As summer hots up, it’s time to gather the summer holiday staples and dig out the suitcase. If you have a limited luggage allowance for your summer break, then selecting the right multi-purpose summerwear is a must. Here are some of our top summer style picks for his and her suitcases this season.
For him:
Geo border print shirt from Ben Sherman
£52 (usually £75)
New for summer 2026, this geo-print shirt, made from 100% Eco Viscose, will be a valuable addition to your summer style wardrobe. Its lightweight feel and loose-hanging style will keep you cool and comfortable in the sun.
The design is finished with a straight hem bordered with coloured stripes, creating a casual look that works well with shorts, chinos or jeans.
It’s this versatility that earns it a space in your holiday suitcase, with several looks possible from just one item. The material is quick-drying, too, so if you do need to wash it while you’re away, it’ll dry pretty quickly and be ready to hit the bar when you are.
Smart swim shorts from Moss
£50
If space is at a premium in your holiday luggage, these shorts from Moss should definitely be in there. Perfect for a day by the pool or on the beach, they can transition seamlessly to the evening with the addition of a linen shirt.
With clean lines and a smart, crisp look, it’s hard to believe they’re swimwear rather than smart-casual wear. The slide adjusters at the waistband enhance the tailored look and make them just a little more comfortable after one too many ice creams.
Conrad long-sleeve striped shirt by Blakely
£44
If you want to add something just a little less casual, but just as comfortable, this Conrad shirt from Blakely is the perfect choice.
Made from 100% cotton, it’s soft against sun-drenched skin, and its lightweight fabric exudes quality and summer style without feeling stuffy or overdressed, even with the long sleeves.
Whether you choose to wear it loose over a t-shirt and shorts or with linen trousers on cooler evenings, it will be an excellent addition to your holiday packing list.
Conrad swim shorts by Blakely
£35
To embody the relaxed holiday look, throw on Blakely’s Conrad swim shorts and just kick back and chill. Made from soft-touch polyester fabrics, with an elasticated and drawstring waist, they are incredibly comfortable for all-day wear.
The mesh inner lining keeps things comfortable and secure while you’re swimming or lounging, and the side pockets are deep enough to hold your phone safely while you’re out and about sightseeing.
Conrad swim shorts are an inspired day-to-day option for your holiday wardrobe, taking style and comfort in their stride.
5-panel performance hat from New Balance
£25
One of the most important things to remember to pack this summer, particularly if you’re heading somewhere hot, is a hat.
The 5-panel performance hat from New Balance is made from a blend of polyester and spandex, making it very light to wear, even on the hottest of days. Inside, there’s a thick, dry wicking band that adds extra comfort, and the structured brim shades the eyes and face nicely from direct sunlight. The back closure can be easily adjusted to ensure the perfect fit.
The soft main body of the cap is perfect for those with limited packing space, as it can be packed flat without misshaping the hat. Just pull it out once you arrive, and it’s good to go.
For her:
Elena striped trousers from Blakely
£32
After a day in the sun or by the pool, there’s nothing better than pulling on a comfortable pair of lightweight cotton trousers to relax in. The Elena striped trousers from Blakely are a fabulous choice for the summer and your holiday packing list.
The slightly oversized fit and elasticated waistband create a great shape, which is casual enough for comfort, but smart enough for a relaxed evening out. Pair them with the matching oversized shirt, t-shirt or bandeau top, and you can create a handful of different looks and minimise your packing, too.
Mila oversized shirt from Blakely
£44
Oversized is everywhere this season, and this soft cotton muslin shirt from Blakely is the perfect holiday shirt. It’s available in six colours, but we love it in soft sage.
Pop it over a swimsuit to head to the pool, or with shorts or trousers as the cooler evenings come around. The fabric doesn’t seem to crease very easily, so it’s an excellent choice for your summer style. The slightly textured feel to the material disguises small creases nicely, so even if there are a few, you’ll still look great.
Madrid underwired halter triangle bikini
Top: £36 Briefs: £24
For some women, finding a bikini top that fits perfectly off the peg can be a challenge. The best way, if you can, is to buy the separates that come in standard bra sizes rather than the more general dress-size options.
Pour Moi has a great range of cup-sized bikini tops and matching briefs, including our preferred option, Madrid.
Available in five different colour options and in cup sizes from C to G, Madrid was a great fit and matched the selected cup size perfectly.
The briefs are adjustable, using the side strings, giving the wearer flexibility to make the fit as comfortable as possible. There’s a good amount of mid-coverage, but tighten the side strings and create a high-leg look.
The materials look and feel great, with some nice detailing (the dangling palm trees on the halter top) that adds a little extra fun to this gorgeous summer style.
Printed wide-leg beach trousers from Primark
£12
If you’re working to a more strict budget for your holiday wardrobe, or just want to get more for your money, these wide-leg printed trousers from Primark are a brilliant buy.
Made from 100% cotton, they are light and airy, making them a great piece for a holiday suitcase. From sightseeing to sitting by the pool, you’ll feel cool and comfortable, no matter how you wear them.
Available in six different colours and patterns, they are a must for this season. We love the pastel shades in the beach print, and the elasticated and draw-string waist makes them an easy, flexible wear
Cotton beach shirt from Primark
£10
A long, light cotton shirt plays multiple roles in a summer wardrobe. As a beach or pool cover-up, a co-ord for flowing trousers, or open over a maxi dress for a luxurious dinner, it can do a lot of heavy lifting for a single piece of clothing.
This cotton shirt from Primark does a great job at a bargain price. Available in a variety of colours and prints, it will be a holiday staple this year and probably for several more.
Thule Chasm tote bag
£70
If you’re intending to head to the beach or the pool during your holiday, having a good-sized, waterproof tote bag is always a good idea. Chasm from Thule fits that brief perfectly.
Not only is it the excellent size for all your beach paraphernalia, but it’s also durable and water-resistant, with a firm, flat base, making it easy to stand on the sand without toppling over.
Inside, there are plenty of storage pockets to keep all your things safe and protected, and a further zipped pocket on the outside, too.
It’s a great option, not only for the beach, but also as a day bag while you’re out and about. Check with your specific airline, but it could also double as your hand luggage for travel. Thule is renowned for making high-quality products that last, so this bag will be travelling with you for years to come.
