Words by Sophia Miller
If you’re someone who counts the days until they can wear a summer dress again, a mid-winter sunny getaway may be on the cards for you. While others are wrapping up to slalom down a ski slope, you’re dreaming of beaches, bikinis and the smell of sun cream. Sound familiar? You’re among friends here – by the names of Missoni, Zimmermann and Pucci. Whether you’re bound for St Barth’s or the Maldives, look no further for the best winter sun holiday outfits.
Few feelings are better than slipping into a slinky dress after a day kissed by sun and sea, so it makes sense to start your holiday packing with a statement. Missoni’s signature knits were made for golden-hour aperitivos, not least because they look just as chic layered over the brand’s swimwear as they do dressed up with strappy sandals and jewellery. Choose between striped metallics in a sunset palette, or embrace the iconic Zig Zag with a dress to match tropical surroundings.
When on holiday, swimwear can often be the entire outfit – many days, getting dressed requires nothing more. A good poolside rotation is therefore essential, from Melissa Odabash’s printed one-pieces to the supremely flattering bikinis from bestselling Australian brand Away That Day. If you’re packing light, it pays to choose something structured that will double as a top when worn with a sarong or linen shorts.
When your schedule takes a turn beyond the sun lounger – what then? Channel a little White Lotus glamour with a maximalist silk co-ord. Mix-and-match looks do double duty as poolside cover-ups and a day-to-night segue, saving you valuable packing space (or leaving room for souvenirs). La DoubleJ, Pucci and Sir. are among our names to know.
La DoubleJ co-ord, Fendi bag, A.Emery sandals, Balmain sunglasses
Sometimes, the moment calls for a straightforwardly pretty daytime dress – a staple always worth ticking off your holiday packing list. Zimmermann’s broderie anglaise midis are fail-safe options, while new-to-Harrods brand St. Agni offers a more streamlined take in trending tones of chocolate brown, slate and off-white. As for styling? Just add sandals and gold jewellery.
Now for the final flourishes. Use those precious final inches of suitcase space for small touches that make a big impact: sunglasses, beachy jewellery, basket bags and sandals. Remember a chic straw hat – best worn in transit.
Level up your poolside look with styling formulas that work no matter where you’re holidaying.
