THESE ARE THE WOMEN'S ESSENTIALS TO PACK
HOLIDAY EDIT:
From heatproof dresses to throw-on sandals, these are the pieces built for sunshine, sea and whatever’s on the itinerary.
Your out-of-office is on. Boarding pass downloaded. Passport located. But the real question is: what are you packing? From barefoot days on the beach to late-night rooftops in Lisbon, your suitcase isn’t just luggage. It’s your closet in motion. And it needs to work overtime.
This summer, we’re editing with intention. Less about capsule clichés, more about pieces that feel effortless, elevated, and distinctly you. We’re talking travel looks with range; morning-to-midnight, poolside-to-party. If you want options that don’t wrinkle under pressure, then consider this your sartorial cheat sheet.
Let’s unpack it.
SUN-KISSED TOPS & TEES
When it comes to warm-weather tops, your 9-to-5 button-downs aren’t invited. This is tailoring’s cooler cousin; cropped, sheer, oversized, sculpted in all the right places. Fabric takes centre stage too: crisp cotton poplins and sumptuous silks bring a refined ease to every piece.
The specifics? Prada’s supersized shirting does airport and after dark with a simple tuck. Off-White’s architectural tanks look artful even layered over swimwear. The cut-out bodysuit? Practically a vacation essential that’ll help you take your basics into evening out territory.
How to style them: An oversized, breezy shirt worn open over a one-piece. A simple tank tucked into loose-fit shorts. Simple gold hoops, a raffia tote, and slicked-back hair for maximum nonchalance.
THE ONE-AND-DONE HOLIDAY DRESS
If you’re not packing at least one dress that makes you feel unstoppable, we need to talk.
2025 is all about sheer slips, liquid textures, and dramatic silhouettes that play with proportion. Miu Miu is leading the sheer revolution, sending gauzy slips down the runway that dare you not to wear them to dinner. Meanwhile, Saint Laurent’s slinky maxis prove that more fabric doesn’t mean less impact, it just means more legroom.
How to style it: Go for an airy maxi and pair it with wraparound sandals for daytime wanderings. When evening hits, swap in a strappy heel, add a slick of lip gloss, and maybe even an anklet if you're feeling extra.
THE ICONIC SKIRT MOMENT
Skirts are turning up the drama this season. We're talking molten metallics, ultra-low waists, and sheer fabrics that float as you move. Big, bold volume is having a moment too-think crisp cotton maxis or sculpted tech fabrics that turn sidewalks into runways. For the minimalists, utility skirts are back, only now they’ve had a glow-up in luxe materials that look way more fashion week than field trip.
How to style it: Let the skirt take the spotlight. Pair it with a fitted top or a crisp open shirt to keep things clean. Finish with sleek sandals and a sharp pair of sunnies.
THE COOL-GIRL SHORTS
Shorts are having a serious glow-up this season. We’re seeing crisp cottons, sporty satins, and tailored cuts that feel a world away from your old loungewear. Even boxer shorts are going fashion-forward, Chopova Lowena sent them down the SS25 runway, and yes, Bella Hadid is already on board. Y2K vibes are still strong with pleated styles and low-rise waists, while micro shorts in luxe textures (leather, raw silk, you name it) bring just the right amount of edge.
How to style it: Try pleated boxers or a sharp mini short, then add a sculptural mesh top and ballet flats for that cool-girl contrast. Or take it street with a slouchy tank, layered jewellery.
THE GO-TO TROUSERS, WITH A TWIST
Say it with us: structure can be breezy. The latest trouser silhouettes are wide-leg, slightly oversized, and seriously chic. Jacquemus and Casablanca are setting the tone with floaty fabrics, pastel tones, and cargo details that look polished, not practical. Even parachute pants are back—with better cuts and way more finesse.
How to style it: Pair a pastel wide-leg with a silk bandeau and oversized sunglasses for brunch or beachside walks. Want something more grounded? Go for a utility trouser with a fitted tank and delicate strappy flats. Keep the volume low-key, then sharpen things up on top.
THE ART OF SUMMER LAYERING
Yes, even in the middle of a heatwave, a layer can save your look… or your dinner reservation. This summer’s MVPs? Lightweight jackets, cropped silhouettes, cardigans that flirt with the idea of coverage. Casablanca brings tailored denim, while Burberry is delivering summer trenches that say "I tried" without actually trying. It’s about drama, not warmth. The pièce de résistance? A cropped cardigan or open weave sweater vest in an earthy neutral that goes with everything.
How to Style it: Over a bandeau with wide-leg pants, or even just swimwear and shades. Mini bag in hand. Confidence in tow.
NEXT-WAVE SWIMWEAR
Swimwear is no longer just for the pool. It’s the unsung hero of your holiday wardrobe, and it’s finally getting the airtime it deserves. We’re loving sculptural necklines and earthy tones this season. Hunza G’s one-size-fits-all magic is hard to beat and keep an eye on strapless bandeau swimsuits and bikinis that double as tops. Look to Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber’s recent beach moments for proof. Metallic knits and chainmail mesh are also in the mix-perfect for the poolside afterparty. Cover-ups aren’t just practical; they’re part of the look. Think sheer trousers, floor-length shirts, and sarongs that could moonlight as partywear.
How to Style it: Choose a chocolate one-piece (the colour of the summer) and pile on gold jewellery. Finish with a sheer layer that plays into the naked dressing moment we’re still obsessed with. Forget to mix textures. A little contrast keeps the look fresh.
THE ONLY SHOES THAT MATTER
Your shoes should work as hard as you do on holiday. By day, its leather sliders, loafers, or flat sandals that’ll support a stroll. By night, square-toe mules, platform heels, or anything strappy and sleek. Gucci is going high shine, while Prada keeps it current with iconic thong sandals in their SS25 collection. And yes, you can bring a statement trainer. Just make sure it’s breathable and bar-worthy.
How to Style it: Sleek black sandals for sightseeing. Metallic mules for late dinners. Chunky accessories to finish the look.
ACCESSORIES THAT DO THE MOST
Raffia bags are still key, but now she’s got competition: oversized netting, soft-structured leather, inflated silhouettes and mini bags made for midnight. Jacquemus and Bottega Veneta are leading the way with craftsmanship that looks good on a yacht and in a cabana. Sunglasses? Wraparound and tinted, preferably with a little space-age drama. We’re also seeing mirrored lenses and translucent colour frames à la Dua Lipa in Cannes. Belts are slung low and wide. Anklets are stacked. Scarves are doing double duty as hair ties, bandeaus and impromptu sarongs. Don’t underestimate the power of a Gucci silk scarf or logo bandana—seen everywhere from viral trends to the runway show. How to Style it: Woven oversized tote by day, structured top-handle by night. Add a scarf to your ponytail or around your bag for extra personality.
How to Style it: Choose a chocolate one-piece (the colour of the summer) and pile on gold jewellery. Finish with a sheer layer that plays into the naked dressing moment we’re still obsessed with. Forget to mix textures. A little contrast keeps the look fresh.
THE EXTRAS TO BRING
If your carry-on is full, don’t panic. Accessories are your secret weapon.
Jewellery is bold and beach-proof this year - think fin earrings from Bottega Veneta, sculptural cuffs, and heavy chain-links from Saint Laurent. Even a bikini feels “styled” with the right statement piece.
This summer we’re leaning into high-impact metals, body jewellery, and oversized resin rings - easy ways to elevate even the simplest slip dress. Other things to toss in? A travel-sized perfume. A glossy lip oil. And of course, your holy grail SPF - because nothing ruins a holiday fit like sunburn.
How to Style it: Anchor your look with one statement piece, sculptural earrings, a heavy chain, or oversized frames. This isn’t about more, it’s about impact.