Instead of an actual vacation this year, how about a new holiday wardrobe instead to satisfy the longing for travel? Even though we might not be able to leave the country (though that could soon change) that’s no reason not to embrace a vacationing mindset and put on pieces that encourage a little healthy escapism.
We’ve put together an edit of holiday-apropos wardrobe must-haves that you can wear for a staycation or beach days. They’re all easy, breezy and meant to put you in the headspace of rest and relaxation.
Nothing says holiday like a caftan, and this number – cut from soft washed silk crepe de chine and embroidered with floral patterns – is a sure winner. The luxury resortwear designs by Marie France Van Damme have a roving, worldly eye that combines the elegance of East and West. To wit: they’re sold in some of the best resorts around the world (see: Aman, Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental).
Holiday footwear could never be complete without a stylish and comfortable pair of flip flops for super casual days, and there’s good reason why the Brazilian brand Havaianas is a perennial favourite. A spangly gold pair is perfect for a light touch of festive cheer.
If you must put pants on, at least make them roomy and comfortable. These palazzo pants from Taiwanese fashion label iROO are made from breathable lyocell fabric, and cut with deep pleats that ensure plenty of movement and volume.
Channel St. Tropez chic with this one-piece bustier swimsuit, complete with a sexy mesh panel, from Vilebrequin. It’s versatile too: the swimsuit comes with removable shoulder straps and adjustable bands so you can wear it strapless like a bustier, asymmetric with one band draped over or halter style with both bands crossed at the front.
Lululemon, purveyors of aspirational athletic wear, have cut these yoga pants in its proprietary Nulu fabric. That’s a sweat-wicking Lycra-blend material with four-way stretch that’s buttery soft and feels nearly weightless, perfect for yoga sessions that whisk the mind away to rest and relaxation.
The crescent-shaped Knot Me Up bag from Red Valentino is as quirky as it is functional. It’s fashioned from nylon, and features an oversized ribbon on the long, padded strap that can be snugly worn on the shoulder or crossbody.
For optimal ease, you’ll want a light bag with room just enough for your essentials. A dinky bucket bag like this leather one from popular Japanese brand Samantha Thavasa is an ideal size, comes with a tidy linen interior, and a shoulder strap and top handle for versatile carrying.
Japanese accessories label Osewaya’s offerings are full of understated feminine whimsy. These earrings were part of a collection inspired by space motifs. We like the crescent moon design for its face-framing sculptural shape and how easily it pairs with almost any outfit you can think of.
Accessories brand Skeda creates trendy and fashionable jewellery designs, produced in South Korea, that greatly belie their inexpensive accessibility. We recommend starting with dainty styles like this flower earring, with subtle carved leaf details and a drop pearl.
Consider this a going out sundress that marries the throw-on-and-go ease of the style with stylish, resort-inspired finishes such as the ruffled trims around the bodice that frame the neckline and a delicately flared skirt.
A little bit of drama around the neckline goes a long way, but you naturally want to avoid feeling too buttoned-up when you’re spending time off. This shirt has the best of both worlds: wear it unbuttoned at the top so the ruffles have a louche and relaxed drape.
Local fashion label The Closet Lover makes chic casual everyday dresses, taking pride in designing and manufacturing its own original pieces like this easy, breezy crochet dress finished with a ruched knot detail at the front.