paradise found

Relatively speaking, that is; men don’t seem to have half the trouble we do when it comes to packing for a holiday, especially a holiday abroad to somewhere warm and exotic. You’d think we wouldn’t need quite so many clothes as we do in Blighty, but somehow it doesn’t work out like that. There’s so much to consider, so many variables, from the weather (it might not always be hot, and actually, it might be too hot) to dress code (how on earth are we supposed to know what’s acceptable for hotels and local restaurants until we get there to see for ourselves?).

So, we need to pack for almost all eventualities. If prepared for with care and canniness, however, this need not mean a suitcase the size of Venezuela. Think layering, think multi-tasking. A swimsuit is not just a swimsuit, for example; it can be a glitzy top as well, if you choose the right style, so look out for ones with embellishment or with a sophisticated pattern, or something in a bold block colour, but with a sheen. In fact, take two – one patterned, one plain, and make sure they both have a neckline that suits you. There are so many now with tummy panels and bust boosters, but do try them out first and make sure they are both comfortable and easy to get on and off, as wrestling with wet, tight swimwear is not a good look and certainly not what you need on honeymoon. Bikinis can work hard too, especially teamed with shorts for the young. There are bikinis to suit all figures, giving varying support and coverage, so those with less than perfect figures should experiment and consult websites such as Figleaves.com, where advice is excellent. Your swimsuit or bikini has to look good with your sarong too, or with rolled-up jeans or cotton trousers, and with holiday skirts.

Speaking of skirts, look for cotton and floaty ones, choosing the length to suit your legs, although it’s a good idea to take a short to knee-length one and also a maxi skirt, especially a wrap style if possible, as this will be so handy from the beach to the taverna.

Choose a colour palette and try to stick to it, broadly at least. Ivory, bronze and turquoise is ideal this season, or try white, gold and cobalt blue. You could invest in lime green or fuchsia accessories and scarves for a change of bright flash colour.

Kaftans and maxi dresses are holiday and honeymoon essentials, so take at least one of each. White cotton is everywhere for this summer and ideal for holidays, as long as you have access to laundry or at least pack some travel wash so you can rinse through and leave to dry. These are perfect for over your swimsuit or bikini, especially if you choose bold block orange or turquoise, for pared down, sexy elegance.