Summer holiday suitcase essentials

There’s a great song by The Undertones called Here Comes the Summer, you know the one, right? Well, it’s completely appropriate since we are having what we like to call “summer”, that foreign, alien, almost farcical idea.

But, here it is. And hopefully, we won’t scare it away this time. At least not for this week according to those lovely people over in Met Éireann.

So if you are planning a staycation to take advantage of this, or you are off away somewhere exotic, I’ve chosen some suitcase essentials to make sure you look chic whatever the weather.

• The summer shoe – Espadrilles

Espadrilles, Office

They are the number one shoe of the season, and if you want to deviate away from the classic sandal, then try these out. I have just returned from the Spanish sunshine and I wore mine every day.

They look good, are super comfortable, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a pair like the ones Isabel Marant has championed for the season.

• The new season denims

Jeans, Topshop

A departure from the old reliable skinny jean, this season brings a looser fit that’s also a bit of fun. Look for styles with some details, like the above pair from Topshop which are really well made and true to size.

Style up with a simple white t-shirt and sandals.

• Knockout swimwear

Bikini, Penneys

Whether you like a bikini or fancy a one-piece, you are spoilt for choice this year for swimwear. Our high street favourites like Penneys and H&M have lots under €15 for top and bottoms. If you prefer to invest, then look at labels like Seafolly and Freya which you can get at Arnotts and House of Fraser.

• The “go-to” dress

Dress, Marks & Spencer

It’s always handy to have a reliable dress in your suitcase for summer. They will take you out at night, or keep you chic during the day.

I like to stick to plain colours for summer dresses so that I can change them up with footwear and accessories.

• Shady shades

Sunglasses, Pretty Little Thing

You simply cannot go on holiday without bringing a cool pair of shades. Some of us like to get our hands on a pricey pair (my most recent investment are from Tom Ford), but it’s nice to have a selection of more trendy styles to choose from. I love the selection from Pretty Little Thing, ASOS and River Island this year.

So those are my suitcase essentials, but what cannot you not leave behind when you are packing for your hols?