Summer’s finally here, so it’s time to put down your books, kiss a sweet goodbye to exams and start thinking about that perfect holiday in the sun. Finding the perfect beach-wear can be a daunting task, taking into account the many different styles and options available and the desire to look like a celebrity on the sands – after all, it’d be a shame to let all that effort working on the perfect beach body go to waste! So, we’ve put together some of our favourite summer pieces to have you looking sizzling in the sun in no time…
For the ladies…
Whether you’re looking for a beach cover-up or a simple yet stylish evening look, a maxi dress such
as this floral shirred maxi from Miss Selfridge (£33) is the perfect solution to take you from day to night in an instant. And, if florals aren’t your thing, don’t fear! Miss Selfridge have a range of these dresses in a wide variety of shades and patterns = summer dress problem, solved.
Coming in a range of hot summer shades these rhinestone embellished sandals from Zara are vibrant and fun, yet delicate enough not to be too garish. A bargain at under £20, you can feel comfortable wearing them as day-time shoes, yet the jewel inspired decoration makes them versatile enough to be worn to more glamorous evening events – giving you that extra bit of summer sparkle.
finding flattering swim-wear can be a nightmare for anyone, but this swimsuit from Miss Sixty at New Look (£50.99) ticks a number of beach-wear boxes. If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional bikini or swimsuit then the cut-out design of this piece is ideal; the costume maintains the look of a bikini, whilst the swimsuit style strip is perfect for hiding any unforgiving stomach sins…and the colouring is girly, yet neutral enough to be paired with almost anything. This straw satchel from ASOS with sunflower detailing (£35) is bright, eye-catching and the perfect size for holding all those summer essentials. Reminiscent of sunny day picnics, the thatched design of the bag gives it a unique feel
At £16 these large vintage sunglasses from Topshop are just the thing to add a touch of glamour to any summer outfit, both on the beach or off. The tortoiseshell frames are perfect for creating a soft summer look, whilst the shape is subtle enough to suit most face shapes, making them a holiday must have!
For the men…
For £20 at Topman you should go for muted yet smart statement colours adding an air of relaxed insouciance to your dressing. Lighter materials work for the changeable climate, yet are appropriate should you cave to the holiday demand for white trousers. A long-sleeve shirt easily transitions from shorts to trousers for a look that’s adaptably low maintenance, yet still stylish.
Though swimwear should be primarily for pool-time there’s no need to be overly garish, embrace casual colours and prints to display a suitably suave sun lounge style as shown by these swimshorts from Zara (£19.99). Though the length suitability may vary depending on your holiday destination, choose a length that enhances your physique without being overly constrictive.
The trick with sunglasses is simplicity. Clean lines and shapes create effortless cool whilst the wood effect defies trend to create a classic item that will last from one holiday to the next. However, at £15 from ASOS there’s no need to fret should you find they’ve been lost by the pool or nicked by your significant other!
This summer footwear embraces eco friendly materials that leave feet open to the elements. A flip-flop offers the best solution to both sweaty feet and travelling from pool to bar with relative ease. Whilst it’s likely your sandals won’t survive the summer onslaught, embrace H&M’s offer of £6 without fear and walk a mile in these shoes!