The cornerstone of any holiday capsule is a dependable basic, one statement piece, and shoes that take you from sightseeing to dinner. Build everything around those foundations and you'll wear every item you pack.
Starting with the Basics
The ultimate white tee: Uniqlo's Airism T-shirt (£14.90) has a boxy silhouette and subtle side slits that create a slightly flared shape. The sweat-wicking Airism cotton feels cool against the skin, pairing with denim shorts by day or a statement skirt for dinner.
A pair of statement earrings: Selfridges' Minerva bow-drop beaded earrings (£50) transform even the most minimal outfit. You need only a few pieces of jewellery: something understated and everyday, plus something to lift an outfit instantly.
Versatile Footwear and Clothing
Shoes that do it all: Teva mid-form sandals (£44.99 from Schuh) are strappy, comfortable enough for long days exploring, and smart for dinner thanks to their minimal design. They work as a single pair for the whole trip.
A skirt that becomes a dress: Omnes' multi-way skirt (£59) is a smocked waist maxi skirt that can also be worn as a bandeau midi dress thanks to its stretchy waistband. This pillar-box red version is 100% cotton with a frill detail highlighting the flattering drop waist. Two outfits in one saves valuable suitcase space.
Beauty and Accessories
A multi-use makeup stick: Ilia's multi-stick (£36) adds buildable colour to cheeks and lips without feeling heavy in warm weather. Its compact packaging and stick shape make it easy to apply on the go.
A necklace that won't mind a dip: Katie Loxton's Palma Solesi waterproof necklace (£54.99) is gold and pastel green beaded, water- and sweat-proof, and lifts an evening outfit. Holiday jewellery should be effortless, joyful, and waterproof when dipping in and out of pool or sea.
Stylish Separates
Three-in-one co-ord: Free People's Sightseer linen striped pant set (£88) is a co-ord that works together or each piece styled separately. The ocean-blue striped linen set feels relaxed but pairs with a sleek sandal for dinner. Elasticated waist and adjustable straps add comfort.
Elegant summer shorts: Anthropologie's Lyrebird lace trim silky shorts (£41) are a summer evening staple. Paired with a white T-shirt they look subtle but dressy, thanks to the fabric's sheen. The powder-blue version from Anthropologie has a flattering high waist and elasticated fit, comfortable without compromising style.
Finishing Touches
A beach-to-bar bag: M&S's large mesh beach bag (£30) is affordable, bright blue, and large enough for daily essentials while adding a pop of colour. A colourful bag instantly brightens a simple outfit and introduces personality.
Classic sunnies: & Other Stories' oversized sunglasses (£42) channel Jane Birkin with maximum coverage. The softly squared style feels timeless enough to wear year after year.
A two-in-one hat: M&S's cotton reversible bucket hat (£14) gives two looks in one with a neutral colour palette that complements almost anything. The easy canvas fabric packs down to almost nothing.
A versatile silk scarf: John Lewis's abstract spot-print square silk scarf (£65) can be tied around hair, looped through a bag, worn as a belt, or styled as a top. It takes up little to no room in luggage. This blue polka-dot print is larger than a bandana, making it easier to style multiple ways. Charity shops are also brilliant hunting grounds.
