JOANNE Watkinson
SHORTCUTS TO A STYLISH STAYCATION
It’s finally legal to hug your nearest and dearest but those of us who had breaks on foreign shores planned are still doing the Hokey Cokey, with flights to many popular destinations cancelled and restrictions meaning we are welcome in some countries but face quarantine on our return.
I would love nothing more than to dig out a bikini and warm my bones in the Mediterranean sunshine, but I can think of worse places than the UK to explore for a weekend.
When blessed with warm weather our holiday resorts are as beautiful as any in the world. The problem is we don’t always get the weather. And there is nothing more miserable than being caught out with the wrong clothes when you’re away from home, meaning trips in this country require some planning.
Our unpredictable climate doesn’t lend itself to packing light but at least there are no excess baggage costs.
Thanks to lockdown, most of us have a few extra casual pieces in our repertoire now, which should mean not having to buy a lot in the way of hoodies for layering should the wind whip up. That said, no one wants to feel like a bag of rags. Clothes built for comfort don’t have to be scruffy and a few clever tricks and accessories will give you staycation style in an instant.
First up, sunglasses. I don’t care how much they cost, but don’t use them for just for their function. They are there to frame your face. Take a break from black or tortoise shell and try a translucent or bright frame.
Next, categorise your tracksuit pants. I have those I am happy to leave the house in and those I’m not. Only take the former on holiday. Same goes for leggings. Add a blazer and a fresh white T-shirt.
Trainers are more than acceptable to wear out for dinner but not your old gym ones. Keep them for hiking.
French label Celine paired baseball caps with everything and anything, proving they aren’t just for teenage boys. Keep logos and colour subtle to keep it fashion.
Finally, an over sized poplin shirt is a minibreak must-have. It can be layered over a swimsuit if the mercury rises, half tucked into jeans for lunch, or add jewellery to instantly smarten up for dinner.
There you go, UK minibreak ready.