Wave goodbye to stressful, holiday packing and bikini body woes, fashion expert LISA BOYLE's top tips for looking fabulous abroad will ease the strain.
Does a sunny holiday fill you with dread? Have no fear - it is possible to be over 50 and look good on the beach. Courtesy of Meena Kadri
Wave goodbye to stressful, holiday packing and bikini body woes, fashion expert LISA BOYLE’s top tips for looking fabulous abroad will ease the strain.
Although holidays are supposed to be about relaxation and sunbathing by the pool, we know it doesn’t necessarily go that way.
Even months before the holiday, it seems we are always stressing about something. Whether it’s preparing our bodies for exposure on the beach, packing, or pondering over what clothes to bring – holiday preparation can be exhausting.
Shopping
But holidays are the perfect time to build memories and of course, showcase a fabulous new summer wardrobe that, quite frankly, we rarely get use here in Britain. It’s time to take control and enjoy getting ready to go, as well as the time away.
Although it can be difficult to know where to begin, holiday clothes shopping is actually quite simple.
All you need is to create a list of key pieces that can be worn with a variety of items. This will ensure you have a fabulous holiday wardrobe without depleting your bank balance. Follow our guide and enjoy your trip!
Swim wear
Unless you have the body of Helen Mirren, wearing a bikini can be a daunting task for even the most honed among us. Opt for a few form-fitting and flattering swim suits to suit your body type to keep you feeling confident and sexy on the beach.
If you hate the thought of a two-piece and are fearful of flaunting too much skin, tankini’s are great alternative. Curvissa do a slinky grey number that pulls you in at all the right places and flattens the tummy for a more streamlined silhouette.
Another clever new option, is the sleek black beach to beach swim dress from Marisota, £49. This will keep you looking ultra-glamorous on the walk down to the pool.
However, a bikini can actually enhance your shape more than you would be led to believe – don’t be scared to go the next size up if it feels more comfortable. A sarong or stylish kaftan like the gorgeous, oriental-inspired range from Monsoon, (around £45) also comes as a blessing in disguise on the days you’re feeling less confident.
Beach dress
One of the key items you won’t be able to live without on holiday is the simple but elegant beach dress.
Choose a chic, floaty number that can be worn day to night and you’ll never be stuck for anything to wear.
The combination of heat, sunburn and a change in diet can often leave us feeling sluggish and uncomfortable when abroad – bringing a breezy dress that is breathable and can be thrown over a bikini will ensure you feel relaxed even when any of these pesky problems arise.
Packing
Pack a few relaxed beach dresses, a maxi dress and two evening numbers for the nights when you plan to go somewhere special.
As tempting as it is to haul your whole wardrobe with you, it is more than likely that you will resort to casual wear for evenings spent at the bar.
70s style palazzo pants – believe it or not – are also another one of the key items perfect for bringing on holiday.
Not only are they chic, comfortable and flattering, but you can dress them up with a fancier top and heels for evening or simply pair with a simple vest and wedges throughout the day.
Choose a geometric pair like those by Rocha at Debenhams, £25. However you can also opt
for a classic shade if you’re shy about wearing prints.
Trust me, once you get the hang of the palazzo you’ll never even look at your jeans or slacks again.
Dancing shoes
The problem with us women, is that it seems one can never have enough shoes when it comes to jetting abroad.
However, we also know that they can take up the bulk of our suitcase. Three or, at most, four pairs (excluding your flip-flops of course) will be enough to last the duration of your holiday.
I’d advise one pair of classic nude heels, two pairs of day-to-night wedges and one pair of amazing statement shoes – this will be more than sufficient.
Choose wisely by going for wedges that you think will match the majority of your holiday outfits and I can assure you won’t have to worry about any extra luggage costs.
Lastly, don’t be scared to try out something new when jet-setting abroad. This is the perfect time to showcase your unique penchant for hats or to sport those fabulous curves.
After all, you’re in a whole new country – you can be whoever you feel like.
Tricia Wright
September 3, 2012 at 9:10 pm
Pity I never had this guide a few weeks back when I went on holiday! Would have saved me so my hassle trying to pack as I had no clue what to wear abroad! What a wonderful idea the swimming dress is, will definitely be loooking out for this nxt time.