If you’re currently worrying more about what to pack for your winter break than an upcoming Christmas party, don’t expect to find sympathy here. But we are, however, willing to give you a little inspiration. We're living vicariously through those currently enjoying jaunts in the Seychelles and Cambodia, so our Instagram feed of winter coats and Christmas inspo is being broken up by bronzed bodies and vivid swimwear in tropical climates not even our central heating can emulate right now.
Some of our favourite style setters on the social network are allowing us to peek into their travels, and though we may not be able to join them at the drop of a hat, we don’t need to stump up the airfare to emulate some of their strongest looks. From the new swimwear labels to know right through to outfit-topping accessories, these women have winter sun covered, and it’s all available at the click of a button.
So sit back, nail your dream destination and discover the most covetable winter sun buys of the season…
Style Notes: Easy and effortless, Faithfull’s dresses and off-the-shoulder tops are a picture-perfect packing essential for the modern traveller. Designed and made in Bali, Indonesia, they instantly evoke a sun-soaked climate. Gigi Hadid, Julie Sariñara, Kate Hudson and Jessica Alba are all fans, and it’s not hard to see why.
Style Notes: Anything the Aussies don’t know about bikinis isn’t worth knowing. Cult brand Zulu & Zephyr’s online mood board is like a throwback to the 1970s, and this aesthetic is evident in its retro-infused designs. Fashion Me Now blogger Lucy Williams has been giving us bikini envy during her beachside retreat, but the best news is that the label is stocked on good old ASOS.
Zulu & Zephyr Retro Stripe Triangle Bikini Top (£43) and Bottoms (£43)
Style Notes: In case you missed the memo, round towels are where it's at. They are much more practical for lying down on, and brands have upped their game with mesmerising prints you'll want to show off to the entire beach.
Style Notes: Nothing adds a playful touch to a tropical locale than a pair of beaded earrings (and they’re great for distracting from bedraggled, salt-infused hair, too). Pick up a pair from a local artisan market, or stay one step ahead of the pack like Soraya Bakhtiar and log on to All Things Mochi.
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Style Notes: Influencers sporting embroidered Pampelone dresses and playsuits—in front of dreamy mediterranean vistas—invaded our Instagram feed this summer, and the London-based brand’s domination of beach wardrobes looks set to continue. Its designs are inspired by the glamorous French Riviera, and there’s no saying you can’t pack a piece for Mexico, Costa Rica or Miami this winter.
Style Notes: Eres swimsuits are the epitome of luxury. Exquisitely well made, they've earnt their investment-worthy status. We love Doina Ciobanu’s vivid bandeau style, which when you’re not 100% beach-ready can cover a multitude of sins and offset the most vitamin D–deprived of skin tones.
Want more travel advice? Check out what not to wear to an airport, plus the holiday packing list every girl needs.
