Holidays. The very mention of the word conjures up glorious sunshine, lazy days, fun and laughter. Just looking at the departure date in your diary has kept you going through a wet, dismal March, a changeable, disappointing April and the first signs of summer through May. Thankfully, all of that gloom is behind you now with the prospect of a well-earned holiday. As the date draws nearer, you’re faced with the challenge of what to pack. Of course, you want high style, but how do you fit all that style into a pixie size suitcase? Here are some of my favourite pieces with some tips that will make your holiday selection a little easier.

  • Choose one colour palette so everything mixes and matches well. Any print piece or neutral colour will offer that much-needed versatility. When you create looks that mix and match well, every look will be a winner.
  • I know you’ll want to take almost everything in your wardrobe “just in case”, but it’s best to plan out each of your days and make the selection. It will be tough but well worth it.
  • As footwear takes up so much space, try to keep it to a minimum. You might just need a pair of flat sandals or flip flops, trainers and heeled sandals for the evening.
  • A few well-chosen accessories can dress up your favourite basics and elevate your style. The real bonus is that they take up almost no space.

    • 1 This summer dress is the perfect holiday piece as it’s so versatile. Wear it during the day with your favourite flats and, with the addition of some glamorous accessories or heels, transform it for a night out. The print and design are very feminine and, as it’s such a lightweight piece, is ideal for those balmy evenings. Apricot waterblooms dress €58 www.very.ie

    Large butterfly pearl earrings €36 www.melaniehand.com

    2 So often, style is all about the details. A distinctive pair of earrings offers the perfect finishing touch. These beauties are by Irish designer Melanie Hand. The butterfly shape is beautiful, the colour combo is beautiful and the shimmer of the pearl is ... yes, you guessed it, beautiful! Treat yourself. Large butterfly pearl earrings €36 www.melaniehand.com

    Cotton rich fedora €24 www.marksandspencer.com

    3 There are certain holiday wardrobe pieces that are essential. A sunhat is one such item; not only will it add style to your look, but it offers invaluable protection from the sun. This lightweight hat is so well designed as it folds flat in your suitcase and then bounces back into shape. Magic! Cotton rich fedora €24 www.marksandspencer.com

    Playsuit €20 by New Look www.very.ie

    4 There is nothing quite like broderie anglaise fabric to signal the start of summer and nothing quite like a playsuit to capture the spirit of the summer. This playsuit is a stylish option to basic beach wear. Playsuit €20 by New Look www.very.ie

    Kurve sandals €39.99 www.iclothing.ie

    5 These sandals are such a great choice. The woven detail gives them a glamorous edge, adds texture and the soft gold colour will work with a varied palette. An easy wear with high style, what’s not to love? Kurve sandals €39.99 www.iclothing.ie

    Plunge bikini top €30, high leg bikini bottom €20 www.marksandspencer.com

    6 If you’d like swimwear that’s comfortable, gives a great shape and is suitable for swimming and sunbathing, this neoprene bikini ticks all those boxes. Plunge bikini top €30, high leg bikini bottom €20 www.marksandspencer.com

    Kyrie sunglasses €39.95 www.pilgrim.net

    7 I love these shades as they have a retro influence, are lightweight and an interesting colour. Great value too! Kyrie sunglasses €39.95 www.pilgrim.net

    Dress by White Stuff €90 www.ninasboutique.ie

    8 Your holiday may take you on planes, trains and automobiles – and you may get hot and bothered while being on the move. This fair trade cotton dress allows you to move in comfort. It’s cool, stylish and easy to wear. Dress by White Stuff €90 www.ninasboutique.ie