Holiday season is well and truly under way and the fortunate amongst us will be absconding for some much-needed time out over the coming weeks. So we’ve compiled an overview of some essential style items to add to your packing list so you can avoid last minute panics at check-in, whether it’s all-night raving or all-day sleeping you have a hankering for.
Destination: Ibiza
We could remind you that there is more to Ibiza than Playa d’en Bossa, San Antonio Bay and 24-hour raves. We could do that. But, chances are, if you’re going to Ibiza, you’re probably not planning nights in with a selection of regional artisan cheeses, a modest couple of glasses of Malbec and a Pulitzer prizewinner – chances are, you’re there to party. So what are the sartorial prerequisites for a healthy spot of summertime debauchery? First up, printed T-shirts, vests and short-sleeved shirts. These separates are essential; being low maintenance (needing little to no ironing if packed correctly) and lightweight (keeping sweat at bay), they should form the backbone of your Ibizan wardrobe. On the high street, River Island offers a wealth of limited edition printed tops, as does Uniqlo with its apt range of ‘Music Icons’ tees featuring the likes of Wu-Tang Clan and Daft Punk. And, of course, you’ll need shorts. But for this destination you’ll need a pair that works both for day (Ocean Beach) and night (Amnesia) – a style that’ll take you seamlessly from poolside to dance floor. Bin those shiny Union Jack numbers that have been winking at you from the top of your wardrobe since last summer’s trip to Magaluf and opt for a neutral, quick-drying pair of swim shorts in a tailored silhouette. Orlebar Brown, Dan Ward and Frescobol Carioca all offer masterfully detailed options at the slightly higher end of the price range, with the likes of Saturdays Surf NYC and David Gandy for Marks & Spencer offering styles that’ll make less of a dent in your bank balance. Alternatively, if dressy swim shorts don’t leave you feeling dressed enough, then throw some rugged chino or denim shorts into your case, which are better built to withstand hard partying. You’ll also need a hat. No, we’re not talking a party hat, one that lights up, claps, or comes complete with a convenient lager can holder and straw. Instead, stick to something simply styled, lightweight and ideal for protecting your bonce from the sun in the day (after all, you’re unlikely to remember to religiously reapply your sunscreen), but also capable of concealing your (probably) sweaty locks in the evening. Best to pick up an inexpensive style from your usual high street go-tos (who knows where it could end up), filtering through the selection for a cotton baseball cap or bucket hat to invoke some of that Second Summer of Love swag. When it comes to footwear, a pair of on-trend slip-on plimsolls or low-top trainers will set you up from sunset to sunrise. If you’re into keeping your whites white, then avoid white canvas styles as they’ll mark easily and wear quickly. Vans has some fun printed options this season, while ASOS stocks the essential plain colour styles. Team with invisible socks from Falke or any good high street store to avoid your poor shoes humming like a vintage Stilton by the end of your stay.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Pieces
- Patagonia Overhead Shirt Slim Fit With Print
- New Look Aztec Vest
- Topman Navy Longer Length Chino Shorts
- River Island Orange Geometric Print T-shirt
- River Island Rust Floral Washed Print T-shirt
- J.crew Printed Cotton Shirt
- Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-length Swim Shorts
- Allsaints Hanako Switch Shorts
- Herschel Supply Co. Glendale Five Panel Cap In Blue And White
- Topman Herschel Reversible Bucket Hat
- Vans Classic Slip-on Perf Leather Plimsolls
- Aldo Amede Leather Trainers
Destination: The Hamptons
Located on Long Island’s South Fork, The Hamptons has long been the preferred destination of the American East Coast’s most affluent and impossibly good-looking holidaymakers. Not to mention the impossibly stylish. Think Ivy League, all-American prep and you’ve got it down pat. An indubitable American classic, the button-down Oxford shirt is your first port of call when packing for the Hamptons. Brighter colours like powder blue, white and pink are best suited to the warm weather, as well as the modern-day Gatsby vibe. Go for a long-sleeved style that’ll see you looking smart for garden parties, but also allow for you to roll up your sleeves on hotter days. Ralph Lauren’s Oxford shirts have reached iconic status and make for great investments, however Uniqlo also has a strong offering, with a comprehensive array of colours, patterns and fabrications available. While temperatures in the Hamptons generally lie between the mid-20s and 30s Celsius in July and August, it’s important to remember that it’s a coastal area, so packing a fine gauge jumper is advisable, especially for the evening chill. In keeping with your surroundings, we recommend opting for a sporty cricket or cable knit version crafted in 100 per cent cotton. When it comes to styling it, embrace your inner Carlton Banks by day, knotting the jumper nonchalantly around your neck. Colour-wise, neutrals will work well, sure, but why not have a little fun with it and try a seasonal block colour? Choose according to your skin tone; darker complexions will look great set against bold lemon or orange, whereas lighter skin tones will suit blues and deeper greens. Down below, a freshly pressed tailored short will look sharp on the beach when styled with an Oxford shirt. J.Crew (what better brand to outfit yourself for a Hamptons sojourn?) and COS both offer myriad styles and hues. Failing that, if your neighbour’s housewarming doesn’t kick off until sundown, opt for a pair of flat front or single pleat chinos in light neutral or pastel shades for a little extra interest. Finally, pack a pair of boat shoes – whether or not you plan to set sail. Keep it simple with a design in white, tan or stone leather, or mix it up with a two-toned panelled style. Head to Sebago and Sperry for time-honoured classics, or Topman and River Island for more contemporary updates.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Pieces
- Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-fit Cotton Oxford Shirt
- J.crew 9 Stanton Cotton-twill Shorts
- Ami Cotton-twill Chino Shorts
- Uniqlo Men Oxford Slim Fit Long Sleeve Shirt
- Cotton Cable Crew Jumper
- Cotton Cable College V-neck Jumper
- Club Monaco Davis Slim-fit Cotton Chinos
- John Lewis Linen Slim Fit Trousers White
- Blue Harbour Notch Lapel 2 Button Striped Jacket With Wool
- Austin Reed Navy Gold Button Blazer
- Sorrento Kg Kurt Geiger Brown
- Sperry Top-sider Authentic Original Leather Boat Shoes
Destination: Côte d’Azur
The Côte d’Azur, otherwise known as the French Riviera, is the Mediterranean coastline of the south east corner of France. And if there’s one thing the French can do, it’s dress. So you’d better pack accordingly. Not only quintessentially French, but a summertime staple too, a short- or long-sleeved Breton stripe T-shirt will guarantee your look a nautical charm. Wear it with a pair of tailored shorts or under a blazer with chinos for a particularly sophisticated flavour of smart-casual. For something slightly smarter, a short-sleeved shirt is unbeatable. Perfect worn open over a cotton T-shirt or buttoned up under a sports coat, the shorter sleeves will allow you to play with layering without melting in the summer sun. London-based label Folk offers a solid selection in striking summer prints, while you’ll find some well-cut plain colour styles at Ted Baker. Think you can repurpose that Harris Tweed suit for summer by simply switching the shirt out for a tee? Think again. A winter suit’s heavier thread count and viscose lining will make it nigh on unbearable to wear in warmer weather. Instead, turn your attention towards unlined designs in fabrics like cotton and linen (ask a sales assistant or personal shopper if you’re not sure). A lightweight suit in a lighter neutral colour (think shades like off-white, stone, sky blue and light tan) will work well, as both its colour and fabrication will keep you cool. Remember that, if a fully suited look feels a little overdressed, you can easily switch out your suit trousers for a pair of white or pastel chinos. No Riviera-worthy look is complete without a subtle debonair touch in the form of a straw hat. Goorin, Lock & Co. Hatters, and Christy’s offer a huge range of high quality styles in various brim widths and crown heights, while high street favourites such as Topman, River Island and ASOS all have their own versions for those working to a budget. Finally, while leather sandals or espadrilles are fine for the beach, you’ll need something a touch more refined for strolling through town. Suede loafers or driving shoes perfectly straddle the line between practical (they’re supremely comfortable and keep you cool) and stylish (epitomising the undone elegance the Riviera’s known for). Try Bass Weejuns, the brand synonymous with the style, or Burton if you want to save some holiday pocket money.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Pieces
- Selected Linen Mix Breton Stripe Knitted Jumper
- Allsaints Alanim Crew T-shirt
- Asos Slim Chinos
- Theory Zaine Slim-fit Cotton And Linen-blend Shorts
- Beams Plus Linen-blend Shirt
- Uniqlo Men Oxford Slim Fit Short Sleeve Shirt
- Suitsupply Lazio Light Blue Check
- Austin Reed Regular Fit Stone Cotton Linen Jacket
- Sand Dandy Blazer
- Kingsman Lock & Co Hatters Grosgrain-trimmed Panama Hat
- River Island Brown Suede Tassel Boat Shoes
- Burton Grey Leather Driving Loafers
Destination: Berlin
Much like the German capital’s fondness for minimal house, Berliners’ style is equally low-key. Sporty casual staples in a monochrome palette are what you’re after here – something you can wear to a gallery opening as well as an underground club. The Brits have a lot in common with the Germans: a penchant for beer, a love of football and… unpredictable weather. Berlin does tend to get a little hotter than the likes of London or Manchester, but summer is also their rainiest season, so come prepared. To wit, a lightweight bomber or technical jacket should be top of your list. Whether you opt for a casual, streetwear-inspired style or something a little more tailored, make sure it comes in black, navy or grey. Despite its relatively small population, Berlin is geographically far-reaching, so you’ll need some comfortable footwear for drinking in the architecture (and the Pilsener). A pair of minimal white sneakers is right on point – try adidas (Stan Smiths, Superstars, Sambas) or Common Projects (Achilles) and team with slim jeans, cropped chinos or jersey shorts for an effortless ensemble. A tote or weekender might be the first bag that comes to mind when you think of jetting off, but Berlin is much more of a backpack destination. Not only does a pared-back backpack reinforce the sports luxe aesthetic we’re striving for, but it’s also somewhere to stow your outerwear when the weather relents and will ensure that your lovely new bomber doesn’t end up abandoned on a Mauerpark bench. For something luxurious and lasting, Miami-based brand Miansai has just released some slick, narrow, leather-trimmed styles exclusively on Mr Porter that fit the bill. Alternatively, the high street has a great range of real leather, canvas and acrylic styles to choose from. Lastly, to stand out without the aid of loud colour, print or pattern, try switching up your silhouette. Team a longline T-shirt with skinny jeans and accentuate its dropped hemline even further by throwing your bomber over the top. Here’s hoping it gets you into Berghain.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Pieces
- Asos Super Longline T-shirt With Skater Fit
- Asos Bomber Jacket In Black
- Levis Slim 511 3d Jeans In Black
- Allsaints Folklore Crew T-shirt
- Abercrombie & Fitch Jersey Shorts
- Asos Skater Backpack In Black
- Arcteryx Veilance Isogon Hooded Jacket Black
- Elka Klitmller Jacket Black
- Sunspel Loopback Cotton-jersey Sweatshirt
- Miansai Harbour Canvas And Leather Backpack
- Adidas Adidas Stan Smith Vulc White Mono
- Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Sneakers
