I'm the Head Buyer at Net-a-Porter, and This Is What I Pack for Every Holiday

Elizabeth von der Goltz is the Global Buying Director at Net-a-Porter, meaning it’s her job to know the coolest things to buy at any moment. She spends a significant chunk of the year dressing out of a suitcase, as she travels to every major fashion show on the international calendar, so she knows better than anyone how to assemble an effective capsule wardrobe.

Last week, Net-a-Porter hosted a trip to Greece, where Elizabeth was joined by fashion faces such as Maria Borges, Pernille Teisbaek, Harley Viera-Newton and Jason Wu (to name a few). So how do you pack for a holiday where the entire of Instagram is watching? Here Elizabeth shares her top holiday buys for the season, how she approaches packing and what you need in a holiday capsule.

Think of the Destination First

"I always pack with my destination top of mind. I envision the location and the mood and start thinking of my outfits that way because each destination has such a different feel and style. I picture each destination and who I want to look like in that specific location, and that’s how I start to put together what I pack and the looks I want to create.

"For some locations, I might think about more natural fibres and ease, turning to brands like Lemlem, Caravana and Matteau. When I pack for the Caribbean or the beaches in France or Spain, it’s a bit more glam, with a little gold and more neutral prints and a lot of white, wearing brands like Carolina Constas, Kalita and Zimmermann. Hawaii and parts of Asia are more print- and colour-driven and a little more sporty and playful.”

Elizabeth's 2019 Holiday Heroes

"My holiday must-haves pieces for 2019 are Emme Parsons metallic flat sandals, Harris Zhu stone earrings, Tohum shell and gold bracelet, Fisch Colombier bikini, La Kasha linen midi dress, Loewe raffia tote, Alighieri gold and pearl necklace, Lemlem cotton beach trousers and Pippa Holt striped embroidered kaftan.”

What to Consider When Buying Swimwear

"With swimwear shopping, I start with the colours and mood of the destination I’m going to. I think about what coverups I’ll be wearing with the swimsuit, so I always pack by a full look. It can be a one piece with a full skirt or a bikini with a great oversized kaftan or a fun sundress.

"Once I know which brands suit me best, I tend to stick to them. I personally like a simple low-cut bathing suit with a plunging neckline because it’s flattering and I have lots of bandeau bikinis as they’re the best for avoiding any visible tan lines. My favourites include Hunza G and Fisch which has been sustainably made in Italy using repurposed fishing nets.”

What You Need in Every Holiday Capsule

"A great summer dress that can go from day to night is super key. Then at least one bikini, several one-pieces and kaftans to throw-on easily for a day at the beach or pool. I also always pack a pair of denim shorts and lots of easy linen shirts for an easy and comfortable day look. Some fun shell and pearl jewellery is fun to accessorise any look day or night, and a pair of strapped bare, flat sandals and a fun straw beach bag are always useful in any holiday capsule wardrobe. Lastly, a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun.”

The Holiday Pieces Worth Investing In

"I invest in beautiful cover-ups and kaftans and keep hold of them, as you’ll inevitably bring them out again for your next holiday. I still have ones I wear now that I bought years ago and it’s the same with triangle or bandeau bikinis. I invest in luxury beachwear because it never goes out of style. I also always buy at least one beach cover-up from every beach location I visit—I always want to take something from the trip back with me.”

Shop Elizabeth's Holiday Picks

Related: The Holiday Packing List Every Fashion Person Should Check Before Travelling

Next up, see our holiday packing list every girl should check before travelling.