Holiday outfit ideas to match your destination

The countdown to your summer holiday has begun – but wait, what to pack? Depending on your destination, deciding on holiday outfit ideas can be tricky. You want enough choices so that you can mix and match, but not so many items that there’s no room left in the case for souvenirs. Well panic not, because we’ve gone straight to our Fashion Stylist Lynda Bell for her wardrobe wisdom. Your holiday outfit inspo starts here.

STAYCATION:

Cornwall

Holidaying at home means layering is key (can we ever trust those weather gods?). Make lightweight knits your friend and pack a couple of cardigans to see you through a breezy summer day. ‘A more casual wardrobe allows you to have fun with colour and accessories,’ says Lynda. ‘Flat sandals and a printed tee keep you comfy for mooching round the shops and skimming stones on the beach, while a relaxed-fit dress can be worn for sightseeing with trainers, then fancied up with jewellery for drinks.’

Tropical Paisley Midi Dress

BEACH HOLIDAY:

The Algarve

Sunshine shades and a versatile, relaxed-fit dress will have you all set for warm days and dining outdoors. A roomy beach bag is obviously a must (fill with sun cream, beach towel, fun purse, spare bikini and a trashy read), and a hat for midday meandering. A wide-brimmed style is an instant way to elevate a day look to new levels. ‘Pair a floaty lightweight knit top with structured bottoms and elegant flatform sandals for an easy evening look,’ says Lynda.

Orange Midi Dress

CITY BREAK:

Rome

The city of love and passion cries out for Bond-girl-style slip dresses and luxurious monochrome printed co-ords for browsing round boutiques. ‘This stylish city loves a more polished look, so be sure to add some flair with oversized Sophia Loren-inspired sunglasses and metallic gladiator sandals (what else in the home of the Coliseum?) for daytime glamour,’ recommends Lynda.

Green Satin Midi Dress

Our expert says

‘Stick to a colour palette of blues and whites for tops and shorts, and add a bold sunshine-coloured dress and highlights of gold for those holiday-night outfits.’

– LYNDA BELL, FASHION STYLIST

STAYCATION:

Lake District

‘Denim and stripes lend this holiday capsule wardrobe a chic nautical feel that makes mixing and matching trousers and tops easy peasy,’ says Lynda. If you’re planning a busy break complete with sightseeing, pack a handy backpack and super-comfy Gola trainers for when you’re out enjoying the views. ‘Golas have a chunky midsole,’ says Lynda, ‘So as well as looking great, your feet will be happy at the end of the day!’

Chambray Sleeveless Jumpsuit

BEACH HOLIDAY:

Greek islands

Greece is one of the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy spots this summer, so make sure you’re ready for your selfie with a capsule wardrobe as good as the view.

‘Stick to a colour palette of blues and whites for tops and shorts, and add a bold sunshine-coloured dress and highlights of gold for those holiday-night outfits,’ suggests Lynda. ‘A lightweight tote for day trips and a pretty beaded necklace for cocktails at sunset will take up minimal room in your case.’