Ah, sunshine. I've all but forgotten what it is, but all that will change this Thursday as I shall be jetting south for a fortnight in Cape Town. I. Cannot. Wait.
Every holiday comes with the dilemma of what to pack/buy/throw away because it's definitely falling to pieces and this one is no exception. I'm usually fairly blasé when it comes to holiday packing, but as I edge closer into my thirties I've come to realise it's worth investing in key pieces that will see me through.
For superior swimwear, Heidi Klein is the one. Don't get me wrong, I still love a £6 fluoro bikini bargain from Matalan (I have two in my case) but for premium pieces you can't beat HK. The cuts are seriously flattering, even in the D-G size tops - it's great to find a luxury brand that caters for curves - and the fabrics are exquisite; beautiful quality and sculpt in all the right places. My pick for this season is the hot pink Antigua; I'll be getting my hands on the D-G U bar bikini top (£130) and Fold Over Bottom (£85) - don't be put off by the price, they really are an investment piece.
While you're there, the accessories are not be overlooked. It's no surprise they do a great line in beach bags, hats and espadrilles, but it's the Savannah Bay Bamboo Clutch that has me head over heels. From Cape Town to Ibiza, this will be my new best friend this summer. Both available from www.heidiklein.com
For years I've been seeking the perfect suitcase and it seems as though Away might just have created it. Developed from hundreds of travel stories from friends and seatmates and designed for the way people actually travel, their pieces feature unbreakable shells, interior compartments, and built-in USB chargers, using the best materials in the world. The result is elegant, functional luggage, and since they have a direct-to-consumer approach cutting out the middle man, it's seriously affordable, even though it's the same quality as premium brands. Available in four sizes and seven colours, you can even get your luggage monogrammed for a extra luxe twist. They've also just teamed up with Pop & Suki to create a gorgeous sugar pink. I can't wait to get my hands on a black set. Prices from £225 for The Carry On to £295 for The Large. Available at www.awaytravel.com
I've broken too many sunglasses to buy expensive ones any more - these days good old Topshop is my go-to. Last year I got some banging mirrored green aviators for Glastonbury, this summer the Saskia Cat Eye glasses (a mere £22) are definitely going on my shopping list. www.topshop.com
A great pair of sandals is always something of a summer Holy Grail. You can always rely on the Antipodeans to make good summer gear and Senso is no exception. These Breana studded leather slides ($259 AUD) are sure to see me through at least a couple of seasons of sunshine vacays. www.senso.com.au
Love Laurel x
