WHAT TO PACK FOR A SUMMER CITY BREAK
HOLIDAY EDIT:
Dinner, drinks, soaking up the sights: this is what to squeeze into your suitcase for your next weekender.
Contributors:
- PHOTOGRAPHER: JEREMY FRENCH
Copenhagen, Marseille, Berlin, perhaps? Wherever you’re heading on your next summer city break, we’ve nailed the packing situation. The key? A palette of monochrome and easy separates that you can mix-and-match to create multiple looks. Go for comfy loafers and low kitten heels on the feet. Bags that aren’t so oversized they’ll weigh you down, but roomy enough they’ll fit all your must-haves (read: SPF, lip gloss, a summer scent to refresh with). Try Bermuda shorts and longer-length dresses that’ll work for hot sticky days and cooler nights. And, finally, small accessories that’ll lift an outfit: statement sunglasses, chunky necklaces, logo-adorned belts.
From morning strolls and taking in the sights to hitting the town and going for a dip, this is your guide to what to pack for a summer city break c/o a few of your favourite brands.
MORNING STROLLS
Up and out early to beat the crowds? You’ll want a look that’s considered but easy to execute. The key is layers: jorts that just hit the knee. Socks pulled up over the ankle, worn with loafers. A vest top layered over a simple white t-shirt. The finishing touches? A slicked back bun – up and out of the face to keep you cool when the city heat hits – and some big black sunglasses to hide any sins from the night before. Easy.
LUNCHTIME DIP
Lucky enough to be heading to a city that does both? Whether it’s a rooftop pool or a city beach, you’ll want to make room for a chic swimsuit that’ll serve as an extra look (just add skirt/shorts/trousers). Sir the Label have just the one in the shape of their Jennie Beaded Swimsuit; a one-shoulder swimsuit in one of the season’s biggest hues - chocolate brown. Pair with the brand’s cult Freddie Trousers, St. Agni’s Petit Tote Bagu, which is just the right size to fit your sunbathing essentials – book, sunglasses, SPF – and Jil Sander’s Strap Sandals.
AN AFTERNOON AT THE GALLERY
Is a city break complete without a slice of culture? To see your favourite exhibition, comfort is key. Think an easy breezy dress in fresh summer white, comfy trainers for all that staring in wonder, and a cute shoulder bag to keep your possession close. Finish things off with a spritz of Prada’s Paradoxe.
DRINKS AND SMALL PLATES
Dinner is served, thanks to this ultra-chic ensemble. Dining out in head-to-toe white might be a risky choice, but we’ve never been ones to live in the safe zone. However, if you scare easy, to make things feel a bit less stressful, we recommend switching pure white shorts for a beige pair that’ll navigate the city grime better. In a move that Jackie O would be proud of, try layering a silk scarf (all the rage this summer thanks to Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Hunter Schafer et al) over a baseball cap. Add a handheld bag – Gucci’s new 1955 Horsebit is the perfect size for carrying all your essentials – phone, gloss, wallet – and Prada’s Patent Slingbacks, which come with a kitten heel – the ideal height for navigating city streets.
NIGHT ON THE TOWN
Heading for a big night? You’ll want a look that works for navigating the city streets as well as the dancefloor. A pair of the season’s divisive hot pants should do the trick – Gucci’s Techo Garbardine Shorts became one of the most-talked about on the SS24 runways. Add a polo top – another of the big hitters going into the new season – and a pair of kitten-heeled Signoria Slingback Pumps from Gucci. As for your accessories? A neat cross-body bag, simple hoops and a slick of matte lipstick.
