Winter Sun: Fashion tips for the jet-setting crowd

How to look holiday chic with only carry-on luggage

29 Dec 2023

Fashion Features Writer

Are you one of the lucky jet-setters who was organised enough to plan a trip away from the gloomy grey to the sunny skies of somewhere tropical?

If so, then I am a.) very jealous and b.) won’t let my jealousy get in the way of gatekeeping a few jet-setting wardrobe tips to ensure your vacay ‘fits are worthy of an Instagram feed post.

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Nine times out of ten we all opt for the cheapest plane ticket to our sunshine destination which usually results in only bringing carry-on luggage. I for one know all too well that packing five days' worth of outfits into an 8kg bag is an Olympic sport. Lucky for you, I've done it more times than I have fingers so I know a thing or two about smart packing. Here are my top five winter-sun fashion essentials for your next trip abroad.

Swimwear as outerwear

One smart packing tip that never goes a miss is finding a one-piece swimsuit that doubles as an out-and-about bodysuit. Not only are you getting a two-for-one outfit (more girl math) but you’re ready to take an ocean dip at any given moment. Wear with a pair of linen pants or a floaty maxi skirt et voila, chic and practical.

Rita Ora poses in a green swimsuit before performing on stage — If Rita can wear her swimwear on stage then you can wear yours to dinner

Maxi skirts are your BFF

Even when not on holiday I love wearing my skirts as a strapless dress because after all, we know that there's nothing chicer than re-wearing your existing wardrobe. Not only is a simple maxi skirt easy to pack but it’s also a great option for when you’re in need of both a comfortable everyday sightseeing outfit and a glamorous dinner date dress. Style your modified dress with a belt, jewellery or your inevitable sun-kissed glow.

Bella Hadid poses for Jacquemus' summer collection in a bikini and maxi skirt — It doesn't get chicer than Bella in Jacquemus

The seven-in-one scarf

When it comes to versatile styling hacks a scarf is your best friend, especially when your baggage allowance is lower than low. Easily modified into an array of different styles, a simple scarf is a DIY holiday rite of passage. Simply fold in half and tie it around your back to make a strapless top, tie two ends around your neck and the other two around your back for a chic halter neck dinner top, use as a head scarf for when the wind picks up or tie around your waist over your bathers to create a wrap skirt.

Queen of bump dressing, Suki Waterhouse wore a bandana scarf while on holiday last week

Flats for all terrain

Whether you're planning to sightsee or sun yourself seaside, a comfortable pair of kicks is essential to any jet-setting ensemble. Lucky for us, ‘American tourist dad sandals’, Crocs and Birkenstocks have never been hotter, meaning you wear your go-to pair of slip-ons or sandals with every ensemble. I personally love a strappy velcro sandal, as they can easily be customised with a ribbon bow around the ankle for a glamorous night out or worn with your favourite swimwear and a caftan for a poolside sip.

Cecilie Bahnsen x Suicoke sandal collab — How cute are these Cecilie Bahnsen x Suicoke sandals?

Take a tote

I’m no expert, but most airlines let you take one carry-on bag and another personal bag which basically means you get two bags for the price of one. A tote bag has and forever will be the ultimate travel essential as you can use it as your handbag and your beach bag. There are a lot of luxury options on the market right now if you’re looking to invest in a long-term arm candy companion, but if you’re not in the market for something new then a simple Baggu bag is exactly what you need. I love how these are big enough to store your favourite book and a bottle of sunscreen, but small enough to fold down and store away when not in use.