Whether you're going to exotic climes or taking a short break, we have the wardrobe to suit your destination. Take your cues from the catwalks and think bright colours, classic cuts and on-trend prints, writes ROSEMARY MAC CABE. Beauty by PHYL CLARKE
Beachside lounging
When going to the beach, it’s always tempting to pack as you would for a city break – but bear in mind that most of your time will be spent in or by the water, so swimsuit options are a must. Warehouse’s turquoise separates will really stand out, especially when teamed with Awear’s rust kimono. If you feel you need more to make your turquoise and orange fit, check out Lucas Jack’s turquoise ring from House of Fraser and Next’s patent sandals, which are both comfy and on-trend. For night-time, wedges are your friend, especially if you’re going to be hitting any beach parties. Next’s monochrome wedges will be cool in the heat, and will be the perfect foil to Oasis’s halterneck maxi. If you’re feeling particularly daring, don your felt hat at night-time for that extra bit of vintage mystique.
Beach Beauty
Add a little glamour to skin with this Honey bronzing oil (€25) from The Body Shop, branches nationwide
A great waterproof mascara is a must. Lancôme's Hypnose(€25.50) is hard to beat as it neither smudges nor flakes
A slick of this citrus gold pencil will add lift to eyes – Soft Touch pencil in Queen(€21) from Narsat Brown Thomas
Lipsticks are too full-on for beach style, but a gloss is the perfect way to wear a bright shade. Givenchy's Gelée d'Interdit(€25) has a shade for everyone and the concentrated pigment means it is long lasting. From Debenhams
City Break
A city break is by far the most stylish holiday option, and packing should be a cinch. Footwear? Think in pairs and opt for walking and dancing – studded flats from Debenhams for day, coloured wedges from Topshop for night. Don’t even think about a stiletto unless you’re sure your destination doesn’t have cobbled streets. After that, it’s plain sailing through an array of chic separates. This season, colour is all – so start with these gorgeous bubblegum pink jeans by J Brand from BT2 and Marc Jacobs’s silk shirt dress, then think neutrals all the way. Almost Famous’s draped blazer will work over anything it sets its sights on, and will be très chic teamed with trousers from the same line and Oasis’s striped boat-neck tee. The key to city style is, of course, accessorising – look to Accessorize for jewellery, sunglasses and a scarf to really make your look pop.
City Slickers
Estée Lauder's Double Wearrange has added some new shades to its popular eyeshadow cremes (€22), for all-day-and-on-to-dinner staying power.
There is no need to forego a healthy glow with Clarins Instant Smoothself-tanner (€25). The light tint and state-of-the-art formula instantly smooths and boosts the complexion.
A bright lipstick will give that city edge of sophistication. The new shades in the Dior Addictrange (€28) offer rock'n'roll attitude à la Kate Moss.
Backpacking
Opting for a travelling holiday will involve sartorially challenging decisions – will you be opting for comfort or style, the hot streets of your chosen destinations or the air-conditioned cool of a train carriage? First things first: start with the foundations, and opt for some comfy, breathable footwear. The pumps from Debenhams will ward away blisters, while Dune’s nude low wedges will provide a dressier option. Shorts are a must, and the Marc O’Polo pair on this page will go with everything, from string vests to T-shirts (especially the gorgeous colour pop of Awear’s hot pink cami). A pair of leggings is always a must, and if you feel like getting out of the jersey for a while, this pair of peg-leg trousers is a versatile option. For when you feel like wrapping up, Marc O’Polo’s denim jacket is a great fit. Lastly, keep an eye on those train times with Next’s hot pink watch.
Beauty on the go
Avene is a French skincare bradn new to our shores. This easily accessible transportable compact does double duty, evening out skin tone while delivering SPF50. This mineral-based formula means it's suitable for sensitive skins, too. Avene Beige Compact(€25) from selected pharmacies.
Treat your skin after a hard day's walk with Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising body lotion(€7.86). The ultra-light texture is instantly absorbed and the pump dispenser ensures no spills.
Rather than carry your cleanser around with you, these throw-as-you-go wipes will work just as well. They contain pro-vitamin B5 to restore, soften and smotth skin and they can even remove waterproof mascara. Simple wipes(€5.99)
Keenly-priced but on the style button, the Catrice Papagenarange is perfect for a little outdoor glamour. Eye shadows come in earthy tones and there is a khaki nail colour. Prices ragne from €2.79, at Dunnes and Penneys.