Spring Into Action
Many of us will be setting off on a mini-vacation this weekend, as we look to make the most of the extended Easter break. Yet whether it be a trip out of the country or a jaunt back home to catch up with family, flying economy may be optional, but packing economically is not. Being conservative with the clothing you take doesn’t mean cutting down on style – we’re saving space with luggage, not legroom. For one long weekend, you could go almost anywhere, and we’ve got all your style bases covered.
1. The Couple’s Urban Excursion
Whether it’s Paris, Barcelona or Amsterdam, the new couple’s weekend away is most often taken in a city setting, where there are places to go, museums to explore and street food to messily eat while sitting on a park bench – so you’d better dress accordingly. Firstly, you’ll want to forego suiting unless it’s a very special occasion. Instead, pack a carry-on case of versatile pieces that work hard; think smart-casual staples that you can layer up or wear separately to fit with most occasions and forecasts: a loopback cotton sweatshirt, a few button-down shirts in cotton or chambray, and a couple of pairs of slim-cut jeans or chinos. If you plan on going out for a nice meal or some drinks in the evening, an unstructured blazer or lightweight sports coat can be thrown over the top of all these pieces, instantly taking your outfit up a notch. During the day, it’s highly likely that you’ll be spending a good chunk of your time stomping the streets, so practical footwear is a must. Seventies-style trainers – think adidas OG Gazelles, New Balance 420s and
Outfit Inspiration
Key Pieces
- He By Mango Slim-fit Cotton Oxford Shirt
- He By Mango Unstructured Jersey Blazer
- He By Mango Textured Unstructured Blazer
- Reiss Bishop Monochrome Weave Jumper Black/white
- Austin Reed Crew Neck Jumper
- Oakley Frogskin Square-frame Polarised Sunglasses
- Topman Black And White Cable Beanie
- John Lewis Wool Large Check Scarf Red/navy
- Kjus Gsm Bluetooth Gloves
5. Music Weekender
Festival season starts earlier and earlier every year, and this one is no exception. Over the Easter break, we have Annie Mac’s Lost and Found ravefest on the sunny Mediterranean island of Malta, the thinking man’s art and electronic music showcase that is DGTL in Amsterdam, and the more straightforward dance festivities at Time Warp in Mannheim, Germany. No matter what the temperature is outside, the nights will very likely devolve into a total sweatbox, so layers that can be easily stripped off are a must. Lightweight jackets in dark colours will go with almost anything and for colder climes there are insulated designs that look good, keep you warm, and can easily be folded up or crumpled up into a ball to save space. Uniqlo does a particularly good range of ultra light down outerwear, available in a variety of colours. Anything goes at festivals, so now’s the time to experiment with colour and print, if that’s your inclination; think tie-dye, striking motifs and patterned shirts. There is such a thing as a tasteful Hawaiian/floral shirt – make sure it incorporates a maximum of four complementary shades, including a neutral base colour to avoid Magnum, P.I. territory. Just because a pattern is loud, it doesn’t mean it has to be obnoxious. Other key pieces to pack include on-trend typography sweatshirts, durable denim/chino shorts, a pair of jeans and practical footwear that you don’t mind getting beaten up. For more inspiration and advice, read our comprehensive guide to festival style here.
Outfit Inspiration
