Pack it in
Summer dressing is all about easy outfits, jazzy accessories and travelling light.
I usually write about clothes as though I had all the answers, but packing is one area where I always struggle. Time and again, I have the same problem: too much stuff.
A couple of years ago, when I was frequently on long trips overseas, carting stuff up and down stairs, onto trains and in and out of cars, it became a literal pain in the neck.
The problem is compounded by the fact that I like to dress at whim, tweaking my look according to the weather on the day.
During these past holidays, I spent time in at least five different locations, and realised that the most compact way to give myself more options is with accessories.
Since then, I’ve been making sure to pack my favourite belt, scarves, squashable hats and jazzy socks, and packing less, but more adaptable, clothing.
With a romper or a sundress, you have the top and bottom in one. Dressing done! They can also look casual or dressed up, depending on your accessories and how you layer them.
Speaking of adaptable, those wings on the Carlson dress can tie in the front (see her website) while the loose jackets can be worn open or belted. The examples here are mostly on sale, so there’s limited stock.
Other crucial items to pack (sorry) include a lightweight raincoat or sturdy umbrella, holiday swimwear and a lightweight towel. Time can always be made for a swim.
Finally, pool slides are ideal (or leather slides at a push) for hot, sandy travails. I try to pack a pair each of lightweight sneakers, slides and tidy sandals. OK, this suitcase is getting full again now…