panama. Not only will you look like the definition of ‘nonchalant chic’, but you will also protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays and put a stop to bad hair day worries.

The sunglasses

Fendi Sunglasses at Sun Fashion Lab. Shirt dress LK Bennett, Red swimsuit French Connection

We’re sunglasses fiends here at Image HQ. Nothing says ‘holiday time’ more than buying a new pair of shades to wear while you lounge al fresco sipping on an ice-cold rosé.

Always make sure the lenses are big enough to protect your eyes from UV rays, yet still flatter the face. Oval-shaped faces suit most styles; square-shaped suit curved varieties (think cat-eye and round); round faces favour rectangular shapes; while heart-shaped faces will be complemented by lighter lenses and exaggerated frames.

The sandal

Unless you sit on a sun lounger for the entire holiday, most trips involve a lot of strolling around. Look for styles with extra support and butter-soft leather for ultimate comfort. Chunkier styles have become more popular in recent times and add a little something extra to a holiday outfit.

The shirt

Pink shirt, Mint Velvet and Bikini set, French Connection

A crisp shirt is the ideal holiday cover-up. Wear over your bikini or swimsuit by the pool, or pair with denim shorts or a midi-skirt for a day of exploring. White is the obvious choice, but try different colour variations for the summer. Think bright pinks and light blues – and don’t be afraid of patterns. What’s more, always size up to keep you cool in high temperatures.

The midi-skirt

Skirt, LK Bennett, t-shirt, Guess and straw weave tote bag, Mint Velvet

A midi-skirt is not only one of the easiest items to wear, but it is also one of the easiest to pack. When choosing your holiday capsule wardrobe, one midi-skirt is all you need. A change of top and a few smart accessory additions will transform the look. Try a block colour in red or burnt orange, and choose either a pleated or satin variety for an on-trend choice.

The bag

Tote bag, Kate Spade New York

A canvas tote bag is the bag of the season and will work harder for you than any other item in your holiday capsule suitcase. A lightweight, medium-sized version will hold all of your daily essentials; from your holiday read to your bottle of sunscreen, plus it can act as a foolproof carry-on.

Accentuate with accessories

Earrings, Kate Spade 

To add versatility to your capsule case pieces add in some statement jewellery items, scarves and accessories. Adding a statement necklace to an outfit will elevate it to another level. A ponytail adorned with a striking scarf can turn heads, and statement earrings will be the bridge between day and night dressing.

The swimsuit

Swimsuit, French Connection and Gucci Sunglasses, David Clulow

The classic one-piece is experiencing a renaissance as a versatile summer style staple. Yes, it’s still perfect for lounging by the pool, but now it’s also an excellent outerwear option when worn with a midi-skirt or with a shirt-and-shorts combo. When shopping, look out for extra detailing such as embellishments and frills and a silhouette defining belt.

Discover these essentials summer pieces at Kildare Village. For more information visit www.kildarevillage.com

Photos: Kildare Village

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