If there’s one thing I look forward to all year, every year, it’s a holiday. Whether that’s a UK staycation or a trip abroad, it’s the one thing I save up for and make sure to get booked as soon as possible. And while I love heading to new places and planning exciting things to do, I think we can all agree that sometimes, holiday planning can be a little stressful. Especially when it comes to packing. Right? Well, I've learnt this year that with the right prep, packing can be easy and dare I say, enjoyable.
Depending on where I go, what I take with me varies. If it’s a city break, I’ll predominantly tend to stick to comfier clothes such as linen trousers and trainers with a couple of maxi dresses for the evenings, however, if it’s more of a relaxing, beach holiday, my suitcase will be lined with bikinis, sandals and mini-dresses. This summer, I’m jetting off to Barcelona and whilst I’m there anticipate a mix of sightseeing and lounging on a beach. I’ll be taking practical yet light pieces with me, and utilising my accessories to make outfits feel different.
As much as I love to treat myself to new pieces for a holiday, I do always ensure they are pieces I will keep in my wardrobe for years to come. I focus on wardrobe staples that can be worn with other outfits at home, and when it comes to something like swimwear, I ensure to stick to pieces I know I’ll take away with me for years to come. White dresses, tailored shorts and strappy sandals are a definite on my packing list that will be coming with me to Barcelona, but will also see me through the British summer too.
Whether you're headed to Barcelona or another sunny spot for a holiday, let this list be your guide to your packing essentials.
A Fashion Editor's Guide on What to Pack for Barcelona:
1. Simple Swimwear
Style Notes: Whether you prefer a basic black bikini or a bold printed swimsuit, swimwear is an essential to take with you. My advice is to opt for silhouettes that you feel comfortable in, rather than what's trending, to ensure you go from beach to bar seamlessly.
Shop the Look:
A basic black bikini is so chic.
Zimmermann always creates the most beautiful pieces.
Away That Day is one of my ultimate favourite swimwear brands.
The perfect black one piece.
2. Statement Cover-Up
Style Notes: Finish off your swimwear look with an equally chic cover-up option. Whether it’s a printed sarong (that is so versatile with how you tie it) or floaty kaftan, make an instant poolside statement.
Shop the Look:
A chic sarong at an affordable price.
So easy to throw on over your swimwear.
This monogrammed cover-up can easily pass as a dress for a day of exploring the local area.
I love the soft pastel hues of this.
3. Tailored Shorts
Style Notes: No matter what type of holiday I’m going on, I always pack shorts. I much prefer a tailored short compared to a casual style as it just feels so much more elevated and put-together. They can be styled so many ways too, whether it’s with a racer vest, linen shirt or scarf top.
Shop the Look:
Such a good price for 100% linen.
A very chic look.
Khaki is so easy to style.
Gingham is such a timeless classic print.
4. White Dress
Style Notes: There’s nothing more synonymous with summer than the timeless white dress. The styling options are truly endless and the versatility of it is unmatched. For a holiday, opt for styles that can be dressed up or down and just switch out your accessories.
Shop the Look:
I can't believe this dress isn't designer.
Ultra-femme and effortlessly chic.
A broderie anglaise dress is a summer classic.
A Matteau dress is at the very top of my wishlist, their silhouettes are so flattering.
5. Bright Dress
Style notes: My wardrobe is totally neutral tone based, however, when it comes to summer, I do a complete U-turn on my comfort zone and start introducing eclectic colours and bold prints. I always pack one statement piece as it does all the work for you! Between this and my white dress, I'm covered.
Shop the Look:
This is a real head-turner dress.
Red makes such an impact.
The perfect pink.
Utterly gorgeous.
6. Cord Necklace
Style Notes: Cord necklaces are still in their comeback era right now following their revival last year and I don’t anticipate their departure any time soon. They are so versatile and can be worn casually, or dressed up for an evening out. Adorned with either stones or metal pendants, there’s an array available now to suit any style.
Shop the Look:
Part of Lucy Williams new collab with Missoma.
This adds a pop of colour to a monochrome outfit.
This can easily be dressed up or down.
The fish pendants are so cute and perfect for a holiday.
7. Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: The one type of sandal I am guaranteed to take away with me is a strappy sandal. They are comfortable and secure enough for a day of sight seeing, but also chic enough to head for an evening out too, without feeling too casual.
Shop the Look:
An A.Emery dupe at a fraction of the cost.
The thin straps are so chic.
These will go with so many different outfits.
Red sandals are everywhere right now.
8. Raffia Tote Bag
Style Notes: Nothing says summer to me quite like a raffia tote. From airport to poolside in an instant, opt for one big enough to fit all your essentials. It’s a timeless style that will be brought out year after year.
Shop the Look:
So worth the investment.
Such a good high-street option.
DeMellier do such chic, timeless bags.
Muuñ is my new obsession.
