With ever increasing airline baggage fees it's more important than ever to try and travel light when travelling abroad. Sadly it's not that easy to cut down on what clothing to take for your holidays. It's very easy to get carried away with thoughts of what you will wear and when but there's really no point in paying to take lots of things with you and then flying home again with them unworn. With the right planning though, you'll be able to piece together a capsule wardrobe that will have you looking stylish all holiday long.
Here are some of the essentials that are the key to dressing success.
Maxi Dress
Fashionable, flattering and cool to wear, a long, flowing maxi dress is a definite must-pack. Wear during the day whilst seeing the sights or en route to the beach, or wear in the evening for dinner or drinks. An embellished dress is more easily adapted for a dressier look,
Cover up
No matter how warm it is in the day time, evenings can still turn cooler so make sure you've got something you can slip round those shoulders. A light cardigan or shrug is perfect choose one in a neutral colour that will go with everything. Alternatively a shawl wrapped around your shoulders will be enough to fend off a chill. Plus they're really handy for snuggling with on the plane if you fancy a snooze or just want to keep warm in the extra air-conditioned atmosphere.
Sandals
If you're a shoe lover it can be hard to just pack a pair or two so make sure you bring styles you really love. Remember your feet may swell in the heat so minimal, strappy sandals are best. Flip-flops are perfect. If you choose a pretty beaded pair of toe post sandals they'll look great both day and night.
Accessories
Jewellery is a great way to alter the look of your outfit and it won't take up much room in your suitcase. Dangly earrings give a tropical feel and are perfect for adding glamour to an evening outfit such as a maxi dress. Likewise bangles and hair accessories can really lift your look. Try and limit yourself to one larger bag for the beach and one smaller bag for the evening.
Bear in mind
Mix and match is key so make sure most of the things you bring can be worn with more than one other garment. And if you're not sure try it all on first in different combinations and figure out how many outfits you can pull together. If you pack properly you won't be stuck for something to wear because you'll have all your outfits planned out.