I'm a Designer Who Has Just Been to Lanzarote—Here's What You Need to Know
Welcome to Out of Office…, Who What Wear UK's chic travel guide that provides you with the most stylish take on any given destination by tapping creatives who know where to stay, what to eat and, importantly, which items to pack. This month, Alexandra Miro—the luxury swim, resort and activewear designer whose eponymous line is loved by fashion editors and It girls alike—shares her tips for a quick trip to Lanzarote.
"In search of a respite from the bleak British winter, I headed to the island of Lanzarote in search of warmer climes," says Alexandra Miro. "Unlike other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is relatively unspoilt and still retains a unique appeal thanks to the visionary architect César Manrique, who petitioned to keep the island free from high-rise buildings associated with mass tourism." This explains why so many fashion people love to visit—it is nothing if not full of highly photogenic backgrounds and chichi places to while away the hours.
Miro captured her hot spots for Who What Wear UK, documenting where to eat, stay and much more. Keep scrolling to see her recommendations.
STAY: Finca Malvasia
"We stayed at the recently renovated Finca Malvasia in a remote and secluded vineyard. The striking lagoon-style pool pays homage to the late 20th-century architect César Manrique. It's easy to understand why it's a location used for fashion shoots. The backdrop is visually arresting with its glittering lava cones and lush volcanic fauna."
PRE-DINNER DRINKS: Kamezí Villas
"For pre-dinner drinks, we headed to Kamezí Villas in the south of the island. The distinctive pod-like structures are the perfect place to get that Instagram-worthy shot, and we enjoyed the imaginative and daring tasting menu in their new gourmet restaurant."
HANG OUT: Famara
"The next day, we headed to Famara—a sleepy town frequented by surfers. Despite the bracing winds, you could easily find a sheltered spot and enjoy the sunshine."
"The town has some good eating options: We enjoyed El Risco, a Michelin-approved beachside restaurant focusing on fresh fish."
EAT: Cantina
"The sleepy town of Teguise is also the cultural capital of the island, and it is where we enjoyed our favourite meal at Cantina, a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy local dishes with a modern twist."
MUST-SEE: Lagomar
"The biggest draw of the island has to be the magnificent architecture designed by the late César Manrique. Lagomar is one of his most ambitious feats, a dazzling house carved into a cliffside. Rumour has it that the house was owned by Omar Sharif, who lost it in a card game."
VISIT: César Manrique Foundation
"Worth a visit is the César Manrique Foundation, where a museum has been constructed in homage to the man himself. Many of his photographs and memorabilia can be found here, and this was where he resided."
WHAT TO PACK FOR LANZAROTE:
Match the architecture in sculptural, modern lines. Also, no one ever regrets packing a black swimsuit!
Sticking to a strict colour palette makes for easy outfit builds on any holiday.
Lanzarote is hilly and not the easiest island to navigate for the less able, so it is sensible to take a pair of comfy flat sandals.
A printed set gives you plenty of options for mixing and matching if you're packing a cabin storage–sized bag.
A sophisticated beach tote is perfect for the many classy establishments you can frequent on the island—this works from beach to Michelin-starred restaurant.
The nights are still cold, but even in the summer months, it's a good idea to pack a nice-looking cardigan.
A vintage-style pair of sunglasses ups the glamour of anything you're wearing.
Linen trousers will serve you well both on holiday and back home.
Simply add a white vest to your linen trousers or fancy skirt, and you have easy outfits that still look pulled-together.
The breeze can stay at bay if you have a strong hair clip.
Up next, What to Wear in Greece
