I’m a Fashion Editor—This Is the Only Beach Holiday Packing List I Actually Need

Sophie Robyn Watson

Every time I post from a beach holiday, my DMs fill with the same question: “How did you fit all of that in one suitcase?” To tell you the truth, the secret lies in mastering a minimalist holiday capsule wardrobe.

 

After years of travelling for work and squeezing everything into a cabin bag wherever possible, I’ve become ruthlessly selective about what earns a place in my suitcase. Gone are the days of packing for every possible scenario, only to wear half of what I’d brought. Instead, I rely on a tightly edited collection of versatile pieces that work just as well for a lazy morning by the pool as for sunset cocktails or an impromptu dinner by the sea.

 

My approach to summer holiday dressing has always been less about trends and more about building timeless travel essentials that feel elevated without trying too hard. Crisp linen pieces, understated swimwear, relaxed separates, beautiful leather accessories and carefully selected jewellery that elevates even the simplest outfit. I tend to stick to a muted palette of white, black, chocolate brown and natural textures, not because it’s safe, but because everything works together effortlessly. 

 

A beach holiday wardrobe should make getting dressed feel easy. The best pieces are the ones you instinctively reach for every morning. The oversized shirt you throw over your bikini, the sandals that work from breakfast to dinner, the woven tote that somehow carries everything, and the dress that needs little more than a pair of earrings to feel evening-ready. The simpler, the better.

 

Whether you’re heading to Ibiza, the Greek islands, the Amalfi Coast or somewhere a little closer to home, this is the packing formula I come back to time and again. Consider it my holiday edit: investment buys, hardworking staples and the accessories that pull everything together, all chosen with versatility, longevity and effortless style in mind. Bon voyage!

First things first—a great suitcase. This Antler cabin-friendly one comes with a nifty laptop compartment and fits more than you expect. Sleek, practical and hard-wearing. 

Great swimwear is a must. Good job, female-founded label UNDERSTATEMENT, got the brief. And balconette. And bikini. This sultry black number is my summer staple. Shop the matching bottoms here.

The Sarong:

The 87 have nailed multi-use beachwear with their sarong, scarf and scrunchie sets. I am positivaly obsessed with this neutral zebra colourway. Compliments will be coming your way.

The 87 The Harriet Full Set

The Pendant Necklace:

I love adding semi-precious beads, stones, and bangles to my high-summer outfits. Drape this Lines & Current pendant over your kaftan, dress, or bikini to add a splash of merlot to your look.

The White Dress:

London cool-girl label DEBUTE know good dresses. Team this demi-sheer white number with a clutch and kitten heels for a drinks-to-dinner ‘fit.

The Flip-Flop:

All of Instagram’s hottest tastemakers are wearing Ancient Greek Sandals. These jelly flip-flops bring ‘90s energy through a modern, minimalist lens, and I’m totally here for it.

I adore the ease of a pull-on, pyjama-esque pair of trousers. This crisp, cool white pair from the Lucy Williams x WNU collection pair effortlessly with tanks, tees, bikini tops and summer knits. Available in cobalt blue, too.

A sculptural earring can take your simple holiday look from 0 to 100. Déhanche’s latest drop features some chic ear party additions, which are apt for the summer season and beyond.

The perfect raffia beach bag to take you from the airport lounge to the beach, in almost an instant. LIÉ STUDIO’s Bianca bag does it all. The leather detailing makes it feel extra luxe.

Pouches, cases, and pochettes are the secret to packing minimally and fuss-free. This handy Misela case keeps my beauty stash in perfect condition and is customisable, too. Too chic.

Linen shirts are a great layering hack for your bikini and daywear. I’m all about oversized, so this one from mother-daughter-founded Portuguese low-impact label Arkitaip fits the bill.

As a stylist, I won’t be seen without a good hand-held steamer close at hand, especially when it comes to cotton, linen and delicate items. This Steamery tool is designed to be packed down, portable and lightweight for travel. Ideal!

A simple, minimal tank top is a perfect layering piece. This Sézane piece is grown-up, chic and engineered to perfection.

Board shorts are where it’s at this summer. Breezy, put-together and oh-so versatile. Pair these Reformation beauties with a tank, bikini top and heels for a beach-chic ensemble.

I’ve had my eye on Thistles eyewear since previewing them at Paris Fashion Week. The Suede pair are timeless but cutting-edge.

Protecting your scalp from the harsh sun is super easy with this UPF 50+ headscarf from Hunza G. It’s giving Italian Riviera!

I’ve always been a sucker for a co-ord. This Fuschia Shaw full-look is made of light linen, and can be easily paired with other items in your cabin bag for a plethora of elegant beachy looks. 

There’s just something about slipping on a kaftan that feels so opulent. This Róhe piece is an investment, but the premium natural fabrics and timeless shape make it make sense. Team it with your bikini and leather sandals and you’re good to go.

Whether you’re heading for a beachside lunch, a trip to the local artisan market or grabbing a mid-afternoon spritz, a cotton poplin dress is going to be your best friend. This DÔEN dress ticks so many boxes for me.

Equal parts pretty, beachy and party, these Staud heels are destined for the dance floor this summer, and will complement almost every holiday outfit.

With enough room for your phone, a handful of beauty products and your key card, this Cult Gaia mini bag is the perfect companion to a beachy night out on the town. 

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